UUA: Newcomers' Bulletin Board Archive, 2002-2006

Questions on our Newcomers' Bulletin Board were answered by Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) staff or volunteers. The content of this page is not approved by the UUA nor does it necessarily reflect the views, policies, or practices of the UUA.

Search this document by using the "Find" command (usually hitting "Ctrl" + "F" will pull this up). Plug in a keyword about your question to see if something similar has already been answered.

For current information, visit our newcomers' pages: Beliefs and Principles in Unitarian Universalism (UUism), or Contact Us.

Questions answered in the order in which they were received. Links updated April 2012.

Christmas Service

QUESTION: I'm not really Christian any more, but around this time of year I really miss it.

I miss the pews and the hymns and the funny old ladies that smell dusty and remember my name. I miss the count-down advent wreath, I miss the wax dripping on my hands durring the candle-light service, I miss the collective joy at the return of light to the world, I miss praying for peace.

What I don't miss is the dogma, the conservatism, the assumption that all involved believe the same things, and that those things include intolerances and hatreds that Jesus would never have approved.

Do Unitarian Universalist churches have Christmas services? Specifically, candle-light Christmas Eve services? Would I, an atheist and a stranger, be welcome there?

Liz
Tecumseh, KS

ANSWER: Almost all Unitarian Universalist (UU) congregations have Christmas Eve candle-light services. I know that at least two different congregations in your area are holding them this year.

You would most certainly be welcome at any of our congregations. Unitarian Universalism welcomes people with many different religious beliefs. For instance, Unitarian Universalist congregations also often hold Hanukah and Winter Solstice celebrations around this time of year.

To find information on the holiday services at your local congregation, you can contact your local congregations directly via Find a Congregation.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Unmarried Cohabiting Couples

QUESTION: How does UU look upon couples (of any sexual orientation) who live together but are not married? While my boyfriend and I know that we will marry, we currently do live together. I feel comfortable with this decision and feel it is the right situation for us right now. I feel it is preparing us for a future together by building up our relationship, and that one reason for the prevalance of divorce is that many people marry too early without knowing what life with the other person will be like. I now live in an urban area, where the population seems to be more open-minded on such matters, but in the small town where I'm originally from, many people are more conservative and believe it is wrong. If I went into a more traditional, conservative Christian church, I would probably feel uncomfortable talking to people there about my living situation. Does the UU have an opinion on the issue? I know that the UU is supportive of homosexual persons, who are unable to marry in most areas.

Darla
Kansas City, MO

ANSWER: The Unitarian Universalist community is quite welcoming to people who live with one another without marrying or before marrying. Our faith doesn't think there's anything wrong with living unmarried with the person you love, straight or gay. You and your boyfriend would be more than welcome in any of our congregations. To find your closest UU congregation, please visit Find a Congregation.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Principle of Acceptance, Religious Education

QUESTION: Hello, I am a teen basically Searching for other people who belive the foundation of their Religion / Spirituality is that God accepts us all despite any Sin. I am just wondering what is the source of UU's princible of acceptance? Also, what is taught in RE classes and sermons. Basically, what do they reinforce as the reason it is necessary to accept no matter what?

Thank you Very much,

Ashley
Illinois

ANSWER: The idea that God will accept us despite any sin is Universalist. Before they merged with the Unitarians in 1961 to form the new religion of Unitarian Universalism, the Universalists believed that God was so loving that he would forgive all sins. This was called Universal Salvation, hence Universalism.

From this idea, we get the first principle of the Unitarian Universalist Association: the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

While we no longer have a shared Unitarian Universalist view of God to use as our foundation for this principle, we do have other shared sources of faith to ground our principles.

Read some UU sermons. To see what we teach in our religious education classes, you may want to look at this list of some Unitarian Universalist curricula. Learn more about our teen groups. However, the easiest way to understand how we teach our principles and work as a religious community is to visit your local congregation: Find a Congregation.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Objective Moral Truths?

QUESTION: I have a philosophical question about Unitarian beliefs: do the Unitarians believe in objective moral truths? Are there some things that are just wrong no matter what the circumstances are? I like the open mindedness of the UU faith, but I am somewhat troubled by the extreme relativism that I sense. I know that the truth is an elusive, slippery thing...but surely there are some things that the Unitarian Church agrees are always wrong, no matter what. Right?

Michael
Reading, MA

ANSWER: Despite the common ground of shared principles and sources of inspiration, Unitarian Universalist moral values are ultimately shaped and determined by each individual's experience. The Unitarian Universalist Association does not determine for its members what is right and wrong: we don't have an imposed moral code, nor do we advocate for moral absolutism, moral universalism, or moral relativism.

Our official positions on different important moral issues are determined by vote each year at our General Assembly, and merely serve to guide the work of the Association, not to decide the views of our members. We looks to our members to decide according to their own values what the moral and ethical position is for each issue, and we act in the world according to their determination. We work according to the idea that each person's own conscience is the ultimate moral arbiter.

You might be interested in seeing the curricula Building Your Own Theology: Vol. 3, Ethics, to learn more about how Unitarian Universalists make their ethical decisions.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Unitarian Universalism in the UK

QUESTION: I'm a 22 yr old, British, strong lifelong atheist but in recent years I've become increasingly interested in philosophy and forming my own (vaguely pantheistic) ideas about the world. I heard about UUism from American friends. I'm uncomfortable with the terms"god", "religion" and "church" but find I agree with the basic UUism principles. I've also found UU-related articles, e.g. UU World, very relevant to my beliefs. BUT... UUism is pretty non-existant in the UK! It's difficult to decide whether I'm a UU or not (and how on earth to practice it if so) with no direct discussion. Any ideas?

Ruth
Gloucester, UK

ANSWER: Welcome! It sounds as if Unitarian Universalism might be a very good spiritual home for you.

There are quite a few Unitarian churches in the UK. Though they are not quite the same as Unitarian Universalist congregations (as they are often more Christian) they do share many of the same values as Unitarian Universalism, and have a very liberal attitude toward religion. If you are interested in attending a Unitarian congregation you should check out the UK Find a Congregation page.

You can also participate in a Unitarian Universalist congregation that serves members worldwide over the internet: the Church of the Larger Fellowship (Quest for Meaning). They have a surprisingly rich spiritual community, and can give you more insight into how Unitarian Universalism works.

For others reading this post: you might also enjoy reading the UU World magazine Ruth mentions. It is online at UU World.

Good luck on your spiritual journey!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

UUA/UCC Churches

QUESTION: Our "UU" church in town is a "Federated" church which also has "Church of Christ" affiliation. I would love to join a UU church, will I get the same benefits at a "Federated" church? I feel like my feelings and beliefs follow the UU beliefs, but not necessarily the Church of Christ beliefs. Should I look for a UU only church? Just a little confused... any advise would be helpful... thanks

Michele
Charlton, MA

ANSWER: There are a few dozen UUA congregations that are also affiliated with the United Church of Christ (UCC). These congregations generally have liberal Christian worship services and are welcoming of people of all faiths (Christian or not). Each congregation affiliated with the UUA is Unitarian Universalist through-and-through, regardless of what the spiritual focus of the congregation's worship is and what additional affiliations the congregations might have.

I encourage you to contact the minister of your local congregation directly with any questions you might have: Find a Congregation. If you don't enjoy your local congregation, you may like some of the non-Christian UU congregations in nearby communities (Brookfield, Worchester, and others).

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Using the Word "God"

QUESTION: My husband and I have been searching for a faith that fits our life journey. UU seems like a great fit for us. We have read a great deal and visited our local UU church. I feel really good about everything I am experiencing and reading, with one exception. I feel like if I use the word "God," I ruffle feathers. I am not sure what I believe about God, but I know that I believe in God. I want to be able to discuss this freely and to hear other beliefs about God, but I don't wish to offend anyone. I also feel like the absence of the word "God" in the sermons is noticeable. I realize that there are atheists in UU, but I think I need to explore God. What does UU say about the use of the word "God?"

Kelly
Colorado

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalist views of God vary possibly more than any other aspect of our spirituality. Some do not believe in any god, some believe in a great creative spirit, some believe in a Goddess, others believe in a traditional Christian God, while others in different conceptions altogether. "Many people have questioned whether any concept of God can be meaningful in a modern, scientific world. Others, however, find the idea of God to be profoundly meaningful." (Unitarian Universalist Views of God) A 1989 survey of Unitarian Universalists showed 81% believing in some sort of god: even if those numbers have dropped over the years, you are certainly not in the minority for your beliefs. Many UUs who believe in God outside of traditional contexts describe themselves as Theists or Deists: you may be interested in the pamphlet on The Faith of a Theist: There Must Be a God Somewhere.

It is perfectly acceptable to discuss God, refer to a belief in God, and to use the word "god" in UU congregations. However, you are not the first person to encounter a hesitancy to use the word "god" and other traditional religious language in some Unitarian Universalist congregations. William Sinkford, the President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, has led a discussion on this issue for some years now: for more information, see The Faith of a Theist: There Must Be a God Somewhere, using the links on the left to navigate.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Welcoming of Christians?

QUESTION: I have heard that there is a great deal of tension and hostility in some UU congregations between Christians and non-Christians. My wife and I want very much to bring our daughter up in a welcoming church that values questioning, soul searching, and introspection, but we are concerned that, as Christians, we won't feel welcomed. Don't get me wrong: as far as Christians go, my theology is as liberal as it gets. I guess my question is, is it okay to be Christian in the UU church?

Michael
Reading, MA

ANSWER: It is definitely ok to be Christian in the UU church. Almost 10% of American UUs are Christian, and modern Unitarian Universalists (Christian and non-Christian) are generally quite accustomed both to understanding our Judeo-Christian heritage and to learning new ways of interpreting and working with today's UU Christianity. There may be the very rare UU who is still embittered from previous bad experiences with Christianity, but they are very few and far between, and are certainly the exception rather than the rule. Unitarian Universalism requires tolerance and understanding of all respectful religious paths, including Christianity. I'm sure you would be welcomed at any of the many UU congregations in your area.

There also happen to be two Christian UU congregations within ten miles of Reading: First Parish in Malden, Universalist and King's Chapel in Boston are congregations whose worship is predominately Christian, though they are welcoming of other faiths as well.

For more information on the UU congregations in your area, please visit Find a Congregation.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Just UU? Developing Your Own Beliefs?

QUESTION: I've heard references to UU Christian, UU Buddhist, UU Agnostic, UU Athiest, and UU Pagan. Do most UU's catagorize themselves in this, or are some just UU? Also...if you aren't sure exactly what you believe...are there UU tools, books, or small groups that help you figure that out?

Naomi
River Falls, WI

ANSWER: Yes, there are many people who identify purely as Unitarian Universalists. Some of them are born-and-raised UUs (like the woman who wrote the article on a related topic), and others come to Unitarian Universalism finding spiritual fulfillment with their UU identity.

There are many resources to help UU adults learn what they believe. One of the most popular is a curriculum called "Building Your Own Theology," which is available on www.uuabookstore.org. It is designed to be done in a group at a congregation, but some people choose to do it on their own. I encourage you to contact your local UU congregation (Find a Congregation) to see if they offer this or similar adult religious education programs.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Do Ministers' Beliefs Vary?

QUESTION: Do the religious beliefs of Unitarian ministers vary as much as those of their congregations?

Paul
Arlington, MA

ANSWER: Yes, Unitarian Universalist ministers' personal beliefs are just as varied as the beliefs of other Unitarian Universalists. In addition to their personal beliefs, UU ministers undergo thorough training to be able to cater to the spiritual needs of people of almost any faith background. The religious style of a congregation is generally influenced more by the religious beliefs of the congregants than by the beliefs of the minister.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Clockmaker Theory of God?

QUESTION: The "Clock Maker Theory" this outlook of who God is... Create something, let it run and fix it every millenium or so... how does this fit into the UU ideals?

Trina
Grand Rapids, Michigan

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalist views of God vary possibly more than any other aspect of our spirituality. Some UUs do not believe in any god, some believe in a great creative spirit, some believe in a Goddess, others believe in a traditional Christian God, others in different conceptions altogether. "Many people have questioned whether any concept of God can be meaningful in a modern, scientific world. Others, however, find the idea of God to be profoundly meaningful." (Unitarian Universalist Views of God)

The clockmaker theory of God fits well within Unitarian Universalism. Quite a few Unitarian Universalists believe that revelation isn't sealed: that is, that God still works in this world, and still has something further to tell us. Most of those who believe this seem to think along the lines of the clockmaker theory: that God may not have a literal message, but may still "tinker" in the world.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Democratic Process?

QUESTION: Why is it one of the UUA's guiding principles that "The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;"?

What democratic process are you refering to and how is it practiced in a congregation, let alone a society at large?

Forest
Mountain View, CA

ANSWER: Good question! I know that the Unitarian Universalist principles are sometimes hard to understand.

The fifth principle of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) reads: "We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large."

The basic idea behind the principle is that all people should be able to make free choices based on what they feel inside to be true and right, and that every person should have a voice, if not a literal vote, on issues that affect them. This idea can apply to every human interaction and to the organization of every group, community, business, congregation, society, etc.

Unitarian Universalist congregations have many different forms of governance, but all involve democratic decision-making. For instance, a UU congregation may have so many members attending Sunday services that they can't all fit in the sanctuary: rather than the minister and/or Board of Directors making a unilateral decision to build a new building or add another service, they would make sure to involve the entire congregation in the process of deciding how to solve the overcrowding problem.

The Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations also operates democratically. Delegates from each member congregation meet at our annual General Assembly to determine the UUA's position on various issues, working priorities, budget, etc.

Examples of how the 5 th principle is applies in "society at large" could include when a group of friends vacationing together makes decisions together to ensure that their plans don't make a member of their group uncomfortable; when teachers allow for the possibility that a student might have a radically different personal interpretation of an idea presented in class; when a town allows and acts upon suggestions from town members about land use; when a parent asks (though of course not necessarily orders) what pizza toppings a child would prefer, and lets him or her be a vegetarian if he or she chooses; etc. These are all every-day applications of the 5th principle.

Unitarian Universalists have long been committed to the belief that our society will be enhanced and improved by greater individual participation. Historically, Unitarians and Universalists have been involved in American civic and voting issues with the founding of our nation, the writing of our Constitution, the fight for women's suffrage, the voting rights movements of the 1950s and 60s, and the struggle to maintain decency and a sense of faith in democracy today.

The UUA continues to be committed to furthering the democratic process. In 2004, the UUA made Voter Education, Registration and Mobilization a key priority (Election Reform and Voting Rights). Today, the UUA is speaking out to protect civil liberties threatened by the Patriot Act of 2001, and defend the right to individual conscience and the democratic process in many other ways (Religious & Civil Liberties).

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Accepting of Military Families?

QUESTION: We are a military family (spouse in for 18 years). I found UU by searching on the internet for churches that accept all peoples regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. I was happy to find UU. I was also happy to find a place where spirituality is taught and we are not told what to believe. I attended my first service today. I was introduced to the group and it was mentioned that we were a military family. The sermon was on the war in Iraq. The reverend is a pacifist and was speaking out against the war. Afterwards, a few members came to me and asked what I felt about the fact that the first service I came to was addressing this subject. I told them it was fine, that just because we are a military family doesn't mean we support what the government is doing. It is important that we support our troops as they are doing their job. I wasn't scared away although I am wondering if this will be a problem for my family in the future. What do UUs think about military service? Should I have concerns about non-acceptance or that people will treat me differently because my spouse is in the military? I know that not all UU congregations are the same and this one just happens to have a reverend who is very anti-war.

Joyce
Tucson, AZ

ANSWER: Welcome!

You are certainly not the only military family attending a Unitarian Universalist congregation. UUs often have very mixed views on the military itself, but are always very respectful of the individuals who serve.

I expect that your family's military connections may be a bit of a novelty at the moment, but I fully expect that as your new congregation gets to know you and your family, they will quickly look beyond that label to the people that you are.

If you have any questions or concerns about this, I encourage you to meet with the minister of your congregation. He or she would be happy to welcome you to the congregation, and learning what the rest of the congregation can do to best welcome your family.

For your reference, there are a number of resources for UU military families and UUs in the military available:

The main resources are the UU Military Blog, a very active page for UUs with connections to the military. If you are interested, I also encourage you to join the email list "UUMIL".

In case your husband is interested, there are currently five UU chaplains serving in the US Armed Forces. For information on contacting UU chaplains, please write to uumil @ uublog.org.

In case your new congregation is interested, there is an excellent resource on welcoming veterans and military families into UU congregations on Welcoming Veterans and Military Families in Our Congregations and Community.

The UU World magazine has published quite a few articles and editorials on the issue of UUs and the military. You can find them by searching www.uuworld.org for "military," "war," and other similar keywords. You may be particularly interested in the Aptil 2003 issue.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Ordination?

QUESTION: I have always wished to become a minister/man of God. Among UU, is there a clergy? If so, how does one become a member of its clergy?

Eric
Sudbury, Ontario

ANSWER: There are indeed Unitarian Universalist ministers.

The road to becoming a Unitarian Universalist minister begins with the required Master of Divinity, which may be taken at any school accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. In addition to the MDiv, we also require a basic unit of Clinical Pastoral Education, an approved internship (full-time for a year, part-time for 2 years), a career assessment at an approved Center for Ministry, an interview with the Regional Sub-Committee on Candidacy (RSCC) a sponsorship by a Unitarian Universalist congregation, and ultimately an interview with the Ministerial Fellowship committee, our credentialing board.

