Westport Congregation Renames Itself to Reflect Identity and Inclusivity (Westport, Connecticut)

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport has embraced a new name, reflecting both the congregation’s evolution and broader societal changes. The local church, originally founded in 1949 as The First Unitarian Fellowship of Fairfield County, changed its name to The Unitarian Church in Westport in 1964, a year before moving to its current location. This new name, adopted in recent years, marks a significant step in the congregation’s identity.

The Unitarian Universalist Association, to which the Westport congregation belongs, is known for its commitment to inclusivity and non-dogmatic teachings. The congregation’s mission statement emphasizes its openness to people of all backgrounds and beliefs, a principle that has guided its activities and outreach. With 350 members and an additional 150 participants in its programs, the church is actively engaged in social justice initiatives, sexuality education, and support for the LGBTQ community.

The decision to update the name was not made lightly. For years, there were discussions about including “Universalist” in the congregation’s name, reflecting the merger of the Unitarian and Universalist sects in 1961. However, the word “church” also sparked debate. Some members, raised in Jewish or Catholic traditions, associated the term with specific religious contexts, leading to a reevaluation of the congregation’s public identity.

During the pandemic, the congregation began addressing these concerns more directly. Board member Beth Cliff emphasized the importance of a name in shaping the congregation’s identity and community. A name, she noted, helps define who the congregation is and how it is perceived by others. It also differentiates the congregation from other religious institutions.

In February 2021, the board of trustees explored whether the name “The Unitarian Church in Westport” limited the congregation’s appeal to newcomers. They questioned whether the name accurately represented the congregation’s inclusive and diverse nature. Virtual meetings drew dozens of participants who discussed the pros and cons of various name options, highlighting the community’s active involvement in shaping its identity.

A Naming Committee was formed to oversee the process, ensuring it was inclusive, transparent, and democratic. The committee aimed to empower the congregation by giving all members a voice in the decision. After extensive discussions, the congregation reached a consensus on the new name, reflecting its values and mission. The change underscores the congregation’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and its role in the broader Unitarian Universalist community.

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