Worship
UU Worship 101
What to Expect
Worship means many different things to people. As stated by the 1982 UUA Commission on Common Worship: “Worship is a human activity. Though it is often defined as an activity to placate and get in touch with divine powers, it need not have any supernatural implications.
The origin of the word "worship" is in the Old English weorthscipe, meaning to ascribe worth to something, or even to shape things of worth. We worship, then, whenever we ascribe worth to some value, idea, object, person, experience, attitude, or activity, or whenever we give form or shape to that which is of worth.”
Welcome
The worship experience is primary in our life as a congregation. All that defines us as a fellowship arises from and is reflected in the worship of this community. It has been said that the worship service is a window into the soul of a church – a community of faith. We invite you to join us at worship and experience who we are.
“Whatever faiths you have known, or the flags of your heritage – you are welcome here. Whoever you are or whomever you love – you are welcome here. And whatever motivation propelled you through our doors this morning . . . you belong here because you are here, and all that you have and all that you are is welcome here.”
—UUFCM ‘words of welcome’ often shared in worship
Our Sunday services provide an opportunity for people representing a wide spectrum of beliefs, interests, and backgrounds to worship together and rejoice in our spiritual connectedness and shared values.
Our hour-long services typically include singing and instrumental music, shared readings, a time for meditation/prayer/silence, the sharing of joys & sorrows, and a sermon or presentation. Children join us for the beginning of the service before going to Religious Education (RE) classes.
Every Sunday after worship, we gather for refreshments (yes, coffee!) and conversation in the fellowship hall.Our ministerial team and other guests in our pulpit celebrate our diversity of theology, as well as our common values and principles. You won’t hear talk about creeds or doctrines. Instead you’ll hear messages that provoke thought, give hope, and encourage compassion and inclusiveness.
You’ll hear that personal experience, conscience and reason should be the final authorities in religion, and that religious authority lies not in a book or person or institution, but in ourselves. Visit the sermon archive to see examples of past sermons.
Dress however you're most comfortable (clothing, however, is not optional).
Enter the door on the south side of the building that faces Wisconsin Street. Our greeters in the lobby will welcome you and provide a visitor nametag, if you want to wear one. They are also happy to answer any questions you may have. The worship space is to the west of the lobby. There is a lift just inside the entrance for those needing assistance.
The Sunday morning Youth Religious Education program offers classes designed to help children develop spiritual values, ethical sensitivity and an understanding of our Judeo-Christian heritage as well as other world religions. Children participate in service each week and are excused to attend their RE class after hearing the morning’s “Story for All Ages”. We also provide a staffed nursery for the very youngest among us.
Adult Religious Education (RE) classes are offered regularly following the worship service on Sundays and at other times during the week. Examples of previous classes include “Articulating Your Faith”, “Building Your Own Theology”, and “The Welcoming Congregation”.
Our Welcome to UU class helps participants learn about Unitarian Universalism and about the UUFCM by focusing on individuals’ religious journeys, UU history/beliefs, and groups and activities at the church.
An informal Discussion Group meets every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Max & Emily's on Broadway in downtown Mt. Pleasant.
And there's always opportunity for lively discussion during fellowship hour after our Sunday morning worship service.
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I came to UUFCM searching for a spiritual home. What I found was a supportive community that encouraged me to question, explore, and create a meaningful path of my own.
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Jim Dealing
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I was thrilled to find a community committed to justice, equality, peace, and environmental stewardship. Here, we share values while honoring each person’s unique beliefs.
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Jen Prout
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UUFCM is a place where I can be my authentic self and know I will be accepted. I want everyone in our community to have that same sense of belonging.
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Annette Pratt
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At UUFCM, I find beloved friends, spiritual grounding, and partners in the work of building a better world. This community continually challenges me to grow and live my values.
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Vicki Chessin
Join Us This Sunday!
July 26, 2026