Becoming a member

Unitarian Universalism is known as a free faith and a chosen faith. Whether you’ve been a UU for a long time or a few months, becoming a member of our congregation is a step you can take when it feels right for you. One first step is to meet with Rev. Emily to discuss where you are at in your faith journey and your relationship to First Parish.

Q: What are the requirements for joining First Parish of Kingston?

A: Full, voting membership is open to any person eighteen (18) years of age or older who has:
a. Attended the new member class or spoken with the Minister.
b. Made an annual commitment to a financial contribution of record. (The financial commitment requirement may be waived after a confidential consultation with the Collector or the Minister.)

Q: What are the expectations of members?

A: Membership in a Unitarian Universalist congregation carries four expectations.

1.      To take seriously your own on-going spiritual growth
2.      To be present in the life of the congregation
3.      To contribute financially to support the congregation
4.      To share your time and skills to support the congregation

Each of these four expectations may look different from person to person – we trust you to interpret them appropriately for yourself! If you are in the season of your life that involves parenting young children, you may contribute to and be present in the congregation in ways that are very different from someone in the season of life that involves retirement. If sudden life events change your circumstances, you may find yourself with less time to volunteer and greater needs for tending to your spiritual growth. We encourage you to let these expectations help you deepen your involvement with us and with Unitarian Universalism in the ways that are right for you.

Q: Does my membership cost anything?

A:  Yes and no. As a member of First Parish, we ask and expect that you will contribute your time, talents and treasure to the life of our congregation. You are not required to give these things in exchange for the rights and privileges of your membership.

Q: How are decisions made at First Parish?

A: In a Unitarian Universalist congregation, all the power belongs to the members of the congregation. Some of that power is delegated when the members democratically elect a Governing Board and vote to call a minister. The Governing Board makes decisions on behalf of the congregation in order to fulfill First Parish’s mission, except where otherwise defined in the bylaws. The minister leads the staff team in carrying out the work of First Parish’s mission. Other major decisions, such as approving the annual budget, are made by a vote of the congregation.

Click here to see the “Top Ten Reasons to Be a Member of First Parish,” a sermon given by Rev. Emily Bruce on Membership Sunday, May 2022.