Membership & Governance

Membership in the Society

A person becomes a member of our congregation through the simple act of signing the membership book, followed by a vote of approval by the Standing Committee. We ask that this signature indicate an individual's willingness to participate in and support this congregation for the foreseeable future, and we hope that each decision is made thoughtfully. Other than this, no assessment of an individual's beliefs is considered necessary or appropriate. Those interested in joining are encouraged to speak with the Minister. The membership book is usually available at the visitor's table after services on Sunday, or from the minister. The Society currently has approximately 350 members.

How We are Governed

Each Unitarian Universalist congregation is organized and directed by its voting members. At UUSWH, we typically meet as a full Society at least once a year in the Spring (more often when necessary), to establish an annual operating budget and determine priorities for the year to come. At that meeting, we also elect members of our Standing Committee, which governs operations of the church on our behalf, and the Religious Education Committee, which works with the Director of Religious Education to manage our Church School Program. Each of these committees in turn chooses a chair person from among its membership. Members on these committees each serve a three-year term, with one third being elected each year. We also elect a Clerk, who is the official recorder for the Society, a Treasurer, and an Auditor, who serve one-year terms. A Nominating Committee suggests a slate of candidates for reach position, but other nominations can be made following our by-laws.
Current officers of the Society are listed below. They can all be contacted through the Church Office.

This year's Annual Meeting will be held in June , 2006 at a date yet to be determined.  All members and friends are urged to attend.