The members of the Allen Avenue Unitarian Universalist Church own and govern the church, as prescribed by one of our seven principles: The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large. Policies and decisions are made through congregational meetings, the Board of Trustees, Program Council and a network of committees. Involvement in church committees is fun as well as beneficial to the church.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Board of Trustees is responsible for oversight of church life and vision and finances. Made up of nine members approved by vote of the congregation, the board meets monthly. The Executive Committee is empowered by the by-laws and the board to prepare the agenda for the board meetings and to respond to issues between meetings as needed. It consists of the president, vice-president, treasurer, clerk, minister, and chair of the program council.
PROGRAM COUNCIL
The Program Council is a formal monthly gathering of the chairs of each of our committees. The PC coordinates and plans programs and activities, and oversees church scheduling to be sure that there are no major conflicts. It is also a wonderful venue in which different interest groups in the church can communicate, give feedback and help make our programs more efficient by helping each other when appropriate. It is also a great way to learn what is happening in all areas of the church. Following are the standing committees of the church, as represented at Program Council:
Building and Grounds is responsible for all maintenance and upkeep of the church building and property. Members organize work days, work with vendors, service people and our Sexton. For more information click here.
Facilities Planning Committee is charged with analyzing future space needs; evaluating the structural integrity of our building; developing a plan for increasing our physical plant; and presenting that plan to the congregation. For more information on this exciting project, click here.
Finance Committee prepares budgets; report on those budgets to the Board and to the Annual Meeting. See Financial Matters for more information.
IT Committee oversees and manages use of technology at Allen Avenue Unitarian Universalist Church, including the maintenance of this website. Its members should have some computer literacy (hardware and/or software) or interest in technology solutions. For more information about IT, click here.
Committee on Ministry's purpose is to strengthen the quality of the ministry to and in the congregation. The committee will foster a healthy relationship between the minister and the congregation, acting as counsel to the minister and the Board of Trustees and a resource to the entire congregation. At A2U2 the ministry is understood to be shared by everyone in the congregation as we live out our values in our lives and in the larger community.
Nominating Committee considers and presents nominations for the elective offices of the Church including the Nominating Committee. The committee advises the Board of Trustees for filling vacancies at all levels of church leadership through the year.
Outreach Communications Committee’s purpose is to more widely share our values and grow our community. They concentrate on making our name, values and messages widely known in the community. Part of their goal is to bring visitors in the door to experience this church.
Personnel Committee oversees A2U2 staff relations and makes recommendations to the board of trustees for compensation and benefits in the budgeting process, and advocates for the staff in regard to working conditions.
Religious Education Committee is responsible for the children's and Youth Religious Education Programs and works in collaboration with the Director of Religious Education.
Stewardship supports our church by helping members and friends pledge both their financial resources and their time and talent. They are a crucial part of the financial health of our church. See Financial Matters.
Worship Committee is responsible for worship services when the minister is not in the pulpit. Generally, this includes one worship service per month, plus coordinating summer service planning. Membership in this committee requires creativity, teamwork and an interest in worship. For much more information, click here.
Annual and Congregational Meetings
Bylaws and Policies and the Annual Report will soon be available on our online database. To obtain a copy, please call the church office.