The Unitarian Church of Harrisburg welcomes members from any/all faith backgrounds to participate in our church community. We invite guests to participate in worship services and in the large variety of staff- and lay-led activities scheduled at both campuses. In general, services and other church activities are open to anyone, regardless of membership status.
One becomes a member by signing the Membership Book in the presence of the minister, a representative of the Membership Action Council, or another designed member of the church. Anyone in sympathy with the program and purpose of our church may “sign the book.”
PATHS TO MEMBERSHIP
There are multiple paths to membership.
(1) If you are currently a member of another UU congregation and wish to join the UCH, you may sign the book at any time. Please coordinate with a representative of the Membership Team.
(2) The Membership Team conducts orientation sessions approximately six times per year, usually as a 90-minute Zoom meeting on a weekday evening. Afterward, participants may sign the Membership Book. Please contact the Membership Team to obtain advance handouts for the sessions.
(3) Under extenuating circumstances, after consultation with the minister, an individual may sign the Membership Book without attending the membership class.
(4) Approximately twice a year, we have a brief ceremony on Sunday morning to formally welcome new members into the congregation.
AFTER SIGNING THE BOOK
Signing the Membership Book is the first step in what we hope is a long and fruitful relationship with our church community. This is a two-way relationship, and we encourage members to engage in active participation in church affairs, based on time and interest.
When you sign the book, we will provide the following:
- A “Connection Coach” who serve as an as-needed mentor, available to answer questions you may have about the church, its mission, and the opportunities available to you.
- A logon ID to the members-only section of our website, with access to the members directory.
- A pledge card, with advice on how you may contribute financially to the organization.
- Ideas on activities potentially of interest to you and your family.
Membership is open to adults and youths aged 13 and older. Most children participate in church activities as an extension of their parents’ membership.
CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS
An annual congregational meeting occurs in late spring, with other congregational meetings scheduled on an as-needed basis. To vote at these meetings, you must be a member and have a contribution of record within the preceding 12 months. This is normally (1) a financial contribution, such as pledge or plate donation, or (2) a service donation, such as participation on a church team or committee. Please confer with the minister or another church representative if you are uncertain as to your eligibility to vote.