About Unity Center DC

A Brief History

Unity Center DC was founded by the late Reverend Amalie Frank in 1994. Amalie served as our minister until her transition in 2003, and since that time UCDC has operated mostly without a lead minister. Instead, we have been governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees; taught and inspired by a rotation of gifted ministers and speakers; and, spiritually guided by our Licensed Unity Teacher. Other key contributors to our spiritual community have been Rev. LaFayette Seymour (now deceased) and Rev. Sandra Butler, both much beloved Unity Ministers, frequent speakers, and dear friends.

Originally called CommUnity on the Hill and located on Capitol Hill in Southeast Washington, over the years we relocated through a series of beautiful locations, finding spaces that worked for our flexible congregation of Truth Seekers from throughout the DC Metropolitan area. In 2018 we underwent a name change to Unity Center DC. (Just a name change—we remain the same organization and congregation.)

At the start of the Covid pandemic in March 2020, we immediately transitioned to Zoom meetings for all our get togethers. We found it to be convenient and effective, so when “the world opened up,” the community elected to remain on Zoom for our Sunday services and most classes, rather than return to the physical sanctuary. Since we enjoy each other’s company so much, we host a variety of activities, at least once a month, and meet up throughout the region for meals, special events, picnics, cultural outings, etc.

Structure

• We are a member of Unity World Wide Ministries, headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri.
• Caywood Black is our Licensed Unity Teacher.
• We are governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees which is elected by the membership at our annual membership meeting held in March.
• We have only one paid position, Office Manager. All other duties are contributed by volunteers and contractors.
• We are a non-profit, charitable organization, 501(3)(c), incorporated in the District of Columbia.

Board of Trustees

Trustees of our Board are volunteers who are members of Unity Center DC. Trustees each serve a two-year term on a rotational basis. Elections for the trustees are held at the annual membership meeting early in the calendar year.

Please feel free to contact any board member with suggestions, questions, praises, or concerns. We believe an open dialog is a vital element of a loving relationship and welcome all input. Reach us at board@unitycenterdc.org.

Membership

Have you been attending Unity Center DC as a visitor? Would you like to become a member? We’re excited to talk with you about UCDC membership!

• To become a member of Unity Center DC is to join with enthusiastic students of Truth in the Unity tradition. We are committed to supportive fellowship and are here to help you grow at your own pace.
• The only requirement for membership is a personal choice to align with us on a path of positive, practical, spiritual growth.
• There’s no obligation of service, though there are many opportunities to get involved, and as a member you are eligible to vote at the annual membership meeting, join the Prayer team, and serve on the Board of Trustees.
• There’s no financial commitment, though we are fully supported by voluntary donations from our members. These donations are received with gratitude, and our funds are carefully managed through prayerful diligence.
• New member orientations are held about twice a year. You can request a chat about Unity (and membership, if you’re interested) any time. board@unitycenterdc.org
• Prospective new members are offered a New Member Orientation (about 2 hours) during which longtime members review the history of Unity (founded in 1889) and of Unity Center DC (founded in 1994), as well as some of Unity’s key teachings. Afterward, a Member Induction Ceremony gives the congregation a chance to witness and celebrate your membership decision.
• As a member, you are eligible to serve on the Board of Trustees, serve as a Prayer Chaplain and to vote at the November annual membership meeting.
• Please Contact us if you wish to attend the next membership orientation.

ByLaws

Unity Center DC Bylaws: Download Here