Visiting UUCL

Services are led by the minister, guest speakers or members, and are currently offered both in-person and online. Services explore love, faith, truth and action with words, music and song. The upcoming service topic is briefly described on the website homepage.

Each UU Loudoun service is unique and emphasizes individual exploration, respect for diverse beliefs, and the search for truth. Visitors can expect a welcoming environment where people of various backgrounds and faith traditions gather to explore life’s big questions, seek personal growth, and connect with one another in community.

The service often begins with a greeting, followed by a moment of silence or meditation to center the group. There is often an opening hymn or song; music can vary widely, ranging from traditional hymns to contemporary songs and even instrumental pieces.

Children are welcome in all services and are usually with the larger congregation for the first part of the service. A Time for All Ages offers a simple message that connects all ages to larger concepts in ways that are accessible, after which the children are invited to the RE Space for their own exploration. UUCL also offers a nursery for infants and toddlers.

Most services include a sermon or reflection which could be based on philosophical, spiritual, or ethical topics, typically centered around monthly themes. The content is generally drawn from a wide range of sources, including religious texts, personal experience, nature, science, and humanist principles. The sermons are offered by UUCL’s minister or lay leaders who have completed a worship/sermon-writing class. 

There is a time for sharing Joys and Sorrows where people may come forward in silence to place stones in the water of the common bowl, that they may be held in love and care by this community.

The service usually concludes with a closing song and benediction, and all are invited to stay after for coffee and conversation. There is also tea for the non-coffee drinkers!

You may be surprised if you walk in on some Sunday and the chairs are in a circle for a music service or poetry service or a multi-generational service that may involve a wide array of activities and engagement.

You can also view and listen to past sermons.

You are encouraged to arrive by 9:45 AM. That will give you enough time to park and be welcomed by the greeter.

Get directions here.

When you enter the Sanctuary, you’ll be greeted by a volunteer. Members, newcomers and visitors are encouraged to share their names and pronouns in order to foster community. The greeter will make your nametag and will invite you to complete a “Get-in-Touch” contact form so that you may receive UU Loudoun’s weekly email of upcoming sermons, activities and events. Seating is open: sit anywhere you choose.

Babies, children, tweens, and youth are welcome to attend the Sunday worship service with their adults. For more information about programs for children, tweens, and youth, visit the Religious Exploration page.

Casual dress to Sunday best can be seen at UUCL services. Wear what suits you.

Your voice is welcome, but not required. Music and song provide connection with the community and Sunday’s message.

Our congregation is fully supported by the generosity of members, friends, and newcomers. In addition, we collect for a different local non-profit each month. Information on how to donate is provided during service.

We hope you will stay for coffee and conversation to give you an opportunity to get to know UUCL and to be known. In addition, on the first Sunday of each month and immediately after getting your coffee, a “Get Acquainted” session is offered in the Sanctuary, which includes a tour of the grounds and more in-depth information about UUCL.