What to Expect in Worship
Here are answers to some common questions. If you want to know more or we missed your particular questions please contact the church office at office@stjohnsuu.org or 513-961-1938.
When and where are services held?
Services are held on Sunday at 11 a.m. and typically last a little over an hour.
We’re located in Clifton at 320 Resor Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45220.
What about parking?
There is parking behind the church reserved for visitors, plus additional parking at the Fairview-Clifton German School off Clifton Ave. behind the church.
What should I wear?
Wear what is comfortable for you. Some people dress more formally and others more casually. Either is fine.
How accessible is the church if I’m disabled?
We have handicapped parking, a ramp into the church, and a lift into the sanctuary. There are also large-print Orders-of-Service and assistive listening devices. Find out more about what we do to make St. John’s accessible.
What can I expect at your services?
A typical Service includes thoughtful readings, music, singing together, and a sermon by our minister. Visit the Sermon Archives to view past sermons. You can also view and hear many services since March 2020 on our YouTube channel, where you’ll find other videos as well.
What about my children?
Children’s Religious Exploration classes and YRUU (teens) classes meet at 11 a.m. Childcare is available for younger children. Read more at Children’s Religious Education, Children & Youth.
Children are always welcome to stay with their grown-ups in service. The chapel at the side of the sanctuary has a small table and chairs, soft toys, and a rocking chair. It also has easy access to get in and out of service as your child needs.
Will someone try to “sell me” on your church?
No. You will find friendly greeters willing to answer any of your questions. That our churches are formed from people coming freely, with no threat of hell or promise of heaven, is a foundation of our tradition.
I’m not sure I believe in God; is that OK?
Yes, our members search for truth on many spiritual paths. From the earliest days of Unitarian theology through the humanist movement of the 20th century, we have debated the nature and even necessity of the divine. Wherever you are on the spectrum of belief, you are welcome here.
I identify as LGBTQ. Will I be welcome at St. John’s?
Yes! UU congregations, including St. John’s, have a long history of support of LGBTQ rights. We have LGBTQ members and we welcome your involvement and participation in the congregation.
What else is happening on Sundays?
Pre-Covid, we offered Adult Forums most Sundays (except summer) at 10 a.m. While we’re not doing that at that hour again yet, you can join presenters and other adults for occasional lively exploration of current and relevant topics offered online or in person. Find offerings in our E-news, with recent issues found on our news archive page.
You’ll also find a cup of fair trade coffee and good conversation with members and friends across the hall from the Sanctuary, after every service. And there are frequently more activities such as lunches, sales, discussions, meetings and more. Check the calendar and the latest issue of our weekly E-news to find out all of the exciting activities each Sunday!
Occasionally, the Minister and Membership team lead Exploring St. John’s for all who want to learn more about Unitarian Universalism in general and St. John’s in particular. There is a light lunch and informal conversation so that you can ask questions. We conclude with a tour of the building, which ends about 1:45 p.m. Membership chair Pat Brown can let you know when this is scheduled again.
Where can I find a schedule of upcoming events and activities?
The most descriptive information is in weekly e-news. You can also check the news and events sections of our website.
Can I be involved in activities if I’m not a member?
Membership isn’t required for many activities: Adult Faith Formation and music, social justice action, and just plain socializing are open to all. Spiritual seekers may also be attracted to Meditation, EarthSpirit, or Small Group Ministries.