Each Unitarian Universalist congregation is the fulfillment of a long heritage that goes back hundreds of years to courageous people who struggled for freedom in thought and faith. On this continent we go back to the Massachusetts settlers and the founders of the republic. Outstanding Unitarians and Universalists include John Adams, Clara Barton, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Susan B. Anthony. Not as famous but equally worthy are the thousands of men and women in our congregations leading vital, dedicated and useful lives.

Our congregations are self-governing. Authority and responsibility are vested in the membership of the congregation. Each local congregation--called a church, society or fellowship--adopts its own bylaws, elects its own officers and approves its budget. Every member is encouraged to take part in church or fellowship activities.

Each Unitarian Universalist congregations is involved in many kinds of programs. Worship is held regularly, the in sights of the past and present are shared with those who will create the future, service to the community is undertaken and friendships are made. A visitor to a Unitarian Universalist congregation will very likely find events and activities such as church school, day care centers, lectures and forums, support groups, poetry festivals, family events, adult education classes and study groups--all depending on the needs and interests of the local members.

• Adapted from "We Are Unitarian Universalists", by Rev. Marta Flanagan, published by UUA

• Pictures from the UUA Archives