Membership
When you find yourself thinking of First Parish as your church, you are invited to become a voting member.
Membership is an important personal commitment to the life and work of our congregation. The following activities are offered as steps on the ‘path to membership’. You may also choose to make an appointment with the minister for a conversation about joining the church.*
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Conversations for Newcomers
an opportunity to ask questions about Unitarian Universalism, our congregation, and to share what you are looking for in a church. (One Sunday a month following the service) -
Lunch with the Minister
a light lunch and fellowship with church leaders who will offer information on church programs and activities. (2-4 times/year) -
UU Explorer’s Series (New UU Program)
deepen your understanding of Unitarian Universalism, First Parish history and organization, and the meaning of membership. (2-3 times/year) -
Join First Parish!
by signing the historic Membership Book, with member names from the early 1700s, to indicate your commitment to the purposes** of this, Portland’s oldest faith community. -
New Member Recognition Services
are held once or twice a year during a Sunday worship service. Current members and new members covenant to walk together in fellowship and mutual support.
*The Bylaws of First Parish Portland Unitarian Universalist state that
“any person eighteen years of age or over may become a Voting Member by signing the membership book and by declaring himself/herself in sympathy with the purpose of this society. Membership in First Parish is an important commitment. Voting members are invited and encouraged to participate in and contribute to the life of First Parish; specifically, by volunteering their time and talents, by joining the congregation on Sunday mornings, and by making a generous financial contribution.”
**Purposes Bylaws, Article II
‘The purpose of this society shall be the maintenance of religious worship and work to promote the principles and purposes of the Unitarian Universalist Association…. This society affirms and promotes the full participation of all persons in its activities--including membership, programming, and the calling of religious professionals—without regard to race, color, gender, gender expression, physical or mental ability, affectional or sexual orientation, age, class or national origin. Ultimately, the society’s practices are guided by its religious principles and congregational polity.”