New UU

By Jean Highsmith, Mary Nell McLauchlin, and Jack Schmidt

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Theme and Description

Orients visitors and new members to Unitarian Universalist congregations.

Goals for Participants

To feel welcomed and integrated into this religious community in a caring and thoughtful manner;
To learn of the history and vision of the movement and of this particular Unitarian Universalist congregation.

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Age Range

Adult

Size of Group

12-16

Space Requirements

A comfortable meeting room

Number and Length of Sessions

4 sessions
Length: 1 1/2 to 2 hours, with a social time following

Leader Training

Background reading is necessary. A male/female pair with 1 facilitator being a knowledgeable member and the other a fairly new member of the congregation is recommended. Experience in leading adult groups is helpful.

Leader Preparation

1 to 2 hours per session

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Strengths

Works well when led by lay people.
Provides an opportunity for church leaders, visitors, and new members to meet each other in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Provides an opportunity for newcomers to learn about the history, philosophy, and policies of their own UU congregation and the UUA.
Recognizes that personal identity is an integral part of oneÕs religious identity.

Limitations

Calls for a commitment from several people (leaders, committee members, ministers, participants) to be successful.
Requires considerable background reading.

Adaptability

Can be adapted for youth to teach them about their UU society and help them feel a part of it.

Unitarian Universalist Values

An included article states many UU beliefs, and several resources on Unitarian Universalism are listed as references. UU values affirmed within the program include acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations, and affirmation of the religious pluralism that enriches and ennobles our faith.

Reviewed on June 30, 1996

Unitarian Universalist Association
25 Beacon St. | Boston, MA 02108 | 617-742-2100