The Pathway to Membership
at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Winston-Salem
4055 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
(336) 659-0331

The Meaning of Membership

Membership is a feeling of belonging combined with a commitment to the future of the fellowship. It is a relationship of giving and receiving. Joining this spiritual community involves sharing your philosophy and listening to the perspectives of others. It is about finding a way for diverse individuals to build a community together.

The Rights of Membership

1. Voting. UUFWS is a democratic institution. The members of the Board and the Budget are voted one annually at a congregational meeting. Other congregational meetings are called occasionally to vote on building campaigns, the minister, and our stance on social issues. You will be in control of the institution that nurtures your spirituality.
2. Free special services. The minister will perform weddings, funerals, child dedications and other special services free of Charge for members.
3. Reduced rentals. Our building is available for parties and special events. Members get a 50% discount.
4. Committee chairs. Only members can chair committees. This is an opportunity to lead others and live your faith. Unitarian Universalists believe that faith is what you do rather than what you say.
5. Memorial Garden. Members and their families can be memorialized by the scattering of ashes and placement of a plaque in our peaceful Memorial Garden located behind our Fellowship Building.

The Responsibilities of Membership

1. Time. In order for our community to function we need volunteers to teach religious education, help with Sunday services, manage our finances, organize social action, throw parties, and much more.
2. Money. Each year a member is required to make a financial contribution of record. In order to build an inclusive community there is no maximum or minimum amount. Each year we ask each member to pledge. By estimating how much you are able to give, you help determine the budget for the upcoming year. Please examine your budget and give as generously as you can.

In addition to the cost of committees staff and building, we have the following expenses for each member we have on the book.

Dues to the UUA (national denomination)

$50

Dues to the Thomas Jefferson district (regional organization)

$18

Newsletter

$10

Total

$78

Recommended Steps to Membership

• Attend 5-10 services in order to get a sense of Unitarian Universalism and the congregation.
• Attend a UU history class
• Visit social gatherings and committee meetings to discover the broader life of the fellowship
• Meet with the minister

Required Steps to Membership

1. Examine your thoughts and feelings. Is Unitarian Universalism the right path for your spiritual growth?
2. Pick up a membership kit from the minister or a member of the Membership committee.
   • Fill out the information form
   • Complete the interest survey
   • Make a financial pledge
3. Bring completed material to Signing Sunday held in the UUFWS library every 4th Sunday of each month.
4. Sign the membership book

Being a Friend of the Congregation

Some people wish to maintain a relationship with the Fellowship without becoming a member. They may have a primary relationship with another faith tradition. Perhaps their partner is a member but they choose not to join. Maybe their current situation prevents them from making the commitment of time and money that membership requires. We call these people "Friends."

If you wish to be a friend please contact the administrative assistant or minister. You will be listed in the directory as a friend. Yearly subscription to the newsletter is $10.