How We Connect
In addition to sharing a common name and principles, Unitarian Universalists share a common structure and in some cases, geographic bodies of leadership.
National Level: The Unitarian Universalist Association
The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) is the central organization for the Unitarian Universalist (UU) religious movement in the United States. The UUA’s 1000+ member congregations are committed to Seven Principles that include the worth of each person, the need for justice and compassion, and the right to choose one’s own beliefs.
First Unitarian of Albuquerque chooses to be connected to the UUA and pay an annual program fund or fair share to the UUA and to Mountain Desert District (see below). Each UU congregation is democratic—congregational leaders set their own priorities and choose their own ministers and staff. Congregations vote for the leaders of the UUA, who oversee the central staff and resources. The UUA supports congregations in their work by training ministers, publishing books and the UU World magazine, providing religious education curricula, offering shared services, coordinating social justice activities, providing a process for becoming a Welcoming Congregation or Green Sanctuary, and more.
Regional Level: The Pacific Western Region
The Pacific Western Region (PWR) is part of the UUA, and our region is defined by our geographical location. The Congregational Life Staff and Regional Lead are hired by the UUA to provide services and connect First Unitarian to others in our region. You can stay connected by subscribing to PWR’s online newsletter.
District Level: The Mountain Desert District
The Mountain Desert District (MDD) focuses its services on smaller geographical area than at the regional level. It spans from New Mexico to Montana and includes parts of Idaho, Texas, and Nebraska. The MDD Chalice Lighters Fund provides grants to congregations to fund many worthy projects and initiatives. The Dale Arnik and Walk the Talk awards allow congregations to honor their ministers, interns, and lay people.
Learn More About Denominational Connections
