Unitarians joined with Universalists in the 1960s. I was there! It's why the UU symbol has the double ring around the flaming chalice, to represent the two traditions. Thank you for these fabulous lectures. I wish I lived in Toronto!
Personally I grew in a Pentecostal church and it was relatively tolerant and good. However, I do understand not all churches are like mine and not everyone had a positive experience in them. Most pastors I know have some formation as social workers or psychology, but it is not a requirement.