Becoming A Member

Do I need to become a member?
All are welcome to participate in our programs and activities. Getting involved is the best way to get to know us. Attend Sunday services, participate in social events, join a team or committee. Some choose to join us right away while others prefer a slower approach. When you are ready, we ask that you consider joining us as a formal member of the congregation.

How do I become a member?
There are six steps to becoming a member of the congregation.

Step one: Attend "All About Our Church," a one hour discussion held on the 3^rd Sunday of every month at 12:30 p.m. after 2^nd Service. 

• History of Unitarian Universalism
• History of our Honolulu church
• Receive membership packet and “Spiritual Gifts Inventory” to fill out for Step 2 online
• Q & A

Step two: Meet with the Minister and the Church President, a one hour discussion to be held at 12:30 p.m. after the 2^nd service (dates to be determined). Learn about:

• How our church is governed 
• How our church is funded  
• The financial commitment of membership 
• Review the “Spiritual Gifts Inventory”  

Step three: Make a financial contribuion or pledge

Step four: Sign the Membership Book

Step five: Be assigned an Alaka'i (Guide). A more experienced member of the congregation will help a new member navigate their way around the church and its programs/activities.

Step six: Be acknowledged and introduced as a new member on the next 5^th Sunday of the month worship service

What is the timeline for completing the steps to membership?
Once you have completed Step one, you may complete the rest of the steps at your leisure. Attending"All About Our Church" does not obligate you complete the membership process.

What happens once I become a member?
You will be given information material designed to assist new members in becoming more familiar with our Church. You will be asked to provide a brief biography that will be published in the Church newsletter. In addition, you will be invited to take part in the quarterly New Member Recognition Ceremony during a Sunday worship service. During the ceremony new members will be formally introduced to the congregation.

What are the benefits of becoming a member?
There are at least seven good reasons for becoming a member.  Membership:

1. Will formalize and strengthen your commitment as a Unitarian Universalist
2. Is good for the church.  Every member counts in identifying our church community.
3. Enables you to participate in church governance.  Thirty days after you sign the Membership Record, you are eligible to vote at congregational meetings, where matters of policy and budget are decided.
4. Makes you eligible to serve on an elected body such as the Board of Trustees.
5. Gives you a subsciption to the UU World, the magazine of the UU denomination.
6. Gives you the benefit of using space in the church for a personal celebration or event twice a year.
7. Entitles you to ministry services such as weddings, commitment ceremonies, child dedications, or memorial services.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Catherine Graham and Martina Queenth are co-chairs of the Membership Team and will be delighted to speak with you. Please email: Membership@Unitariansofhi.org