The Connections Team is often the “first face” new visitors see at First Unitarian Church of Orlando.

We greet visitors each Sunday, host a program for visitors interested in membership and new member ceremonies, help visitors and members find places to connect within the congregation, provide publications relating to membership, maintain contact with friends and members who come irregularly, and more.

Making Connections with a Culture of Welcome

Keeping love at the center of congregational life means finding a wide range of ways to welcome and engage all those in our congregation, whether new visitors or longtime members. We can build and strengthen relationships and connections through fun, work and learning. Creating the “sustainable congregation” that 1U’s strategic plan goals address is something that everyone can take part in.

Fifteen 1U folks recently completed a six-week UU leadership course on “Tending to Congregational Life”. We learned strategies and found new resources that will inform the implementation of 1U’s strategic plan for membership, engagement and growth.

How can you help? Here are just a few ideas for your consideration:

1. Greet someone you don’t know well. “What brought you here today?” Is an easy conversation starter. Share what brought you here today too.
2. Let folks know they are welcome, just as they are, and just because they showed up!
3. Make connections through participation and invitation to all types of events in addition to worship. Invite someone else to join you in the class, meal, event or service project – wherever you find joy! Knowing we are not alone makes our journey so much sweeter. 

“About 1U and you” is the fall series for those who are ready to investigate or/commit to officially becoming members at 1U. Email membership@orlandouu.org for details.

First Unitarian can be a vibrant community of love and spiritual growth for those who have already found their way here or have yet to arrive. We all play an important part in creating the inclusive culture of welcome that helps build connections in our congregation.

Would you like to help on the Connections Team? Email membership@orlandouu.org.