What to expect
on your first visit to BUF
We get together on Sunday mornings to reflect on what is most important in our lives — through the lenses of various traditions of faith, practice, wisdom, and devotion.
We share readings and music from a wide range of sources including eastern and western religions, earth-centered traditions, religious humanism, and the spirituality found in new and old poetry, stories, and prose. Our music draws on sources from around the world and from many eras and styles.
Accessibility
Accessibility is not just about physical accommodations. In our commitment to the inherent worth and dignity of all people, we all look out for one another’s well-being.
We have five disabled-user parking slots adjacent to our front door on Ellsworth Street and a ramp into the main entrance. We have an elevator and accessible restrooms on every level of the building.
Assistive listening headphones and large print programs are available from the ushers. Please contact us if you have any additional questions or concerns about accessibility.
Dress
Some people are from a background in which they feel they should “dress up” for worship. Others believe it most important to “come as they are”. Please dress however you are comfortable. What’s most important is that you feel at home.
BUF is a fragrance-free environment. We ask that you refrain from using perfumes and other scented products when visiting.
Hospitality
When you' arrive, you will be greeted in the narthex where you can make yourself a nametag and ask any questions. Our greeters are always happy to help you find your way and warmly welcome you to the space.
After the service, join us downstairs for coffee, tea, and goodies. It’s a great place to meet and chat and get to know some members and friends of the congregation. If you choose to use a special red coffee mug, we’ll know that you’re new and we’ll come say hello!
Parking
We have a small lot across Ellsworth (this lot fills up quickly on Sundays). We also have permission to park on Sundays in the large lots at the Board of Education (across I Street) and at North Coast Credit Union (half a block to the left as you face our entrance). Bicycle racks are on the I Street side of the building. Please do NOT park in the lot behind BUF near the lower-level entrance to the social hall.
Families with kids
We welcome families! Plan to check in with RE staff in the lobby when you enter, grab some fidget bags on the way into the sanctuary, and sit toward the front for the best seat at story time. The first 10-15 minutes of every service is multi-generational, and typically includes a song or story for all ages. Kids 3 and older then have the option to go classrooms upstairs.
We also have a “Wiggle Room” at the back of the sanctuary where younger ones can move their bodies and make noise and their adult can still see and hear the service. Changing tables are available in restrooms on every level of the building.
If your child requires accommodation due to learning or behavioral concerns, please contact our Religious Education Coordinator in advance so we can make sure your child can participate fully in our activities.