There are two Unitarian Universalist seminaries, Meadville/ Lombard and Starr King. We also have a number of students at Harvard Divinity School, a non-denominational school. There are students are many different schools across the county as well. You may want to check out the website of the Association of Theological Schools (www.ats.edu).

For more information, I encourage you to visit UU Ministerial Credentialing.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Highly Educated?

QUESTION: I once heard that the Unitarian Church members have the highest level of education when compared to other religions. Is this true? Where could I find this information?

Tom
Minneapolis, MN

ANSWER: What you heard was correct. A survey by Newsweek (November 29, 1993) shows Unitarian Universalists as having the highest percentage of college graduates compared to all other US religious denominations. This corresponds with our own findings. In a denomination-wide survey from 2004, most respondents (85%) had graduated from a 4-year college, 65% had attended graduate school, and 52% held a masters or PhD.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Difference Between UUA and UCC?

QUESTION: I was raised Catholic and went to a Catholic school 1-12th grades. I am seeking a place that is pluralistic I think, in that it is accepting of people who believe in many things. I am seeking a place that is accepting of all people regardless of race, religion or anything. I am wondering what the main difference is between UU and UCC. They both seem liberal and to be like what I am looking for, I think but one believes in Jesus? Is that right? Please tell me what makes them different. Thanks!

Joi
Albuquerque, NM

ANSWER: It sounds as if you might find a good spiritual home in Unitarian Universalism!

While we can't speak to the specific beliefs of other denominations (you'd have to ask them to describe themselves), an essential difference between Unitarian Universalism and the United Church of Christ is that UCC is Christian (believes in Jesus) while the UUA includes many religions and beliefs in addition to Christianity.

As we share many of the same values, the UUA and UCC do end up working together on many issues, and a few of our congregations are affiliated with both denominations. For more information on the UCC, please see their website.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

True UU?

QUESTION: Am I a "true" UU? The UUA principles and values resonate with me; however, I also believe there is a supernatural power that created all living things and guides our thoughts and actions, and gives us courage, strength, and power to walk through and overcome life's challenges.

LHT
Tallahassee, Florida

ANSWER: Welcome! It sounds as if you might find a good spiritual home in Unitarian Universalism.

Unitarian Universalist views of God and other "higher" or "supernatural" powers vary possibly more than any other aspect of our spirituality. Some do not believe in any god, some believe in a great creative spirit, some believe in a Goddess, others believe in a traditional Christian God, others in different conceptions altogether. "Many people have questioned whether any concept of God can be meaningful in a modern, scientific world. Others, however, find the idea of God to be profoundly meaningful." See Unitarian Universalist Views of God for more information on Unitarian Universalist views of God.

If you would like to see first-hand how Unitarian Universalists worship, I encourage you to use our website to locate your local Unitarian Universalist church (Find a Congregation).

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Welcome Homeosexuals?

QUESTION: I was told by my Aunt that Unitarian Universalists welcome homosexual members. Is that true? and Just what do you believe of the subject?

Jenny
Salem, Oregon

ANSWER: Welcome! It is true that Unitarian Universalism is very supportive of gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender rights. We have been at the forefront of fighting for the right of gays and lesbians to marry in Massachusetts, and are advocating for queer rights nationwide. All of our congregations are very supportive of the queer community. Congregations that have gone out of their way to be especially welcoming to gay, lesbian, bisexual, intersex, and transgender people are know as "welcoming congregations," and are indicated on the congregation list with a rainbow chalice icon.

For more information on Unitarian Universalism and the queer community, see Unitarian Universalism: A Welcoming Place for Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender People. For more information about the UUA's involvement in the current gay rights struggle, see Outreach & Public Witness for LGBT Rights and LGBT Welcome & Equality for information regarding our resources for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and allied members.

You might also be interested in contacting your local Unitarian Universalist congregation to discuss any further questions.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

pre-cana counseling?

QUESTION: Does the Unitarian church offer advising similar to pre-cana counseling in the Catholic church? I am interested in joining the Unitarian church near me in Newton and hoping they have something like this.

Jennifer
Newton, MA

ANSWER: Almost all Unitarian Universalist ministers require any couple they are to marry to meet with them in pre-marital counseling sessions. For information on pre-marital counseling in your local Unitarian Universalist congregation, please contact the minister of your local congregation directly.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Right to Die Movement?

QUESTION: I would like to know what the church's stance is on the Right to Die movement. Is the UUA in support of giving citizens who are terminally ill the right to have a physician-assisted death, as in the state law in Oregon?

Linda
San Rafael, CA

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalists are free to make their own end-of-life decisions: the Unitarian Universalist Association puts no religious constraints on individual's own views and actions relating to euthanasia and other aspects of death and dying.

The UUA is one of (and may be the only) religious denomination to have passed a statement supporting the right to die with dignity. The 1988 resolution provides for the possibility that individuals may make very different choices, and they should be honored equally: "Unitarian Universalists advocate right to self-determination in dying, and the release from civil or criminal penalties of those who, under proper safeguards, act to honor the right of terminally ill patients to select the time of their own deaths." The complete statement can be found at The Right to Die with Dignity. The UUA has also consistently advocated for safeguards against abuses by those who would hasten death contrary to an individual's desires.

For more information on this topic, I recommend that you read the text of related resolutions:

Legality of Living Wills
FTC Funeral Regulations
Development of Hospices
Religious Leaders Speak Out on Schiavo Case

and other places on our website. See more UUA resolutions.

If you are interested in further information on the religious issues involves with this movement, you can either buy or request from your library a copy of Faithful Voices: An Adult Program in Clinical Ethics and Religious Values by Wayne B. Arnason of the UUA.

You could also contact your local Unitarian Universalist minister for further discussion on this topic. You can find the information for your local church at Find a Congregation.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

What Do UUs Stand For?

QUESTION: What does the Unitarian church stand for?

William
Dorset

ANSWER: Good question!

The member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association affirm and promote:

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.

Rev. William Sinkford, President of the UUA, has also written about what he believes are Unitarian Universalist moral values. These are:

We believe that feeding the hungry and clothing the naked are moral duties, and we will continue to work on behalf of economic justice.
We believe that ensuring equal civil rights for gay and lesbian families is our moral duty, and we will continue to work for Marriage Equality nationwide.
We believe that serving as stewards of the earth is a moral duty, and we will continue to do everything in our power to protect the environment.
We believe that safeguarding a woman's right to choose is a moral duty, and we will vigorously oppose any efforts to eliminate or significantly compromise reproductive freedom.
We believe that providing affordable health care for all Americans is a moral duty, and we will continue to advocate for medical rights for the young, the old, the frail, and all of those in need.

I hope that this begins to answer your question.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Service Attire

QUESTION: I've been interested in attending a service but am concerned about what would be considered appropriate attire. I was raised Baptist and just can't see myself in uncomfortable clothes as a requirement for attending services. Is there a typical dress code?

Dusty
Findlay, Ohio

ANSWER: I don't know of any UU congregations that have dress codes: usually the kids and teenagers wear jeans and t-shirts, and the adults wear everything from jeans to slacks to suits. I'd say the most standard Sunday outfit is comfortable slacks and a sweater or button-down shirt. Some congregations are more formal than others, but rarely are they "dressy." If you have any questions about your local congregation's "dress code," feel free to contact the congregation directly.

Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
Public Information Assistant

How Does UUism Work in Practice?

QUESTION: I posted a question here once before about the motivation an atheist might feel to be involved in a religious community—the answer was great and prompted more study of UUism and further reading which led to another question related to the first one I asked. I see UUsim as presented as a kind of "big tent" or a United Nations of faith/religion. On paper (website) this looks great but how does it work practically? How does an organization or a minister for that matter serve people who are so diverse with respect to belief/theology? Do the 7 priciples really serve as the common denominator in the way Jesus does for say liberal Chrisians? I have heard from people who once attended UU Churches that there is some hostility toward theists/Christians, is that something you've observed? Well anyway I promise I am going to attend a service or two so I can direct my questions elsewhere—but this is a great service, and this website gest partial credit for keeping me interested in UUism over this last year. Thanks Chad
Rochester, NY

ANSWER: Great questions! Unitarian Universalism works in practice thanks to the willingness of our ministers and our congregational members to listen and learn. UU ministers have a great deal of training in a wide variety of world religions, religious rituals, philosophies, etc. to ensure that they can appropriately serve the needs of all of their constituents. UU congregational members are respectful of others' beliefs and inquisitive into their own beliefs. Congregations balance the focus of their worship services and other aspects of their community's religious life according to the spiritual needs of their members. It's sometimes a delicate balancing act, but it works!

The Seven Principles of the UUA provide a moral common ground for UUs. They aren't a statement of belief, and UUs don't have to agree with or believe in them, so the relationship between UUs and the principles and Christians and Jesus is rather different. What the Seven Principles are is a reflection of the shared values of almost all UUs, and a guideline for our congregations.

I have rarely encountered any hostility towards theists and Christians in Unitarian Universalist congregations. Christians are truly just as welcome in UU congregations as people of any other faiths, so long as they (as with everyone else) are respectful of the different beliefs of others. About 10% of UUs identify as Christians today.

As you have guessed, the best way to learn about Unitarian Universalism in practice is to visit one of our congregations. I'm glad you have found this website helpful.

Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
Public Information Assistant

Do UUs Celebrate Baptism?

QUESTION: What is the UU postion on baptism? Is there some kind of baptism ritual needed to join?

MAM
Las Vegas, NV

ANSWER: Adults do not need to have a baptism ceremony to join the faith. Some congregations instead have "new member" ceremonies, usually consisting of an introduction of the new member and a welcome by the congregation.

Parents of children born into or joining the faith sometimes choose to have a dedication ceremony for their children. An example of a Unitarian Universalist child dedication ceremony (PDF) is available here. Each congregation has their own version of their ceremony, but most are similar to this one.

You local Unitarian Universalist minister would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about their particular traditions. Search our Find a Congregation page for contact information.

Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
Public Information Assistant

Can Non-Members Attend Services?

QUESTION: Is it considered ok for non-members to attend UU services? I've been reading about the faith and it sounds like just what I've been looking for: a dogma-free venue for spiritual growth and expression. I'd like to experience services for myself, but I'm not sure I'm at all ready to take the step of formal membership in a congregation. Does it make members uncomfortable to have non-members attend multiple services?

Sudro
Amherst, MA

ANSWER: You would be most welcome at any UU service! Many people attend quite a few times, sometimes for months, before deciding to become a member. If you have any questions or concerns, you can feel free to call the congregation before you attend: you can find their contact information on Find a Congregation.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Polytheism

QUESTION: I have understood Unitarianism to be all-inclusive respecting all faiths providing they are not considered highly unethical (e.g. believe in barbarism, slavery, etc.). On the other hand a UUA minister tells me that Unitarianism believes in "at most one God". He says that while aethiesm, pantheism, deism and monotheism are acceptable within Unitarianism, you cannot be a polytheist and be a Unitarian at the same time. Thus, one who believes in the Trinity, multi-gods of American Indians or multi-gods of the Greek culture must change their theistic beliefs to become a Unitarian. Is this true? Are we exclusive of such people?

Anonymous
Mahwah, NJ

ANSWER: Polytheism is certainly accepted in Unitarian Universalism. Many Pagan, Hindu, and Native American Unitarian Universalists, as well as others who don't subscribe to a traditional belief system, believe in more than one god. These people and their beliefs are welcomed in UU congregations and in our larger faith community.

The line that Unitarians believe in "at most one God" comes from a joke from early last century—1930's or so, I believe. It was commenting on the increasing trends of Humanism and Atheism in the then-Christian Unitarian faith. Classic Unitarianism is based on the idea of the unity of God. It is true that you cannot be a Polytheist or Trinitarian Unitarian: the ideas are mutually exclusive. However, you can be a Polytheist Unitarian Universalist: when the Unitarian and Universalist churches in America merged in 1961, they abandoned all statements of belief. The name is almost a misnomer, as you don't have to believe in Unitarian or Universalist ideas to be a part of the religion.

Today, there is no official Unitarian Universalist view of God, or of any other theological principle. Unitarian Universalism has no creed: we are guided by principles, and have some common sources of faith, but have no shared opinion on God.

For information on our principles, sources of faith, etc., please see Our Unitarian Universalist Principles. For some individual UU's views of God, please see Unitarian Universalist Views of God.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Left-Wing Politics

QUESTION: I was watching the tail end of a TV interview that had a lady describing her beliefs and the UUA. I was fascinated! I always hoped just such a religion existed! So I checked the internet and found your website. I love the whole concept. The "About Us-FAQ's" and "About Us- History" tell your story well. I just can't see why your home page has to serve as a platform for left wing politics, i.e. Cindy Sheehan and John Kerry. I'm not a George Bush fan. I just don't see why your home page must portray yours as an organization for democrats. Wasn't the separation of politics and religion one of the bases of your origin? Beyond that, BRAVO!!

PJ
Vancouver, WA

ANSWER: I assume you saw the interview with Rev. Catherine Torpey on the Hallmark Channel. I'm glad you enjoyed what you saw—Unitarian Universalism is a vibrant, inspiring religion! Our congregations hold very meaningful, spiritually-grounded worship services, and our community comes together around many issues of faith.

The Unitarian Universalist Association and its congregations are also very politically active. We speak out on many social issues and take action in many communities. Unitarian Universalism is not partisan in its political involvement—our Association and congregations do not speak out for or against any political parties or candidates. We merely speak out as our consciences dictate on issues of political importance.

I don't know of any religion that is similarly religiously liberal and tolerant that does not also have a very active political life. We liberal faiths believe in the ethical application of religion: that is, we try to practice what we preach. UU David O. Rankin writes that "Good works are the natural product of a good faith, the evidence of an inner grace that finds completion in social and community involvement."

You can visit the web pages for our Washington Office for Advocacy, our Unitarian Universalist United Nations Office, the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, and the webpage for the Commission on Social Witness to learn more about our political advocacy and witness. This is only the tip of the iceberg in terms of what social justice action we take, but it should give you some idea about the topics the UUA is involved with.

Now, this activism may seem frustrating to you, as you have shared that you wish our political involvement were otherwise. Rest assured, you are not the only person to have expressed frustration with the extent to which politics seem to dominate our spiritual communities. This is a topic that we are taking very seriously. The separation of church and state has indeed been a core issue for our community for hundreds of years.

Rev. William Sinkford, the President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, is very concerned with "reclaiming a language of reverence" within Unitarian Universalism. He, and many others, feel that while our activist and secular involvement are very important to our communities and to our faith, Unitarian Universalism needs a stronger grounding in and participation with spirituality. We need to use religious language and reconnect with the spiritual aspects of our selves and our communities. More information on this topic is on the President's forum on reclaiming a vocabulary of reverence: Reclaiming a Vocabulary of Reverence within Unitarian Universalism. An alternate view of the President's involvement on this topic can be seen in the President's statement on UU moral values: Sinkford Issues Statement on Unitarian Universalist Moral Values.

I encourage you to visit your local Unitarian Universalist congregation on an upcoming Sunday. The minister there will be able to answer any further questions you may have about Unitarian Universalism. Please also feel free to write to me at any time with questions you might have. Welcome to our faith!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Holidays Celebrated by UUs?

QUESTION: What holidays are celebtrated by Unitarian Universalists? I am soon to be married and will be starting a family and am thinking about joining the UU church near us.

Bethany
Baton Rouge, LA

ANSWER: Because of the spiritual diversity in our religion, our members and congregations often celebrate many holidays over the course of the year. Most congregations either celebrate or reflect on the major Christian, Jewish, and Pagan holidays throughout the year including Christmas, Easter, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, the Winter and Summer Solstices (shortest and longest days of the year), Samhain (Halloween), and others. Some congregations also celebrate some Hindu and/or Islamic holidays, such as Holi and Ramadan.

In addition to holidays established by other religions, Unitarian Universalists and UU congregations also celebrate such holidays as Earth Day, Mother's Day, Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday, and days dedicated to the arrival of spring (which is often called the Flower Communion), the return of the congregation from their summer's travels (often celebrated as a water communion), and other such annual events.

It is important to understand that while some holidays are important to certain congregations and members, there are no official Unitarian Universalist holidays. Our congregations and members are welcome to celebrate whatever holidays with which they feel the most connection.

An example of a UU "liturgical" calendar is available on Holidays and Ceremonies. The Wheel of the Year calendar also serves as a resource for many Unitarian Universalist congregations, as they determine which holidays they will highlight each year.

Thanks for asking!

Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Buddhism: Tea Instead of Coffee After Service?

QUESTION: Sometimes I think my dog views me as nothing more than a doorman when he needs to go outside or a meal delivery system when he wants something to eat. I must confess I behaved that same way towards my God and savior. God was something to enable me to get what I wanted, when I wanted it. I am, glad to report, beyond that illusion now. I was a devout Roman Catholic and raised my children as Roman Catholics. I became a Buddhist practitioner about ten years ago. I have no regrets and offer no apologies.

My wife and I look forward to this Sunday when we plan on attending a local UU congregation for the first time. We both want to learn more about UUism and have, to date been fascinated by how much of it, though historically based on the Judeo-Christian paths, seems to embrace much of what we admire in the Buddhist path. The Principles and Purposes are very close to what the historical Buddha taught—use of reason, acceptance and tolerance, not one path, respect for the interdependent nature of things—on and on.

As the Dalai Lama has said, some people should take what they learn from Buddhism and make their own religious experience better, rather than becoming Buddhist. My question is; can we drink tea instead of coffee after the service?

Jim
Livonia, MI

ANSWER: No appologies necessary for converting to Buddhism! You may be interested in learning more about the Unitarian Universalist Buddhist Fellowship, and in reading The Faith of a Unitarian Universalist Buddhist.

