There is no one easy explanation to describe Unitarian Universalism.  It is a liberal religion with many centuries of history.  At some point, Rev. Gail will offer a class about Unitarian Universalist history.  Many people think that UUs believe in everything and/or nothing at all.  This is not really true.  UU does not offer THE answer, rather it encourages individuals to question and develop beliefs that they are comfortable with in a loving atmosphere.

The UUA is a support and resource system for UU congregations.  It is located in Boston.  It does not delegate what congregations should do.  Congregations are self-led and use the democratic process.  Each congregation decides on their own if they will buy property, have a minister, support the UUA, etc.  UUFVB pays dues for each member to the UUA ($65).  This allows us a voice in the UUA and to receive support and resources at no charge.  Our local UUA is the Florida District located in Orlando.

Our founding member placed an ad in the Press Journal on March 13, 1981 seeking people interested in starting a UU Fellowship in Vero Beach.  15 people responded.  They met in people’s homes, reading UU sermons or having guest speakers.  As they grew they moved to the YMCA.  In 1982 they became affiliated with the UUA.  They moved to the Women’s Club; appointed a part-time minister from 83-84; interim minister from 90-91; called a permanent minister Rev. Richard Speck in 1991.  In 1993 the congregation purchased Fellowship House and property on 43rd Avenue and built the sanctuary in 1997.  In 2000 Rev. Speck resigned and again UUFVB was lay-lead until 2001 when interim minister Rev. Don Vaughn-Foerster was called.  In 2002 Rev. Gail Geisenhainer became our permanent, full-time minister.  In 2005 the congregation bought the current property.  Today we have over 180 members.

We are a democratic society.  The congregation votes on major issues such as appointing Board members, approving the budget, changing by-laws, setting goals, etc. at the Annual Meeting.  The Board of Trustees oversees the day to day operations with input from the Committees.  The Minister is involved in the decisions but does not have a vote.  Only members are eligible to vote.

UUFVB has few paid staff (RE Coordinator, Office Coordinator and the Minister).  The Fellowship operates mainly through volunteer efforts of the committees.  Each committee has a Chair or Co-Chairs and a Board liaison.  Being on a committee not only helps the Fellowship but it is a great way to meet people and feel a part of the congregation.  There are many things that need to be done to keep UUFVB operating smoothly.

UUs like to have fun too.  There are several different things to do within the Fellowship.  The monthly newsletter is full of information about all kinds of activities, as well as our website www.uufvb.org.  You can sign-up to get the newsletter at the visitor table or at the sign-up table.  Both are located in the lobby.

This is always a difficult but very important topic.  Because congregations are self-led, we are also financially self supported.  Our financial support is mainly through pledges.  Members are asked to pledge to support the operations of the Fellowship.  We must pay staff, buy equipment, pay utilities, maintenance, etc.  Members are not told how much to pledge but the guidelines suggest between 3-5% of their income.  The fiscal year is from July 1st-June 30st.  Our pledge campaign is in March. New members are asked to pledge for the remaining fiscal year and then in March for the next fiscal year.  Once pledges are received, the Finance Committee can determine the appropriate budget to present to the congregation for approval.

We encourage visitors to think about becoming a Member when they are ready.  It is not a decision to be taken lightly.  As a member, you can benefit from the many aspects of the Fellowship and the Fellowship benefits from your commitment.  We consider ourselves a loving and open community.  We hope you will consider becoming a part of it.  To become a member, you sign the Membership book and make a recorded contribution.  You are eligible to vote after you have been a member for 30 days.  You will also receive the UU World, a bi-monthly magazine from the UUA about current issues of Unitarian Universalism.  Please feel free to contact Rev. Gail or the office with any questions you may have about becoming a member. You can let anyone know that you are ready to join and they will get someone from the Membership Committee or Rev. Gail to assist you.