FAQ
When are services?
Our services begin at 10:30 during the fall, winter, and spring. They begin at 9:30 in the summer.
Do you welcome everyone?
Absolutely! We welcome individuals and families of all ethnicities, religious backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We celebrate and respect our individual differences and similarities. We believe each person who becomes a part of our spiritual community brings his or her own special gifts that will enhance all our lives.
Is CUU handicap accessible?
The main level, which has the worship room, library, and restroom, is wheelchair accessible. The Religious Education facilities are not handicap accessible at this time; however, one of our long range goals is to install an elevator.
What should I wear?
You and your family should wear what feels comfortable. Although most people come casually dressed, some use Sunday as a chance to dress up a little.
What happens when I arrive?
Our ushers will meet you in the foyer and give you an order of service, show you where to hang your coat, and direct you to the Welcome Table which is just inside the worship room. One of our greeters will introduce him or herself, ask you to sign our guest book, fill out a name tag (optional), give you a Welcome Packet, answer your questions, and help you find a seat next to a member of the congregation. This member will be happy to tell you more about us and answer any questions you may have.
If you have children under age 18, the greeter will introduce you to Jennifer Harvilak, our Director of Religious Education, or a member of the Religious Education Council. If you arrive at least 10 minutes before the service starts, we will be happy to give you and your children a tour of our Religious Education facilities. We can also give you and your children a tour after the service.
What happens during the service?
Our services last about one hour. We have hymns, readings, meditation, and a sermon. The messages are probably different from what you may have experienced – our sermons do not provide all the answers. Rather, we hope they will encourage you to think and make up your own mind. Most Sundays there is a short period after the sermon for the congregation to respond – agree, disagree, or comment. We end each service by making a circle, holding hands, and singing our closing words. After the service, we have refreshments and time to get to know each other better.
Do you have a nursery?
Yes, the nursery opens 15 minutes before services begin and closes 15 minutes after services end.
Do you have classes for children?
Children usually stay with their families for the first 15 – 20 minutes of the service. During this period, we have a story for all ages. Children may go to the front of the room for the story or sit with you. After the story, we sing as they go to their Religious Education classes. You may walk with your children to their classes and stay with them or return for the service. Children may also spend the entire service with you.
Do you have classes for middle school youth?
Middle school youth are invited to attend the Junior Youth class on Sunday mornings. We also have a Junior Youth Group that usually meets on the second Sunday of each month from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the youth room.
Do you have classes for high school youth?
High school youth are encouraged to be active members of the congregation by attending Sunday services, volunteering their time and talents, and participating in the Senior Youth Group. The Senior Youth Group usually meets on the first Sunday of the month from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at members’ homes or local restaurants.
What will my children learn in Religious Education Classes?
Our goals are to guide participants as they explore the “big questions” of life and help them develop a strong ethical foundation to support a lifelong search for truth and meaning. We offer diverse, engaging, age appropriate experiences in a safe, nourishing environment. For a detailed description of our Religious Education classes, visit the Religious Education Page on this website.
What happens in the summer?
We have informal services that are led by a member of the congregation. We sit in a circle and discuss a wide variety of subjects. Religious Education classes are combined into one class for all ages during the summer. A different theme is planned each summer.
How do I learn more about Unitarian Universalism and CUU?
Attend one of the “UU and You” classes, which are held periodically during the year
Read the pamphlets in your Welcome Packet
Meet with Rev. Henry Simoni-Wastila
Read “The Companion,” our monthly newsletter
Attend one of the newcomers breakfasts, which are scheduled twice a year
Attend an adult education class
Visit the Unitarian Universalist Association website
What other activities do you have?
We have several regular activities to help others including:
On July 4th, when local soup kitchens are closed, we have a picnic in Westminster, Maryland
Regular collections for the Reisterstown Crisis Center and Shepherd’s Staff
Special initiatives for specific causes
We have many fun activities such as:
Yoga and tai-chi classes
Dance and drum circles
Duplicate bridge, daytime trips, art exploration, and men’s groups
Dinners and luncheons
We host the Maryland Alliance of Traditions and Earth Religions on the first and third Friday of the month.
All our activities are open to everyone.
We look forward to meeting you!