Heather H.

As a family of multiple spiritual beliefs, it is important that we feel welcome for our whole, authentic selves.

I find the engagement, friendships and activism to be so valuable.

My son, as a musician, loves the music. We also appreciate the Religious Education program!

Don M.

The acceptance of differences, including LGBTQ plus – along with welcoming and valuing a sense of humor in the church – is a large part of what draws me to CUF.  Finally, it is no accident that I fell in love with and married a strong and creative woman. CUF has been one of the few places I could count on to recognize equality across the sexes and across sexual orientations. CUF as a whole, exercised the good judgement to recognize and value leadership coming from someone other than a straight male – hence my partner, Miriam, served 2 terms as CUF President and was rightly valued in that role. I could not abide a place where this was not possible.

Jess J.

I joined CUF nearly 20 years ago. Many experiences and activities at CUF have served to fill my need for a life of service and a life of faith exploration, from kitchen cleanup to social justice work, from singing with others to digging deeper into my values and beliefs in covenant groups. CUF has been a community where I can be myself and continuously work to become my best self.

Phil P.

When I think of Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship, I’m reminded of the ways in which we — as a body — value the importance of personhood. This is referenced in the first three of our seven guiding principles, and more than words, is a palpable presence within our fellowship. In my personal view, membership in this community requires one essential thing, consideration: that intentional act of thoughtful listening that leads to an expanded understanding of self and others.

Rhonda K.

I have gotten so much from being part of things at the Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship. The people here offer each other support and celebrate each other’s joys. Working with others on the various ministries and missions of the Fellowship gives me a sense of hope and connection. And I have been inspired, informed, and found meaning through the services, events, and the people of the Fellowship.

I am so thankful for CUF, my home away from home.

Debbie B.

The principles of the Unitarian Fellowship have always been of interest to me, and when I moved to Carbondale last year I decided to attend. I was overjoyed to find like-minded people, spiritual development opportunities and the chance to work towards a better world.

It feels like I have come home.

Elana F.

I love CUF for the loving, welcoming beloved community.

I love CUF for our shared values of love, reason, justice, truth and freedom.

I love CUF for our many social action activities. 

I love CUF because all we do feeds my soul!

Bill K.

CUF is a place where I can be the person I hope to be. It is natural for me to leave my ego at the door and enter as my peaceful self; the one who is fragile, more forgiving, more open to listening to others. I am grateful to have found a place that connects me to community and makes me feel welcome and safe.

Elisa H.

“I enjoy the mix of activism and spirituality I find at CUF. It is a very accepting congregation, with a true “come as you are” atmosphere. It is nice to be around others who have a similar view of spirituality. Yet, there is a recognition that we are all on our own journeys and paths. There is also a down-to-earth nature about the Sunday services which I appreciate. One week we might talk about the awe of the season and the next we may discuss grief. It’s not all serious discussions: there’s music, outdoor festivals, coffee hours, and kids’ activities. There is room for all.”

TeeKae

“I moved here in 2020. One reason we chose this area was because there was a UU here. I knew that meant there was a safe community for me to join. I was welcomed with open arms and given support I desperately needed. I was given a sense of purpose to fill. As someone who has very little spiritual beliefs, I believe this community helps my mental health.”