You are also most certainly welcome to drink tea instead of coffee after services. Most UU congregations serve a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, juice, and water. You may be interested to know that many UU congregations (more than half!) now buy fairly traded organic coffee and tea: for more information on this project, please see www.uusc.org/coffeeproject.

Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Water Ceremony

QUESTION: Could you please tell me about the Water Ceremony?

Kathy
Lake Geneva, WI

ANSWER: The Water Ceremony, also sometimes called Water Communion, was first used at a UU worship service in the 1980s. Many UU congregations now hold a Water Service once a year, often at the beginning of the new church year (September). The service usually goes like this:

people bring small amounts of water from places special to them (a lake they swim in, their own well, a place they vacation, their bathtub, you name it).
during the appointed time in the service, people one by one pour their water together into a large bowl.
as each water is added, the person who brought it tells why this water is special to them.
the combined water is symbolic of our shared faith coming from many different sources. It is often then blessed by the congregation, and later boiled and used as the congregation's "holy water" in child dedication ceremonies and other such events.

Find an example of the text of a water ceremony: When Piglet is Completely Surrounded by Water.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Interfaith Premarital Counseling?

QUESTION: Does the UUA have any inter-faith/ pre-marital counseling available? Especially in dealing with extended families and future children.

Sylvia
Miami, FL

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalist ministers often offer religious counseling and perform marriages for couples whose religious ideas cross traditional faith boundaries. Their training in many different religious traditions make UU ministers specially qualified to help interfaith couples. You can contact your local UU minister by contacting the nearest Unitarian Universalist congregation: Find a Congregation.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Church for Gay People?

QUESTION: I am interested in U.U. and everything I have read—However is seems the members may be predominately gay, all of whom I love and support. Is this a church primarily for gay people?

Melissa
East Brunswick, NJ

ANSWER: No, Unitarian Universalism is a religion for all people, gay or straight. Our last survey showed about 90% of the UU community as straight and 10% as not-straight (bisexual, gay, lesbian, transgender), which is the same statistical breakdown as the whole US population. We are very outspoken for the rights of the BGLT community, though, which may have led to your confusion.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Welcoming to Military Officer, Republican?

QUESTION: I am very interested in the UU church and have been for some time. I am a cradle Episcopalian who squirms during the recitation of the creeds and would welcome spiritual freedom. HOWEVER, my husband is very reluctant, as am I. We liked everything we read about your beliefs but some selections from your website caused us to wonder whether he would "fit in" or even not be welcomed as a career military officer and Republican, albeit a rather liberal one (particularly on many social issues). I felt that the spirit of the UU church was to welcome everyone but something on your website regarding military families led me to believe that might not always be the case. Could you comment on this?

Ashley
New Orleans, LA

ANSWER: You and your husband would be more than welcome in any of our congregations! UU communities are made up of a mix of people of all polical affiliations—Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Green Party, Libertarians, you name it—and of people with myriad opinions on war and the military.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Racial and Ethnic Diversity

QUESTION: I noticed that not too many minorities are part of UU. I wonder why that is, since UU seem to promote acceptance of all faiths as well as people from any race or background. Do UU try to encourage more people of ethnic backgrounds to join their congregation?

Kim
Columbus, Ohio

ANSWER: The Unitarian Universalist community tries to be welcoming to all people, including people of non-white racial and ethnic backgrounds. At the 1997 General Assembly, Unitarian Universalist delegates voted to become an anti-racist multicultural association (www.uua.org/statements/statements/14244.shtml). This vote drew on the hundreds of years of Unitarian, Universalist, and Unitarian Universalist racial justice work (Social Justice Statements, Abolition Work, UU World February 2001 Issue, etc.).

Today, the UUA remains strongly dedicated to combating racism and oppression in our communities and in society. Our main congregational anti-racism resource is the Journey Toward Wholeness program, which is designed to "help UU congregations and organizations become more inclusive, develop new relationships in our communities, and initiate, as well as restructure, racial justice efforts to be more effective, authentic, and accountable to oppressed communities." Learn more at Multiculturalism. Our youth and young adult communities are especially engaged in this issue: Youth and Young Adults of Color Resources.

We are always looking for new ways to become more welcoming. If you would like to contribute your time or thoughts to this work, I encourage you to contact your local congregation (Find a Congregation).

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Prayer, Individual Conscience and Death Penalty, Non-Sunday Meeting Times

QUESTION: I have a few questions regarding prayer, principles, and alternative congregation meeting times:

First prayer-Are there certain prayers said at the congregational meetings? Prayers sort of say what one believes in so if there are common prayers in the UU faith, what are they?

Secondly- I understand that the UU faith is for social justice. However, I am not thoroughly convinced that the death penalty is such a wrong thing. For example, I don't think that it is a deterrent from criminal activities, but I do think that habitual child molesters are a threat to society and virtually hopeless-so the death penalty would be apropo to one. Would that kind of intolerance be unworthy of consideration in the UU faith, or would that be a personal belief relatively irrelevant to the faith? As well, rapists habitually rape and serial killers habitually kill-to rid the threat of these types of people from society would be the only reason I would think the death penalty to be actively used in the U.S.A. Whether I am judgemental or not, the safety of potential victims would be my concern.

Also, I have noticed that many of the congregational meetings occur in the morning on the weekend in my area. Are there any weekly meeting times that may not be a large gathering, but enough so that my domestic partner and I could meet UU's, ask questions, and become familiar with the UU's on a more personal basis?

Monica
Iowa City, IA

ANSWER: I'll answer your questions one at a time.

Prayer:
Unitarian Universalist congregations don't have standard, common prayers. Each minister and congregation chooses or creates their own prayers. The only prayer-like texts that I have ever encountered in more than one congregation was variations on the Christian doxology similar to this...

From all that dwell below the skies,
let songs of hope and faith arise;
let peace on earth, goodwill be sung
in every land, by every tongue.

...and a closing prayer similar to this:

May faith in the spirit of life
and hope for the community of earth
and love of the light in each other
be ours now, and in all the days to come.

These aren't official "UU" prayers (as there are no such things), and are only used by some of our congregations, but may give you some insight into what UU prayers might be. For more examples of UU prayers, please see Meditations and Prayers. For more discussions of prayer in Unitarian Universalism, please see Unitarian Universalist Views of Prayer.

Death Penalty and Individual Conscience: While the UUA has long advocated for alternatives to the death penalty, we understand that not every individual will agree with the statements voted on by the congregations. Unitarian Universalism fully respects the right of individuals to disagree, and to have their own ideas about what is right: we call this the right of individual conscience. So long as you were respectful of others ideas on the death penalty or other contentious topics, you would be quite welcome in any of our congregations.

Meetings not on Sundays: Each of our congregations determines their own worship schedule. You would have to check with your local congregation to see if they have gatherings on days other than Sunday. Quite a few congregations, especially the larger ones, have worship services at different times throughout the week. Even if you cannot attend a worship service, you may want to meet with the minister of your local congregation to learn more about Unitarian Universalism. You can find the contact information for your local congregation at Find a Congregation.

If there are no congregations accessible to you, you might also want to check out the Church of the Larger Fellowship, a congregation that serves members all over the world: Quest for Meaning.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Self-Actualization vs. Self-Centered Behavior

QUESTION: Hi, I have heard that one major belief of UUA is"self-actualization". It has been explained to me that it is if utmost importance to love yourself first, make yourself happy first, even at the expense of others (for example, moving states away from your children to follow your own dream).

Is this correct? Some UUA's are spreading this belief and using it to excuse their behavior.

I look forward to hearing the true story!

Keyne
Portland, OR

ANSWER: The Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations doesn't have any official beliefs: we are a non-creedal religion. (Unitarian Universalist Origins: Our Historic Faith) The UUA does have seven principles, which have come to be unofficial moral guidelines for many UUs.

Self-actualization is all well and good, as part of "a free and responsible search for truth and meaning", so long as it respects "the inherent worth and dignity of every person," and acknowleges "the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part" and the greater "world community." If someone is entirely self-centered, they are probably not being respectful of others, probably not being good community members, and probably not acknowledging their connections to others.

To use your example: it may be fine for a parent to move far away from their children in pursuit of a dream, if those children are adults, not dependent on the parent or not close to the parent, have an appropriate support system, and if the move would not overly or inappropriately burden the community or another person with the support of the children, etc. In other words, it would be fine, if the parent was acting respectully towards the children and the community. Entirely selfish behavior would not be appropriate. This is not "official"; we don't have any rules against selfish behavior. The UU community would merely expect and hope that individuals would be more moral and considerate than that.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Accept Person Previously Addicted to Drugs, Imprisoned? Tithing? Cremation?

QUESTION: I was raised and still live in the middle of the Bible Belt and grew up in a Methodist church. In my teens I strayed away from about any beliefs at all,but when troubled times came I would always run to God. The older I got the more I blamed God for my problems...drugs, loss of a hand to IV drug use, and eventually jail. There I dedicated myself to God again. But after going to church and hearing gay bashing and the importance of tithing I would leave church feeling guilty because I have nothing against gays and am living as a single parent on disability so most time there would be nothing for the plate. I quit going to church after about a year.There was so many questions I also felt were left unanswered.

I have come to believe there is more than one path up the mountain. But I feel lost.

I guess what I'm asking is would the UU accept a person such as myself with a history of drug abuse and also a convicted felon for drugs?

What is your stance on tithing?

Also on cremation?

Thank you for taking time to read this. I thought when I sat down to write I would be able to express my feelings better. I think the fear of strict Christian dogma has me nervous. But there are things I feel I need that I don't find within the church.

Jackie
Bristol,VA

ANSWER: Welcome! It sounds as if the Unitarian Universalism might be a great religious home for you. While the UU community doesn't in any way support or encourage illegal substance use or abuse, we are happy to welcome people who in the past have had difficulties with drugs. The UU community would not think badly of you because of your past drug use or incarceration: the very first principle of Unitarian Universalism is respecting the inherent worth and dignity of every person. We would be happy to offer you a supportive spiritual community to further aid you in maintaining a more healthy lifestyle now and in the future. If you have any concerns about this, please feel free to contact the minister at your local UU congregation (contact information at Find a Congregation for the USA, Unitarians in Britain for the UK, ICUU Member Groups for other countries, or the Church of the Larger Fellowship for anywhere) to talk about this further.

You may be interested to know that the Unitarian Universalist community has long spoken out on the "war on drugs," advocating for more reasonable sentences and a review of the substances that are currently legalized or illegal. Read some of our related statements.

For information about donations to UU congregations ("tithing"), please see my response to a similar question in this document about contributions.

Unitarian Universalists practice many different types of burials and death arrangements, including cremation. Individuals are free to choose whatever they want to be done with their bodies after death. Cremation would be fine: traditional burial would be fine: sea burial, green burial, and other legal arrangements are also fine.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

How Many UUs Are Different Faiths?

QUESTION: Do you have statistics on how the UUs are made up? For example, what percentage of UUs came from Christian, Jewish, Islamic, Earth-Based, Humanist, etc. backgrounds?

I don't feel like this is terribly important in the big picture since UUs focus on individual beliefs but I'm still curious.

Brian
Louisville, KY

ANSWER: The Unitarian Universalist community includes people with many different spiritual practices. A 1997 survey of UU communities returned the following results:

My guess would be that a more recent study might find more people with Earth/Nature based spiritualities, and more people of Jewish faith.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Is UUism a Religion?

QUESTION: Is Unitarian Universalism religion or ethics?

Karen
Harrisburg, PA

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalism is a religion. It is a liberal religion that is open to many beliefs.

Some people find inspiration from Unitarian Universalist principles and moral values outside of our religious context, much as some find inspirtation from aspects of other value-based faiths such as Buddhism outside of their particular religious contexts. Some also choose to participate in our religious community without becoming spiritually involved. However, despite the fact that we are open to secular involvement, Unitarian Universalism is still a religion.

Unitarian Universalism grounds its religious faith and practice in principles and ethics rather than theological creed. There are seven principles which Unitarian Universalist congregations affirm and promote, and the living tradition which we share draws from many sources.

Sincerely,

Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Creed, Sacraments, Pluralism, Commandments, Sin, Non-Members, Conversion?

QUESTION: Please forgive me if these questions have already been asked on your bulletin board.

First, my only definition of Universalist comes from the Termont-Webster's Dictionary which states, "One who believes that salvation extends to all humankind; especially a member of the Christian denomination that adheres to this doctrine."

My few questions are:

Is there a unifying creed by which all humankind which attends communially prays?
Are there unifying sacraments which indicate a profession of faith?
While diversity is something we all strive for through, in my case, ecumenical mindset, and prayer, do you consider all religious belief to be equal?
Do you have any equivalent to the commandments?
How does one confess sins, or find reconcilliation from sin? If sin is not defined, then how does humankind come to terms with these faults, or wrongdoings?
For those who, according to my local UU newsletter, "come strictly for the intellectual benefit of the service," is a profession of faith customary?
How would conversion be defined by your House of Worship?

Thank you for taking the time to read my questions. I note that the UU Church in my town has always had open doors for me in the past, for which I am grateful.

C.A. M.
Monmouth County/New Jersey

ANSWER: I'll answer each of your questions below, but first let me address the definition of Universalism that you quoted above. Unitarian Universalism today bears little resemblance to traditional Universalism, which is described in the Termont-Webster's quote above. Unitarian Universalism today is a non-creedal religion: we have no belief statement, and have no official opinion on salvation or God. For more information on Unitarian Universalism today, please read other posts on this bulletin board, and visit our other Newcomer's resources linked on the left.

Ok, on to your questions:

I hope that this covers it. If you have any other questions, I encourage you to contact the minister at your local UU church (which you can find at Find a Congregation).

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Questions from Catholic

QUESTION: I've been raised Roman Catholic since the day I was born, and sadly the stereotype about close-mindedness of members of my church is true. I love my religion and it's principles, but I feel that I could become a better person if I was exposed to and encouraged to accept different people and their beliefs. This is really new to me, so I have a lot of questions (sorry!).

Would I be able to enrich myself in the ways and beliefs of others while still maintaining my own beliefs?
Would people have negative opinions of me because of my religious background?
Other than celebrating holidays, how else could I be exposed to what other people in a congregation believe?
What is a typical service like?
How are the Jewish and Christian teachings combined?
Do Unitarian Universalists generally believe in free will or predestiny?
Is reason more valued throughout the church, and is science a basis for teachings?
Are the answers to the FAQ's just what some UUC's believe in, or are there some things within the church that are just universally accepted?

Thank you so very much, I look forward to hearing from you!

Melissa
Westlake, OH

ANSWER: Welcome! I'm glad you asked—no apology necessary. I'll tackle your questions one at at time:

The official statements made by the UUA on various different issues (such as abortion, nuclear weapons, the right to die with dignity, etc.) can be seen on UUA.org. Not all Unitarian Universalists agree with these positions, but the majority do, as these positions are only passed by a vote from congregations.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

How Do UUs Differ from Liberal Quakers?

QUESTION: How do UU differ from liberal Quakers?

Bess
NSW (Australia)

ANSWER: You're in luck! There happens to be a liberal Quaker on staff, albeit an American. Quakers in Australia, of course, may answer differently, as will the majority of Friends in the world who are not "liberal" Quakers but rather evangelical or orthodox.

I'll base my answer on the Principles and Sources used by the Unitarian Universalist Association, with a UU statement followed by an Religious Society of Friends (RSF) commentary.

There is also a significant difference in the understanding and practice of ministry, which isn't revealed in the Principles and Sources:

UU: The majority of UU churches and fellowships employ a minister or ministers who lead the worship service and deliver a sermon. Even lay-led congregations follow an order of service that includes rituals like a chalice lighting, readings, congregational singing, and a prepared message or sermon. UU ministers, as described elsewhere on this website, undergo academic preparation resulting in an M.Div. degree, professional training, an internship, and a denominational process leading to ministerial fellowship. UU ministers are ordained by a congregation.
RSF: Liberal Quakers worship on the basis of shared waiting for divine guidance. Anyone present may feel a leading to share a short message, a prayer, or a song. There is no human leadership of the worship service. Even in meetings that recognize the ministry of individual Friends, there is no ordination and no requirement (among liberal Friends) for academic qualification.

Kenneth Sutton
Manuscript Editor, UU World
Unitarian Universalist Association

How Welcome Are We to Christians?

QUESTION: I appreciate this bulletin board and wonder if you could answer my question, which may complement some recent questions.

I would like to see more FAQ on how welcome Christians (or at least those who have not formally rejected Christianity) really are.

My beliefs may be summarised as belief that God, however defined, is Love; that Jesus was a great teacher, that there are many good teachers and much good to be found throughout the religions of the world.

What I, and I think quite a few people of my generation are looking for is a non-creedal church with its roots in Christianity, which has not rejected those roots, but which has expanded to welcome as equals those of other faith traditions and none.

ANSWER: Christians and Christianity are quite welcome in Unitarian Universalist congregations! The expressed spirituality of individual congregations may vary a great deal from one to another, so if one congregation has more or less Christian influence than you prefer, you might try another: Find a Congregation.

For information on further UU Christian resources, please read my post on Christianity in this document.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

When Did UUism Stop Being Christian? Why Would Atheists Come? Am I a UU? Seminary?

QUESTION: I have been reading as much of your web page as possible and I have just a few questions.

1st it seems to me and I could be misguided that the backgrounds of both the Unitarians and Universalists was decidedly Christian. How long after the union of the two did the Christian origins take a back seat?

2nd and this may be a futile question as noone can answer for all, what if any reason would someone who has no theistic/deistic belief have for attending "worship" services of any kind?

