“Welcome to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring” It is more than just a building. It is a vibrant community. It is a place where people from all walks of life unite.
This church has a fascinating story. It began with the help of the Universalist Church of America. The Universalist National Memorial Church in Washington D.C. also helped. That was back in October 1952. From those humble beginnings the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring grew. It became the welcoming place we see today.
In 2015, the church launched a capital campaign called “Answer the Call”. Rev. Elizabeth Lerner Maclay said the theme came from a song by Bob Hirshon. He wrote it for the Unitarian Universalist Association. The song reflects the faith lived every day at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring. Rev. Maclay paraphrased the song. She said it is not just what we have to say. It is more that we find a way to answer the call.
The “Answer the Call” campaign aimed to address the church’s needs. It also aimed to explore opportunities for growth. Members learned about the church’s history. They also learned about current ministries. They discussed renovation and new construction plans. Everyone was encouraged to participate. They asked questions. They made comments. The church compiled everything in a final report. People enjoyed getting together. They learned a lot about the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring.
The campaign had several phases. It was part of a strategic plan for the site. The goal was to enhance the church’s facilities. It also wanted to expand its outreach. James D. Klote & Associates assisted with the campaign. Glenn Wagner said the church community was enthusiastic. He said they worked hard to bring the church to this strategic point.
Rev. Elizabeth Lerner Maclay saw a lot of growth in the church. She had been there since 1999. She felt these were natural next steps for the congregation. They were both exciting and necessary.
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring is committed to social justice. It actively engages in addressing social concerns. It provides ways to live out Unitarian Universalist principles. The church supports programs that reduce food insecurity. It collects food for the Manna Food Center. The church also supports new neighbors. It helps refugee families.
Unitarian Universalism itself has a rich history. It formed from the consolidation of Unitarianism and Universalism. The Universalist Church of America was founded in 1793. The American Unitarian Association was founded in 1825. In 1961, they merged. This created the Unitarian Universalist Association. Both traditions contributed important concepts. These remain central to Unitarian Universalism today.
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring embodies these values. It welcomes everyone. It affirms each person’s worth and dignity. It honors wisdom from many traditions. It practices faith by serving neighbors. It does justice together. The church is committed to dismantling racism. It strives to be a diverse multicultural congregation. This church is not just a place of worship. It is a force for good. It is a beacon of hope in the community.