The origins of the UU Network of Greater Houston can be found in two earlier groups, the Unitarian Universalist All Church Council and Univision. Univision, in particular, was crucial to the formation of the UU Network. Andrew Ladner of First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston and the Reverend Leonora Montgomery, then at Emerson Unitarian Universalist Church, were both leaders in the forerunner to the Network. Univision used the public television program Access to broadcast videotapes promoting Unitarian Universalism. This early program continued until, as Andrew Ladner recalled, “Access changed the rules, and we always played by the rules…” But collaboration and the accomplishment of mutually beneficial tasks in support of Unitarian Universalist values proved irresistible and in 1986, the Unitarian Universalist Network of Greater Houston came into being.

The UU Network of Greater Houston… Promotes communication between member societies. Strengthens the commitment to Unitarian Universalism in the Greater Houston area. Promotes and coordinates activities which can be better accomplished by mutual effort.

“The mind never makes a great and successful effort, without a corresponding energy of the body.” – Henry David

Activities

The UU Network of Greater Houston sponsors a number of activities designed to bring together Unitarian Universalists throughout the Texas Gulf Coast area.

The UU Network until recently made possible an on-going series of public service announcements on KUHF-FM, the local NPR affiliate.

The UU Network sponsors Union Services. In 2001, the Reverend William Sinkford, president of the Unitarian Universalist Association, was the featured speaker. This was the second time the Network has welcomed the UUA president. In 1995, Dr. John Buehrens spoke at a Network-sponsored Union Service.

The UU Network provides scholarships for members of Network churches to attend the annual Dwight Brown Leadership Experience. The Network has sponsored a variety of workshops including “The Future of Unitarian Universalist Youth” and “Growth and Finance.” Supporting UU educational and spiritual workshops remains the network’s highest priority.