Membership

Path to Membership

We are glad that you are exploring membership in Mount Vernon Unitarian Church.

Whatever faiths you have known, if any, you are welcome here.
Whomever you love, you are welcome here.
Whatever your personal beliefs, you are welcome here.
Whatever brings you through our doors to worship with us in community,
You are welcome at Mount Vernon Unitarian Church.

If you have been coming to MVUC for awhile and are seeking a deeper understanding of our religion and our church, we encourage you to attend a series of events. These events are open to all, whether membership is a goal or you are just curious about us. We recommend the following:

  • Meet and Greet Luncheons are generally held every other month after the Sunday service. Check with greeters at the welcome table to find out the next date and to sign up.
  • Introduction to Mount Vernon Unitarian Church and Unitarian Universalism orientations are held at varying days and times to offer information about our UU faith, the church grounds and programs.
  • Introduction to Membership luncheons are by invitation and hosted by our minister. After a discussion of membership and its responsibilities, those attending are invited to sign the Membership Book.

Child care is available for all these events. Information about each of them appears regularly in our monthly newsletter and Weekly Bulletin inserts in the Sunday order of service.

When You Are Ready to Become a Member of Mount Vernon Unitarian Church

When you have taken the recommended classes noted above and you feel ready to assume the responsibilities of membership, we will welcome you to sign our Membership Book. The Minister or a member of the Board of Trustees must be present.

According to our Bylaws, the criteria for membership are:

  • Any person fifteen (15) years of age or older who is in sympathy with the church’s purpose and program may become a voting member by signing the membership book in the presence of a minister or a member of the Board.
  • Members are expected, as they are able, to participate in the life of the church by attending church functions, serving the church community, and supporting the church financially.
  • Members must at least make an annual contribution of record to the operating fund. (The contribution of record requirement may be waived by the Minister or Chair of the Board.)

Membership shall be open to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, gender, affectional or sexual orientation, or national origin.

To discuss your interest in joining, you are welcome to talk with our minister, Rev. Ian White Maher, although it is not a requirement. He may be contacted by e-mail at minister@mvuc.org. You may also talk with any member of our Board of Trustees or with any member of the Membership Development Council.

When You Have Become a Member

After you have signed the Membership Book and become a member, you will be introduced to the congregation and invited to the annual New Members Dinner.

  • Introduction to the Congregation. New members are introduced to the congregation at a ceremony that takes place twice a year during a Sunday service. It is an opportunity for existing members to learn about you as you are introduced by a member of our Membership Council and welcomed by the Minister and the entire congregation.
  • New Members Dinner. The annual New Members Dinner is by invitation. Its purpose is to recognize those who have taken on the responsibilities of membership during the most recent calendar year.
  • Membership Directory.  For a directory of members and friends, you can use the “Log in” link at the top of this page.

For more information, you can contact the Membership Development Council at membership@mvuc.org.