3rd I was raised a Christian in a typical traditional "orthodox" ministers home.. I still connect with much of what I identify as Christian, though I have become very liberal on theology and outlook, most recently I have been attending a United Church of Christ if that helps with the liberalness of my belief. I do see much of the UUA as being what I think, the freedom, true liberalness in fact more so even than the UCC which still has remnants of conservativism. How would I fit in UU Church?

Finally, what kinds of Seminarys do UU ministers attend?

Thank you

Chad
Rochester, NY

ANSWER: You aren't mistaken—Unitarianism and Universalism were both technically Christian denominations right up until they merged in 1961.

I say technically because from the 1850's-1950's, starting with the Transcendentalists (Emerson, Thoreau) and ending with effects of the 1930's Humanist Manifesto, both Unitarianism and Universalism became accepting of beliefs outside of traditional Christianity.

By 1961, when the two denominations were together writing the beliefs statements of the forming Unitarian Universalist Association, their congregations included people from many faith backgrounds. The UUA ended up being formed as a non-creedal religion: we have no statement of religious belief, Christian or otherwise.

Since 1961, the UUA has become even more welcoming of people with non-Christian beliefs, including many Humanists, Pagans, Buddhists, and others.

You ask why people with no theistic belief (i.e. atheists) might want to participate in worship services. Many people who don't believe in a deity (god) have very deep and meaningful spiritualities. Some atheists believe in the holiness of the world or people, or in the soul or afterlife, or in other aspects of religious existence despite their belief that there is no divine being. Others find great meaning in religious community, and in celebrating shared moral values. Others just like to sing in the choir, or hear interesting sermons. There are many different reasons.

To read my response to a woman with a similar question on atheism in this document.

As for how you would fit in a UU congregation: the fact that you are intrigued by our website and ideas makes me think that you could find fellowship in our community. Each UU congregation is different from another, so you may want to visit each of your local congregations (which you can locate at Find a Congregation) to see which is the best fit for you.

To learn more about Christianity in today's Unitarian Universalism, I encourage you to read my post on Christianity in this document.

For more information, I encourage you to visit the UU Ministerial Credentialing website.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Welcoming of Agnostics

QUESTION: I'm very nervous about religion in general, but I am interested in the UU church. Do you think that the UU church is a place that openly accepts agnostics?

Teresa
Gainesville, FL

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalism welcomes agnostics with open arms. You don't have to subscribe to any particular religious beliefs or have your personal beliefs figured out to be a part of our faith.

Even those in our community who believe in particular spiritual ideas and concepts of the divine (i.e. the Judeo-Christian God, or the teachings of the Buddha, or atheism) never stop exploring and stretching their beliefs. One of my favorite parts of our faith is that we believe that revelation is never sealed: that is, that we can always continue to learn more about the divine, our part in the world, and our own spiritualities. In a way, you could say that we are all agnostics to some degree.

You may also enjoy reading some of the essays in our pamphlets.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Deism and Theism

QUESTION: Hello,

I recently read the publication "A Chosen Faith", concering the UUA. My religious experience and understanding over the years has been fashioned by the writings of men like Thomas Paine, John Locke, H.D. Thoreau, Thomas Jefferson. Since, the UUA has undergone many changes over the years, what place does "deism" hold in the current houses of UUA.

Chris W.
Phelps, KY

ANSWER: Deism is alive and well in the UUA. There is an active UU Deism group which you can read about on Celestial Lands. I am sure that they would be happy answer any questions you may have about Deism in Unitarian Universalism today.

Just to clarify for others who may be reading this post, let me clarify what Deism is, and how it differs from Theism:

Both Theism and Deism come from ancient words meaning "God:" Theism from the Greek theos, and Deism from the Latin deus. Theism is the belief in the existence of a god or gods. This does not specify the kind or number of god(s), nor the religious context for that belief. Types of theism include monotheism, pantheism, polytheism, and deism. The antithesis of theism is atheism, which is the lack of a belief in a god or gods. There are both theists and atheists in Unitarian Universalism today.

Deism is a type to theism. The differences between general Theism and Deism are in their beliefs about knowledge and miracles. Theists usually accept revelation (divine inspiration) as a valid source of knowledge, while Deists believe that logic and rationale are the only sources of true knowledge. Theists generally believe that the divine continues to act in human affairs, while Deists generally believe that the divine does not intervene in the workings of the world.

Some UU Theist resources include:

Faith of a UU Theist
UU Views of God
Wrestling with God: A Unitarian Universalist Guide for Skeptics and Believers by Tom Owen-Towle
Science and the Search for God by Gary Kowalski

There is no one UU theist group. There are many different UU groups with various Theist theologies, for example:

I encourage you to contact your local Unitarian Universalist congregation. The minister there will be able to answer any other questions you may have about our faith.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Logical Rationalization of Unitarian Universalism

QUESTION: What is the main measurable purpose for the existence of Unitarian-Universalism?

What is the primary quantifiable goal that Unitarian-Universalists are working toward achieving?

What is the foremost computable objective which, once reached, will give Unitarian-Universalists the satisfaction of accomplishment?

U.K.
St Pete, Florida

ANSWER: Spirituality and religion are not measurable, quantifiable, or computable,* nor do they require a purpose, goal, or objective.** Unitarian Universalism does not have a quantifiable purpose or goal.

The principles of the Unitarian Univesalist Association (UUA) may help you to understand what Unitarian Universalists view as our moral goals: for instance, "We...covenant to affirm and promote...the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all." With these in mind, you could say that we will not be satisfied until all people are granted peace, liberty, justice, and respect (as mentioned in the first principle).

Your previous interest in the UUA's Study/Action issues tells me that you are already aware of the UUA's commitment to social justice. If you would like more information on our work to support our principles, please visit the Washington Office for Advocacy's website.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

*I know that there are those who would disagree with this, i.e. numerologists, those interested in the logical dynamics and soul-capacities of heaven and hell, etc. **Similarly, there are those for whom a belief in an afterlife, judgement, karmic balance, etc. are integral to their spiritualities. These are all perfectly valid beliefs; I am merely trying to represent the general Unitarian Universalist sentiment.

American Unitarian Conference

QUESTION: What is the UUA's opinion on the American Unitarian Conference?

Dave
Boston, MA

ANSWER: The American Unitarian Conference was started by Unitarian Universalists who wanted a forum in which to explore a more traditional Unitarianism than Unitarian Universalism generally expresses today. Their theology is not representational of the beliefs of most Unitarian Universalists, but still falls within the principles of Unitarian Universalism. The American Unitarian Conference is not affiliated with the Unitarian Universalist Association.

In Faith,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

UU View of Jesus? The Trinity?

QUESTION: Hello. I have attended a handful of sermons (if thats what you call them?) and have found a strong pull to join a UU congregation. My best friend has recently become a Christian and has been taught by mostly very conservative christian mentors. I have the utmost respect for him and his teachers and I have recently been joining the bible studies that they have been holding. Unfortunately I have found absolutely no solace in them. However I do find Jesus's teaching to be the pinnacle of human excellence in many ways, and its hard for me to believe that he could only be a teacher if he also called himself the son of god. To me it seems that he is either the son of god or simply insane. I guess what I am looking for is how do UU's view Jesus and how he self proclaimed himself as the son of god? Do UU's still stress the unitarian nature of god and reject the trinity? I am fascinated in that topic and am curious where I can get some info on it.

Thank you for your time, I hope to be a member of your congregation soon!

Mike
Ypsilanti, Michigan

ANSWER: The quick answer to your question about UUs' views of Jesus is that Jesus and Christianity are interpreted in many different ways by different Unitarian Universalists. Unitarian Universalism is no longer a Christian religion, though some of our members are Christian: we welcome people of all faiths.

For more information about Unitarian Universalism and Christianity, please see other posts in this document on Christianity, Jesus, and worship.

As to the trinity—Unitarianism began in the 1500's when individuals began speaking out against the doctrine of the Christian Trinity (father, son, and holy ghost). These early Unitarians said that God had only one aspect, and was not divided into three parts. Unitarian Universalism does not have a position on the concept of the Trinity now, as we are no longer a Christian religion. However, I would be very surprised to find a UU who believes in the Trinity, though it would be fine if they did.

If you are interested in joining a UU congregation, I encourage you to talk with the minister of one of your local UU congregations. He or she will be happy to answer any questions about Unitarian Universalism or their congregation that you may have.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

UU Army Chaplains?

QUESTION: Are there any UUA chaplains in the military service, specifically the Army?

Jeff
Fort Lewis, WA

ANSWER: There are currently five Unitarian Universalist chaplains serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, one of whom is in the Army.

There are also many other resources for UUs with connections to the military.

The main resources are the webpage "Unitarian Universalist Military Ministries," and the email list "UUMIL".

There is also an excellent resource on welcoming veterans and military families into UU congregations.

The UU World magazine has published quite a few articles and editorials on the issue of UUs and the military. You can find them by searching UU World for "military," "war," and other similar keywords. You may be particularly interested in the April 2003 issue.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Sub-Group Necessary? UUs in Spain? Worship Online?

QUESTION: I have just begun reading about UU and am fascinated by your philosophies (may I call it a faith?). It seems like the UU is completely inclusive, but I don't know what sub-group that I would belong. Is it important for me to select a sub-group or can I "flit" to figure out where I belong? Also, since I live 4000 miles from the nearest UU Church, is there a way to worship on-line?

Thank you very much for entertaining my questions.

Chip
Cadiz, Spain

ANSWER: Welcome!

You may certainly call Unitarian Universalism a faith. While we are unlike many other religions in the extent to which we welcome spiritual diversity, we are still a religion, so "faith" is an appropriate word to use.

As you have gleaned from the other posts on this bulletin board, there are some Unitarian Universalists who identify with specific religious traditions within their Unitarian Universalist faith. This is especially common among people new to our faith, as they sometimes feel the need to hold onto a connection with their past religious practice.

However, there is no need to identify with any particular spiritual practice or religious tradition within Unitarian Universalism: it is its own religion, and needs no further descriptors or groupings. You are welcome to be "just" a Unitarian Universalist, and to explore different spiritual traditions as you wish.

There are Unitarian Universalists in Spain, and further information is on International Council of UUs site.

There is also a way to worship online: the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Larger Fellowship (CLF) serves Unitarian Universalists who do not have access to UU congregations. The CLF is our largest and among our most vibrant congregations.

Please let me know if you have any other questions!

In Faith,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Evil and Sin

QUESTION: What do Unitarians believe about evil and sin?

CB
New York, NY

ANSWER: You have asked a question that troubles the minds of much of the world these days. With so much ill will and violence around our planet, and the increasing acts of desperate people causing harm to so many, our traditional concepts of good and evil come to mind. However, many of the people who do these terrible things are not evil people, and believe that they have good intentions. How, then, to understand evil and sin?

Unitarian Universalists have a complicated understanding of evil. Since Unitarian Universalism is open to people of many faiths and beliefs, our religion has no definition of evil; we leave it up to individuals to determine for themselves who and what are evil, and how to confront that evil.

Many Unitarian Universalists use the Principles of the UU Association to judge good and bad in the world.

Despite the fact that there is no official definition, there are certain things concerning evil on which most Unitarian Universalists would agree. The first is that natural forces, natural disasters, and animal's actions, while sometimes violent or tragic, are not evil. Evil does not happen: it is created. Most Unitarian Universalists don't believe in an evil powerful being like a devil, and many do not believe in a god, so UUs would not usually say that "natural" disasters are created by an evil being or by an angered or careless god.

The second thing that most Unitarian Universalists would probably agree on is that there are evil acts, but only very rarely, if ever, evil people. Historically, the Universalist half of our religious heritage preached universal salvation: that everyone will go to heaven, and that all sins will be forgiven. While sin is not part of our theology today, as most UUs don't believe in salvation, Unitarian Universalists still believe in the inherent goodness of people (as seen in the first principle above). Rather than people being evil, UUs usually say that evil is something that humans create when hatred spurs on terrible actions.

Some people within Unitarian Universalism believe that we need to address evil much more seriously within our religious movement. They say that "having no theology of evil has weakened our prophetic voice in trying to resist it."(-Paul Rasor) While this probably is true, it is also true that Unitarian Universalists have been committed to confronting evil in our society for hundreds of years. Social injustice, racism, pollution, and other problems facing the world are the results of long-established evil and ignorant actions and attitudes. The Unitarian Universalist Association works for social justice in many ways, including promoting civil rights, addressing institutional racism, advocating environmentalism, and lobbying for better legislation. Find more information on the UUA's current social justice work.

To read more on Unitarian Universalist's views and opinions on evil, I recommend an excellent issue of the UU World magazine dedicated to understanding evil. There is also an excellent article entitled "Human rights and the evil of terrorism" by William F. Schulz in a later issue of the magazine.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Whom Do We Worship?

QUESTION: I was just wondering if ya'll don't believe in just Jesus, or a single higher power, then who may I ask do you sing to if your singing worship songs and praises? Do you sing to yourself or each other... who? Thank you for taking the time to answer my question.

Meghan
Houston, TX

ANSWER: Worship is defined in many different ways by different Unitarian Universalists. Some believe in a god or divine being, and worship it/him/her durring our Sunday services. Others believe in the divinity of Nature, and worship the Earth and their natural surroundings. Others use our services as a time to reflect upon and value the divine in others, themselves, music, words of wisdom, etc. Others do not believe that there is anything to worship, and merely connect with the services in an intellectual and reflective manner. Overall, though, people's individual worship/reflective experiences are private in our Sunday services, so that each person can interact with the service as they please. We call them worship services because that is how many of our members use the time.

If you would like to see first-hand how Unitarian Universalists worship, I encourage you to use our website to locate your local Unitarian Universalist church. You might also be interested in contacting your local Unitarian Universalist minister to discuss any of these questions. That would provide you with someone who is theologically trained, who has a lot of experience discussing these issues in depth, and who would be able to talk to you personally.

Sincerely,

Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Adult Religious Education

QUESTION: I am still exploring UU and have visited a local UU congregation in the past and talked with other people who visited the other local congregation. The disappointing thing for me was as someone as an adult exploring religion, the two local UU congregations focus on child RE and offer very little for the adults. When they do offer adult classes, it is during the week and often not at a time that works for me as I live 25 miles from the congregation and can't always do that and take care of home responsibilites. What can I do? How should I approach this with the RE or minister of the congregation. Are there any other UU groups that aren't official "churches". I really believe and love the UU idea, but can't seem to find a UU home that offers what I need.

Jenny
Flowery Branch, GA

ANSWER: I am sorry to hear that your local congregations are not yet able to serve your needs. The Unitarian Universalist Association is committed to adult religious education; we even changed the name of our Religious Education department to "Lifespan Faith Development" to demonstrate our dedication to life-long learning.

However, some of our congregations are better able to fulfill this commitment than others. It may be that your local congregations do not have enough staff or volunteer support to offer adult religious education classes on the weekend, or they may not think that there is a demand for such classes.

I encourage you to talk with the minister or Director of Religious Education (DRE) of your local congregation. I am sure that they would be happy to help you in your quest for knowledge, even if not in an official class setting. They may be able to connect you with community classes, suggested readings, or other local resources.

You may also find useful information through the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Larger Fellowship. They are an online UU congregation dedicated to serving those who cannot or do not attend traditional UU congregations, and to supplementing the resources of UU congregations. They have many excellent religious education resources.

I hope that you are able to find the information you are seeking. Good luck!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Child Dedication Service

QUESTION: I was raised in the Catholic religion and I recently had a child of my own. We are getting pressure to "Christen" our child but I do not want to raise him Catholic. I want my child to have faith in his life. I am curious about the Unitarian church and would like to know more about a child's naming or dedicating service. Any info would be helpful. Thank you, Jacky

ANSWER: Congratulations on becoming a parent!

Read an example of a Unitarian Universalist child dedication ceremony (PDF). Each congregation has their own version of their ceremony, but most are similar to this one.

You local Unitarian Universalist minister would be more than happy to help you develop a dedication ceremony that fits your family's wishes and needs. Find their contact information.

To learn more about Unitarian Universalist religious education, please see my responses in this document to questions on structure and RE.

Congratulations again, and good luck!

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

No Religious Education; Would UUism Be a Good Place for Me?

QUESTION: I attended church when I was very young, but was never fully taught all the stories and things in the bible. Now, I don't have much faith or religion because I wasn't raised with it in my home. I feel like most other religions, mainly Christian and Catholic, don't suit me because I just don't understand them. Most people I talk to don't understand how I can have as little faith as I do, and so I tend to feel alone when it comes to religion. It seems like UU is the right religion for me, but I dont know if I'm missing anything. I don't know if there is a God or any sort of Divine being. But I also don't have much knowledge of the bible or anything of the sort. That's why I find it hard to fit in with other churches and religions. Would UU be a good place for me?

Stephanie
Chariton, IA

ANSWER: It sounds as if Unitarian Universalism may be a very good religious home for you. Unitarian Universalism is a wonderful community in which to learn about the religions of the world and explore your own spirituality. You don't need to have any prior knowledge or experience of religion to fully participate in a UU congregation. If come with an open heart and mind, you will feel right at home.

I encourage you to visit your local Unitarian Universalist congregation. If there are particular religions or aspects of religions that you would like to learn more about (i.e. Buddhism, the Bible), ask your local UU minister if there are any adult religious education classes that you can attend.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

What is Institutional Racism?

QUESTION: I want to understand more about 'institutional racism'. That's the term the minister used when giving his MLK sermon. He made it plain that 'white' people are privledged and should be ashamed of who they are. I want to know where these ideas came from. Help?

