Our Governance
Our community is governed by congregational polity, which means that we are self-governing and democratic. Members vote on congregational lay leadership, choose our Minister, decide on our annual budget and determine the direction and future of the congregation. Responsibility for the congregation’s continued sustainability also rests on members. Their gifts of leadership and finances are essential for its continued care and sustenance.
Despite our independence, we are a member of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), an association of over 1,000 congregations throughout the 
United States. The UUA facilitates cooperation between congregations, offers resources and support, assists with ministerial transitions and represents Unitarian Universalism to the wider world. Within the UUA, there are five regions and Fourth Universalist is part of the Central East Region.
At Fourth Universalist, the congregation is led by our Board of Trustees and our Minister. Both are voted on by the membership. The Board oversees the financial, missional, and governance aspects of the congregation, while the Minister serves as head of staff and oversees the ministry of the congregation that includes worship, music, religious education, pastoral care, administration, membership, and justice work. The two work closely together, with the Minister serving as an Ex-Officio member of the Board.
The Board Of Trustees presently has three appointed committees. Our Finance Committee works to prepare our annual budget which is approved by the Board before it is voted on by the membership. Our Stewardship Committee leads our annual pledge campaign to foster a spirit of giving by our members. Our Safe Congregation Policy is implemented and updated by our Safety Committee.
Our leadership works to be transparent and open in its work. Monthly Board meetings are open to all members and the public. Board minutes are posted on this page after they are approved at the next Board meeting. Our budget is reviewed annually at the formal Budget Town Hall, and an Annual Meeting is held to communicate important developments in the congregation, solicit feedback, elect new leadership, and vote on the next year’s budget.
Our Board of Trustees meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from September to June. Please contact our Executive Director at office@4thu.org with any questions or to learn more.
Fourth Universalist Bylaws June 4, 2023
Safe Congregation Policy May 2026