WELCOME
to the
Unitarian Congregation
of
South Peel
Are you looking for a community of people among whom you can explore the religious dimensions of life without being told what you have to believe? If you're wanting to work on the spiritual meaning of life but find orthodox religions hard to swallow, perhaps you should investigate the Unitarian Congregation of South Peel.
Unitarians, or more properly Unitarian Universalists, follow a way of life without a
prescribed set of beliefs but with certain basic values. In matters of belief we arc free to
follow the dictates of our reason and experience but we share a common respect for truth
and beauty, a concern for justice, peace, personal integrity living, an awe for the
mysteries of nature and a gratitude for the gift of life. We unite easily because we rejoice
in cultural richness and diversity of opinion and background. As one of our ministers has
said, we do not agree to think alike, but we do all agree to think. We are sensitive to the
finer emotions, to the religious qualities of life - to love, joy, wonder and compassion.
With these common interests, we in this congregation seek together to grow in heart and mind, to shape our beliefs and to help bring about a nobler way of life for ourselves, for those to follow us and for all humankind.
We learn not only from the presentations made by our minister and guest speakers, but also from Sunday Service discussions and from many programs in which we share our ideas, opinions, and experiences. And as we grow and work together, we provide support, encouragement and warm fellowship for each other.
People - members and friends who participate in our activities and who help to make
decisions about our future. Unitarian Universalists congregations are each autonomous,
and make decisions themselves with principal power vested in the congregation. Specific
responsibilities are delegated by the congregation to a I2-mcmber Board of Management,
the minister and a number of committees. Although only members have voting privileges,
everyone is encouraged to voice his or her opinion on any subject, to join committees, to
visit Board sessions and to attend congregational meetings.
Sunday Services (10:30 am), followed by coffee hour.
Dinner Parties • Book Discussions • Theatre Nights • Adult Education Classes • Fairs • Auctions • Bridge Club • and much more.
For details of all church activities, consult our monthly Newsletter, Visions & Voices. To receive your copy, just sign our 'guest book'.
In this congregation everyone ministers to everyone else; each has some wisdom to share,
a warm hand with which to soothe, ideas to spark new exploration. The minister's job as
a trained and ordained religious leader is to fan those sparks. Everything the minister
does, leading worship, teaching courses, working with committees, and all the rest — is
designed not only to minister but to empower others to minister, to grow religiously, and
la share that growth with others. The minister doesn't dictate doctrine, but shares
learning and joins in the search.
The Unitarian Congregation of South Peel offers a program of Religious Education for
children from birth onwards. As they progress through the various stages of religious
growth, nurtured in a community of caring adults, they are encouraged to ask questions
and discover their own answers. The children have-opportunities during their church
school years to learn about Unitarian Universalism, the religious beliefs of others and the
ways in which we affect our world.
Our young people are a vital part of the church family. As well as attending Sunday morning classes, they may take part in extracurricular activities which promote fellowship and social responsibility.
Special intergenerational services, 'field trips' to other places of worship, and informal social get-togethers round out an exciting and unique program.
Read pamphlets.
Ask the librarian for books.
Take home tapes of Sunday morning services.
Attend orientation meetings.
Talk to the minister, Board members or Membership Committee members.
Talk to us in the coffee hour after Sunday services
Read the Newsletter.
Attend social happenings, committee meetings, and other functions.
If you have an idea you would like to share, speak to a board member or committee member or contact the minister.
Talk to the Greeter, or to any of us.
Because Unitarian Universalism is non-creedal, there arc no professions of faith or pledges required
before joining. If you agree with the principles outlined in this leaflet, we would gladly have you walk
with us and work with us.
The minister or a member of the Membership Committee will be happy to talk with you about these
things and to witness your signature in the Membership Book.
We do - you and I, and other members and friends of the Congregation. About 85% of our income is
derived from pledges made by members and friends.
If a canvasser calls on you. remember that she or he is there to talk to you about our programs and to get your ideas, as much as to ask for your support. As to your share, no one will question the amount you give, although to remain a member you must make an identifiable financial contribution during the 12 months before each Annual Meeting. If you are not yet ready to make a pledge, you can help share in the financial responsibility by contributing to the Sunday morning collection.
Affiliated Organizations
Canadian Unitarian Council
Unitarian Universalist Association
Unitarian Congregations of Greater Toronto
International Association for Religious Freedom
Canadian Association of Unitarian Universalist Women