FAQs:
Visitor and Newcomer Information

Visitors and newcomers are always welcome at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Los Gatos!

We recognize that there are many paths, and that we each must find our own way, guided by reason, conscience, and personal experience. We honor the freedom of each person to explore any religious system, theistic or not, and help our children develop their spiritual curiosity. We invite you to join us on our shared journey.

For sampling our community events and activities, please see our most recent newsletter (link at left).

When are Services?
Sunday mornings from 10:30-11:30. We have coffee, tea and conversation afterward. You are warmly invited to stay and get acquainted with us!
Where are Services?
Our services are normally held at our Fellowship location, 15980 Blossom Hill Rd, Los Gatos, California. This link will tell you How to Find Us
What is a Sunday Service like?
Elements of our Service include: music, readings, a central message which holds up what is important and of value to us, and opportunities for building community. We also light a candle within a chalice during the Service. While there is no single interpretation of the Unitarian Universalist flaming chalice symbol, to many, the cup represents the nourishment of community, while the flame can represent many ideas including the flame of the spirit, the light of truth, the warmth of love, and faith in action.
Who leads Sunday Services?
Sunday services are led on the first and third Sundays by our minister, Rev. Lisa Wiggins.  On second, fourth (and fifth) Sundays, services are led by Fa Jun, our Director of Lifespan Learning, guest ministers, guest speakers or members of our lay ministry team. On occasion, the Sunday service will include a 'Spiritual Cafe' in which the congregation moves into small groups to discuss the spiritual theme of the month with sharing that is meant to deepen understanding of the topic and the connections/friendships of people who come to our services. Guiding questions, as well as coffee and tea, are available to facilitate the discussions on these occasions.  
"I was looking for was a community of like-minded individuals and the very first time I attended the UUFLG, I felt like I'd found a home. Wonders never cease!"
What do people wear to Sunday services?
People usually dress casually and comfortably, but respectfully, for worship (in the corporate world, it would be called "business casual.").
What makes Unitarian Universalists different?
We don't claim to have the answers to life's mysteries; rather we share our individual unique journey of ongoing discovery in community. We value openness, diversity and have fun at the same time. We are a community well-balanced between the spiritual and intellectual aspects of our humanity.
What is the religious background of the Los Gatos Fellowship members?
Many of our members were raised in another faith, but found they couldn't accept the creeds, dogmas, or beliefs they were expected to adopt. Many members are not religious in the conventional sense; some do not believe in God, for example, but others do. We are interested in exploring the larger questions of life in the context of a supportive community.
"My wife and I were looking for a spiritual experience that was shared with others having values similar to ours."
Is there a central organization?
Yes. Our Fellowship is a member of the Unitarian Universalist Association. We govern ourselves, however, which means we hire our own minister, are responsible for our raising and managing our own funds, create our own services, design our own religious education programs, and so forth. The UUA is a support organization, not a governing body.
Is everyone welcome?
Yes! One of our central values is respect for everyone. As a liberal religious tradition, we are welcoming, inclusive, and open to all, regardless of religious belief, sexual orientation, race or cultural background, family or other personal status.
The only people who might find it difficult to fit in are those who are certain that their way is the right way, and demand that others follow suit.
What if I need assistance or accommodation to attend?
Our facilities are accessible for those who are handicapped or have limited mobility. We will be happy to provide assistance or accommodation to allow you to attend our Services, if needed. Please let us know how we can make your visit a successful one, either by calling the church office 408-358-1212 or by talking with one of our Greeters when you come to a Sunday Service.
"My partner and I were looking for a community that would help us support the growth of our child's moral compass, a compass that would guide his conscience and mind to live with compassion and integrity."
What do members value about UUFLG?
Surveys tell us that our members value our community most of all. UUFLG is a place of comfort for people whose spirituality doesn't always fit within the confines of traditional religion, or within any religion. UUFLG is a mixture of interdependence and independence. We help each other, while at the same time respecting each others' right to conscience.
How does the UUFLG create a safe community?
UUFLG, as a church community, practices a "covenant of right relationship" that governs how we work, worship, and play together. We are committed to creating a community where all are safe emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

We uphold each person's right to worship and be in an environment free from intimidation or harassment. Our Safety Policy documents our commitment.
When was the Los Gatos Fellowship established?
Our Los Gatos Fellowship was founded in September, 1949, by Madeleine Cutten, who brought her Unitarian affiliation with her when she moved to California from New England. We had a long period of lay-leadership before the congregation decided to engage professional ministry to encourage and support us in our quest for spiritual meaning.
If I visit, may I bring my children?
We encourage you to bring your kids! We have childcare for infants and preschoolers plus staffed children's Religious Education programs. Children join us for the first part of the Service before going to their program. If your children are hesitant to be a part in a new situation, they may stay with the adults if they are quiet. There is a "quiet room" available at the back of the Sanctuary for use by parents and small children.
"When I relocated, I found a loving, intergenerational, and liberal community at the UUFLG. I love gathering on Sunday mornings to celebrate and explore what's true in MY heart and mind."
How would I learn more about the Fellowship and Unitarian Universalism?
Our Minister and membership team offers fun, interactive workshops during the year during which we explore Unitarian Universalist principles and history. We also foster connections between newcomers, the membership team, and our Minister. The schedule for these is announced in advance in our newsletter, or you may call our office at (408) 358-1212 to find out when the next one will be held.
For more information about Unitarian Universalism, please see:
http://www.uua.org/visitors/index.shtml
For a list of famous Unitarian Universalists, please see:
Our list of Famous UUs.
UUFLG Logo

Address: 15980 Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032
Phone: (408) 358-1212
Email: admin@uuflg.org