Thank you for your interest in attending a Sunday service at Champlain Valley Unitarian Society (CVUUS).

We hope the following answers questions you may have.

We look forward to seeing you again and again!

– The Welcome Team (Lise, Martha, Mike, Mary H., Marnie, and our interim ministers Rev Tricia and Rev Christina)

What time is the service?

Our Sunday Service begins at 10:00 a.m. We invite you to arrive early to meet a few members of our community and to complete a visitor card if you’re joining us for the first time. The service typically concludes by 11:15 a.m., if not slightly earlier.

 Following the service, we welcome you to Fellowship Hall for refreshments and conversation.

What should I do when I arrive?

Start by stopping at the Welcome Table, where our friendly volunteers will be happy to greet you. They’ll help you fill out a visitor card, answer any questions you may have, and offer brochures and newsletters to help you learn more about Unitarian Universalism.

From there, your Welcome volunteer can introduce you to one of our ushers, who will provide you with the printed Order of Service and, if you enjoy reading music, a songbook as well. Prefer not to carry a songbook and printed order of service with you? No problem—the words to hymns and readings are also displayed on a large screen during the service.

Need a little help getting around? An elevator is available for those with mobility needs.

What should I wear?

Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. Most people dress casually—think jeans, sweaters, shorts or whatever suits the season. There’s no dress code here—just come as you are. It’s relaxed, it’s Vermont, and we’re just happy you decided to be with us.  

What do you believe? 

Unitarian Universalism is a faith tradition that encourages individuals to develop their own personal beliefs. We draw from many religions and philosophies, grounded in the idea that no single tradition holds all the answers—and that many have something meaningful to offer.

From our Judeo-Christian heritage, we honor the wisdom of the Bible. From Buddhism, we embrace meditation and a deep sense of community. From Native American and other earth-centered traditions, we find reverence for the natural world and its cycles. From Humanism, we affirm the power of reason and the importance of personal experience in our search for the sacred.

Unitarian Universalism isn’t about adhering to a specific creed—it’s a way of being in the world. For us, religion is an ongoing journey to discover meaning, purpose, and spiritual depth.

Together, we strive to live by values of justice, equity, transformation, generosity, interdependence, and pluralism—with Love at the center.

Diversity is welcomed here—your questions, your story, and your journey matter.

What happens during the service?

Our Sunday services may feel familiar if you’ve attended a liberal Christian, Unitarian, or humanist congregation before—but all are welcome, whether you’re new to a spiritual community or exploring your spiritual path.

Each service offers a rich blend of traditions and themes, with content ranging from spiritual reflection to social justice. We draw from both sacred and secular sources, weaving together diverse voices and wisdom.

Most services include a welcome, a land acknowledgment, the lighting of our chalice (a symbol of our faith), readings, and announcements through Pathways to Connection. We share a Time for All Ages—a special message for children and the young at heart—along with a message or talk, time for silent or guided reflection, and plenty of music from many traditions.

You’ll be invited to stand as you are able and to greet those around you—participate in the ways that feel right for you.

Assistive listening devices are available from the ushers to support your full participation.

Where should I park?

If you need accessible parking, you’ll find designated spaces right on our campus, behind Fenn House—the brown ranch-style building next to the main sanctuary.

If you’re able to walk a short distance, please park at Middlebury Union High School. Use the end of the lot closest to CVUUS; there’s a gate there that opens to a sidewalk leading directly to our building.

Thank you for helping us keep accessible spaces available for those who need them—we’re looking forward to seeing you!

Will I be asked to give money?

There is a free-will offering during the service: donations (cash, check, or online via QR code).  Giving is always optional-and always appreciated.  CVUUS shares its weekly collection with a non-profit whose work aligns with our congregation’s mission and UU values.  Recent donees include the Abenaki Arts and Education Center, Charter House Coalition, Outright Vermont, and World Central Kitchen’s Gaza Food Program.

I have children.  Where do they go, and what do they do?

We’re thrilled to welcome you and your children to worship with us! Most Sundays during the school year, children join their families for the first part of the service, which includes a story or message designed for all ages.

After that, kids and our Religious Exploration teachers and assistants head next door to Fenn House for Religious Exploration (RE) programs. For our youngest visitors, there’s a nursery available in the main building.

If you’re able, come a few minutes early to meet our RE staff and take a quick tour of the Religious Exploration rooms.