The Process

If you decide to become a member of the First Unitarian Church of South Bend, you will take the following steps:

1. Attend the New UU Orientation Classes,
2. When the church has a minister, have a formal meeting with them,
3. Provide autobiographical information for the Ingathering Ceremony,
4. Attend the Ingathering service/sign the Membership Book,
5. Pledge Financial support
6. Become eligible to vote and participate more deeply in church life

If you have been a member of a UU church elsewhere, or are a returning member, some of these requirements may be waived.

New Member Orientation

These classes occur two times within a few weeks, and are planned for about three hours each. There are a variety of topics covered in this curriculum, including values exercises, church history, exploring our personal religious timelines, congregational polity and committees, social aspects of the church and programs available at the church. Child care is available for these classes. Light snacks and beverages are provided.

Ingathering Ceremony

This public celebration of commitment is a joyous time. New beginning! A time to feel good as we welcome you with open arms!  You will be asked to provide a short bio that tells the congregation who you are, what your passions are and what you are looking forward to doing within the church.  You will also be invited to sign our membership book.

Pledge Financial Support

A pledge is a member’s promise of financial support to this religious community. Becoming a member of this church and making a pledge of support is saying “I am more than a guest. I am vested in the future of this church.” A pledge card will be included with the other new member information you will receive upon becoming a member. The church’s Treasurer and the Vice-President will be the best people to answer questions and discuss the pledge process in depth.

Involvement

Being a part of our church community provides an opportunity to explore and share your personal gifts. We want to help you find activities that match your interests and fit your needs. The Membership Committee is available to assist you in connecting to others in the church.

Regular attendance at the Sunday service is one of the best ways to learn what’s going on and become familiar with the many people that make up our church. Participating in an Adult RE class or a Covenant Group are two ways to begin building relationships with others at the church while gaining personal growth.

Voting

Our church is governed by By-Laws that will be given to you as part of the new member information you will receive upon becoming a member. You are eligible to vote 30 days after you join. We urge you to fully participate in our democratic process by voting at all congregational meetings and paying attention to communications from the Board of Trustees.

Maintaining or Changing Membership

You will maintain your membership by keeping the office and Membership Chair informed of your current address, preferred means of communication, continuing your pledge contributions and renewing your pledge annually. Should you decide to discontinue your membership, we ask that you send a letter of resignation to the Secretary of the Board of Trustees. If you fail to make a contribution of record during the fiscal year, or fail to make an annual pledge, you may be contacted by someone to discuss your status during the time when Membership is verified with the UUA.

If you would like to become a member of this congregation, please contact the office (office@firstunitarian.us) to obtain the name of the Membership Committee chair.