What to Expect When Visiting TVUUC
Whether you are visiting TVUUC for the first time or have been attending for a while, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. We want everyone to feel comfortable, informed, and at home in our community. The information below addresses some of the questions we hear most often from visitors and newcomers.
What can I expect on my first visit?
When you arrive, our greeters will welcome you and direct you to the Welcome Table in the foyer near the rear entrance. There, you can learn more about TVUUC, pick up a name tag, and find information about our congregation and Unitarian Universalism. We invite you to enjoy coffee, conversation, and refreshments in the fellowship hall before and after the service.
Dress however you feel most comfortable. At TVUUC, you will see everything from jeans, shorts, and T-shirts to dresses, jackets, ties, and traditional Sunday attire. Children are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes suitable for active participation in Religious Exploration activities.
During worship, visitors are warmly welcomed, but participation is always optional. You will never be asked to stand up, introduce yourself, or do anything that makes you uncomfortable. Our goal is simply to help you feel at home and free to engage at your own pace.
What are the services like?
Every Sunday service is unique, and attending more than once can provide a fuller sense of who we are and what we value. Services often include readings, reflections, and music drawn from a variety of religious, spiritual, and cultural traditions. When our minister is away, worship may be led by a guest speaker or congregational leader. Several times a year, we hold multigenerational services designed to engage both children and adults; on those Sundays, religious education classes do not meet and everyone worships together.
What will my kids’ experience be like if I bring them with me?
We offer a variety of Religious Exploration (RE) opportunities for children and youth of all ages. Families begin Sunday mornings together in the worship service. Following the Time for All Ages, children and youth, along with any parent who wishes to accompany them, may choose to attend one of our RE programs for the remainder of the morning. Before the service, families can stop by the RE Greeter Table to learn about the day’s activities and sign children into the program of their choice.
Young people are always welcome to remain in the worship service if they prefer. We value the presence of children, youth, and teens as part of our intergenerational community. More detailed information about our Religious Exploration programs can be found here. Nursery care for infants and toddlers is also available beginning at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday.
Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Our facility is wheelchair accessible, with designated accessible parking spaces conveniently located near the main entrance. We are committed to making participation in worship and congregational life as welcoming and accessible as possible. For those with hearing impairments, FM assisted-listening devices are available during services. If you have specific accessibility needs, we will do our best to accommodate them and help make your visit comfortable.
I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, will I be welcomed?
Absolutely. TVUUC is a Welcoming Congregation, affirming and celebrating people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. We believe that every person is inherently worthy and deserving of love, respect, and belonging.
All of who you are is sacred, and all of who you are is welcome here. We strive to create a community where you can be your authentic self, build meaningful connections, and participate fully in congregational life. We also offer programs, groups, and community support for LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and allies.
How do you accomodate different accessibility and sensory needs?
We strive to create a welcoming environment where people can participate in ways that feel comfortable, meaningful, and supportive of their individual needs. For those who may experience sensory overload or simply prefer a quieter setting, the worship service is streamed live in our Fellowship Hall, providing additional space while remaining connected to the service.
We also offer a variety of sensory supports, including an Accessibility Station with noise-canceling headphones and sensory activity materials that can help both children and adults stay engaged and comfortable during worship. A soundproof room is available for families and individuals who need a space where movement, conversation, or other sounds can occur freely without disrupting the service.
For those who are unable to attend in person or who feel more comfortable participating from home, our services are also available online. Whether you join us in the sanctuary, the Fellowship Hall, the soundproof room, or virtually, there is no single “right way” to participate at TVUUC. We want everyone to feel welcome, included, and supported, and we encourage each person to engage in the way that best meets their needs.
Do I have to join right away to participate in church activities?
No. While we would be delighted if you chose to become a member, there is no requirement to do so in order to be part of our community. Many people participate as friends of the congregation, attending services, joining programs and groups, volunteering, and taking part in congregational life. The primary difference is that only members may vote at congregational meetings and serve in certain elected leadership positions, such as the Board of Trustees.
How do I connect with the TVUUC community?
There are several easy ways to stay informed about worship services, events, classes, volunteer opportunities, and congregational news:
- TVUUC Newsletter: Our newsletter is the best source for upcoming events, announcements, and important congregational updates.
- Church Calendar: All congregational activities and events are listed on our calendar, making it easy to see what is happening at a glance.
- Facebook: Follow our Facebook page for announcements and highlights, or join our Members and Friends Facebook Group to connect with others in the community.
Still Have Questions?
We hope this information has helped you learn more about TVUUC and what to expect when you visit. If you have additional questions about our congregation, worship services, programs, accessibility, membership, or anything else, we’d love to hear from you.
Please contact us at , and a member of our staff or congregation will be happy to assist you. We look forward to welcoming you to TVUUC!