Welcome to UU Asheville!
Generations have found their way to our doors as spiritual seekers, justice doers, and meaning makers. We are a non-creedal tradition, centering our faith in our covenants rather than in professions of faith. In other words, “We need not think alike, to love alike.” We welcome all who wish to join us as we seek to be a community founded on justice and meaning-making. You can learn more about our shared UU Values here.
Our congregational values of Connection, Inspiration, Compassion and Justice express who we are and guide the work we do both within our walls and in the greater community. Our members are committed to uplifting the UU values in the work they do for spiritual deepening, congregational care, and collective liberation. Whether you are searching for meaning, mending a broken heart, or simply needing some friends who share your values, UU Asheville is here for you: connecting, healing and creating a better world.
Throughout the years, we have found that in community we have the power and the strength to create positive change in the world. There are opportunities to:
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- worship in community,
- join small groups to learn more about this religion, explore life issues, and deepen our spiritual selves,
- experience community through educational programs and service opportunities,
- take our faith and values outside our walls in whatever ways we can to create liberation in this unjust world.
To become a member of UU Asheville you do not need to recite a creed or follow a “church doctrine.” We welcome all people, whoever you are, wherever you come from, whomever you love, however you identify, whatever spiritual longing has called you to us. To find out more information please fill out an online contact form and you will be contacted by our Connections Coordinator, Trevor Johnson.
What to Expect on Sundays
We know that it can be difficult to come into a large group not knowing anyone or how things are done. We want you to feel comfortable and welcome here. During the majority of the year, September through May, we have two services every Sunday. Our Contemplative service starts at 9:15 am and offers more time for meditation. Our Traditional service starts at 11:15 am and offers childcare and classes for children and youth and also features our choir or other guest musicians. In the summer (June through August) we have one service at 10:00 am. We have very limited parking so be sure to come early–most congregants park on the street.
We’re glad you’re thinking about visiting us. We would love to see you!
What to Wear
First-time visitors often wonder what to wear when they visit our congregation. At our regular Sunday services, you’ll see people in a wide range of clothing choices, from “Sunday best” to very casual attire; please wear what helps you feel most comfortable. After all, this is Asheville!
Before the Service
When you enter the foyer, please stop at the Welcome Table to say hello and get a name tag. The person staffing the table will be able to answer your questions about Unitarian Universalism and this congregation. If you arrive early, there is also lots of information posted around about our congregation and UUism as well.
For our 11:15 service (10:00 during the summer), we offer Faith Formation classes for children and youth. Nursery and childcare for those too young for our Faith Formation programs are also provided during the 11:15 service. People of all ages attend the first 15-20 minutes of these worship services, and then, when directed, children and teachers in our Faith Formation classes leave for their classrooms. Your children are welcome to stay with you in the Sanctuary or go to classes or childcare.
Families of children who will join Faith Formation programming should be sure to check in at the Welcome Table and learn the procedures for signing in and registering children and youth. Find more information about our Faith Formation programs here.
If your child has special needs, please contact the Minister of Faith Formation before your visit so we can ensure your child’s inclusion and safety as much as possible.
There is additional information in a rack in the foyer across from the Welcome Table. Feel free to take any pamphlets of interest.
During the Service
Our service generally consists of music, readings, meditation, a sermon, offertory and ritual of water and rocks reflecting our joys and sorrows.
If you should arrive after the service has begun, you may be asked to remain in the foyer for a few minutes and may join the service when directed by an usher.
After the Service
Many in the congregation move across the foyer to Sandburg Hall to have coffee, talk with friends, visit tables presenting various activities of the church, and read bulletin boards. If you have any questions, people will again be available at the Welcome Table to help answer them and help you get connected to our faith community.