On Sunday June 8th 2025, the members and friends of First Unitarian Church of South Bend gathered for an important and historic all-congregational meeting. The purpose of the gathering was to consider a change to the name by which the congregation is publicly known—its “doing business as” or DBA name. After thoughtful discussion and community discernment, the group voted to adopt Unitarian Universalists of South Bend as the congregation’s new DBA name.

This decision marks a meaningful shift in how the congregation expresses its identity to the wider community. Since its founding in 1952, the congregation has operated under the name First Unitarian Church of South Bend. In recent years, however, many members—particularly those engaged in outreach and communications—have observed that this name can be a barrier for newcomers. While the word “church” may speak to tradition and continuity for some, it may be alienating or confusing to others who are seeking an inclusive, spiritually open, and non-creedal community.

The meeting was not simply a vote, but a collaborative process rooted in the congregation’s core values. Under the guidance of Board President Chuck Leone and Vice President Gail DeSomer, participants engaged in a piece-by-piece exploration of the current name. Each component—“First,” “Unitarian,” “Church,” and so on—was discussed openly, with straw polls used to gauge the overall sense of the group. This approach fostered a remarkable sense of cooperation and respect.

The process embodied many of the principles Unitarian Universalists hold dear: the use of democratic process, the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and a commitment to pluralism and shared leadership. Community members voiced a range of opinions and perspectives, and the space was held with care, patience, and deep listening. Despite the potentially sensitive nature of the conversation, the room held a palpable sense of goodwill and shared purpose.

The congregation is especially grateful to Barbara Williams, who helped bring this issue to the forefront, and to Ann Hoewing, who encouraged a consensus-focused process. The Marketing Committee, including Abby Joiner, Justine Backus, Kelly Faust, and others, played a crucial role by conducting market research that helped guide the congregation’s discernment.

While not everyone may have arrived at the meeting with the same preferred name in mind, the outcome reflects a community that values dialogue, flexibility, and mutual respect. The room closed with a sense of unity and pride—proof that even in times of change, communities can come together with dignity and compassion.

The newly adopted name, Unitarian Universalists of South Bend, better reflects who this congregation is and aspires to be: a welcoming, evolving spiritual home for all who seek connection, justice, and meaning.