Path of Faith Formation

The Path of Faith Formation series at First UU offers a clear route to developing one’s Unitarian Universalist faith and identity.

Adults who choose this path will start out by taking several classes in UU Foundations, move on to articulating their faith, and if they have higher aspirations, may choose one or more culminating paths – wisdom, leadership, or spirit.

While the path presented below is a sequential series, we understand that every individual is unique, and anyone with an interest may take any class at any time.

Part One – First UU 101 and Introduction to Unitarian Universalism

These are introductory classes which give newcomers basic information about how the church functions and a brief introduction to Unitarian Universalism. Both of these classes are offered regularly.

Part Two – UU Foundations

Several times a year we will offer UU Foundational classes. Topics may include the Seven UU Principles, the Six UU Sources, the Language of Reverence, Stages of Faith, Covenant (History and Theology), UU History, and the History of First UU.

Part Three – “Elevator Speeches”

Have you ever been asked what Unitarian Universalism is, and been at a loss for words? In this class, participants create their own short statements of their UU faith – good for briefly explaining your faith and your church to relatives, friends, and strangers you meet who ask about your chalice pin. This class will be recommended for people who have attended at least a few of the foundational courses.

Part Four – Wisdom Track

Unitarian Universalists who wish to fully engage in their faith will move beyond elevator speeches and create a fully formed statement of faith. People who have completed the “elevator speech” workshop, or who have attended this or another UU church for several years, will be invited to this series of workshops in which participants will create fully formed statements of faith and will present these to the congregation in a dedicated worship service. Presentation during worship service is voluntary and participants will have alternative options that don’t involve presenting to the congregation, if desired.

Leadership Track

Church members who aspire to chair a committee, sit on the board, teach a religious education class, or who just want to know more about leadership and governance will want to attend one or more of these classes. Topics may include systems theory, adaptive leadership, and policy governance. Aspiring leaders are also encouraged to attend anti-oppression workshops offered by our social justice committee or other entities.

Spirit Path

Regardless of classes taken or length of membership, everyone at first UU is invited to tend to their spirit through Covenant group participation or leadership. Occasional workshops on other spiritual practices may be offered.

All Path of Faith Formation offerings are listed on the Adult Religious Education page or the Calendar of Events.