Eliot Unitarian Chapel Kirkwood

I’ve been here once and I really want to go back.
The sermon when I went focused on kindness to strangers and «sheltering» others; the minister shared an amusing story about when he was a teenager roadtripping in Texas and his car broke down and he was lost, and a woman that took him in. Obviously he doesn’t expect people to let complete strangers sleep in their house, but the anecdote was meant to segue into a moving sermon about kindness to others. I really enjoyed the minister’s style of speech, sense of humor, and his message. I appreciate that the focus of this church’s mindset are being a good, spiritual person, rather than following doctrine.
There was music (from talented congregation members), there was laughing, there was calmness and meditation. Before every service they have the children come in and share something with us, and I love how they integrate the children with the adults and bridged that generational gap. The children were apparently learning about a new religion every week, and shared with us their Buddhist prayer flags, which I thought was really awesome. That’s something that I remember yearning for as a child — I wanted to learn about everything there was out there in the world spiritually so I could make my own choices, and I love that this church fosters that.
I noticed they were also very involved in the community and followed through on their commitment to social justice, with events scheduled like a «Homeless for a Night» fundraiser event (you know, where you sleep outside in a box, and bring canned food, and raise awareness).
The chapel itself is simple, but very beautiful. Unpretentious. Really nice space.
Everyone was very kind and welcoming to me, but not pushy like the previous reviewer said, and I appreciated that. Also the day I went they had a used book fair — special was all you can fit in a Dierberg’s bag for $ 5! They had a huge selection and I walked away with some really awesome steals.
Plus, it’s in cute little downtown Kirkwood, so you’ve got their farmer’s market right across the street and all their local businesses to explore while you’re in the area as well.
Technically First Unitarian in CWE is closer to me, but I really clicked with this place so I would drive farther to go here. With working overtime a lot and the overnight 12 hour shifts, getting out there is going to be hard, but this place is so neat that I’m really going to try to make the effort. Loved it.

I have visited Eliot Chapel twice and I’m a big fan. I would like to become a member of this church if I move nearby. I found out about Unitarian churches in grad school when I was struggling with issues with organized religion, but wanted some structured spiritual outlet. Fell right in love. The services I have attended focused on being a good person and being spiritual, rather than forcing beliefs or ways to live down your throat. I took my family to the Christmas Eve candlelight service, which was beautiful and moving. The theme was on appreciating the true meaning of holidays and celebrating time with family. Their choir is nice and the ministers are well-​spoken and friendly. The people in attendance are warm and welcoming, but not creepy and aggressive like some churches trying to recruit you. And the chapel is lovely– old fashioned high vaulted ceiling and balcony, large windows. Definitely check it out if you are looking for a Unitarian church!