How can we extend the reach and impact of Unitarian Universalism?
There has been much talk about “congregations and beyond.” Among other things, this includes efforts to engage people who are not all that likely to join our congregations, especially younger people and those who declare their religious affiliation as “none.” We are convinced that many such people share our values and beliefs, and would enthusiastically join us for specific events.
Members and friends of our congregations vary in their level of commitment and engagement, and for many people, these levels fluctuate over time. When I think of these levels, the image I like is one of concentric circles, with an inner core, surrounded by rings of less connected members and friends.
What if we extend these circles beyond our congregation walls?
What if we make an effort to include everyone who comes into contact with us in any way — by invitation of course? What if we cultivate all these people with targeted messages and invitations to join us for social justice projects or musical programs, or a speaker series, using technology to help organize and drive this?
Imagine if this effort produced a database of sympathetic quasi-UUs who come and go in their connections but support us when they are moved to do so. Might we be able to expand our movement from the current 200,000 members or so to upwards of a million people with varying levels of connection? Makes me giddy to think about our potential impact in the world!
I’ll be speaking about this topic this weekend at the St Lawrence District Fall Leadership Day. I’m hoping to generate some enthusiasm and perhaps a pilot project or two. And of course, I welcome comments and suggestions.
Stewardship Consultant Barry Finkelstein has been a Unitarian Universalist congregational stewardship consultant since the Fall of 2007 and has worked with over 50 congregations on annual budget drives, capital campaigns, and strategic planning. Reach Barry at Team@stewardshipforus.com
Barry,
Excellent! Every push of the wheel matters!
Thanks,
James