What is Unitarian Universalism?

We are aware that not all who arrive at this blog are familiar with the Unitarian Universalist faith and some have a rather confused understanding of the religion. This is a very short summary of what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist, and we encourage you to seek out a UU congregation near you so that you can discover your own UU experience.

The Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations (UUA) describes the history of the church as follows:

Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religious tradition that was formed from the consolidation of two different religions: Unitarianism and Universalism. Both began in Europe hundreds of years ago. In America, the Universalist Church of America was founded in 1793, and the American Unitarian Association in 1825. After consolidating in 1961, these faiths became the new religion of Unitarian Universalism through the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA).

Both religions have long histories and have contributed important theological concepts that remain central to Unitarian Universalism. Originally, all Unitarians were Christians who didn't believe in the Holy Trinity of God (Father, Son, and Holy Ghost), but in the unity, or single aspect, of God. Later, Unitarian beliefs stressed the importance of rational thinking, a direct relationship with God, and the humanity of Jesus. Universalism emerged as a Christian denomination with a central belief in universal salvation; that is, that all people will eventually be reconciled with God.

Since the merger of the two denominations in 1961, Unitarian Universalism has nurtured its Unitarian and Universalist heritages to provide a strong voice for social justice and liberal religion.

 Unitarian Universalists base their faith on the following seven principles:

• The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
• Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
• The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
• The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
• Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

 Within a UU congregation, one can find Christians, Pagans, Buddhists, Jews, even atheists! Anyone and everyone is welcome to practice their faith in their own way while upholding the seven principles and working for social justice. Respect is key with all UU congregations, respect of race, creed, sexual orientation, and everything else. Within a UU church, all are encouraged to journey down their own spiritual path in their own way, to grow and be nurtured by the spirituality of others and in turn, nurturing those around them through their experiences as well. It is a beautiful faith where all are welcome, all are nurtured, and all find their lives enriched. It's no wonder that in today's crazy world, so many families turn to Unitarian Universalism to provide a safe and loving education for their children (and the grown-ups too!)

To find out more about what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist, check out the video below or read this fantastic informational packet provided by the folks at Discover UU.