We extend our hands in friendship and welcome you to the UUFL. We are a community guided by the Seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism.
- The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
- Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
- Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
- A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
- The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
- The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
- Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
We strive to honor those lofty goals. Here you will find respect, understanding, and acceptance; and you will be expected to extend those same courtesies to others.
We work to create a place where you may feel free to ask profound questions about life; to share not only your beliefs, but your doubts as well. Among our small number we have persons from widely divergent religious and non-religious traditions. What we most treasure is the mutual willingness to differ without hatred or rancor. We welcome you to join us in a spirit of peace, freedom, and personal involvement with others who value intellect, independence, and imagination.
The following information may be helpful in better understanding the UUFL.
The Fellowship is governed congregationally. That is, we do not take direction either doctrinally or operationally from any so-called higher organizational or institutional authority. Members govern the congregation, both directly at congregational meetings and indirectly through an elected governing Board of Directors, and each individual Member has full voting privileges. Friends of the Fellowship are those who attend regularly but have not become Members; they do not have the right to vote on congregational matters but their suggestions and questions have full consideration. Real property is owned by the Fellowship.
The Fellowship is lay-led. We do not have a minister who provides leadership for the group. The membership takes all the responsibility for operation of this voluntary association. It is vitally important for the life of this Fellowship that each person contribute toward the general welfare. There are a number of forms this contribution may take. Opportunities for service include, but are not limited to:
- governance (elected office)
- building and grounds maintenance
- maintaining and updating the bulletin board
- providing technological expertise for the web site
- presenting Sunday talks
- acting as worship leader at Sunday morning services
- planning and giving musical presentations
- dressing the chalice table with linens, candles, and flowers
- acting as greeter on Sunday mornings
- representing the Fellowship in various local community organizations; in regional activities of the Southwest UU district; as an NTUUC (formerly NTAUUS) Board Member active on one of their committees; and at the annual General Assembly of the national Unitarian Universalist Association
We do not exact a tithe, or any other specified amount of financial contribution. Donations are left strictly up to the personal decisions of individual Members and Friends.
The Fellowship is a member of both the regional and national arms of the Unitarian Universalist Association.