When you feel like UU Amherst is your spiritual home and you would like to become a member of this loving community, we welcome you to become a member!

What is Membership

Becoming a member of UU Amherst is a meaningful step toward deeper engagement in our beloved community. It signifies a commitment to our shared values and a desire to participate more fully in congregational life.

There are two types of membership: members and sustaining members. Both types of members sign our Membership Book upon joining as a symbol of their commitment. Those who choose to make a financial pledge become sustaining members, granting them the ability to vote on important matters, such as the annual budget.

While financial contributions are not required for membership, they represent a deeper investment in our spiritual community and help sustain our mission. Unlike some religious organizations, we do not receive funding from the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). Instead, we rely on the generosity of our members to support our operations. Our Endowment Trust also contributes a portion of its earned interest to help fund expenses.

The Path

Step 1. Come to or watch Sunday services as often as you can. Explore various connection activities. Take a chance with something just outside your comfort zone.

Step 2.  Speak with Rev. Michelle about your interest in becoming a member to reflect on your individual spiritual journey, discuss UU beliefs, our mission, and covenant. We offer New2UU sessions, periodically which can be attended prior to or after becoming a member. These sessions allow newcomers and new members a chance to get to know each other and learn about the history and opportunities of Unitarian Universalism.

Step 3. Sign our Membership Book. Join us as we create an effective beloved community where you can broaden your vision and share life’s moments with other seekers.

Step 4. (Optional) Pledge. This is a commitment beyond the Sunday collection plate that helps fund our mission in an intentional manner. These ongoing, recorded financial contributions allow members to participate and vote in important congregation decisions and meetings. Request a pledge card by contacting our Office Administrator, Elaine at administrator@uuamherst.org

There is no time limit for deciding to become a member. Some of our members have come for a year or more before deciding this is where they belong. Some have started pledging prior to becoming a member. The path is what makes sense to you.