“Tending Congregational Life: Guiding the Membership Journey” was a training program from the UUA designed to develop welcoming and inclusive congregations through community and belonging. We used it as a guide for conversations about how we, as a congregation, could welcome and nurture people searching for authentic connection and community.
The program contained five modules, starting with the foundational “Four Frameworks for Understanding Congregational Life” module, which introduced concepts such as the membership journey as a spiral of faithful relationship, the basics of congregational life (UU identity, spiritual depth, generosity), the congregation itself as a curriculum for faith development, and the map of community building to visualize and strategize community growth.
The remaining modules covered topics such as communication for inclusion, welcoming visitors, and providing opportunities for connection and transformation. It provided practical strategies for creating and maintaining relationships within and outside the congregation, with the goal of guiding people on a fulfilling membership journey based on mutuality and consent.
The conversations that emerged throughout our engagement with this program were truly enriching. Participants shared deeply personal experiences and insights, fostering a profound sense of shared understanding and collective purpose. The open and honest dialogue allowed us to explore complex issues with sensitivity and respect, leading to innovative ideas and a renewed commitment to creating a more welcoming and inclusive community. The depth and quality of these conversations were instrumental in moving us forward, solidifying our belief in the power of meaningful connection within our congregation.
We invite all one final session this Sunday, March 23rd at 11:30 AM, to continue these vital conversations. Everyone in the congregation is warmly invited to participate, regardless of whether you attended previous sessions. This is a wonderful opportunity to contribute your voice and help shape the future of our community.