Welcome to Unitarian Universalists at Riderwood.
Who are the Unitarian Universalists at Riderwood?
We are a “Covenanting Community” of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Covenanting Communities claim a UU identity and advance UU values, but they look and feel different from a traditional congregation. Covenanting communities include small meeting groups, missional communities, intentional living cooperatives, national networks, and more.
Some of us are current or former members of Unitarian Universalist congregations in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Others were members of UU churches in other parts of the nation and world before coming to Riderwood. Others are new to Unitarian Universalism. We welcome all who find something here that sustains them.
Our chaplain, Rev. Ashley Burczak, an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister, holds a B.A. in Comparative Religion from Barnard College, Columbia University and a Master of Divinity in Ecumenical Studies from Union Theological Seminary in New York.
What we stand for
Unitarian Universalists believe that the development of spirituality is a journey that draws upon experience and reflection. We affirm an approach to life that encourages openness and questioning, rather than calling upon certain beliefs. We encourage each person to engage in life to the fullest of our capabilities.
What We Offer
A chapel service is held the third Thursday of each month at 1:00 p.m.In the Riderwood Chapel. This gathering may be led by a local minister or an active lay leader. In other weeks, we offer a variety of engaging events.
Upcoming Events
COVID POLICY UPDATE:
- If you are fully vaccinated and boosted, you are not required to wear a mask in small gatherings.
- Masks are required for everyone at in-person gatherings of 30 or more.
- Masks are required for unvaccinated persons in all locations and situations.
April 28, 11 A.M. “Holy Curiosity” Class: Challenging Patriarchy (Town Center Classroom)
May 5, 10:30 A.M.-11:30 A.M. Discussion. Town Center Classroom
Topic: What is the Biggest Task ahead of You?
May 12, 2:00 to 3:00 P.M. Joy of Living Meditation. Village Square Music Room
May 19, 1:00-2:00 P.M. Worship
Location: Riderwood Chapel. Coffee hour will occur after the service in the Chapel foyer. The service will also be broadcast live on Riderwood TV channel 976 or online at Riderwood TV.
Are Women People?
The recent leak of the Supreme Court opinion
overturning Roe vs. Wade means that abortion will
likely be made illegal in half of the United States in
June. In this sermon, Rev. Ashley will explore the
arguments that have historically been used to declare
abortion a sin in some churches, and how our Unitarian
Universalist faith responds.
May 26, 11 A.M. Exploring Cultures and Faiths: Islam (Town Center Classroom)
Guest Speaker: Amjad Chaudhry, National Secretary Ziafat of the Islamic Center
June 2, 10:30 A.M.-11:30 A.M. Discussion. (Town Center Classroom)
Topic: Why Are (or Aren’t) You a UU?
June 9, 2:00 to 3:00 P.M. Joy of Living Meditation. (Village Square Music Room)
June 16, 1:00-2:00 P.M. Worship
Location: Riderwood Chapel. Coffee hour will occur after the service in the Chapel foyer. The service will also be broadcast live on Riderwood TV channel 976 or online at Riderwood TV.
June 23, 11 A.M. Questions and Answers about Death and Dying (Town Center Classroom)
Liberal Lines
Liberal Lines is the monthly newsletter of the UU’s at Riderwood. It offers information about activities of interest to our community. Want to be on our mailing list? Please contact UUs@riderwoodlife.com
Steering Committee
Activities of the Unitarian Universalists at Riderwood are coordinated by a Steering Committee composed of nine members. The Steering Committee meets the first Thursday of each month at 1:00 p.m. in the Village Square Classroom. Andrea Nicolls serves as Chair of the Steering Committee.