We have carefully curated a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) that encompass curiosities ranging from general “big picture” questions about Unitarian Universalism to more granular ones about UUFRC in particular. These FAQs are designed designed to bring answers to many groups:  

1. Those completely new to Unitarian Universalism;
2. Those new to UUFRC;
3. Those considering becoming a friend or member of UUFRC;
4. Those who have been at UUFRC for a long time and want to help spread the good word!

Unitarian Universalism

1. What is Unitarian Universalism (UU)? Who are Unitarian Universalists?

Unitarian Universalism is a welcoming religion guided by a “free and responsible search for truth and meaning.”  Rather than asserting a central dogma or creed, Unitarian Universalism supports a collective search for spiritual growth, guided by a “living tradition.” The living traditions are summarized by the Seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism and the Six Sources. 

With that framework, the beliefs of Unitarian Universalists comprise a wide range of ideologies and philosophies. Some include, but not limited to: humanism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Taoism, and more. We are united by our commitment to following a set of principles but come with different beliefs. 

For more information, feel free to visit the UU history page on our website.

2. Is UU a new religion? Why is this the first time I have heard of it?!

Unitarian Universalism has a rich history stemming from the amalgamation of the Universalist Church of America and the American Unitarian Association. However, those two denominations have a long history that, along with the history of the Unitarian Universalist Association, is extensively covered in our “UU Values and History class” taught by our minister Rev. Brian Ferguson. 

As put by our current minister Rev. Brian Fegurson: “Unitarian Universalism is the best kept secret.” Many may say Unitarian Universalists are not naturally evangelical folks, therefore spreading the “faith” through word of mouth is not as prominent or encouraged like it may be in other religions.

3. I consider myself a Christian, would I fit into a UU congregation?

Absolutely! Although we do not revolve around a central creed, many UUs do recognize Jesus as an exemplar, one who has shown the way of redemptive love and whose spirit anyone may live generously and abundantly through.

4. I consider myself an Atheist, would I fit into a UU congregation?

Absolutely! We pride ourselves in being a spiritual not religious community without any prescribed attachment to the idea of a God. 

5. I am part of a mixed religion partnership, would I fit into a UU congregation?

Absolutely! Many members come as mixed religion/mixed background families and have found it to be a perfect home for their mixed families. There is no requirement for members of the same household to hold the same beliefs and all families are welcomed with open arms. 

UUFRC

1. Why UUFRC?

The terms that come to mind immediately when thinking about UUFRC are: a warm welcoming community. Jen Gill, our Connections Coordinator (connecting@uufrc.org), has mentioned countless times that this is the most common feedback she receives from many newcomers. Our building is located in a beautiful suburban neighborhood of Redwood City and provides a tranquil place for us to gather. We offer a variety of services and events (on Sundays and every other day of the week!) and we invite you to peruse here. 

2. What does a typical Sunday service look like? What topics are discussed in a typical Sunday service?

Our services are guided by a predetermined sermon topic and typically structured with a welcoming song, certain rituals, singing hymns with our amazing choir, sharing joys and sorrows, a reflection from our worship associate, the sermon and closing words. Typically congregants are seated in rows facing the pulpit where speakers are posted. Children (0-18 years old) are welcome to stay for the entire service or attend childcare or Children’s Religious Education (RE) during the service. 

We are a unique congregation in that we offer two types of Sunday services. The first being “Full Service Sundays” briefly described above or for a more in-depth description, go here. The second being a new Sunday morning model we are calling “Action Sundays” which begin with a shorter service for all ages followed by a choice of activities. For more information on our Action Sundays, place read more here. 

3. Children’s Religious Education (RE) seems to be a big component of UU culture, what does RE look like?

We are proud to offer Children’s Religious Education (RE) to our youth from 0-18 years old. Rev. Brian welcomes all children to attend the Sunday worship services but you are welcome to enroll your children in childcare or RE classes during the service. We offer age-appropriate classes for our youth and more information can be found here.

4. What happens beyond the Sunday service?

There are many ways to engage with folks or become involved with various groups, intergenerational activities, or social outings at UUFRC. Our various committees span many areas of interest from justice and outreach initiatives, connections and caring committees, music and choir, fellowship events, faith exploration and more. To learn more, please visit here.

5. If I am new to UUFRC, where can I find out more?

First off, welcome! We truly embody the words in the welcoming song “Come, come, whoever you are” by Jalaluddin Rumi that we sing first thing most Sunday mornings: 

“Come, come, whoever you are,

wanderer, worshiper, lover of leaving.

Ours is no caravan of despair.

Come, yet again come.”

If you would like more information, please visit our newcomers welcome page or reach out to our wonderful Connections Coordinator, Jen Gill.