About Starr King

Starr King Unitarian Universalist Church of Hayward was founded in 1954 and named after Thomas Starr King, a Unitarian Universalist hero who preached in California. The church began as a do-it-yourself operation that purchased the grounds of a lovely old plant nursery beside a creek. Since then, the church has grown, but we’ve stayed true to our welcoming nature and values.

The stained glass in our sanctuary features a flaming chalice, the East Bay hills, our beloved wisteria, and symbols of our welcoming church.

Mission Statement 

Approved by the Board of Trustees in 2007

Starr King Unitarian Universalist Church in Hayward, California is a welcoming congregation that strives to foster respect and compassion for all people and a reverence for nature. We support one another in our search for spiritual and religious meaning and are committed to working for justice in the larger community.

Our Commitment

Approved by our congregation in 2013

We faithfully try to be a congregation that…

  • embraces a vibrant, dynamic, and diverse community in which meaningful transformative spiritual practice flourish
  • assists and celebrates each individual’s search for truth through the unity of fellowship and common worship.
  • provides adults and children with a rich array of opportunities for personal and spiritual growth through involvement, leadership, and service
  • warmly welcomes visitors into our spiritual community and lovingly supports our members through crises and transitions.
  • addresses social justice issues, making a real difference in people’s lives through education and action as well as moral, spiritual and material support.
  • works to protect the earth and its resources and cultivates a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing environment that enriches our community and spiritual life
  • operates its business affairs legally, ethically, compassionately, prudently, and transparently, and develops budgets and fundraising initiatives that support the congregation’s needs, goals, and values.

Our Vision

Spiritually alive, lovingly inclusive, justice centered.