We moved into the current building, at 520 Kanawha
Blvd. West, in 1994. In 1997, the
Fellowship dedicated a classroom and meeting annex known as the Eastman
Activities Center. These changes were accomplished by means of two capital
campaigns, major donations from some of the founding members and countless hours
of volunteer labor. Bequests and gifts to the Endowment Fund in memory of Leone
Webb, Ida Eastman, Walt Shawkins and Jack Sandy add to the strength of the Congregation.
Throughout most of its 50-plus year history, the
congregation was lay-led. The goal of full time ministerial leadership
was achieved in 1988. In the spring of 2002 Rev. Rose Edington and Rev. Mel Hoover
were called as a co-ministry team. As our ministers, Mel and Rose have lead a revitalized congregation. During
the 2002-2003 church year 20 new members joined the Fellowship. In
2003 we had a joyous April weekend in celebration of UUFKV's 50th
anniversary and the celebration continued with Rev. Bill Sinkford,
president of the UUA, leading the service on November 9th.
On May 22, 2005 members at the Annual Meeting voted
to change the organization's name from Unitarian Universalist
Fellowship of the Kanawha Valley to Unitarian Universalist
Congregation. This reflects both growth and strong ministerial
leadership.
Our congregation has been active in many community activities
with an emphasis upon social justice and human rights. School policies have been
challenged, civil rights advocated, religious freedom defended, pro-choice
advocates and gay right activists supported. Refugees from Bosnia have been
welcomed and Katrina evacuees fed. UUC's Creative Capers summer arts camp brings together talented children
from all over the valley.
There is a wide diversity of beliefs and of interests
pursued by congregation members. We are united in our quest to find meaning in our
lives and in the pursuit of truth.
Unitarian
Universalist Congregation
