What to expect on your first visit

It can be a little intimidating walking into a church for the first time. Maybe you are new in town, or maybe it's just been a long time since you've been to church, or maybe you are just curious about our UU church.

You will feel welcomed

We extend a warm and unconditional invitation to you to worship with us. We welcome all no matter race, religion, creed, color, capability, or whom you love. We will welcome you.

Who we are

Prairie is truly a community who cares about each other and those around them. We are a vibrant and growing group of young and old who have come together for spiritual learning and fellowship. We are engaged in social causes that allow us to embrace and celebrate our principles. You can learn more about us here.

Where we meet

We meet every Sunday all year long at Sierra Middle School in Parker. Services start at 10:30am. How to get to Sierra Middle School.

When we meet

Our services begin promptly at 10:30am.

Parking

There is plenty of parking and our church is handicapped accessible.

What should I wear?

You are welcome to wear whatever you are comfortable in. Members often describe the dress code as "business casual," but some people wear their "Sunday Best," and many wear jeans. In the summer shorts and t-shirts are common, while in the winter sweaters and boots are likely outfits.

What should my kids wear?

Children should wear comfortable clothes. They may spend time playing on the carpeted floor, or work with art supplies. Sometimes they may go outside.

You will not be embarrassed

When you visit Prairie Unitarian Universalist Church, you will be our respected and welcomed guest. You will not be singled out in any way, nor asked to stand before the congregation and introduce yourself.

Bring the kids

All members of your family, regardless of age, may participate in the service. For the convenience of parents, we have a staffed nursery during the service, but infants and toddlers are also welcome to stay in church with their parents if that is desired. After the Story for All Ages, school age children are sung out to their classrooms. We ask that parents escort their children to their classrooms and sign them in.

When you enter

As you enter our building, you will be met by a greeter by the visitor table. On this table are several pamphlets and other reading materials, and we encourage visitors to get a name tag, sign our visitor book, and pick up a visitor's packet. The greeter will direct you down the hall for the service where you can pick up an Order of Service.

The Service

A typical Sunday service generally follows this outline:

Welcome	Words of welcome and special announcements offered by a member of the Board of Trustees.
Prelude	An opening musical introduction to the service.
Opening Words	Reflective words, from a variety of sources.
Hymn	Congregation sings from the hymnal.
Lighting of the Chalice	The chalice is lit by an invited member of the congregation.
Music	We often have a special performance, or the choir will sing.
Candles of Community	Members of the congregation are invited forward to light candles of joy and sorrow.
Time for All Ages	During this time, the children are invited forward as the minister or the Religious Education coordinator reads a book geared towards them.
Singing the children to class	The congregation sings the children out to their class.
Meditative Reading	A reading, keeping in line with the theme of the service.
Silent Meditation	A few moments of contemplative and silent thought.
Music	More music from our special guest or choir.
Sermon	Words from our minister or special guest.
Offertory	We ask time to give back to the church. If you are a first time visitor, we ask that you simply let the basket pass.
Reflection	We have a time for a short discussion where the congregation can "talk back" with the minister about the sermon.
Benediction	The minister will read final words.

After the Service

Immediately after the service we gather for coffee and refreshments. Visitors are invited to stay and get to know us and let us know you. It is a great chance to ask questions about our church and UU in general. Our minister is also available for consultation at this time.

To Learn More:

We also have additional resources if you would like to learn more about the UU religion, and you can also check out the Unitarian Universalist Association website.