Welcome to May Memorial

May Memorial is a mid-sized Unitarian-Universalist society located on the east side of Syracuse, NY, that encourages spiritual growth, building relationships and making this a better world.

May is named for its former minister, the Rev. Samuel Joseph May, a noted 19th century abolitionist, women’s rights and social welfare advocate.

MMUUS is a liberal religious community that welcomes visitors and members who come from all faith traditions—or none. We join with other Unitarian Universalist congregations in affirming and promoting these Seven Principles:

• The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
• Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
• The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
• The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all; and
• Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

We celebrate at our worship service each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in our light-filled sanctuary, inspired by music director Glenn Kime and our glorious organ, uplifted by the choir, talented musicians of all ages, and inspired by our minister, Rev. Jean Wahlstrom.

A tradition of progressive faith

Our namesake, Samuel Joseph May, was a leading abolitionist before the Civil War, and a champion of women’s rights, public education and temperance. He opposed the death penalty, led the famous Jerry Rescue in Syracuse in 1851, and was a leader in Syracuse’s faith community promoting good works, including new schools and hospitals. The Rev. Sam May’s legacy continues in May Memorial’s mindful commitment to social justice, and in its collaborative efforts without regard to partisanship or ideology.

View Voices of a Liberal Faith, a 10-minute introduction to Unitarian Universalism through the words, music and stories of UUs throughout the country.

A member of the St. Lawrence District of the Unitarian Universalist Association, May Memorial is a democratically led organization driven by its members. It is governed by its elected congregational president, who chairs the board of trustees. May Memorial has a range of active committees and interest groups. A program council meets monthly so committee leaders can share information and support each other in their missions.

Take the first step.

“The most important thing about any religious community is the web of relationships that grow between people as they move through the seasons of life and work together to make a better world.”—former interim minister Mary Hnottavange-Teleen.