How is WHUUF connected with the Unitarian Universalist Association?

Unitarian Universalist (UU) congregations operate under a system of congregational polity, meaning each congregation is self-governing and autonomous. While each congregation has the freedom to govern itself, the UUA (Unitarian Universalist Association) provides support and guidance, and the congregations form a voluntary association to pursue common goals. 

How does WHUUF run itself?

In our tradition and in our congregation, members hold ultimate decision-making authority through their ability to define bylaws, elect Board members, call or dismiss a Minister, and articulate the mission of the Community. Through the bylaws, the members delegate day-to-day decision-making responsibility and authority to the Board (Governance) and, by the Board’s delegation, the Minister and staff.

The governing body of WHUUF consists of a minimum of six and a maximum of eight adults. Adult trustees are18 or older and are elected each year at the annual business meeting, and serve staggered terms three years each. In the event of a vacancy on the board, the remaining members of the board select a temporary successor to serve until the end of the fiscal year. A successor shall be elected to fill the balance of the unexpired term at the next annual meeting.

1. Any member is eligible to serve as a trustee, provided that such person has been a member of WHUUF for at least six months prior to the election. Board members are term-limited: they must take a break after two consecutive full terms, or eight consecutive years if a partial term was served. After a break of a year, they may be elected again.
2. One youth member, aged 16 to 18, may be elected by the fellowship each fiscal year for a one-year term. The youth member may vote but not serve as an Officer. The youth member elected or appointed to the youth board position need not be a member for six months prior to the election.