Source: The Dallas Morning News

On January 6, 2001, The Dallas Morning News reported that "a little more than a year ago, Pleasant Valley Unitarian Universalist Church made some dramatic changes in its Sunday service. Members started lighting candles for the elements: earth, air, fire and water. Sermons became more focused on natural themes, such as gardening. And worship leaders started using the words God and Goddess. It was time, the Garland church had decided, to "go pagan," to become the first avowed "earth-centered" Unitarian Universalist congregation in Texas, and the third in the country. That's not such a stretch for the 217,000-member Unitarian Universalist denomination, which has roots in many religions and encourages members to develop their own concept of a creator. The denomination is known for its liberal approach to theology, and many members do not believe in the trinity or the divinity of Jesus." Though a few members were made uncomfortable by the change and choose to leave the church, member David Minesinger said that "in our church, the majority were earth-centered." The decision was made by this church alone, in accordance with the Unitarian Univeralist tradition which allows each congregation to choose its own focus. "In addition to Sunday services, the church also provides social groups, a men's group and a monthly full moon circle to honor the turning of the wheel of time." Area Pagans find this a place to safely express their beliefs without fear of persecution or ridicule.