If you are new to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax (UUCF), the information below should help you learn about the congregation. Since the onset of COVID-19, things at UUCF are being done differently than usual, but you’ll still find a community that uses creative ways to be together and fulfill our mission of “transforming ourselves, our communities and the world through acts of love and justice.” To learn more about events at UUCF, click the What’s happening tab under “Events” in the website’s main menu. Click here to subscribe to the Thursday email announcements.
- What do Unitarian Universalists believe?
- When are UUCF services?
- What should I do the first time I attend an online service?
- Am I allowed on campus during COVID-19?
- How do I get to UUCF?
- Are there opportunities for my children to engage in online activities?
- Are there classes for adults?
- How large is the congregation?
- What are your services like?
- What if I have other questions?
What do Unitarian Universalists believe?
This video describes Unitarian Universalism and what UUs believe. See more information at “What is a UU?”
Unitarian Universalists believe in loving our neighbors as ourselves, working for a better world, searching for truth with an open mind, using reason to help us explore religious ideas and granting everyone the right to choose their own beliefs. Unitarian Universalism is a way of being religious rather than embracing a specific religious doctrine. UUs believe individuals are entitled to their own search and that not all people share the same beliefs. Unitarian Universalism draws from many different religions and UUs believe there is wisdom and value in most all religions, that most have something to teach us, but that no one religion has all the answers. ⇑
When are UUCF services?
As of September 2021, UUCF is piloting multi-platform worship at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. A limited number of individuals are able to attend worship in person in the Sanctuary (reservations required; find the link within the worship event under What’s happening/Coming soon). Services are also broadcast via Zoom and live stream. The service is re-broadcast each Sunday and Tuesday at 7 p.m. ⇑
What should I do the first time I attend an in-person or an online service?
Visitors are greeted in person and receive a Welcome Packet. For those attending via Zoom or live stream, the greeting and Welcome Packet are virtual. Hopefully, you’ll take advantage of one of the two ways to connect with the Welcome Team. You can send an email with your name to membership@uucf.org or you can connect with the team by filling out a visitor form. Whichever method you choose, we look forward to meeting you!
To help UUCF staff welcome all online attendees to worship services and keep the worship space safe for all, it’s helpful for visitors to make sure they use at least their first names when they log in to Zoom. Names like “anonymous,” “iPhone,” or other non-descript names might not be admitted to the worship space. ⇑
Am I allowed on campus during COVID-19?
As of mid-August 2021, UUCF is in Phase 3A Pilot of its re-opening plan. More events are starting to be held on campus, often with an online option. Some committees or groups are still meeting online. For more information about UUCF’s policy on meeting in person, please visit the Campus Usage page.⇑
How do I get to UUCF?
The address is 2709 Hunter Mill Rd. in Oakton, between Rt. 123 (Chain Bridge Road) and Lawyers Road.⇑
Are there opportunities for my children to engage in in-person or online activities?
During the height of the pandemic, Religious Exploration at UUCF focused on “connection over content.” The QUUilt program, developed by UUCF’s Religious Education staff, offered opportunities for children, teens and parents to gather virtually for meaningful activities. Beginning in September 2021, in-person RE classes are being offered again. ⇑
Are there classes for adults?
Yes, there are many opportunities for adults to learn and get involved! From small group Soul Matters discussions to social justice committees, from music classes to parenting groups, there is something going on almost every day in UUCF’s Zoom rooms. You can find all the events and classes on the What’s Happening page.⇑
How large is the congregation?
UUCF has more than 1,000 congregants, including members, friends, children and teens. ⇑
What are your services like?
Most UUCF services are professionally led by at least one of the ministers. Services include music and readings and usually a sermon or homily. UUCF is blessed with many talented musicians, so music is a key part of each service. There is also usually time for quiet reflection. ⇑
What if I have other questions?
Please contact the UUCF office, uucf@uucf.org, 703-281-4230, or membership@uucf.org, if you need more information before or after you visit. ⇑