R E Greene
Jacksonville, FL

ANSWER: Taquiena Boston, the Director of Identity-Based Ministries here at the UUA writes,

Institutional racism refers to the way that racism is structured, directly or indirectly, into the social, political and economic institutions that govern the lives of a society or nation. It includes the power of state-sanctioned institutions (schools, law enforcement, government, banks, social service agencies, the church, etc.) to perpetuate race-based discrimination and inequality through laws, policies and practices. In the United States, institutional racism results in privileges and benefits for white society at the expense of people of color. An example of institutionalized racism is redlining in mortgage lending, a practice of assigning ratings to communities based on their racial composition to determine interest rates and granting loans (see the PBS series "Race: The Power of an Illusion," third episode). Though this practice is commonly associated with banks, it was the United States government that instituted the practice of redlining through the Federal Housing Administration in the 1950s.

Resources that examine institutional racism include the following:

Dismantling Racism: The Challenge to White America by Joseph Barndt
Undoing Racism by Paul Kivel Privilege
Power and Difference by Allen G. Johnson
Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria by Beverly Tatum
Yellow by Frank Wu

More resources can be found at the PBS website for Race: The Power of an Illusion

I hope that this answers your question.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

What is Social Justice?

QUESTION: I need to understand "Social Justice" as taught by UUA. Our local minister talks about "Social Justice" as activities, or social policies to undo "injustices" which have occured to people in the past. This is most notably pronounced during "Black History" month. I really need some clarity here. Please help.

R E Greene
Jacksonville, FL

ANSWER: To the UUA, working for social justice means working to help people who are treated poorly by our society. Some examples of social injustice are people who are discriminated against because of their race, gender, sexual orientation, class, or religion; people who don't have access to health care, child care, proper housing, and education; and people whose environment (natural or political) is harmful or dangerous to them.

Since it is Black History Month, you may notice a focus on discussing past and present injustices to the black community, from slavery to institutional racism to modern urban blight (Multiculturalism). At other times of the year, you might notice more discussion of our work with the Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender communities (LGBT Welcome & Equality), or our work with the disadvantaged Dalit peoples of India (Holdeen India Program), among our other social justice programs.

The Unitarian Universalist Association is very committed to working for a fair and just society, in which all people can filly participate. Read some of the social justices statements made by the UUA. To see what issues the UUA is currently working on, please see Social Justice.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Do We Believe in the Pope? Can People Under 18 Convert?

QUESTION: Does the UU believe in the Pope? Can a person under 18 convert to UU?

ANSWER: Well, we believe that the Pope exists: there is no denying that he is a significant contemporary religious figure, and a long-standing leader of the Catholic church. However, since Unitarian Univesalism is not Christian, let alone Catholic, the Pope has absolutely no authority over our church. We leave it up to each person do decide what they think about the divine appointment of his position.

To read more about the role of Christianity in Unitarian Universalist churches, please see the post in this document on Christianity.

People under 18 can certainly convert to Unitarian Universalism. You would have to work things out with your parents so that you could attend your local Unitarian Universalist church. For more information on this, please see the post in this document on youth.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Are Pagans Welcome in Your Church?

QUESTION: Do others Wiccans go to your groups? Would I be welcomed there?

Summer
Waterloo, IA

QUESTION: I am a practising witch who is a former Seventh Day Adventist. Would I be welcome in the UU church?

Ravenwolfi
Graham, WA

ANSWER: There are many Wiccans, witches, and other Pagans who worship in Unitarian Universalist congregations. We have long had deep respect for and found great inspiration in earth-based spiritualities. At last count, 19% of our members identified with an Earth/Nature centered faith. I expect that this number is higher today.

The sources of inspiration for the UU faith are too many to be counted, but delegates from each congregation have agreed that the predominant sources of our faith are, "Spiritual teachings of earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature." (Read more of the source of our faith, as well as the principles and purposes of the Unitarian Universalist Association).

The most active aspect of Pagan Unitarian Universalism is the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans (CUUPS). They have member groups all over the country, and help UU congregations integrate Pagan worship into their congregation's lives.

You may be interested in reading an article written by Margot Adler, UU and author of Drawing Down the Moon, on why she is a UU Pagan.

If you remain interested in Unitarian Universalism, I encourage you to use our website to locate your local Unitarian Universalist church. In addition, you could contact your local District Office or CUUPS to learn more about any earth-based UU groups in your area.

In Peace, and Blessed Be,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Paganism, Religious Education

QUESTION: I was raised and confirmed Lutheran. I went to a Jesuit Catholic University. I discovered paganism years ago, and am more apt to describe myself as such. My husband would describe himself also as pagan. We believe more in the inherent good in people and that god/goddess/higher power is inherent in everything.

My 4 year old son has recently started talking about God and angels. Whether this is a hold over from his previous day care (a very religious, Catholic woman) or just natural curiosity, I don't know. While I believe the bible has good stories to tell, that's what they are to me, stories.

I'd like to give my son (and my daughter when she's older) some sense of spirituality, but I have a problem with "organized religion". I dislike being told when, where and how to worship. I'm more comfortable praying to the powers that be in the forest than in a formal church. I'm sure that has to do with my upbringing. But I'm leery of churches.

Do you think UU would be a place for us? There is an emerging congregation not too far from our home that I'm interested in looking at. Or should I find an established one?

For what it's worth, I have no issues with learning about other religions, I find it fascinating. And your approach to recognizing the divine and gender-neutral phraseology interests me. I'd like to learn more.

Jenni
Gurnee, IL

ANSWER: It sounds as if Unitarian Universalism could be a very good spiritual home for you and your family. We have many people in our congregations who are previously been leery of organized religion, and we have many members with earth-based spiritualities.

You are not alone in wanting to help your children develop their own spiritualities and understandings of religion. Many people come to Unitarian Universalism because of the inclusive religious education programs our congregations offer.

From your message, it sounds as if you have already read the other postings on the Newcomer's Bulletin Board. Even if you have already done so, I encourage you to read my responses to these questions, whose questions are similar to your own. The resources referenced in the responses on Pagan RE, RE, and structure—elsewhere in this document—should be useful to you.

As for deciding to attend the emerging congregation near you or one of the more established Unitarian Universalist congregations in your area, it is really up to you. Many people enjoy visiting all of their local Unitarian Universalist congregations before deciding which best suits their needs. You can find a complete listing of the churches in your area at Find a Congregation.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

A UU Sub-Group to Fit Me? (Feminist

QUESTION: A little background... I was rasied Catholic, and like many children in Philadelphia, I attended 12 years of Catholic School. I of course disagree with many of the RC Church's views on homosexuality, women's rights and their lack of social activism. I have read many UU books (which I ordered from your bookstore) and have read the pamphlet from Rev. Dr. O'Neil. My concern is from my Catholic upringing, I used to ask many questions relating to women's roles in the bible when I was young, and as an adult have done many readings on the Gnostic Scriptures and the Nag Hammadi Library. I find this to be a logical and believable combination of the feminine, Jesus's pro-feminist messages, how the Old Testament was wrong with their Creation story, as well as the moral/ethical teachings of God. I notice UUs have many subgroups such as UU Christians, UU Pagans, and UU Buhddists. Do you have groups for people like me? I plan on attending my first service Sunday at the First Church of Philadelphia and am a little shy about stopping by and being bombarded about discussing my beliefs. Thanks for taking the time, and have a happy and peaceful new year.

Anna
Philadelphia, PA

ANSWER: You sound like a Unitarian Universalist already! :)

Don't worry about "being bombarded about discussing my beliefs." While Unitarian Universalist churches are very open to discussions of belief, UUs are very respectful of people's different levels of comfort around such discussions. People rarely ask about other's beliefs.

There are many feminist Unitarian Universalists. This comes from the fact that Unitarian Universalists believe strongly in the equality of the sexes. The first principle of the Unitarian Universalist Association is to "affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of EVERY person." [emphasis added]

Our religion is not new to the topic of women's rights. The Unitarian Universalist Women's Federation (UUWF) was formed in the 1800's. Unitarian and Universalist women such as Margaret Fuller, Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Louisa May Alcott, Julia Ward Howe, Mary Ashton Rice Livermore, and others led their denominations, and the country, to support women's right to vote. Our denominations ordained some of the first female ministers in the country. In the 1960's and 1970's, the Unitarian Universalist Association championed the feminist reform. Today, more than half of our ministers are women, and we continue to support women's rights).

For more information on famous Unitarian Universalist women, please see these websites:

Also check out Standing Before Us: Unitarian Universalist Women and Social Reform 1776-1936 by Dorothy May Emerson, published by Skinner House Books in 2000.

I hope you enjoy your visit to the First Church of Philadelphia this Sunday. If you have any other questions in the meantime, please let me know!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Is There a UU Equivalent to the Mormon Mission?

QUESTION: Hi, I'm a member of the LDS Church (Mormon) and I'm really interested in becoming a Uniterian Universalist. Because of my background I was curious if you guys offer something simliar to an LDS mission? Two years of strict public service, because of how I grew up I believe that is very imortant for personal and spiritual development, so I was wondering if you guys do something similar or if you have other humanitarian or charity programs that are avalable for members to participate in. Any help you can offer will be greatfully accepted. Thanks.

Manuel
Salt Lake City, Utah

ANSWER: Welcome!

The Unitarian Universalist church believes that public service is very important. We don't have a structured program or expectations similar to the Church of the Latter-Day Saints, but we welcome volunteers on our many charity efforts. I recommend that you contact the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee to learn how you could best be of service.

I encourage you to also talk with your local Unitarian Universalist minister. Find the contact information for your local church.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Atheism? Interfaith Dialogue?

QUESTION: Hi. I am what is typically called a strong atheist in that I believe that no deity could logically exist. However, I do place great value on religious teachings and wish to learn more about them. Does the UUA teach a wide variety of religious views, encompassing most active religions in the world today or does it more strictly focus on Judeo-Christian teachings? I would love to find a congregation of persons devoted to understanding how religious beliefs, apart from supernatural aspects, can benefit humankind. This seems to be what the UUA does best, but I have not been able to determine this with certainty. I also realize that what I am asking is essentially to take part in a classroom, but, unlike a typical classroom, I am interested in learning by interaction and, more importantly, by socialization. Thanks for your time.

Felix
San Francisco, CA

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalism welcomes people of all faiths, and encourages interfaith dialogue. While our Judeo-Christian heritage is part of this dialogue, it does not dominate, leaving plenty of room for other spiritual viewpoints. There are Buddhists, Hindus, Moslems, atheists, humanists, Pagans, and people with many different spiritual paths who are part of the Unitarian Universalist community.

I encourage you to visit your local Unitarian Universalist church. Find their contact information.

I also encourage you to see my response to a similar question on atheism, elsewhere in this document.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Book Recommendations

QUESTION: I have been attending Unitarian Services for two years, and have recently been married at a Unitarian Church. I am interested in becoming a member, but would like to read some more foundational books before making this important step. What would you consider "key" books un understanding the history and philosophy of the Unitarian Church?

Thanks for your guidance.

Kerri
Providence, RI

ANSWER: For an excellent overview of the Unitarian Universalist faith, history, and organization, I recommend Unitarian Universalist Pocket Guide and A Chosen Faith.

You may also enjoy 100 Questions That Non-Members Ask About Unitarian Universalism.

To purchase books and other printed materials about Unitarian Universalism, please visit the UUA Bookstore, or call the bookstore at 800-215-9076. One of your local churches may also have copies of these and other books that you can borrow.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Reincarnation, Buddhism, the Terms "Unitarian," "Universalist," and "Unitarian Universalism"

QUESTION: what does the unitarian universalist church believe when it comes to the belief of reincarnation.. my beliefs are very planted in buddhism, although i have always been atracted to the unitarian universalist church.. also is there a difference between a unitarian and a universalist? because i have always proclaimed myself "unitarian universailist"..?

Jesse
Titusville

ANSWER: Because there are no official beliefs in the Unitarian Universalist church, Unitarian Universalists are free to form their own conclusions about reincarnation. Some people believe in a Buddhist or Hindu cycle of existence, others believe in a Celtic or Pagan concept of reincarnation, others believe in more Abrahamic (Jewish, Christian, Islamic) concepts of the Afterlife, such as Heaven and Hell, and others have completely different ideas about the afterlife and reincarnation. If you are interested in Unitarian Universalist Buddhism, I encourage you to contact the Unitarian Universalist Buddhist Fellowship.

There is indeed a difference between "Unitarians" and "Universalists." Historically, Unitarians believed in the one-ness of God: they started out denying the Christian trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Ghost), and then moved on to a broader view of the divine. Universalists traditionally believed in Universal Salvation; that is, that everyone will go to heaven. Both the Universalist Church of America and the American Unitarian Association moved beyond their Christian roots, and merged in 1961 to form the Unitarian Universalist Association. Some Unitarian and Universalist churches remain outside of Unitarian Universalism, especially overseas. In the U.S., most Unitarian and Universalist churches are now Unitarian Universalist.

Read the Principles and Purposes of the UUA, the foundation of today's Unitarian Universalist church.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistan

Young Adult, Spiritual Search, Join Congregation Not on Sundays?

QUESTION: I was raised catholic, and spent about a year in the episcopal church sorting out my theological beliefs. I've come to terms that I am just a mono theist. I don't believe Jesus fufilled judiasm. I also have lots of respect for many other religous thought. So here are my questions, I am in my early 20's. Would there be any persons of my age group? Also is it normal for people to go on a spiritual search like this? Oh yeah and I cannot attend usually on sunday mornings since I work. Would I be allowed to join a congregation and participate during the week for calendar events, such as discussions,and outreach? Thanks.

Dolores
New York

ANSWER: The demographics of every congregation differs one to the other, so I can't guarantee that there are other young adults there, but chances are that there would be quite a few other 20-somethings in the congregation. There is a very active Unitarian Universalist young adult community. You can see what they're up to and connect with UU young adults on Young Adults: Get Connected and Connect UU. If you live in New York City, you might especially enjoy the Unitarian Church of All Souls, one of our largest and most vibrant congregations, which has a very active young adult community.

It is very normal to explore your spirituality. Most people do so at some point in their lives. Some explore within their faith tradition, others search for meaning in many different traditions. Unitarian Universalism has been called "a chosen faith" because so many people come to our religion at the end of a spiritual quest. You will find many other people in our congregations with stories just like yours.

I'm sure it would be fine for you to attend church functions other than Sunday morning services. Some congregations, especially the larger ones, even have alternative worship services for people who cannot attend services on Sunday mornings. Ask your local minister or church administrator what they recommend.

Find what Unitarian Universalist congregation is closest to you. Feel free to contact the minister at your local church with any questions you may have. She or he will be more than happy to talk with you.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Prejudice an Outdated Reaction; Bible's Message One of Love, Not Hate

QUESTION: I have been stuggling with my defining my faith and very confused, I have researched a lot of religious doctrines and beliefs, as I was sitting in workshop on cultural diversity, I started thinking about the reasons why we are prejudiced. Could it be that the prejudiced emotion is an old imbedded habit just as the "fight or flight" syndrome or our old eating habits, consuming large amounts of fat and sugar when they are available and storing up fat for famine times in winter-archaic traits that were useful in caveman times, but are now not only unnecessary, but harmful?

In the "olden days", if the whole tribe was uniform, the better the chance that a high percentage would survive and therefore reproduce. Survival of the fittest, natural selection, whatever you call it. As nomadic hunter-gatherers with many predacious enemies, if the majority are on the same page, the majority will thrive and evolve into better, stronger beings. However, just as, in order to stay thin and healthy we must scrap the old eating habits that were designed to keep us going in hard times that no longer exist, and just as in order to prevent obsolete stress hormones from tearing our bodies apart, we must suppress the desire to cull-out those who don't conform to the majority norm. This applies equally to race, gender and physical/mental abilities.

Now, in today's easy lifestyle it is not necessary to be conformed. Allowances and support are readily available to individuals so that needs are met and some are protected, and all are able to survive and prosper regardless of weaknesses or differences in culture or physical attributes, mental capacity or in any other way...

The glory in being human is to realize that we are creations of God and that we simply need to update our innards, become the humans God intended us to be.

The same applies to gender bias. Men no longer need to be 'tribal leader' (in the old days survival unconditionally depended on a strong leader, the strongest, smartest, most fit and i.e. most dominant), we have now learned to co-lead in cooperation. Gender prejudice is no longer appropriate or acceptable.

I find it so absurd that the Scriptures, originally recorded in an effort to explain the awesome, Godly truth of the greatest commandment (love thy neighbor as thyself) have been twisted and in some cases re-written entirely to create merely an object of control, deceit, manipulation and oppression which we possess today in the form we call the Holy Bible.

The great truth and sum of all the scriptures is this: extinguish all prejudice. If you read Jesus, Paul, Peter, you will see it plainly. Jesus didn't mean he would return bodilly and literally, he meant his teaching would return for a second look, a second go-round.

The great book of anti-prejudice has itself become the greatest instrument and weapon of division ever employed.

I feel this should be the basis for all of docrtrine, the rest will follow.

Is this Unitarian Universalist doctrine? Is this the place I've been looking for?

Thank you!

Iris
Ash Flat, Arkansas

ANSWER: It sounds as if Unitarian Universalism could be a very good fit for your ideas.

Sociologists have done a great deal of analysis on the concept of "group identity" and "identity exclusion," which seems to be what you are discussing. As humans, our urge to form groups based around shared identity, and our parallel urge to exclude people whose identities do not fit with those of our group, is strong and irrational.

