United Church of Craftsbury Building Use Policy and Agreement
We are an Open and Affirming congregation, welcoming all people. Our facilities are available to the community when aligning with our mission and covenant.
1. How to Book the Facility
Complete the Request Form: All groups must complete the official Building Request Form (link to your online form).
Approval: Approval is granted by the Pastor and Church Secretary/Treasurer.
Required Alignment: Your event must be consistent with the Church's covenant, not be disruptive, and not incur undue liability.
2. Prohibited Uses
Commercial/For-Profit Events: Any activity run by a business or individual for financial gain.
Partisan Political Events: Meetings or events supporting specific political parties or candidates.
Alcohol or Smoking: Smoking is prohibited on all grounds. Alcohol is strictly prohibited, except for a brief champagne toast during a wedding reception.
Open Flames: No lit candles or open flames are permitted inside or outside the building.
3. Financial Support (Suggested Donations)
Your generous support helps cover maintenance and utilities. Amounts listed are suggested, not required.
Community and General Events
For general use (e.g., birthday or anniversary parties), a $50 fee is required to cover utilities and maintenance.
Your application will be conditionally approved by the Church Secretary.
The $50 payment is required to finalize your booking.
Final confirmation of your reservation will be sent only after the required $50 payment has been received. You will not be allowed to use the church if the fee has not been received by the date of your event.
Ceremonial Events
Wedding: Suggested total donation of $550.
Includes: amounts for the Pastor, Organist, and Building Use.
Note: Separate checks are requested for the Pastor ($150) and Organist ($100). {$100 of the total fee is for video if requested].
Funeral / Memorial Service: Suggested total donation of $550.
Includes: amounts for the Pastor, Organist, Building Use, and Ladies Union Refreshments. {$100 of the total fee is for video if requested].
Note: Separate checks are requested for the Pastor ($150) and Organist ($100) and Ladies Union ($100).
4. Where You Can Meet and Restrictions
Dining Room, Kitchen, and Classrooms
These areas are available for:
Study group: can use the dining room or the classrooms (e.g., AA).
Private family: can use ONLY the dining room and the kitchen (showers, parties)
Fundraising: can use ONLY the dining room and the kitchen
Sanctuary
Permitted Uses: Worship, funerals, weddings, and musical performances that respect the Sanctuary's sanctity and purpose.
Sanctuary Integrity: Furniture, instruments, and accessories may not be moved or altered without explicit Church approval.
Officiants and Musicians
The Church's Pastor and Organist/Pianist are ordinarily expected to officiate/play. Use of outside officiants or musicians requires the Pastor's prior approval.
5. User Responsibilities (The Cleaning Checklist)
The person who signs the request form is responsible for the following:
Setup & Conduct
Set up tables and chairs as needed, and return all furniture to its original position immediately afterward.
Provide your own paper products and supplies for food/drink service.
Remove all decorations completely without using nails or leaving marks.
No food or drink in the Sanctuary.
Users must provide their own sound/AV equipment for dining area gatherings.
Close-Up: The "Carry In – Carry Out" Policy
Kitchen Cleanliness: Wipe all counters, stoves, and kettles clean. Return all dishes/utensils to their proper place.
Dining Room: Wipe off all tables before putting them away. Wipe up any liquid that was spilled on the floor.
Trash & Perishables: Bag all trash and recycling separately. Carry out or place in outside bins. Take all perishable food items home (dairy, open containers, etc.).
Final Steps: Before leaving, ensure the oven/burners are off, all lights are off, and the heat is turned down to 60∘F.
6. Important Disclaimers
Scheduling Priority: Church events, funerals, and memorial services take priority and may preempt a previously scheduled activity. You will receive a full refund, but the Church is not liable for any other losses.
Liability: The Church is not responsible for property loss or injuries occurring on the property. Users accept this risk and understand the Church does not clear steps or entryways of snow/ice.
Advertising: All public promotions must be cleared with the Church office and state the sponsoring organization's name, mentioning the Church only as the location.
