Unitarian Church (Burlington, Vermont)
The Unitarian Church in Burlington, Vermont, also known as the First Unitarian Universalist Society, is a historic congregation located on the prominent intersection of Church Street and Pearl Street in downtown Burlington. The church building, a significant example of Romanesque Revival architecture, was constructed in 1816 and extensively remodeled in 1867 by architect J.J.R. Randall, giving it its current distinctive appearance.
The congregation has a long history of progressive social activism and intellectual engagement. It has played a role in various movements for social justice, including abolitionism, women's suffrage, and LGBTQ+ rights. Notable figures who have been associated with the church include prominent local citizens, activists, and thinkers.
The church offers a variety of programs and services, including Sunday worship services, religious education for children and adults, community outreach initiatives, and social justice advocacy. It is affiliated with the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and embraces the UUA's principles of valuing diversity, promoting ethical and spiritual growth, and working for a more just and equitable world. The congregation actively fosters interfaith dialogue and collaboration within the Burlington community.
The church building is a landmark in Burlington and a contributing property to the City Hall Park Historic District. Its architectural features, including its arched windows, corner tower, and sandstone facade, make it a recognizable and admired structure in the city's downtown area.