As a queer, neurodivergent young person who struggled to build community when I first moved to Modesto, I feel blessed to have found UUFSC as my spiritual home. This fellowship truly lives its values–we support and care for each other, create space for rich dialogue / deep sharing, and actively contribute to social justice in Stanislaus County.

Modesto is far more conservative than I ever imagined, leading my husband and I to consider the need to find a liberal church for our family. My primary spiritual path is Wiccan (seasonal/earth-honoring ceremonies) and I felt uncertain about joining a church. We decided to visit the UU Fellowship and found a small, warm, welcoming community of religious liberals that were only a little freaked out about my being Wiccan. They needed to hear more about the Earth-honoring path and we needed a circle of people to call our extended family. We decided to make the Fellowship our family’s religious home.

I’ve attended Unitarian Universalist fellowships since I was a child. When I was a teenager UU principles resonated with what was in my heart and mind. I do not like labels and I consider myself an Earthling, no better and no worse than anyone or anything on our planet. UU honors all faiths and beliefs. All are welcome. No one is excluded. This fellowship respects the interdependent web of all existence which is something that is important to me. There are a plethora of active groups and events where people can use their time and talents to serve themselves and others while upholding positive social, environmental, and spiritual values.One way I use my talents is to continue the work of my stepfather, William “Bill” Greer, who began the homeless shelter meals in Modesto. I continue as an Ambassador assisting UUFSC in offering this ministry to our Central Valley communities.

I joined the fellowship because there was a warm and witty and wonderful woman there who subsequently became my wife!

UUFSC allows me to express some of the same values I felt during the 60’s, particularly as they relate to civil rights and social justice. Concepts of respect for the rights of others, tolerance, and equality are basic to the church, and easily apply to such issues as homelessness and sexual orientation. I enjoy the building and grounds projects, and the many opportunities to relate with others either in church, on planning committees, or at socials.

My first visit to UUFSC was as a 79 year old retired scientist recently widowed. When my wife of 57 plus years passed away I grieved alone for a year and then decided I needed to get connected in some way with my community. I had never attended a Unitarian Service but I had done some research about their fundamental beliefs and mission. I found an open, warm, and loving group willing to accept me, as I am, and who are dedicated to each other and the community and who work hard trying to make the world a kinder and better place. UUFSC gave me sanctuary when I needed it most. They are now a large part of my extended family. After being involved with UUFSC for only a year, I have become a member and can’t imagine going forward without them.