2. Congregation Histories : South Dakota

Rapid City

Black Hills Unitarian Universalist Fellowship

It was the summer of 1982 when Marion Zenker and Phyllis Olson talked about their need for a Unitarian Universalist group in Rapid City and wondered how many others in the community would welcome a liberal religious organization. They placed an announcement in the local paper and asked those interested to meet at Canyon Lake Park Sunday morning. There were about twelve who came to the first meeting, some of whom had belonged to the former fellowship, which existed in the late 50s and early 60s. Breakfast meetings were continued through the summer with talk about each one’s needs and beliefs and desire for a religious circle with others of liberal leanings.

As cold weather approached, it was obvious that none of these newfound friends wanted to disband and that there was a nucleus upon which to build a lasting foundation. A meeting place was needed and the group (now 20–25) settled into the Canyon Lake Senior Citizens Center.

During the first year there were visits by the Reverends Russell Lockwood, Ken Herto, and Jay Atkinson, each offering suggestions for the fledging fellowship. Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation were finalized, and the fellowship officially affiliated with Boston in December 1983 with 24 charter members. In April 1984, the group joined Prairie Star District.

During those first months there was much discussion about each person’s needs. Some stayed, some left the fellowship. Gradually a fellowship evolved and a regular format for meetings took shape. Bulletins are printed every month announcing the programs. Lori Gordon designed the front page, showing the building and the fellowship’s special logo—the UU chalice circle with a Black Hills Ponderosa Pine against a mountain background.

The group leans toward a liberal point of view, and programs are varied with social concerns such as nuclear waste, arms control, population growth, conservation, and women’s issues popular. Theologies, philosophies and religious experiences produce exciting dialogue. Biographies of well-known UUs are a regular feature. Members present most programs, but there are occasional speakers from community organizations.

A children’s religious education program is gradually taking place. Materials are being ordered and a teacher has been recently engaged. The program is in its infancy but expected to grow to meet the increasing needs of the fellowship. Members are vitally interested in local, state, national, and international affairs and are active in organizations that work for the equality of mankind, global peace, environmental protection, women’s rights, education, and social justice. Needless to say, liberal political views are standard.

The Black Hills Unitarian Universalist Fellowship looks forward to continued growth in membership and continued commitment to the Unitarian Universalist beliefs.

(Author not noted)