UUSO practices congregational polity, a form of governance for communities of faith.
Congregational polity gives the members of the congregation the authority to govern, support, and fund the congregation, independent of a hierarchical structure. With this type of self-governance comes deep responsibility and accountability to care for and sustain this religious community.
To this end, the members of the congregation elect members to facilitate the various aspects of congregational life at the Annual Meeting(s) of the Society. In late spring, the congregation elects members for the Board of Trustees, Nominating Committee, and Committee on Ministries. The congregation also votes on the annual budget for the following year, based on the financial pledges and commitments of the members and friends. It is the practice of UUSO to hold a second, or part two, of the annual meeting in the fall, where reports from the minister and committees are heard.
The congregation’s bylaws, policies, covenants, and mission guide the choices the Society makes in regards to operation, programs, and ministries.
Each congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association self-governs and is a separate religious community joined together in a formal association or relationship through our covenant to affirm and promote the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism.
The following documents are available for members, friends, visitors, and all others:
By Laws Adopted October 22, 2023
UUSO Channels of Communication Guide, January 2022
UUSO Employee Handbook and Sexual Harassment Policy, January 2023
These documents include monthly Board of Trustees meeting minutes and supporting documents; reports from the minister, treasurer, committees, teams, etc.; and annual reports.
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