Get Acquainted

There are many ways to get know South Church and its members, clergy and staff.

When you walk through the front door, you’ll notice a Welcome Table in the entry. Greeters are available to help you get situated, answer any questions you may have, and pick up literature about South Church and Unitarian Universalism. You may sign the guest book at that time, and let us know if you wish to receive the electronic newsletter. Our greeters will also invite you to take a temporary name tag before the service, if you wish.

After the service, visitors and members are invited to gather for coffee and conversation in the Parish Hall downstairs. During the summer months, in nice weather, social hour is held outside on the portico and in the church yard.

Meet with the Minister

If you would like to schedule a meeting with Rev. Ellen Quaadgras, our Settled Minister, please reach out to her directly at revellen@southchurch-uu.org.

Come to a Special Event

Numerous special events take place throughout the year, many of which offer opportunities to make connections and learn about the church. Periodic “Coffee House” nights give the community a chance to relax together and share musical talents. Adult Spiritual Enrichment classes are an opportunity to explore specific topics and get to know others in a small group setting. Community service activities, like serving a meal at the Salvation Army or volunteering for our Pocket Garden Tour, feel great and also provide opportunities for connection. Information about upcoming events and service opportunities is shared through our electronic newsletter and the bulletin section of the Sunday morning order of service.

Join our Journey to Membership Class

Twice a year, the Fellowship Associates host a 3 session Journey to Membership class. The classes are typically held in November and March of each year. This is a wonderful way to learn more about South Church, Unitarian Universalism in general, and what it means to make a greater commitment to this community. For more information, reach out to the Fellowship Associates at fellowship@southchurch-uu.org. 

Retreats and Service Trips

After attending South Church for a little while, you may wish to participate in one of our two annual retreats. The Star Island Retreat happens over the summer at the Isles of Shoals. It’s a wonderful, relaxing setting. Our Fall Retreat takes place over Columbus Day Weekend at the Geneva Point Retreat Center on Lake Winnipesaukee. Both retreats are family-friendly, informal, and lots of fun. About every other year, a group of adults undertakes a service trip. This is a special opportunity to give back to the larger community, get to know other members and friends of South Church.

Adult Programs

South Church Small Groups are groups of seven to ten people who gather twice a month over the course of nine months, to explore intriguing topics in depth in a structured way. These groups are a great way to find spiritual depth at the church, and build relationships. Joining these groups involves a months-long commitment, which makes them a great fit for someone who has passed the initial visiting phase of getting to know our community. We do offer periodic “drop-in” Small Group sessions, which are a great way to get to know what small groups are all about. Find out more about the many adult programs that we offer by clicking here.