Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church

Im new to Unitarianism (?) but was drawn to the idea of its openness. I was not disappointed. Here, in just a few visits, I’ve been able to connect with some wonderful, loving people. Joanna is the minister. I love her warm heart and passion for serving her congregation. Everyone is welcome here. Mind blowing moment: At the end of a service, we were asked to find some people nearby. We were to look each other in the eye and say, «I love you and there is NOTHING you can do about it». What a powerful experience! How often do we say that to the people we are closest to, nevermind a stranger (in my case at least). Wow. 5,000 Unilocal stars for Live Oak :)

There are few churches that match the community you will find within these walls. They are small enough to know your name, keep an eye on your kids, and make you feel part of things but big enough to make a real impact on the community around them. I’m not sure what «fight» re: flags the person who’s never visited this church was referring to, we just keep putting up new flags. I prefer to think that it isn’t malice that makes our flag keep disappearing, but a sincere love of rainbows by an individual who can’t afford their own. That’s what we do at this church, we assume the best in people.
If you are like me, and come from a churched background that burned you, give us a shot. If you’re new in the area, and aren’t sure that church is for you, give us a shot! If you’re an Athiest, a Buddhist, a Christian, a Pagan, or a Pastafarian, we have a seat for you at our table. All are welcome and your personal path will be respected and encouraged.

I stopped going to church earlier in life because I simply didn’t buy what they were selling. I became so jaded that I was dead set against ever attending church of any sort again. Later, after becoming a parent, I was even more set against going to church because I didn’t want to tell my children what to believe — I want them to think for themselves and decide on their own what they believe. After a while, however, I realized that by not exposing them to any religion at all, I was doing just what I was trying to avoid — I was telling them to not believe anything.
After a few years of searching, I stumbled across Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church. I stalked them on Facebook, and scoured every page of their website before ever considering attending. Clearly, a more liberal religion, welcoming to literally everyone, with social justice as a major part of what they believe — it seemed too good to be true. But finally, after months of prodding from my husband, I conceded to visit. Once.
Within minutes of the service starting, I was in tears. All it took was hearing the affirmation, recited at every service, to know we’d found something really special. «Love is the spirit of this church and service its law. This is our great covenant: To dwell together in peace, to seek the truth in love, and to help one another.»
After the service, we found ourselves in the fellowship hall enjoying coffee with members — we were approached by several members, and made to feel so incredibly welcome. As we left, my husband couldn’t believe his ears when I said, «I can’t wait for next Sunday. «
The service, and every service that has followed, has had me crying happy tears at at least one point or another. We’ve made so many friends, and love the community we’ve become a part of. But mostly, I am so indescribably grateful for the gift that Live Oak is for our kids. RE (religious education) is just that — religious education, not indoctrination. Kids are encouraged to think for themselves and to ask questions. In middle school, they learn about major religions, so that by high school, they are able to make their own faith statement about what they as individuals believe. Exactly what we want for our kids.
If you’re looking for an open minded, completely welcoming, «I *get* to go to church» instead of «I *have* to go to church» church home — come visit Live Oak UU. :)
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Edited to reply to Brandon’s critique:
We are not fighting with anyone. We are simply replacing flags as they are stolen from us. What you call a fight is honestly just us standing for love and inclusivity. And personally, I’m grateful for my children to see that in action.

This is a FABULOUS Unitarian Universalist church. Wonderful people, a great mission, beautiful building and stunning grounds (follow the paths out back to explore!). There are so many active groups here – probably the parent group is the biggest – this is definitely a family church!
Sunday services are always an absolute joy. Our newly-​installed minister, Reverend Joanna is a very gifted speaker – funny, relevant, moving, inspiring.
I have found community here. I’ve found friendship and family and faith. My kids and I are so grateful for this place, the people we find there and the inspiration and activism that the church spurs.

I occasionally attended church as a child and was unchurched for 20 years after I left home. I developed my own spirituality and religious views. When I had children I wanted them to have an environment that would let them choose their own path and help me continue on my own path. I have found that at Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church.

The church grounds are very neat and clean. This Austin area UU congregation takes pride in it’s facilities. It wants the public to visit and come back many times more. Very nice and well done.