Dates for our next series are not available due to the pandemic. We hope to offer them in the future.
This three-part Newcomer Orientation workshop series called “Belonging” is designed to help you decide whether or not this is the congregation you have been looking for, one in which you can truly belong, contribute, learn and grow as your spiritual journey continues. You can attend Parts I, II and III (preferably in order) whenever you are ready, even months or years apart. Part III includes the opportunity to join the congregation by signing our membership book and making a pledge. Annually, generally in April, we welcome all new members as part of a New Member Sunday service dedicated to the celebration of covenant and community. Though the orientation series focuses on the experience of newcomers, any member or friend of the Fellowship is encouraged to attend any session. Anyone who wishes to become a member is strongly encouraged to attend all three, but other arrangements are possible in consultation with the minister.
Part I: Connecting
In Part I we welcome you and your family, answer any questions you might have and suggest some ways to connect with others in the congregation as you continue to get to know us. Rev. Margie, staff members and membership leaders attend this session and join others in the group in sharing the stories of how we came to this Fellowship and to Unitarian Universalism. You’ll receive a packet of information that identifies specific ways to get involved.
Date and time: Monday, Feb. 3, 7:15-9:30 p.m. (+ evening snacks)
Part II: Deepening
Part II offers more information about the history and theology of UUism, using handouts, video and discussion. We also talk about this congregation, its history and the symbols, values, vision, mission and the covenants we share. In Part I, we had the opportunity to share what brought each of us to this place and moment. In Part II, we turn our attention to the future, asking “What needs to happen next for you and how can we support your progress toward your vision of a meaningful life?” The packet of materials you receive will include ideas for ways to deepen your engagement here, moving you forward on your path in “purposeful companionship” with others.
Date and time: Saturday, Feb. 8, 9:30 a.m.-noon (+ brunchy food and drink)
Part III: Belonging
In Part III we explore what it means to be a member of this congregation. The discussion part of this session focuses on the core human need to belong, and the balance we seek here between the autonomy of each individual and our responsibility to the common good, both within our congregation and beyond its walls. As a part of our discussion of the rights and responsibilities of membership, we talk about our annual pledge campaign and other ways we work together as a congregation to raise the money needed to care for our property and advance our ministries. Those who wish to “sign the book” (join the Fellowship) can do so on the spot or wait for our New Member service in the spring.
Date and time: Sunday, Feb. 9, 12:15-2:45 p.m. (+ hearty lunch)
The series runs three times annually. To register or to ask questions, please contact Rev. Madeyn Campbell, (), Membership Chair Gretta Johnson-Sally () or the Fellowship office (631-751-0297, ).
Further Reading
A Precarious Path: The Bold Experiment of the Fellowship Movement
Unitarian Universalist Origins: Our Historic Faith (Mark W. Harris)
History of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook by Edith Hull