Unitarian Universalism encourages people who are different from one another to come together and participate in meaningful community. We encourage individuality. We believe that prejudice is, as you say, an outdated reaction that must be overcome. The Unitarian Universalist Association has been very actively and successfully working on feminism, anti-racism, and disabilities accessibility for decades.

While not all Unitarian Universalists are Christians, those Unitarian Universalists who do find meaning in Christianity and in the Bible stress the importance of Jesus's message of love and tolerance. It is a message that all could benefit from hearing. We value this message so highly that we have included it in the Unitarian Universalist Association's "mission statement:" our Principles and Purposes (see the "sources" section).

For more information on Unitarian Universalist views of Christianity and the Bible, please see the related pamphlets.

You might enjoy visiting your local Unitarian Universalist congregation. You can search Find a Congregation to find what congregation is closest to you.

If there are no congregations nearby, you could consider joining the Church of the Larger Fellowship, a Unitarian Universalist congregation that communicates with its members via email, mail, and phone. Find more information on the Church of the Larger Fellowship website.

If you have any other questions, please let me know.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Financial Contribution Required?

QUESTION: My husband and I have looking for a church were we can worship together as a family. I was brought up Catholic and he wasn't brought up in an specific religion. However, we both feel the need for spirituality and for he opportunity to belong to a community of religious people. We find that we agree with many of the Unitarian Universalist's beliefs and would like to explore our joining one of your churches in our area. We are curious about how much financial contribution will be asked of us and how is the amount determined. Is there a commitment that one must make?

Thank you very much!

Silvana
San Mateo, CA

ANSWER: Every Unitarian Universalist congregation is welcome to all people, regardless of their financial situation. Each congregation has its own policies about membership dues, Sunday collection, etc., so you will have to contact your local church to find out what their policies are. Don't worry, though: they will always be happy to accommodate your needs, and will never ask for more than you can comfortably give.

There is a Unitarian Universalist church right in San Mateo, and many in the surrounding communities. To find the contact information for your local churches, please visit Find a Congregation.

For more information, please read my responses to similar questions in this document on entitled "can I afford to attend a UU church?" and the related post "UUism, Sunday Collection".

If you have any other questions, just ask!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
Public Information Assistant

Typical UU Church Service?

QUESTION: I've struggled with my religious beliefs for sometime now, but have found hope in learning more about the UUA. I'd like to attend a local UU service, but I have my reservations. I'd feel more comfortable if my fiancè would attend with me, but he is also hesitant. Can you tell me what a typical service involves? What should I expect? What do the sermons usually address? I just want to ensure that I won't be perceived as a "stranger," or be overwhelmed by members who want me to join the congregation. I'm also leary that the group might be too "new age" for me. Would that be the case?

Thanks for your insight.

Elise
Southeastern PA

ANSWER: If you were to visit a UU congregation, you would probably be very familiar with the way we spend our time as a religious community. Most congregations have regular worship services facilitated by ordained ministers, religious education classes for our children, religious music, potluck dinners, study groups, and much more.

Worship style and format does differ from congregation to congregation. "It stands to reason then that no one style of worship has universal appeal among us. Some worship services are formal, with a sense of decorum and a devotional atmosphere. Other services are marked by applause, a pulpit-pew dialogue, and familiar banter." A few congregations may seem "new age," though in my experience most UU worship services are very grounded and reasonable.

UU sermons address everything under the sun: moral values, life decisions and events, meaningful stories and history, and inspiration from nature, different world religions, and religious texts are all common components. I have also heard everything from discussions of children's books to physics.

For more discussion of worship in Unitarian Universalist congregations, please visit Worship in UU Congregations, quoted above. Also see some examples of material that UUs use in worship.

I encourage you to contact your local UU congregation if you have any other questions about their worship services. The minister there will be able to tell you what the sermon topic will be that week, and answer any questions you have. You can find the contact information for your local UU church.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

How to Develop the "Spiritual Side"

QUESTION: I've been attending my local UU congregation for a few months now, and ever since my first experience there I've found Sunday services to be calming, thought-provoking, and restorative. I love the music and singing, and I was happy to find that many of the sermons and readings seemed to echo my own thoughts. My question is this: I'm from a non-spiritual and non-religious background and haven't done much thinking about faith on my own, and so unlike many people with questions on this page, I don't have any (or at least many) pre-established faith or spiritual beliefs. I want to make my involvement with UUism into something more deeply founded than just an enjoyment of the lessons and rituals, but it seems that one can believe in UU principles without having found a spiritual basis for that belief. Can you recommend ways that I can explore and develop my "spiritual side" in conjunction with attending UU services—books, pamphlets, other experiences things to think about? Thanks for such a helpful Q&A page.

Student
Cambridge, MA

ANSWER: I'm glad you have enjoyed attending your local UU church!

I recommend that you contact the minister of the church for advice regarding how to determine your own spiritual beliefs. Many UU churches host adult religious education classes on developing personal spirituality. (You are not the only one with this wish!) Even if they don't have a formal class, the minister will be able to talk with you about your thoughts and interests, and recommend appropriate resources for exploring your spirituality further.

Find the contact information for your church.

In Peace,

Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Hugging; Can Children Stay Throughout Service?

QUESTION: My partner and I are considering attending a UU church by our home. We have a 4 year old daughter. I have two questions that I hope aren't strange to ask:

What is the expectation of visitor/members of the church as far as embracing and things like that? We tried another church, not UU and all they did was hug and it seemed very much like a clique and we felt very much like we were outsiders. Neither one of us are huggers and won't feel comfortable doing that.
As I stated, our daughter is 4. What is the policy of making children leave after part of the service is over? I read somewhere that they are taken to another area for further teachings? I am concerned because my daughter very rarely will leave my side in new situations and I want to be able to stay for the entire service. Can she stay with us through the entire service?

Thanks. A very interested person in NJ

Tina
Washington Twp, NJ

ANSWER: Your questions aren't strange at all!

I really can't say what your local congregation's expectations for hugging are. Social interactions like that vary from congregation to congregation. We try to make everyone feel comfortable, and most Unitarian Universalist church members are aware that people have different boundaries regarding physical contact. When I visit a Unitarian Universalist church for the first time, I wouldn't be surprised to have people shake my hand, and perhaps have the minister put his or her hand on my shoulder. A hug would surprise me.

While the children leave after the first part of the service in many churches, the children are always welcome to stay with their parents. Many children choose to stay with their parents for a few services, then have the parents go with them to the religious education classes, and then are comfortable attending the religious education classes on their own. If your daughter continues to be uncomfortable leaving your side, you could consider assisting with the religious education classes. She would also be welcome to stay in the adult worship services.

I encourage you to contact your local Unitarian Universalist church with these questions. The minister and the director of religious education would be more than happy to introduce you to the church and your daughter to the religious education classrooms and teachers. They would also be happy to answer any other questions you may have. Find the contact information for your local church.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Collective Individuality?

QUESTION: I discovered UU today, through one of many internet rabbit trails (I don't even remember my original topic of research). Specifically, the site 2think led me to you.

I am a skeptic, interested in philosophy, and a great believer in individual responsibility. Consequently, your organization sounds very interesting.

Am I correct in believing that UU is a sort of "collective individuality" where the only common "truth" is the desire of all members to grow spiritually and to make the world a better place? In other words, it sounds like you have no common faith per se, more of a common tolerance and respect for each member and their spritual journey. Many members might even believe that there is more than one "truth" (we disagree and yet we are both right)—is this correct?

If this is indeed the case, I certainly will investigate a local congregation as it seems like a great way to learn, meet like-minded folks in my community, and be free to inquire without being labeled a heretic ;-)

Mark
Toano, VA

ANSWER: I hadn't ever thought of Unitarian Universalism in terms of collective individuality before, but your description is apt.

The UUA is a non-creedal religion: we don't have any shared set of beliefs about such things as Truth, the divine, holy texts, etc.: instead, we share moral values, as can be seen in the principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Our members believe in many different things, and follow many different spiritual paths. There are Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, Pagans, atheists, agnostics, and people with many other spiritual identities in our congregations. We encourage discussion, and learn much from one another.

Find your local congregation.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Not Supportive of Same-Sex Marriage; Jewish Husband Welcome?

QUESTION: I have 2 questions.

My husband is Jewish and I am looking for a church that is liberal and accepting of a variety of perspectives. How would the Unitarian church meet our/his needs?
I am not supportive of same sex marriage (although I consider myself to be a liberal in other respects). Does that mean this church is not appropriate for me?

Susan
Farmington, CT

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalism includes and welcomes people of many faiths. Because of this, we have many interfaith couples in our congregations. To read of the experiences of interfaith couples, please see Can We Find a Home Here? Answering Questions of Interfaith Couples.

Many people come to Unitarian Universalism from Judaism, and it is not unusual to hold or convert to a Jewish identity within the UU church. Your husband would be quite welcome here. To read of the experiences of some Jewish Unitarian Universalists, please see Discovering Unitarian Universalism from Catholic and Jewish Perspectives. You or he may also be interested in visiting the website of Unitarian Universalists for Jewish Awareness.

As to not being supportive of same-sex marriage: The UUA has been officially in support of full legal same-sex marriage since 1996. Many of our members, ministers, and congregations have been significantly involved in working for marriage equality. If you are still interested in attending one of our congregations, you may want to talk with your local Unitarian Universalist minister to learn about your local congregation's involvement with this issue, to see if you would be comfortable there. Find the contact information for your local congregation.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Can I Afford to Attend a UU Church?

QUESTION: I am very interested in attending a UU service. I have been struggling with finding a religious community that would accept my constantly reforming ideas on spirituality. I always thought religion just wasnt for me because I never found one that let me think for myself and flex my spiritual muscles. UU sounds very intruiging, and I would like to check it out. However, in reading over some of the pamphlets here, I have become a little concerned with the fact that membership requires a monetary commitment. I am a college student, and I am unable to work during the school year because of my heavy course load. Also, I have taken a loan out to enable me to study abroad this coming spring, so money is very tight. Can you explain the money requirements and commitments? I guess I just want to know if this is something I can afford.

Danielle
Landing, NJ

ANSWER: Don't worry—we know that not everyone is able to give money to the church. Even if you don't have two pennies to rub together, you are still more than welcome to attend any Unitarian Universalist congregations. You don't have to add any money to the Sunday worship service offering plate if you don't want to, and if you eventually wish to become a member of the church, you can make some arrangement with the minister to have a waived or reduced annual contribution. Some churches even have set student membership rates. You can ask your local church what their policies are.

For a more lengthy response to a similar question, please see the post in this document "UUism, Sunday collection".

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Channing's Unitarianism vs. Modern Unitarian Universalism

QUESTION: I read a quote attributed to William Ellery Channing in a book, which sent me on a web search to learn more about him. I just read "Unitarian Christianity", which he authored in 1819. The brilliance of that treatise in turn sent me on a search of the Unitarian Church, which I learn has through the years given way to the UUA. I note that many historical figures, such as Channing, are listed as famous Unitarian Universalists elsewhere in this website.

Channing worshipped one God and believed in the teachings of the Bible, as his reason allowed interpretation of them. He also believed Jesus to be God's son and man's teacher and redeemer, though not God. I don't understand how Channing can be cited as a Unitarian Universalist. It doesn't seem that he would've subscribed to the broad tent the UUA has cast in modern times. I'm not criticizing the mission of the UUA, just citing what appears inaccurate in claiming historical members into a faith that didn't exist while they were living.

Margaret
LA

ANSWER: I'm glad you discovered and enjoyed Channing's works! Unitarian Universalists still find them immensely inspirational today.

Your question about "claiming" Channing and other historical figures is a hot topic. There are many people with passionate opinions on both sides of this issue, regarding not only Channing but many early church figures. They are our religious forefathers; Unitarian Universalism formed in 1961 when the Universalist Church of America and the American Unitarian Association merged. Channing helped to form the American Unitarian Association, and his ideas still provide guidance to church members today. Therefore, our claim to his connection with our church is not unfounded. Of course, we have no way of knowing whether our theological anscestors would agree with the beliefs of the church today.

The fact that Channing was Christian would not need to deter him from embracing modern Unitarian Universalism. There are many Christians who are part of our church today. To learn more about Christian Unitarian Universalism, please see Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship's webpage, and the related pamphlets.

Channing's progressive moral and social ideas would also fit in today's church. The UUA is dedicated to protecting the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and to promoting justice and equity in human relations. In his lifetime, Channing spoke out on many liberal causes, such as the abolition of slavery. If Channing were alive today, he would find the UUA still working for this issue, along with many others.

We would like to think that Channing would be a Unitarian Universalist today. He could just as easily be a member of any number of other churches, though. It is hard to speculate.

If you are interested in pursuing this question further, I recommend that you read Conrad Wright's excellent introduction to Channing's "Unitarian Christianity" essay, found in the book Three Prophets of Religious Liberalism. To understand how Unitarian theology and philosophy has advanced from Channing's time to the 20th century, I recommend the essays by James Luther Adams, collected in The Essential James Luther Adams.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Benefits of Formally Becoming a Member

QUESTION: I have recently been attending a UU church and am enjoying it more and more each time I go. I am wanting to become more involved with all the activities that they offer. I have not yet made the formal committment to become a member though. Formally joining is not something I am wanting to take lightly. My question is what are the benefits to formally becoming a member? Am I able to participate in all that the congregation offers until I sign the membership book? Thank you for your time!

Shannon
CA

ANSWER: Each of our congregations have different benefits relating to membership.

For example, some only allow official church members to vote in congregational matters (such as choosing a new minister); others have reduced rates or waived fees for religious ceremonies (such as weddings); others have different policies regarding religious education classes.

You should ask your local UU church about their membership benefits.

For more information on becoming a member of a UU church, please see Becoming a Member.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Christianity

QUESTION: I never thought that an organization like yours could exist... I thought you could only be possible in dreams, but oh... I cannot express with words just how much I have longed to find you. As I write this letter... my heart is filled with an excitement that I thought I could no longer feel... only the beginnings of an unfulfilled love are match to this excitement. Now that I have found you... I know that you are for me; just what I need.

My life has always been ruled by sadness, loneliness, and a despair that I cannot escape. So many times I have wondered what the cause of my pain is... throughout the years, I have come with many answers: I remember that my first explanation was that God hated me for my nature. I thought of myself as an individual rejected by God, somebody who did not belong even in this earth. I have gone through great spiritual pain... For so many years I have been searching for a cure to this pain, and that search took me to "witchcraft", but I don't believe that found what I was looking for in it. I then moved on, I became a Christian thinking that I would find that what was missing... I wanted love. But... that I could not find... for they unknowingly hate me for what I am.

I do believe in the all loving and Almighty Christ, and I have cast off all my hopes and worries onto Him... and I believe that he loves me and accepts me for whatever I am... unlike the Christians that I've met. But you are different. That is why I want to leave the Christian Church that I am currently member of, and want to join your organization.

Something tells me that you will outshine that ages to come, and I want to be part of your light, that is why I want to be with you.

Devon R.
CA

ANSWER: I'm glad that you have found us!

Unitarianism and Universalism were historically Christian denominations. By the early 1900's, both the Universalist Church of America and the American Unitarian Association had opened their arms to people of all faiths. Today, Unitarian Universalism encompasses people with many spiritual identities, including many UU Christians. We welcome people as they are, beliefs and all.

If you are interested in learning more about Christianity within Unitarian Universalism, you might want to read the posts in this document entitled "do UU churches worship Jesus?" and "Christianity in worship at UU churches," as well as the following website: Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship.

Pamphlets online relating to Unitarian Universalist views of Christianity:

Also of interest to many people coming to Unitarian Universalism from Christian backgrounds are:

To learn more about Unitarian Universalism, please see the many other pamphlets we offer, and explore our website. For further information, you may be interested in some of the books at the UUA Bookstore (such as the following):

The Unitarian Universalist Pocket Guide
A Chosen Faith: An Introduction to Unitarian Universalism
100 Questions That Non-Members Ask About Unitarian Universalism
ABC's for UU Newcomers: A Brief Introduction to Unitarian Universalism

I encourage you to contact your local Unitarian Universalist congregation. The minister there will be able to answer any further questions you may have, and will be able to better welcome you into our community.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

What is a Unitarian Universalist?

QUESTION: My English teacher recommended me to this group of Unitarian Universalists. But, what exactly is a Unitarian Universalist? He never explained it in full to me :)

Heaven
Louisville, KY

ANSWER: A Unitarian Universalist is a person who believes in the values and principles of the Unitarian Universalist religion, and who identifies with the Unitarian Universalist community.

Unitarian Universalism is a religion that encompasses many beliefs. In our congregations, there are Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, Pagans, humanists, atheists, and people of many other faiths and spiritual identities.

While our members don't share many theological ideas, they do share essential values. There are seven principles which the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations advocates.

These principles provide a framework in which to live our lives.

To meet Unitarian Universalists in your area, you could visit one of your local Unitarian Universalist churches.

To learn more about Unitarian Universalism, please feel free to explore our website (UUA.org), especially the pamphlets website.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Course in Miracles, Life After Death

QUESTION:

Do any UU's study 'A COURSE IN MIRACLES'?
Is there a UU belief of an ongoing life after death? Thank you,

Alanna
Lady Lake, FL

ANSWER: Because Unitarian Universalism is open to people of all faiths, Unitarian Universalists have many different views of what happens after someone dies. Some believe in heaven; some believe in reincarnation; some believe that there is nothing after death.

For more information on Unitarian Universalist views of life after death, please see the post in this document entitled "afterlife, eternal punishment in hell."

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

P.S. The UUA has no position on "A Course in Miracles." Some of our members may study this course, but we are not involved with that study.

How Much Difference Does the Preacher Make to a Church Community?

