Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who is welcome at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Greensboro?
    All are welcome in this church-women and men and children, persons of any color, culture, age, ability, economic status, or affectional orientation, skeptics, and those pursuing common or unorthodox religious paths. Distinctions of power, privilege, and estate that apply outside our doors, do not apply within them.
  2. How can I find out more about Unitarian Universalists?
    Visit our congregation and attend a Sunday service or any event listed on the calendar to meet members of our church family. A "New UU" class is held. . . ., or you may access the UUA's Newcomer's web site for more information.
  3. What do Unitarian Universalists (UUs) believe?
    Unitarian Universalism is a "creedless" religion. There is no set established dogma that all members must adhere to. Each Unitarian seeks truth in a free and responsible manner respecting the beliefs of others. The list below highlights our key philosophical agreements:ยท We believe in the freedom of religious expression. All individuals should be encouraged to develop their own personal theology, and to present openly their religious opinions without fear of censure or reprisal.
    • We believe in the toleration of religious ideas. All religions, in every age and culture, possess not only an intrinsic merit, but also a potential value for those who have learned the art of listening.
    • We believe in the authority of reason and conscience. The ultimate arbiter in religion is not a church, or a document, or an official, but the personal choice and decision of the individual.
    • We believe in the never-ending search for Truth. If the mind and heart are truly free and open, the revelations which appear to the human spirit are infinitely numerous, eternally fruitful, and wondrously exciting.
    • We believe in the unity of experience. There is no fundamental conflict between faith and knowledge, religion and the world, the sacred and the secular, since they all have their source in the same reality.
    • We believe in the worth and dignity of each human being. All people on earth have an equal claim to life, liberty, and justice -- and no idea, ideal, or philosophy is superior to a single human life.
    • We believe in the ethical application of religion. Good works are the natural product of a good faith, the evidence of an inner grace that finds completion in social and community involvement.
  4. How do I join the church?
    Once you have made a decision to become a member, UUCG's membership committee will help you meet with the minister and make arrangements to sign the membership book and discuss the responsibilities and rewards of entering this community.
  5. Is there a dress code when attending church?
    As with our individual search for truth, there is an individual decision for what feels right when attending services, from the most casual attire to "Sunday best."
  6. How are children involved in church services?
    On most Sundays, our children are involved in religious education. However, services regularly include children and promote their interactions with the adults in the congregation.
  7. Why do you have a congregation if you all have your own beliefs?
    Our congregation is based upon our commitment to our philosophical principles, covenant, and mission statement. Although we search individually for our own truth, we embrace the need for community and fellowship, a supportive environment in which to express our personal needs and respond to the needs of others.
  8. What holidays do you celebrate?
    First, we practice familiar ceremonies—uniting in marriage, naming and dedicating children, remembering a life that is ended---in simple, accessible language. "We observe these rites in community, not because they are required by some rule or dogma, but because in them we may voice our affection, hopes, and dedication." Though practices may change, we typically gather to celebrate major religious holidays, but "do so in a universal context, recognizing and honoring religious observances and festivals as innate and needful of all human culture." (UUA)
  9. Do you have any symbol like the cross or menorah?
    Today, the flaming chalice is the official symbol of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee and the Unitarian Universalist Association. Officially or unofficially, it functions as a logo for hundreds of congregations and has become a focal point for worship. No one meaning or interpretation is official. The flaming chalice, like our faith, stands open to receive new truths that pass the tests of reason, justice, and compassion.