For Visitors

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship welcomes visitors to its Sunday services and other events. This page tries to answer some of the questions you might have.

Minister's Message

Rev. Brian Eslinger

Rev. Brian Eslinger has been the minister at our congregation since 1997. He is a former member of the White Bear Unitarian Church in Mahtomedi, Minnesota, and a graduate of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities.

Welcome to the virtual Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ames.

We are a community seeking to provide opportunities for people of all ages to grow in their spiritual and ethical lives, finding the means to engage the world in creative and transformative ways. On this site you will have an opportunity to learn about the history and current programming of our congregation. One aspect that will be apparent is the strong sense of involvement and leadership exhibited by members. From Sunday morning programs to budget decisions, we foster a high degree of participation by everyone in the congregation.

The high degree of involvement extends throughout our congregational life and into the community. Expressions of our religious beliefs are manifest in our lives; what we do is what we believe. These expressions are apparent as we teach our children of their own value as human beings and help them gain an appreciation for the strength in the human diversity of our world. They are apparent as we seek to become a “Green Sanctuary”, a program that helps us monitor and reduce our negative impact on the world’s environment, as well as in our being a “Welcoming Congregation” meaning we embrace the plurality of life and expressions of our sexuality.

Theologically, our congregation is home to liberal Christians, Pagans, Hindus, Buddhists and Religious Humanists and those for whom any definition would feel limiting. Theists and Atheists alike seek answers to the difficult question of living in our religious home. The Fellowship is not a place for everyone or every idea, but we seek to keep our hearts and minds open, learning from each other ways to help create a world based on the principles of compassion, love and justice.

As the minister of the congregation I welcome an opportunity to answer any questions about the Fellowship and our mission. I am also pleased to serve as a resource for the Ames community, speaking on issues of peace, justice and religious topics. If we can be of service or you are looking for a place to grow please don’t hesitate to visit us.

See you on Sundays,

Rev. Brian Eslinger

Questions and Answers

What Sort Of People Go To This Church?

Our membership has a wide variety of religious backgrounds and theological philosophies. We welcome

  • Single people, couples, families
  • Children, college students, adults, seniors
  • Members of all ethnic groups
  • Heterosexual, bi-sexual, gay, lesbian and transgendered individuals and partners
  • Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Wiccans, humanists, atheists, and many others

Is It OK To Just Show Up And Take A Look?

Yes. We welcome visitors at any time.

What Time Are Sunday Services?

There are usually two Sunday services, at 9am and 11am. The program is the same for both services. During the ISU summer break (June to August) there is only a single service at 10am. Check the current Newsletter for details about meeting times and service topic.

Can I Bring My Children?

Yes. Nursery care for children up to age 3 is provided during all Sunday programs. During the school year, religious education for older children is available at one of the services or at both, depending on the age. During the summer, activities for older children are available at the single service. Contact our Director of Youth and Children's Ministries (292-5960, dycm@uufames.org) for more information.

No child care pre-registration is required for occasional visits.

How do I get to your church?

our building
View from the street


View Larger Map

Our street address is 1015 North Hyland Avenue. North Hyland runs along the west end of campus, from Lincolnway to Ontario Street. Ontario Street is the same as 13th Street.

There is some parking in front of the building, and another parking lot 100 feet north (uphill). There is no parking allowed on Hyland. If both lots are full, go further uphill and park along Ross Road (the nearest side street), or use the Design Center parking lot on the ISU campus.

There are some parking spaces specifically reserved for visitors in the lot right in front of the building.

How Should I Dress?

Wear whatever clothes feel comfortable to you (shorts and T-shirt, or suit/dress). There will always be someone else who is dressed similarly.

Where Can I Find Out More About Unitarian Universalism?

Some links are provided in our UU Faith page. An introductory class for new members or prospective members is held every few months. Check the calendar, or contact the office for information.

last updated: January 4, 2008
webmaster@uufames.org.