QUESTION: I attended a UU Church with a couple of my friends. I enjoyed the service and the preacher. How much of a difference does the preacher make regarding the church community?

Elizabeth
Wentzville, MO

ANSWER: I'm glad you enjoyed the UU church!

Some ministers are very influential in setting the tone and direction of their congregation. Other ministers take more of a back seat, and let the congregational members make more of the decisions. Other ministers are very involved in some aspects of the church, and delegate other aspects (such as the worship format, social justice work, etc.) to committees of lay people (people who aren't ministers). Some congregations have no ministers at all! It really varies from congregation to congregation.

I hope this has answered your question. If you have any other questions, please let me know!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

UU Republicans?

QUESTION: Can an Unitarian be a Republican? What is the percentage breakdown between Republicans and Democrats in UU congregations? I ask this not to be trite or controversial, but am actually curious. I share the theoligical beliefs of Humanist UU's, ...but politically, I was completely out of my element.... Any thoughts or statistics? Cordially,

Wes
Winston-Salem, NC

ANSWER: You can certainly be a Republican and be a Unitarian Universalist!

I have no idea how many Democratic and Republican Unitarian Universalists there are. The UUA has long advocated the separation of church and state, so we do not ask our members anything about their policical beliefs or affiliations. We only ask that UUs vote according to their values.

(For an excellent new book on the separation of church and state, please see Separation of Church and State: Writings on a Fundamental Freedom by America's Founders.

You might want to check out the Conservative Forum of Unitarian Universalists. While not all Republicans are conservative, you might find some of the resources on this website useful.

I hope this answers your question. If you have any other questions, please let me know!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Do UU Churches Worship Jesus?

QUESTION: I believe in Jesus the man. While I think his teachings were of use to all, I don't believe he should be worshipped as God.

I've been trying to find a church that reflects my views. I'm sorry, but I don't have the time to read everything on your site. My question is: Is the UU a church that worships Jesus?

Blues Bob
Placentia, CA

ANSWER: While there are many Christian Unitarian Universalists, few of those worship Jesus as God. Most Christian (and many non-Christian) Unitarian Universalists see Jesus as an important and possibly holy man whose message of love and forgiveness serves as inspiration and guidance in our lives. To read some Unitarian Universalists' thoughts on Jesus, please see UU Views of Jesus. Also visit the website of the Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship.

Since Unitarian Universalism is not a Christian church, Unitarian Universalists look to many other religious and historical figures for inspiration and guidance as well. At most churches, you are just as likely to hear a reading from the teachings of the Buddha or Carl Sagan's scientific writings or a popular novel or children's book as you are to hear a reading from the Bible. For more information on our non-creedal faith, please see Faith Without a Creed.

For more information on Unitarian Universalism, please see our pamphlets.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Religious Education and Christianity, Leaving Dad at Home, Paganism/Feminine Divine, Worship, Iraq

QUESTION: I've been looking at you website off and on for some months. I must say I'm intrigued by UU. I do not currently attend church, nor feel a lack. For about 12 years I've called myself pagan, but I don't really even practice that regularly. But one concern is that I don't want to give up my personal interpretation of spirit as being feminine. In fact I would like to hear the Goddess publically invoked at times.

I'm considering visiting the local UU church because the social and liberal values appeal to me, the acceptance of all people and religions appeal to me. I was raised in a somewhat liberal Lutheran church. So when I do go to church I have a tendency to expect familiar ceromony, even if I don't agree with the substance. So one question is with all the variations in services are there elements of repetative comforting ceremony?

I'm also curious about the children's religious eductaion. I feel that my children should be familair with Christianity because it is embedded in our culture. There are daily references to it in literature, tv, even advertisements, and I want them to "get" it. But I also want them to understand the multiple ways that people see God or spirit. Also how the name of God is used to justify things that are unkind, like war. My son has no beleif in God, and I've tried to explain faith to him so he has an itellectual understanding. My daughter who is currently in a religious day care is easily swayed by what she hears and is an ardent believer in Jesus at the tender age or 4. I don't think either child understands the nature of spirit. In spite of a church going up bringing I never had a "spitual feeling" until adulthood. So would the childrens education be just education? Would they learn tolerance and diversity? I also don't want all the lessons to be Christian based, is there balance? I like the idea of them learning alternative ideas that I was not exposed to as a child.

Also my husband has no interest in UU. While church's are designed with families in mind, I wouldn't want to feel pressure to drag my husband along. We are comfortable accepting each others ideas. Would my presence be accepted alone, or with my children? Also, I'm shy about going. I don't want everyone to pounce on me and be overly welcoming. I want to quietly observe, and see if it feels "right". I imagine it is hard for you to say what the local church would do.

I've spent some time reading various articles on the web site related to social issues. What is the UU church doing related to the Iraq war? I belive this war is wrong, I'm wanting to do seveal things to make a stand for this beleif and I wonder if UU can be a part of that. I beleive in sepration of church and state, but politics and religion are often intertwined. I want to find myself among others with similar beleifs doing what we can to bring the killing in Iraq to an end.

Thank you for your help.

Amy
Corvallis, OR

ANSWER: You have quite a few questions here, so I'll tackle them one at a time:

There are quite a few Unitarian Universalists who think of the divine as feminine. Many of those consider themselves to be Pagan, but certainly not all. The feminist reform of the Unitarian Universalist Association in the 1970's made sure that all of the language (from our bylaws down to our hymns) have gender-neutral or gender-inclusive language, not only for our church members, but also for our representations of the divine. Usually, this results in refering to God without any gendered pronouns (for example: not "God and his love" or "God and her love," but "God and God's love"). For more information on the Goddess and Unitarian Universalism, please contact the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans or search our website for "goddess."

Almost everyone enjoys consistency in their worship. While our congregations vary greatly one to another in how they run their worship services, they generally stay within an expected format within each congregation. Many congregations start their worship by lighting a chalice, and also include such standards as a sermon, children's story, hymns, etc. If a service is going to be very different from the usual format, those running the service make sure to tell everyone in advance, so that the congregational members know what to expect. For more information on worship in UU congregations, please see Worship in UU Congregations. To learn how your local congregation worships, please contact your local congregation.

Our religious education is designed to teach our children about tolerance and diversity, as well as about the different religious of the world. Christianity is one of many religions taught. For a list with descriptions of some of our curricula, please see Children's Faith Development. To learn what curricula your local congregation uses, please contact your church directly. Please also see my responses to the questions entitled "pagan family curious about religious education" and "structured values for kids" below, which, while answering different questions than yours, will provide more information about our curricula and religious education.

As for visiting your local church with or without your husband, that is entirely your call. Our congregations have families of all imaginable descriptions; no one will judge you because your husband chooses not to accompany you to church.

Regarding the war: The UUA prays for the soldiers fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, both U.S. and foreign. We hope for a speedy peaceful resolution. We hope for reasonable humanitarian aid for Iraq and Afghanistan after the fighting ends. Read more information about what the UUA has been doing in response to the war in Iraq.

I think that about covers it. :) If you have any further questions, please let me know!

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Am I a Unitarian Universalist?

QUESTION: I am considering visiting the local UU church in Charleston, SC. I call myself a Christian, but have come a long, long way from the dogmatism of my youth. (I'm 41) I believe in Christ, but recognize that he may be only one manifestation of redemption Myth (capital M). I believe in sin, not in the sense of violating any particular rule, but in the sense of humility—we are all flawed, we are all fallible, we are all wrong at one time or another. I deeply believe in good works, but do not believe that they are totted up on a toteboard to earn us God's favor. While I believe that ultimate Truth may well exist, I am much less sure of man's ability to recognize or define it—due to the aforementioned fallibility. I am an avid reader of literature from all cultures, a cynic, a logical rationalist, and cannot accept a belief system that requires me to divorce faith from my own intellect and reason. I am also somewhat God-haunted, a poetic idealist, and have never escaped a sense that there exists an "Otherness" in the universe. Do I sound like a Universal Unitarian to you?

Marti
Isle Of Palms, SC

ANSWER: You do indeed sound like a Unitarian Universalist to me! :) Your ideas, both theological and philosophical, are shared by many Unitarian Universalists.

Many of the ideas you mention, such as the unending search for truth, having sources of inspiration from many different cultures and religions, and recognizing the importance of rational thought in a spiritual quest and of good works in life, are outlined in the principles and purposes of the Unitarian Universalist Association.

More telling than the compatibility of your theological views is the fact that you are drawn to Unitarian Universalism. I find that those who find Unitarian Universalism to be compelling are usually UUs at heart already.

I encourage you to visit your local congregation. It seems like a great community for you by description, but you'll never know until you visit whether it is a spiritual community in which you would feel comfortable. You could also consider contacting the minister there with any further questions you may have.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

How Do We Define "Religion"?

QUESTION: How do you define "Religion?" I have begun to think of myself as somewhere between secular humanism and deism, comfortable with neither, wanting to talk about it with like minded folks (seeking truth?) Does this sound like a fit with UU?

Rob
Irmo, SC

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalism sounds like it might be a great match for your beliefs!

We have no one definition of "religion." Most Unitarian Universalists think of our own religion as a spiritual community with shared moral values and principles, working together in a quest for truth and meaning. This same description can apply to other religions, though in many other religions there is also an added aspect of shared creed (beliefs).

Unitarian Universalism has no stated creed. We are open to people of all faiths, as well as people of no faith. There are Unitarian Universalist humanists, Christians, Pagans, atheists, agnostics, Buddhists, you name it! We are guided by shared principles such as respecting the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

If you are interested in visiting a Unitarian Universalist congregation, please use our online directory at to find the churches closest to you.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
Public Information Assistant

Pagan Family Curious About Religious Education

QUESTION: I was raised Catholic, but have been Pagan for the past ten years or so. My husband calls himself a Christian, but does not belong to any church or faith. He and I have two elementary aged children. He has left their spirituality up to me, and they are happy being Pagan. However, I am wondering if they would benefit from some sort of structure, that I can not provide. I have looked into the UU church, and while alot of it sounds great, I have to be honest and say I am not entirely comfortable with my children reading Bible passages. I'm wondering if it would confuse them. I have heard about CUUPS, but I do not think the UU church here in town participates in that. (Of course, being a military family, we move all the time anyway.) I would love any advice you could give.

Kelly
Rapid City, SD

ANSWER: If you are not comfortable with your children learning about other religions, then Unitarian Universalist religious education probably isn't right for your family. If you want resources for teaching your children about Paganism, you may want to visit such websites as Blessed Bee and Pagan Parenting. Please note that the UUA isn't affiliated with any of these websites or organizations—they are just examples of the network for Pagan families that are out there.

However, you may find that your children quite easily understand the difference between learning about other religions, such as Christianity, and practicing them. Unitarian Universalist churches don't teach any religion dogmatically; they present each religion as a source of inquiry and inspiration. We would no more expect your children to convert to Christianity from studying the Bible than we would expect a Christian family to convert to Paganism when studying it in a religious education class. We have found that education is not a threat to personal convictions.

Many people, children included, find it easier to define their own beliefs and connect with their own spiritual heritage when they have learned more about other religions. Also, especially growing up in the military culture, your children may appreciate understanding what Christianity and other religions are all about. They will then have a better foundation from which to state and defend their own beliefs and practices.

Participating in a Unitarian Univesalist congregation would give you access to a community that values your spirituality, that welcomes your faith, and that encourages an interfaith dialogue.

Even if your local congregation doesn't have an active chapter of CUUPS, they may have an Earth-based spirituality curricula, and will certainly have an understanding of Paganism. If you express an interest in becoming involved with the congregation, you can teach them more about Paganism. CUUPS has many different resources availible for teaching liberal Paganism to individuals and congregations. You can learn more about these resources at CUUPS Religious Education Products.

I also encourage you to read the post in this documents entitled "structured values for kids". It includes many additional resources relating to Unitarian Universalist religious education.

I hope that this answers your questions. If you think that your children would benefit from a Unitarian Universalist religious education, please contact your local congregation. If you would rather teach them on your own, or with the support of other communities, then I wish you the best.

In Peace and Blessed Be,

Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Who's in Charge, in a Grassroots Organization?

QUESTION: New enquirer here! Thanks for a most informative Q&A section..... With so many different 'views' flying about, and knowing certain aspects of human nature (self-promotion/domination/bias), how do you regulate those who are in charge of your Association from grass roots upwards?

Lots of love

Mark
Loughborough, Leicestershire (UK)

ANSWER: I'm going to fill in with a bit of information for those who may read this Bulletin Board post who don't understand what we mean when we say that the UUA is a grassroots organization:

By running our association according to democratic principles, we avoid having statements from authorities that determine the beliefs and actions of our church members. We instead have a grassroots organization: decisions are made from the bottom up, so that the will of the UUA is the will of its members.

The actions and statements of the UUA are determined almost entirely by delegates from each congregation, who gather yearly at our General Assembly. They vote on what issues the UUA will focus its efforts on, what public statements the UUA will make about current moral and political issues, which leaders will head the denomination, and other such matters.

Because of this, the UUA does not have nearly as many "official" statements, stances, beliefs, etc. as more hierarchical churches. For example, the Unitarian Universalist Association doesn't have a statement of beliefs, since, as you can imagine, no group of people could ever vote on a unified belief system. This allows people of all faiths to join in our religious community and contribute to our spiritual dialogue.

Similarly, our congregations are free to run their churches as they please. Some have ministers, other don't; some are Christian, others are humanist, others have any number of faiths in their ranks; some have worship services on Sundays, others have other formats of worship. Each congregation is able to adapt to the needs and wishes of its members.

We view this as a significant benefit to the denomination. By not having official limits on our actions, we are able to have a free and vibrant faith.

Rather than authority and power, the guiding force within our decisions are our shared values and principles.

The leadership of the UUA is determined in the same way that other important matters are: by voting. Congregations vote to determine who their delegates will be, and those delegates then vote on who the leaders (president, moderator, etc.) of the UUA will be.

The congregational delegates vote not as much for people whose personal beliefs will appropriately represent the beliefs of most UUs, since that is nearly impossible, but rather for leaders who will respect the broad range religious convictions represented in Unitarian Universalism without letting their personal convictions bias them. We have always been very fortunate to have excellent leaders who have been very fair in working with different UU faith groups equally. We never expect that our leaders will set aside their personal beliefs, but rather know that they will look beyond those beliefs to include the beliefs of others. Our members choose well.

As for self-promotion and domination, that has never been a problem with our leadership, and I doubt that it ever will be. These are traits that are not accepted or tolerated within Unitarian Universalism. No one could rise very high in our denomination and still hold on to a concept of domination.

I hope this answers your question. If you have any further questions, please let me know!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

How to Join?

QUESTION: How do you join the Unitarian Church?

Ryan
Iowa

ANSWER: I recommend that you first visit your local congregation. If you enjoy the religious community at your local UU church, you could then consider seeking membership there.

If there are no UU congregations in your area, you could consider becoming a member of the Church of the Larger Fellowship (CLF). CLF is a Unitarian Universalist congregation whose members live all over the world, and who communicate through email, phone, and mail.

I also encourage you to read our pamphlet "Becoming a Member."

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

At What Age Should Kids Start Attending Services?

QUESTION: I was brought up attending several different religious services and as such am not affiliated to any particular religious organization, but follow the basic teachings of most. I would like to expose my children to different religions by joining a UU church and then let them decide on their religious beliefs. What age would be appropriate to start attending services with them?

Shana
Columbia, MD

ANSWER: It is entirely up to you when you think you should begin attending services with your children. Many parents choose to bring their children to Sunday School when they start elementary school. Some bring their children when they are infants, others when they are much older.

You may want to contact your local congregation and find out what religious education programs they offer for which age groups, and make your decision according to what programs you think would be valuable for your children.

You may also find the following pamphlet useful in making this decision: Should My Child Go to Sunday School? (PDF).

I also encourage you to read the post in this document entitled "structured values for kids." It includes many additional resources relating to Unitarian Universalist religious education.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Youth Involvement in a UU Church, Parental Permission

QUESTION: I'm so glad to have found unitarian universalism I've been looking for a group that fits my beliefs but I want to make sure of a few things does it matter what age I am to get involved in your church if I'm under 18 would I need parent consent to my joining and is your church considerly christian or is your church a diverse mix of religions and beliefs?

Matt
Bellevue, KY

ANSWER: Welcome!

There are tons of teenagers involved in Unitarian Universalism!

Of course, it's a lot easier to get involved in the church with your parent's permission. After you learn more about Unitarian Universalism and the churches in your area, try talking with your parents about your religious beliefs, and your hope to try out Unitarian Universalism. If they have serious objections to you getting involved, you can have them talk to the minister and Director of Religious Education (DRE) of one of the churches in your area. They might be able to work something out.

How much you can be involved in the church without your parent's permission really depends on where you are living, what your local congregation thinks about this, what it is your parents object to, and many other things. Your local church will help you all they can, but usually there's only so much they can do if your parents really don't want you to get involved.

On to your second question: Unitarianism and Universalism both used to be Christian denominations, but by the time they merged in 1961, they had both moved to a much more liberal stance that includes, as you put it, "a mix of religions and beliefs." These days, there are Unitarian Universalist Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, athiests, Pagans, you name it. There is no Unitarian Universalist belief statement that you have to agree to to be part of the church; so long as you agree with some pretty basic values, like respecting one another, anyone is welcome to be part of the church. You can read all the UU principles.

If you have any other questions about Unitarian Universalism, just ask! You may find a lot of your questions are answered by our pamphlets. I also really encourage you to check out your local churches, and to talk to the ministers there. They'll be able to help you much more than I can.

Best of luck!

