Unitarian Universalist
Congregation in Milford

This I Believe -- Testimonials

Each Sunday during February and March, the service includes a personal testimonial from a member of the congregation. In this brief statement, we hear about why UUCM is important in the life of an individual.

Excerpts from Personal Testimonials:

"I feel so lucky to have found this welcoming place that serves as an extension of our home. On Sunday mornings, not only do we look forward to coming to church, but our kids do too! Here we have the space and time to explore spiritual questions while sharing with others and making deeper connections."

"I think we do good work here—good for me, good for my family, good for the other members and friends, and good for the larger community. Together we are powerful. We can accomplish things we never could alone."  -- Leslie B.

 

"I experienced several Unitarian Universalist churches in Pennsylvania and in upstate New York. Each one was different. Here I learned to be more accepting of many different views, and cherished congregational community, a place where people had like values about life. My horizons were broadened and enriched by multicultural and social responsibility experiences."

"Here I am accepted wholly for who I am and continue to become, something that is hard to find in other avenues of my life." -- Nancy D.

 

"Upon our move to NH, we checked out the three closest UU churches to Amherst. Just like Goldilocks we found one of them to be too big (and impersonal), another to be too small (and seemingly moribund), but UUCM seemed just right. A community of like minded people who cared about and for one another, and were committed to social justice."

"In my opinion the best reason for the continuation of UUCM is its dedication to turning out young people who live their lives with compassion and understanding of others, even those who are "different." Many of them have assumed roles in adult life that aspire to making the world better." -- Graham S.

 

"UUCM is not only a caring culture, but one that also challenges & nurtures our many diverse thoughts, interests, talents, and skills.  There is a niche for each one of us, just keep trying 'til you've found yours.  Our church has taught me that beauty is universal in the heart and soul of all living things.  Quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Beauty is God's handwriting."  And I believe there is a beautiful spiritual handwriting within our special community."  -- Mimi M.

 

"I have experienced times of great personal trials, worrying that my acceptance by the community might be in jeopardy, only to have strong arms hold me, open hearts embrace me, and caring souls bear me up. I have been able to be the person that I a truly am – sometimes irreverent, often humorous (or even silly), and still have my opinions and advice valued."

"I have been blessed in my time at UUCM to see how this community supports those in need – in our church, our local community and the world. I have seen how those in this community care for our earth and all living things."  -- Peter L.

 

"I have always thought that it was so cool that singing and music are such a big part of this congregation, and will forever be grateful that they are. After that first service, my brother and I decided that we had to join the children’s choir. It was a great experience and now every time I hear the Children’s Choir sing I am reminded of the happy times we had, and the good snacks at the end! "

"The church circles have also made my experience at this church one of great excitement, and one of enjoyable learning. I remember helping to build the wonderful bird house out behind the church, and going for hikes and learning about our UU principles in a way that was fun and interactive! The most exciting and enlightening years were when I was a part of “Neighboring faiths” and we went to different churches and temples, and saw the way that other religions worship."  -- Nathan S.

"I know the UU church is hundreds of years old, but to me it is a church for the 21st century, welcoming all regardless of where you are in your journey, and regardless of what viewpoint and background you have. UUCM does indeed live up to its name as a "welcoming congregation," one that every church should emulate. It is the ultimate definition of a faith community -- one that calls people together, reaching out to them where they are, helping them grow individually and collectively, and inspiring them to share their growth through outreach…. I call it a 'circle of faith.'

When you look forward to the service and leave fulfilled each and every time, you know you're in the right place. This, I Believe ... and express my deepest thanks to all of you for being here and offering it to me and my family." -- Erik B.

 

Why did we commit to this church for the long-haul?  The teens we met who were raised in this church were outstanding people headed for college and we wanted our kids to turn out like them!

Why is this church so important to us?  It would take WAY WAY too long to mention all the amazing people we’ve met, the kind words spoken, the enlightening conversations, the laughter, the learning, the friendship and the support through the years. -- Cammie O.

 

A So, what would it be like without UUCM?

I would be at a loss to discuss current events, philosophical ideas, politics, and religious questions. Where would I find a group of people so interested, educated, and willing to engage in free and open discussions? How would I feed my mind without UUCM?

Where else could I find music to enliven and free my soul to aide in the reception of the diverse spiritual messages? How would I feed my spirit without UUCM?

I would certainly be the poorer for the many communal gatherings that take place during the year, like, the annual auction, potluck dinners, circle dinners, and the holiday fair, to name a few. How would I feed my sense of fellowship without UUCM? -- Ray. I