You Can Help Create A More Welcoming Church

Do you remember when you were a newcomer to First Universalist? We often speak of the courage it takes to come into a new church building, participate in a worship service, and be among people you do not know. We are fortunate to have so many people coming in our doors and exploring FIrst Universalist to find out if our community fits what they are seeking. 

A few of us began meeting over the summer to explore how we can make First Universalist more welcoming and ensure that there is a clear pathway for people who want to learn more and potentially join First Universalist. You may have noticed a new Welcome Table in the Social Hall after services and another table in the atrium with newcomer information. Our Newcomer Classes filled so quickly in early Fall that we had to add an additional class! We will be holding a number of New Member classes in the upcoming weeks. 

As we continue to focus on welcome we have a few needs that we are trying to fill:

• iPads – we are looking for three (3) gently used iPads to help newcomers sign up for The Liberal. That way, we eliminate the need to decipher handwriting and expedite the sign-up process.
• Ushers/Greeters – we are looking for more people who are willing to greet folks as they enter the building and the sanctuary as well as people who are willing to help with passing the offering baskets. We will provide training later in the fall. 
• A Place to Start facilitators – Lead a 30-minute to one-hour program with an established curriculum. Training and time to shadow will be provided. 
• A project-based person or team – to help gather photos for people’s Breeze (our congregation’s database) profiles and to help people learn how to use Breeze for connecting with others. 

Please contact Rev. Laura at laura@firstuniv.org or call or text 612-405-5583 if any of these are ways you would like to contribute to this important (and joyful) shared ministry of the church.