Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside - Riverside, CA

Introduction

The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside, established in 1889, is a vibrant and inclusive spiritual community located in the heart of Riverside, California. Nestled at 3525 Mission Inn Avenue, this historic congregation has been a beacon of progressive theology, social justice, and community engagement for over a century. The church is part of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), a diverse faith community that draws from many religious traditions and welcomes people of all backgrounds.

With a mission to "cultivate spiritual growth, nurture compassion, and build a just and sustainable world," the Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside offers a warm and inclusive sanctuary for people seeking a spiritual home that promotes reason, ethics, and spiritual exploration. The church is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community that celebrates diversity, promotes understanding, and encourages individual spiritual growth.

Main Services

• Sunday Services: The church offers two Sunday services at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM, featuring inspiring sermons, engaging music, and opportunities for community connection. Services are led by Rev. Dr. Tammy Williams, Senior Minister, and other talented ministers and guest speakers.
• Religious Education: The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside provides religious education programs for children, youth, and adults. These programs promote spiritual growth, ethical reflection, and community engagement, fostering a love for learning and a commitment to justice and compassion.
• Small Groups and Affinity Groups: The church offers a variety of small groups and affinity groups, such as book clubs, meditation groups, and social action committees, providing opportunities for members to connect, learn, and grow together.
• Social Justice Initiatives: The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside is deeply committed to social justice and community engagement. The church supports and participates in various social justice initiatives, both locally and globally, including environmental justice, immigration reform, and homeless advocacy.

Location and Access

The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside is conveniently located in the downtown area of Riverside, near the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. The church is situated in the heart of Riverside's Central Business District, making it easily accessible from major thoroughfares such as the 91 and 60 freeways.

For those using public transportation, the church is located just a short walk from the Riverside Downtown Metrolink Station and several Riverside Transit Agency bus stops. Additionally, the church offers ample parking, with both on-site parking and nearby street parking available. The church is wheelchair-accessible, with a dedicated wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park.

Featured Characteristics

• Historic Sanctuary: The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside is housed in a beautiful historic sanctuary, built in 1927, which features stunning stained-glass windows, a pipe organ, and a soaring ceiling. The sanctuary's architecture offers a serene and inspiring space for worship and reflection.
• Community Engagement: The church is deeply committed to community engagement and collaboration. It hosts various community events, including art exhibits, concerts, and workshops, and partners with local organizations to address pressing social issues.
• Multicultural and LGBTQ+ Affirming: The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside is a multicultural and LGBTQ+ affirming community that welcomes and celebrates diversity in all its forms. The church is proud to be a member of the UUA's Open and Affirming program, which welcomes and includes people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Practical Information

• Address: 3525 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501, United States
• Phone: 951-686-6515
• Website: uuchurchofriverside.org
• Worship Services: Sundays at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM
• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4.3/5 on Google My Business, the Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside receives high praise from its members and visitors. Some of the most frequently mentioned positive aspects include:

• Welcoming and inclusive community
• Inspirational and thought-provoking sermons
• Engaging and diverse music program
• Comprehensive religious education programs for children, youth, and adults
• Commitment to social justice and community engagement
• Beautiful and historic sanctuary
• Convenient location with ample parking
• Accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities

Many reviewers highlight the church's inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, noting that they feel valued and appreciated as members of the community. The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside's commitment to social justice and community engagement is also frequently praised, with reviewers appreciating the church's efforts to create a more just and compassionate world.

In conclusion, the Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside is a vibrant and inclusive spiritual community that offers a warm and welcoming home for people of all backgrounds. With a rich history, a commitment to social justice, and a diverse array of programs and services, the church is an integral part of the Riverside community, fostering spiritual growth, compassion, and understanding among its members and visitors.

👍 Reviews of Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside

Vanessa B.

5/5

Having grown up in a Baptist church and still navigating the effects of religious trauma, I was initially reluctant to return to church. I explored various congregations but never felt a sense of belonging. Yet, my desire to maintain my spirituality kept me searching. To my surprise, I've found a home at UUC. I participate in most worship services via Zoom and have truly appreciated the warm and welcoming messages I've received. I value how this church embraces people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs.

While I haven't yet gathered the courage to attend an in-person service, I love the freedom to worship in my own way. I affectionately refer to this church as my “hippie” church when talking to my husband, thanks to the free-spirited individuals I see each Sunday. I do hope for a younger audience, but I suspect many may be grappling with their own religious trauma, just like I am.

If you're considering attending a service, I wholeheartedly recommend it. I hope you find the same sense of welcome that I have.

Xuxin G.

5/5

Historical church that has been and still is influential in the city. They open up their doors to everyone. They offer historical tours many times throughout the year.

Jacob

1/5

I used to attend this church years ago. It was a much older crowd in those days. They were welcoming, loving, caring and kind. Although my ideas were not 100% in line with many of the members there, they still accepted me and remained caring. Most if not all of those individuals are gone now. Jancie Levi, Aric Isom and Diane, Kay and David Mowry, Pat Welniak to name a few. I miss them deeply. I joined the army in 2005, I returned to fewer faces in 2015 and a less than accepting congregation. As the older generation passed a newer less tolerant group has hijacked and usurped the church. Their tolerance for my past and former occupation is nil and if my ideas are not 100% in line with their thinking I am not one of them. One cannot have any ideas that stray from the new crowd. It has truly turned into a totalatarian "theology" wjere one must "toe the line" or be cast out. Maybe one day the UUCR will return to it's former glory, or maybe those are all distant memories, meant to be locked away deep within the fathoms of a broken mind and heart.

d. R. O.

5/5

The inharent worth and dignity of every person. The first of the seven guiding principles.
Such a beautiful building. Come check out the wonderful stain glass, one whole wall depicts Jesus and is just stunning with the morning light streaming in.
Looking for community and a small church that you can be a part of - welcome home

José V.

3/5

No air conditioning and only 2 unisex bathrooms occasionally out of order, no drinking fountain and pews are made of wood and not the most comfortable to sit on for long periods of time.

Robin M.

5/5

Such a welcoming, warm, and inclusive group of spiritual seekers. They embrace many walks of faith and all backgrounds of people. They're dedication to respecting diversity and supporting the LGBTQ community is an appealing and unique characteristic of this congregation. And yet, they are more than a congregation. They are a true spiritual community. I am not a regular member here but aspire to be once I can get into the habit of not sleeping in on Sunday mornings!

Iris L.

5/5

How can I do justice to my church in this review. This place is radically accepting, open, welcoming and loving. If you are looking for a home that accepts all humans of all beautiful prismatic variation, this is it.

Rob R.

4/5

My visit was brief, the church and what I understood was a (youth group?) Were passing out food items to those in need. Very friendly and willing to listen to the patrons.