Thinking about membership at USNF?
Everyone is welcome.
Anyone can participate in Sunday worship and all our activities without becoming a member for as long as they want. By filling out our Online Welcome Card, you will be added to the USNF mailing list and receive updated announcements about upcoming events. We invite you to spend some time with us to decide whether USNF feels like a spiritual home to which you would like to make a commitment. In the process, we invite you to talk to other members and our staff to answer questions and support your exploration. We also regularly offer orientation sessions for newcomers.
People tend to feel more connected once they do become members. Becoming a member is a way to commit to being a part of our community and our faith tradition.
When you formally join, you will sign our membership book, one that dates back to 1944, and is a living record of who we are. For more information, email
Why Become a Member?
- I want to be in a beloved community where I don’t have to think like everyone else to be loved.
- I want to be with people who value compassion, justice, love and truth, though they have different thoughts and opinions about all sorts of things.
- I want to be with people who see me in my goodness and dignity, who also see my failings and foibles, and who still love me.
- I want to be with people who feel their inter-connection with all existence and let it guide their footfalls upon the earth.
- I want to be with people who are willing to walk the tight rope that is life and who will hold my hand as I walk mine.
~Excerpted from "I Want to Be With People" by Dana E. Worsnop
Membership Process
- Attend one or more of our orientation classes.
- Get active and involved. Get to know members and staff.
- Let us know at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. that you are ready to become a member or speak to a member of the Newcomer Connections Team, or to the Minister. - When you’re ready, sign the membership book to make your membership official.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I consider membership?
For many people, becoming a member of our congregation leads to deeper connections, greater involvement, and stronger relationships. It signifies their commitment to be a part of this community and to learn and grow in their own faith and spiritual development.
Can I get involved before I become a member?
Yes! Non-members can serve in non-elected positions on most committees and teams. There are many projects where you can also lend a hand. You are welcome to join any activity, such as classes or dinners, announced in our publications. For many people, this kind of involvement is a great way to learn more about the congregation and get to know people better. Many say that working on a team or committee has been an essential part of their involvement as well as their spiritual growth.
How are USNF’s operations funded?
Members are asked to make an annual pledge of financial commitment to the Unitarian Society of Northampton and Florence, based on what they are able to contribute. Our congregation is a self-funded organization and does not receive any funds from a religious headquarters. We have a guide available titled “What’s My Fair Share” to assist you in deciding your pledge. The minister or a member of our Stewardship team can give you more information.
What if my spouse/partner is not ready to become a member?
It’s okay for each person to make a decision about this at their own speed. If your partner/spouse is interested in continuing their contact with our congregation, we consider them a Friend of our congregation even if they are simultaneously pursuing or maintaining a membership in another house of worship/religious group. And each of you can choose how you are listed in our Directory of Members and Friends.
Transferring from another UU congregation?
When you are ready, speak to the Minister or a member of the Newcomers Connection Team about signing our membership book.