What should I bring with me?
Curiosity! We have some special services when we ask people to bring such things as flowers, water from a special place, bread or covered dishes. You are welcome to attend any of these services without bringing anything—we always have enough to go around.
When should I arrive?
To make sure you get a good parking space and have time to settle in, we suggest you arrive five to ten minutes before the service.
There are plenty of chairs available.
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What should I wear?
Our congregation dresses casually. Depending on the season, people will be in sweaters and jeans, shorts and T-shirts, shirts and ties, pants and jackets, skirts and blouses and every now and then “Sunday Best.” You’re always likely to find people dressed as you are. Children should wear comfortable clothes as they play and gather on the floor, work with art supplies, or go outside.
Where do I park?
We have a big parking lot that wraps around our building, which is an old school house. You’ll find marked accessible spaces directly in front of the building. (See About/Accessibility.)
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Your First Visit
May our child(ren) stay with us during the service?
Yes. Your child(ren) may stay with you during the service. Most children and youth attend the first part of the service and stay through the popular Time for All Ages. They are then invited downstairs to attend our Young People's Program time, held during the worship hour. Childcare is available every Sunday for younger children.
Will I have to introduce myself?
New people come in the door every week. We extend a welcome to our visitors at the beginning of our services. We gently offer them an opportunity to introduce themselves or be introduced, if you wish. Everyone is encouraged to stay for conversation and refreshments after the service.
What else happens on Sundays?
Religious exploration classes for children and youth meet most Sundays, unless we’re having a special intergenerational service. Childcare is available during the service every Sunday.
Do I have to join right away to participate in church events?
You are welcome to participate in the life of UUFES from the start. “Friends” of UUFES are treated as Members in every way with the exception that you must be a Member to vote at our congregational meetings and to serve on our Governing Board and Finance Committee. As a Friend, we invite you participate in every other way and hope that you will want to join as a Member someday.
Is the church building wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. Our sanctuary is on the second floor of the building, with offices and the Young People's
Program space on the first floor. A ramp leads to each side door—the right-hand door (as you look at the building) leads to an lift, which a greeter can help you use. Either leads to a wheelchair-accessible restroom.
Do you have aids for the hearing and sight impaired?
Yes. UUFES has an enhanced “Hearing Loop” technology sound system—ask one of our greeters if you would like a headset or use a hearing aid. Large-print hymnals are available in the bookshelf near the sanctuary doors.
Will I meet the minister?
Our minister serves our congregation ¾ time and is in the pulpit two to three Sundays a month. On her Sundays off, a guest minister/speaker or UUFES member leads worship.
What will the service be like?
Every service is unique, written for that Sunday, so you’ll want to attend more than once to get a feel for who we are and what we do. Services include readings and music from many sources and traditions. Multiple musicians, instrumental and vocal, enrich our services. Sermons and messages range from theological to personal to humanist. Along with serious reflection, good will and good humor abound in this congregation.
