Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is welcome at UUCSS?

When you visit on a Sunday morning you will be surrounded by people who hold varying ideas about God, reincarnation, the meaning of life, the afterlife, and much more. Some of us grew up in a Unitarian Universalist congregation, many found UUCSS after leaving another religion, and this is the first congregation for others. Whoever you are, we welcome you in the fullness of who you are. This congregation includes people of many cultures and ages, gifts and passions, beliefs, doubts, and questions. UUCSS enthusiastically and unapologetically welcomes LGBTQIA+ persons and their families. 

Sunday Worship is fully accessible. ASL interpreting is available upon request. Please contact deafaccess@uucss.org.

What do you offer families with children?

Children of all ages may stay in the service with their grownups or participate in age-appropriate programs.

What is Unitarian Universalism?

While many faith traditions are held together by shared beliefs about theology, our free faith is held together by shared commitments about how we will act with one another. UUs call these shared commitments a covenant. This is why Unitarian Universalists often refer to ourselves as “the deeds not creeds” faith. Unitarian Universalism flows from the values of Equity, Generosity, Interdependence, Justice, Pluralism, and Transformation, all with Love at the center. Learn more about UU beliefs on our denomination’s main site: https://www.uua.org/beliefs

What does it mean to be a member? Will I be pressured to join UUCSS?

Joining a faith community is a very personal and significant decision. No one is required to be a member of UUCSS to join us on Sunday mornings or take part in our activities and programs. If you do choose to join this church, you will get to vote at congregational meetings where we elect Board members, call ministers, and pass our annual budgets. Some leadership positions are also only open to members. Membership means you commit yourself to the mission and vision of this congregation, to our covenant, and that you will share your time, talent, and treasure with the community. 

How does UUCSS pay its bills?

UUCSS is supported, primarily, by annual giving. Once a year, everyone (whether member or friend) who calls UUCSS their own is invited to make a financial pledge for the year ahead in whatever amount works for their household. You can choose whether to pay your pledge monthly, quarterly, or yearly, and UUCSS can accept these gifts in different forms (check, stock transfer, auto-pay, etc.). Some times are better than others, so members are free to adjust their pledges if their financial situation changes. 

In addition to the generosity of our members and friends through pledged gifts, UUCSS makes increasing income by renting out our spaces for weddings, memorial services, parties, and for community events. 

Who does what to keep UUCSS running?

UUCSS has a small staff including our two ministers. Much of the work you see being done, including making coffee, putting away chairs, planning camping trips, teaching kids and mentoring youth, is done by church members, usually as part of a group or committee.

What do people wear to Sunday Worship Services?

There is no dress code — most people dress casually, a few like to dress up sometimes. Come as you are!

What if my question isn’t on this list?

The administrator will do their best to connect you with answers. Reach out to administrator@uucss.org

What makes this church unique, at this time?

If you are looking at faith communities in the DMV, you’ll find you have many options. Each congregation has its own characteristics. Here are some of the things attendees appreciate most about UUCSS:

Evolution

This church has been through a lot of change since 2015. Both of our ministers came to us during the pandemic. Leadership has faced growing challenges in a world that’s on fire. Two of our buildings broke. Through it all we found ways to play, celebrate, keep welcoming newcomers, and collaborate on the path forward. 

Humor

Maybe you don’t expect to laugh during a sermon. But you also probably would be surprised to hear a ukelele band play Talking Heads. This church is blessed by openness to joy and connection even during serious and intense times.

Creativity

The UUCSS choir, rock band, a cappella group, and ukelele ensemble, along with a community concert series, are demonstrations of the vital role music plays in our ministry. And making art isn’t only for kids: we find ways to use crayons, chalk and neon-pink duct tape to learn and to spread ideas.

All Are Welcome!