How We Worship
We welcome you to join us for worship on Sunday morning at 10:30 am. You'll find us informal, friendly, and always delighted to greet newcomers. You can also attend our services live online at this link.
How do I get there?
We’re easy to reach, close to the heart of downtown Santa Rosa, at 547 Mendocino Avenue (between 7th and 10th Streets).
If it is your first time with us, we encourage you to go to the Visitor’s Table, where you may make a name tag, fill out a visitor card, sign up for our newsletter, or chat with one of our membership volunteers.
What should I wear?
We're mostly informal. Some of us wear jeans, or shorts, and a T-shirt (in summer). Others put on "something a little nicer." Dress however you feel comfortable.
Is there childcare?
Yes! At the Visitor’s Table, a member will be available to greet your family and can show you to the religious education wing, where we care for infants, toddlers, and school-age children during the service. We'll ask you to fill out a short registration form for each child, so the teacher can get their name right and be made aware of any special needs. Details about the curricula for each age group are available on our Youth Programs page.
During the service, all the children usually begin in the sanctuary, where they hear a Story for All Ages and then depart with their teachers to the classrooms.
What if my child doesn't separate well?
You're always welcome to accompany your child to the RE wing. Or you can just keep them with you in the sanctuary during worship. Or you can listen to the service broadcast in the art gallery/hallway adjacent to the sanctuary, where comfortable chairs and a selection of toys are available.
Do you welcome people with special needs?
Yes! The building is handicapped/wheelchair accessible. Hearing enhancement devices are accessible.
Are you welcoming to LGBTQIA+ people?
Yes! We have long-term, active LGBTQIA+ members, lay leaders, and staff. We participate in Santa Rosa's annual Gay Pride parade and host various LGBTQ+ events.
Am I required to believe anything?
No! Whatever your religious beliefs, or even if you don't believe in any religion, we respect and welcome you. Bring your whole self, just as you are. We encourage you to explore your own deepest understandings - with us!
What happens during the worship service?
Each service has a theme. Our Minister and Worship Associates plan meaningful, inspiring, thought-provoking, and fun services!
We begin with greetings and then the lighting of our chalice (a symbol used by many UU congregations)
We love music! We sing hymns and songs. The choir performs some Sundays. Other times there are performances by gifted singers and musicians. Audience participation is encouraged. The words of all hymns, songs, and readings are projected in front so you can follow along.
There's a Story for All Ages for the children, after which they depart to their RE classrooms.
We share joys and sorrows, followed by a few minutes of silent meditation
There's an offering that we share with a local organization. Contributions are entirely voluntary.
Our worship associate usually delivers a personal reflection
The core of our service is a sermon of 10-20 minutes relating to the theme. It may give you plenty to think about as you leave our sanctuary!
What happens after the worship service?
Everyone is invited to stay for coffee and refreshments in our social hall. This is your chance to meet and chat, ask questions, check out our information tables on social and environmental issues, and sign up for activities - classes, committees, discussion groups, or whatever you're interested in. The more you participate, the more you will get out of our community and the deeper friendships you will form.