Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our congregation includes people from many religious backgrounds, as well as those who identify as atheist, agnostic, or spiritually curious. Whether you are exploring faith for the first time, returning to religious community, or simply seeking connection, you are welcome here.
Not at all. All are welcome to attend worship services and programs. You are free to participate as often or as occasionally as you like, with no expectation of joining.
An offering is collected during worship as part of our service, but visitors are never expected to contribute. Your presence is gift enough.
That’s completely okay. You’re not expected to know anything in advance. Everything you need is explained during the service, and you’re welcome to participate in the ways that feel comfortable to you—or simply observe.
Our tradition draws wisdom from many sources, including science, world religions, humanist teachings, and direct experience of wonder and meaning. You can learn more about us in the video below from the Unitarian Universalist Association of member congregations.
No. We do not ask visitors to stand or introduce themselves during worship. You may choose to wear a nametag from the Welcome Table, and we invite you—only if you wish—to visit the Connections Table after the service.
Our front entrance is accessible by both steps and a ramp beginning at designated parking spaces. A lift provides access to the lower and upper levels, and all bathrooms are ADA-compliant. Assistive listening devices and large-print hymnals are available in the Sanctuary.
There are many ways to connect at USNH, including small groups, music, learning opportunities, justice work, and social events. Check out the Community and Caring page and look for members of the Connections Team on Sunday mornings at the Welcome Table at the back of the Social Hall.
Visiting the Unitarian Society of New Haven
"Our USNH community is a microcosm of how we need to live in the world. It opens my mind and spirit to the gift of living in love."
- Linda M.
Your First Visit at a Glance
Sunday worship
10:30 am (about one hour)
Arrive Early
10–15 minutes for a warm welcome
Dress
Come as you are
Childcare
Nursery opens at 10:00 am
Children & Youth
Nursery care and Religious Exploration programs available
Accessibility
Ramp, lift, assistive listening, large-print hymnals
Participation
Join in as you wish—or simply listen
Afterwards
Coffee hour & Connections Table
You don’t need to know anything ahead of time. Just come.
What to expect on Sunday
Sunday Worship
Our worship services begin at 10:30 am and last about an hour. If this is your first visit, we suggest arriving 10–15 minutes early so we can welcome you and help you get oriented.
Each service includes uplifting music, shared singing, thoughtful readings, a time for reflection, and a message from our minister or a guest speaker. Our services are designed to nurture the spirit, build community, and encourage us to live with love and purpose.
Greeters will offer you an Order of Service when you arrive; hymnals are available in the pews. Assistive listening devices and large-print hymnals are available at the rear of the Sanctuary, near the center aisles.
Following worship, please join us in the Social Hall for refreshments and conversation. We especially invite newcomers to stop by the Connections Table at the rear of the Social Hall, where members of our Connections Team are happy to answer questions, help you find your way around, and get to know you.
Children & Families
Children of all ages are always welcome in the Sanctuary.
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Nursery care for infants and toddlers through age 4 is available beginning at 10:00 am, staffed by trained and background-checked caregivers. Infants and toddlers are also welcome to remain with their caregivers during worship.
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Most Sundays, children stay in the service for the first 15 minutes (through a Story for All) before going to Religious Exploration classes or a monthly Children’s Chapel.
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About once a month, our worship is multigenerational, designed for all ages to participate together.
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There is a comfortable area at the rear of the Sanctuary with rocking chairs and quiet activities. Worship audio is also streamed into the Social Hall if that is a more comfortable option for your family.
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Children’s classes end at 11:45 am. Parents should pick up younger children from their classrooms; older children are dismissed to the Social Hall.
Learn more about our Religious Exploration programs for children and youth.
What to expect on Sunday
Sunday Worship
Our worship services begin at 10:30 am and last about an hour. If this is your first visit, we suggest arriving 10–15 minutes early so we can welcome you and help you get oriented.
Each service includes uplifting music, shared singing, thoughtful readings, a time for reflection, and a message from our minister or a guest speaker. Our services are designed to nurture the spirit, build community, and encourage us to live with love and purpose.
Greeters will offer you an Order of Service when you arrive; hymnals are available in the pews. Assistive listening devices and large-print hymnals are available at the rear of the Sanctuary, near the center aisles.
Following worship, please join us in the Social Hall for refreshments and conversation. We especially invite newcomers to stop by the Connections Table at the rear of the Social Hall, where members of our Connections Team are happy to answer questions, help you find your way around, and get to know you.
Children of all ages are always welcome in the Sanctuary.
-
Nursery care for infants and toddlers through age 4 is available beginning at 10:00 am, staffed by trained and background-checked caregivers. Infants and toddlers are also welcome to remain with their caregivers during worship.
-
Most Sundays, children stay in the service for the first 15 minutes (through a Story for All) before going to Religious Exploration classes or a monthly Children’s Chapel.
-
About once a month, our worship is multigenerational, designed for all ages to participate together.
-
There is a comfortable area at the rear of the Sanctuary with rocking chairs and quiet activities. Worship audio is also streamed into the Social Hall if that is a more comfortable option for your family.
-
Children’s classes end at 11:45 am. Parents should pick up younger children from their classrooms; older children are dismissed to the Social Hall.
Learn more about our Religious Exploration programs for children and youth.
-
Welcome — we’re glad you’re here!
The Unitarian Society of New Haven (USNH) is a vibrant, multigenerational Unitarian Universalist congregation. Grounded in the power of love, we are inspired by profound teaching, beautiful music, and authentic fellowship. Together, we co-create a community shaped by shared values of justice, connection, generosity, compassion, and spirituality.
At USNH, you are invited to bring your whole self: your full identity, your questioning mind, your expansive heart. Whoever you are, whomever you love, and whatever your life circumstances or spiritual background, you are welcome here.
Questions?
We'd love to hear from you.
Please fill out a visitor form so that we can answer your questions and add you to our email list for weekly newsletters.
Jesse Greist
Coordinator of Congregational Life & Director of Religious Exploration
Rev. Stephen Kendrick
Minister
