What is a typical Sunday church service like?

Our congregation is full of people, young and old, just like you, who started out looking for a religious spiritual home that fits in with the realities of modern life.

If you grew up with traditional Christian services, our services will be somewhat familiar but refreshing. The order of service typically includes announcements, a story for all ages, periods of reflection, time for members to share joys and sorrows, a reading, a sermon and a few hymns. Some hymns may also be familiar to you, as many great hymns from the Christian tradition are a part of our hymnal, often with words that reflect our open and inclusive viewpoint. The readings include inspirational and thought provoking words from a variety of secular and religious sources. And the topics of Sermons by our minister and lay leaders are sometimes seasonal, often personal, and occasionally cover current events.

When are your services?

Our services are held on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. Services usually last about an hour, but sometimes run longer. After service we have coffee and snacks at the social hour. Visitors are welcome at any time of the year. Please join us!

What do your church teach?

The Unitarian Universalist Church in Meriden values freedom, responsibility, acceptance of others without judgment, world community, and respect for the entire interconnected web of existence. UUCM is a church without dogma and has members with a variety of backgrounds and religious perspectives. UUCM has ministries for all ages that educate, encourage, advocate for a better world, and build relationships in a warm, caring community.

Our mission is “Practicing Loving Community, Advancing Justice, Nurturing Spiritual Growth.”

Frequently Asked Questions

This page is designed to address questions people may have before visiting our Church for the first time.

Q. What do people wear to church?
A. Typical dress at UUCM is informal. Wear whatever you are comfortable in.
Q. What kind of people will I find at your church?
A. Free thinkers of all sorts. Come and see for yourself!
Q. How large is your congregation?
A. We currently have around 50 adult members.
Q. What goes on during your Sunday morning program?
A. We are a combination of minister and lay-led congregation, and the program format can vary depending on the presenter, but we make a point of including time for song and a discussion following most services. Visitors and members alike are greeted at the door and visitors are shown where the refreshments are located. Feel free to sit anywhere you like. Children are welcome to stay with their parents as well. 
Q. What sort of topics does your Minister or speakers address?
A. Members of the congregation, the Minister and outside speakers address a wide variety of topics. Titles for upcoming services and samples of previous services are available on this site.
Q. Where are you located and where should I park?
A. We are on Paddock Avenue ¾ of a mile south of East Main Street, and a few hundred yards north of the junction of Miller Avenue. Our address is: 328 Paddock Avenue, Meriden CT. We have a large parking lot and reserved handicap spaces near the door..
Q. What should I do when I come in to your church the first time?
A. There is nothing to do but be welcomed at the door. A greeter will make a name tag for you, answer any questions, and show you to a seat in the sanctuary. Enjoy the service and please stay for refreshments after the service.
Q. What other activities besides Sunday services can I attend?
A. There is always something going on UUCM! It’s best to check our Events page for activities.