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Advice for Establishing a Church at Home

QUESTION: Hi—We are a vegan homeschool family with 4 little children. We practice aspects of attatchment parenting also. I don't feel an organized church is right for us now. I want to establish our own type of "church at home". What do you recommend? And what type of books should we use for our religious education? I would like to establish weekly/monthly/yearly traditions focusing mainly on our family as our church, the teachings of Jesus and Buddha. I would love any advice/input.

Thanks,

Becky
Enfield, NH

ANSWER: As you have probably discovered by now, Unitarian Universalism has room in its faith not only for Christians, Buddhists, and others, but also for people who don't want to be involved in a regular organized religious community that has weekly worship services.

The Unitarian Universalist Association has established a congregation called the Church of the Larger Fellowship to serve the needs of people who either cannot or do not wish to participate in a regular Unitarian Universalist congregation. The Church of the Larger Fellowship (also called CLF) has members all over the world, with whom they interact via phone, mail, and email. CLF supports their members with such resources as a lending library with books on spiritual and religious topics, religious education curricula and guidance, and ministerial support for people of all faith traditions. I recommend that you contact the Church of the Larger Fellowship for advice and resources for establishing a personal religious system for your family.

You can find more information on the Church of the Larger Fellowship, and all necessary contact information, by visiting their website Quest for Meaning.

You can also ask your local Unitarian Universalist congregations for suggestions, advice, resources, and general support as you explore your family's religious experience. I'm sure they would be happy to help you with your endeavor. There are seven UU churches within 25 miles of Enfield, NH.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Wedding Ceremony for Interfaith Couple

QUESTION: My fiance and I are getting married in Grand Rapids, MI next fall and are looking for an officiant. It is important to him to have clery officiate, but neither one of us belong to a church. He was raised baptist, and I am monotheistic, but don't associate myself with any particular religious doctrine. Is it possible to find someone in the Grand Rapids area who could perform a lightly religious ceremony to fit both of our needs????

Heather
West Chester, OH

ANSWER: Unitarian Universalist ministers often perform marriages for couples whose religious ideas cross traditional faith boundaries. Unitarian Universalist clergy will help design the wedding ceremony to fit your spiritual needs, be they Christian, Buddhist, Pagan, Transcendentalist, Humanist, atheist, or something else entirely.

Search for nearby UU churches. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

UUism, Sunday Collection

QUESTION: I have been wandering aimlessly since my preteen years, searching for a spiritual niche. At 26, I have very little remaining in my life of my catholic upbringing. I am sickened by the judgemental nature of many of the faiths that I have explored. I've found myself turning away from christianity, and find more appeal in the jewish faith. But, I know that convertion to judaism isn't for me because, while I do not see Jesus as the messiah, I do see him as an important historical/spiritual figure. (Not to mention that I have a hard time with the idea of abandoning all of the traditions of my family and ancestors.) So, I haven't known what to do. That is, until know. I have yet to find anything about UUism that doesn't fit into the faith that I have developed, and am excited to think that I may have finally found a home. But, I have a silly question. Being raised Catholic, I remember the intense pressure that was put onto my family to "pay-up" every Sunday. My family was actually kicked out of a parish for not giving as much as the priest thought we should. I am a single mom of meager means, and am nervous of that sort of thing happening to me. So, please ease my mind... Thank you

Amy
Rouses Point, NY

ANSWER: Don't worry! A UU church would never ask a member to leave the congregation, even if they had not money to donate.

UU congregations ask their members to give what money they can. Most congregations do "pass the plate" at Sunday services, but these offering donations are anonymous, and contributions aren't required.

Instead of getting their money from Sunday offerings, most UU congregations ask members to give as part of an annual membership pledge. This allows the minister and pledge committee to meet one-on-one with each member, to make sure that their donations are appropriate to their financial situation.

Each congregation determines their own guidelines about membership and financial contributions, so membership policies differ from congregation to congregation. There is rarely a minimum amount of donation required to be a part of the church, and when there is one, it is very small. Often there is a suggested financial contribution as part of being a member, but you always have the option of giving less that the suggested amount. We don't want to exlude anyone just because they can't pay as much as others.

You are also welcome to attend your local congregation without becoming a member. Membership allows you to vote in congregational matters (like selecting a new minister, etc.) and other such benefits, but is not necessary for involvement in your congregation. Many people attend a church for a long time before deciding to become a member.

If you have any other questions about this, feel free to call or email your local church about their guidelines for member's financial contributions. You can search our directory to find your closest congregation. If you have any further questions, just ask!

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

God

QUESTION: What God does the UU believe in?

ANSWER: You are not the first person to be confused about Unitarian Universalism's concept of God!

Because Unitarian Universalism has no defined set of beliefs, Unitarian Universalists are free to have many differing ideas about God. Some believe in the God of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam; some believe in a Goddess, or in many gods; some think of God as life, light and love; others believe in no dieties at all.

If you would like more information on Unitarian Universalism, you may find some of our pamphlets helpful. For more information, see Unitarian Universalist Views of God. If I can answer any other questions for you, please let me know.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Christianity in Worship at UU Churches

QUESTION: I have been exploring religion lately. I am 31, married with a 9 month old and have greatly felt the need to "belong" to a religion. I was baptized Catholic, my mother was Catholic and grew up in the church but never practiced it beyond highschool and never encouraged it with myself and my siblings. I remember going to church with my grandparents and occasionally for holidays such as Easter and Midnight Mass. I remember loving the services and now, as an adult, I wanted to explore that again….

I logged onto this web site this morning and began reading and immediately felt like this was it...this is what I have been searching for! I have attended the UU church in town twice and really enjoyed it. I do, however, consider myself a Christian and I enjoy talking about God and readings from the Bible. Is this ever a part of UU services? I also want to get my daughter involved in youth church events and feel that bible stories are very important. Not as something that we all MUST LIVE BY but as a piece of religious history. My question is...how much Christianity and bible reading does the UU church involve itself in? I also noticed that the word God was never used in the services? I believe that God can be whatever you percieve him/her/it to be. Is the term used? I do want to say that I felt such "relief" after reading information off this web page this morning and really look forward to attending church at the local UU church this weekend.

Katherine
Waterville, ME

ANSWER: I'm glad that you've found the Unitarian Universalist church to be welcoming! There are many former Catholics who are now a part of the Unitarian Universalist church.

Read one person's journey from Catholicism to Unitarian Universalism.

How often God and the Bible are referenced in worship services and religious education classes varies greatly from congregation to congregation. Some Unitarian Universalist congregations are decidedly Christian: for information on these congregations, please see the UU Christian Fellowship's webpage. Other congregations have various degrees of involvement with Christianity. Most UU churches read from the Bible occasionally, and celebrate Christian holidays like Christmas. Most also discuss and refer to God occasionally, acknowledging that the members of the congregation will have different understandings of what "God" means to them.

For more information on Unitarian Universalist views of Christianity, the Bible, God, Jesus, etc., please see our pamphlets webpage.

If you are unsatisfied with your local UU congregation, you could consider visiting one of the other UU congregations in your area. There are three within 15 miles of Waterville, ME.

I encourage you to talk with your minister about any further questions you may have. However, if you have any further questions for me, feel free to ask!

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Would UUism Help Answer Atheist's Questions?

QUESTION: I am 27 years old with absolutely no religious convictions. I suppose I would be labeled either "athiest" or "agnostic" based on my lack of views. In my family and workplace I am surrounded by practicing Christians who all believe that Christianity is the only way to go. I simply cannot logically find truth in the teachings of Christianity. To me, the teachings all sound like mysticism and fantasy. While I am fulfilled in my life and live a very happy life, I cannot help but wonder how so many people are drawn to religion. Am I missing something? Would UU help to answer my questions?

Brandy
Aiken, SC

ANSWER: Many Unitarian Universalists are atheists, agnostics, and humanists. You would be quite at home here! Many non-"religious" people choose to participate in Unitarian Universalism because we have an active and welcoming community, bonded together by strong values and guided by shared principles. It is inspiring and comforting to gather with a group of people who have common interests and concerns, and with whom you can have engaging spiritual and moral discussions. The difference between Unitarian Universalism and most other religions is that we offer this community without the trappings of creed and dogma (in other words, official beliefs).

If you are interested in seeing what Unitarian Universalism has to offer you, I recommend that you visit your local UU congregation. Feel free to contact the congregation before your visit with any questions you may have.

For more information about Unitarian Universalism, I encourage you to read our principles and purposes, as well as any of the various pamphlets. These answer the questions of most newcomers.

In Peace,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Afterlife, Eternal Punishment in Hell

QUESTION: Lately ,my 12 year old son has been asking about the afterlife and has become very worried about the prospect of eternal punishment in Hell. What is the UU's view on these concerns and how can I best explain this to him?

Greg
Bristol, RI

ANSWER: Historically, Unitarians believed in the traditional Christian concept of the afterlife (heaven, hell, etc.), while Universalists believed in Universal salvation (that everyone will eventually go to heaven). Both of these religious groups later moved to a concept of religious pluralism (that there are many valid paths to truth in different religions), and then merged to form Unitarian Universalism in 1961.

Because of the flexibility in today's Unitarian Universalist faith, people hold many different views on almost all theological issues, including the afterlife. Some UUs believe in Heaven, some in reincarnation, some in no afterlife at all, others in different ideas altogether. That said, I would be very surprised to find a Unitarian Universalist who believes in eternal punishment or Hell..

I encourage you to contact your local Unitarian Universalist minister to discuss your son's questions. She or he will be able to help you talk with your son about his concerns, and will be able to find resources to help with his curiosity and fears. You can find the contact information for your local church in our Directory.

Below are some links that might be of use to you. They discuss various aspects of Unitarian Universalist concepts of death and the afterlife.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Death:
- Background for "The Spirit of God Is There When Someone Dies"
- The Buried Soul: How Humans Invented Death
- Love Remembers: Helping Kids Heal After a Death
UU Theology: A Theology for the 21st Century (see the second section, "The Mortal Bond")
Reincarnation: UU Sangha (see "Why I Believe in Rebirth," near the end of the page)
Spiritualism

Just War, Pacifism

QUESTION: What do Unitarians think about the idea of a "Just War"?

Or just what stance do you take on average/publicly or in the name of your religion on the idea of pacifism?

Or to sum up...if you could have executed Hitler would you have?

Assuming the concentration camps could have been avoided.

Of course this doesn't have to be a yes or no answer as your congregations have different opionions but I'm wondering if the organization has ever taken a public stance on whether there is such a thing as a just war in the name of all their ...uhm should I say parishners?

Alan
Knoxville, TN

ANSWER: There is a quick and long answer to your question. The quick answer is that individual Unitarian Universalists have many different opinions on all issues, but most probably support peace and/or pacifism. Officially, the Unitarian Universalist Association promotes peace, but does not say that there is no possibility of a just war.

The longer answer is this: Unitarians and Universalists have been speaking out for peace for almost as long as they have been called Unitarians and Universalists. The founder of American Unitarianism, William Ellery Channing, was outspoken against war and violence. Adin Ballou, an early Universalist, wrote about a philosophy of "non-resistance" that later inspired Unitarians Emerson and Thoreau to advocate pacifism, and contributed significantly to Gandhi's philosophy of peaceful revolution. John Haynes Holmes, one of the first American advocates for pacifism, was also a prominent Unitarian minister.

Unitarians and Universalists have also spoken out for war: the Civil War and both World Wars were supported by the American Unitarian Association and the Universalist Church of America. President Taft himself was a Unitarian, and led the American Unitarian Association to resist a pacifist's stance against war. Thomas Jefferson, also a former President of the U.S. and the author of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, was a Unitarian. He also had a significant hand in drafting the U.S. Constitution. These two documents' defense of the right to just war has been the foundation of all U.S. military policy since.

The American Unitarian Association and the Universalist Church of America merged in 1961 to form today's Unitarian Universalist Association and the religion Unitarian Universalism.

I would hazard a guess that most Unitarian Universalists today either are pacifist themselves or agree with the idea of pacifism. This certainly does not mean that all Unitarian Universalists are pacifists or agree with pacifism: it is merely my guess at the general sentiment.

I base this guess on two things: first, the principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association, which many Unitarian Universalists use as moral guidelines, call for "the inherent worth and dignity of every person," "justice, equity, and compassion in human relations," and "the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all." Second, many Unitarian Universalist congregations and individuals participate in peace activism, which is often based on pacifist ideals.

The official position of the Unitarian Universalist Association on different issues is determined by delegates from each UU congregation in a yearly vote. See the UUA's Working for Peace site. See our most recent statements on the war in Iraq.

I hope this answers your question. If you have any further questions, please let me know.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Structured Values for Kids

QUESTION: I was raised Roman Catholic in a family who is very supportive and loving and mostly open-minded. Switching to UU from Catholicism is a no-brainer for me. HOWEVER, my problem is that I do beleive that a solid foundation of faith is imperative for children and Catholicism did me well. Although I don't hold all the beliefs today, I do recognize the good values that were taught in my parish. I think that the more accepting UU values would be an even better foundation for my kids, but I'm not sure it offers enough structure for them. It seems to be a wonderful faith to "learn" or "explore" your way into, but is it enough for a little one who needs so much guidance? Can you please give me some examples of "Sunday school" equivalents or something to ease my little mind? Thank you so much!!!!!

Pam
Charlottesville, VA

ANSWER: It's nice to know that you are so concerned with raising your kids with the right combination of values and structure.

Many people assume that because Unitarian Universalism doesn't have a creed, we don't have a set of values or ethics. This isn't the case. It is largely our shared values that bring and hold our religious community together.

The new children's pamphlet My Seven Principles phrases the seven principles of the UUA in language that kids can understand. It reads:

Read the adult language of these principles.

Our religious education programs are centered on teaching these values, as well as on teaching our children about the different world religions, and on learning to live responsibly.

The structure of each congregation's religious education program differs one to the other, and your children may find they are more comfortable in one congregation than in another. Many families "shop around" before settling on the religious education program that best fits their needs.

If you would like to talk with someone further about Unitarian Universalist religious education, I encourage you to contact your local congregation's Director of Religious Education (DRE).

You can also write with any further questions to religiouseducation @ uua.org. A staff person from the Office of Lifespan Faith Development (formerly the Religious Education Department) will answer you. Feel free to explore the Lifespan Faith Development web pages.

There are a number of online resources on UU religious education. They are:

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Macro and Micro Philosophical Ponderings

QUESTION: Mankinds technologies, such as the macroscope known as the Hubble telescope, have given us views of other galaxies but nothing "outside" of our universe. The electron microscope has given us views of quarks within a sub atomic particle.

Lately I have been pondering if mankind had the ability to see farther in ether direction, would we be seeing views of ourseleves.

In otherwords, what we are in this seemingly endless universe, could be the smallest part of something way larger while in the same instant the largest part of something way smaller.

Let me try another description.

Imagine an elderly person whose has been feeling low on energy and tired alot of the time. So this person visits a doctor who, after running tests, tells this person they have a low iron/blood count. The doctor tell his patient to start taking an iron supplement. The elderly person takes the iron supplement and it dissolves into this persons body getting smaller and smaller. Now shift your focus. Imagine a asteriod 5 miles accross hurling through space at hundreds of thousands of miles per hours. Made of iron. There is more but I will save the rest for another time.

My question is, does anyone else ever ponder such things?

Thomas
Castalia, NC

ANSWER: You are certainly not the only person to ponder the connection between the microscopic and the macroscopic worlds.

The world beyond our senses, both large and small, has fascinated great minds for centuries. Some attempt to uncover its mysteries through science. They make bigger and better telescopes to see farther and farther into space, or microscopes to see inside the atomic particles. Others try to answer the same questions through reason: philosophers can debate endlessly about the nature and extent of the physical world, the connections between related objects, and the role of humans. Still others turn to religion and faith for answers to these questions.

Unitarian Universalism is different from many faiths because it looks to all three of these sources for answers to life's questions: in Unitarian Universalism, the world's religions, philosophy, and science all play a part in discussions about the world.

For more information about how Unitarian Univeralism looks to science for inspiration, please see the pamphlet entitled Science and Religion.

I encourage you to contact your local Unitarian Universalist minister to discuss this question further. You can find his or her contact information via our congregation search.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Different Kinds of Unitarians and Universalists

QUESTION: I have now attended a couple of Unitarian meetings and explored several web sites which have provided me with a considerable amount of information and I am interested in learning more about the organisation. However, I have been somewhat taken aback to discover that apparently there are conservative Unitarians, liberal Unitarians, classical liberal Unitarians, libertarian Unitarians and, no doubt, other varieties which I have not yet encountered. I must have misunderstood the meaning of "universalist". Can you help? Should I find out which variety my local congregation belongs to? (their meetings haven't provided any clues).

I am rather confused.

Brian
Kingston, Ontario (Canada)

ANSWER: The terms "Unitarian" and "Universalist" have had, and still do have, so many different meanings that it is easy to be confused. Here is a (very generalized) history of why this is so:

Originally, "Unitarian" referred to Christians who denied the Trinity (the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost), saying that God was one being. Unitarian groups and churches popped up in Transylvania and England as early as the 1550's.

In the mid-1800's Unitarians in America (descended from the English Unitarian heritage) began discussions about religious pluralism—recognizing other religions as having spiritual merit. Some Unitarians broke away from the American Unitarian Association, refusing to have part in a church that recognized non-Christian faiths, while others remained. By the early 1900's, many of the Unitarians in the A.U.A, while personally Christian, believed that not only was God one being, but that all Gods were one God. This group is one of Unitarian Universalist's two creedal forefathers.

There are quite a few Christian Unitarian churches that are not part of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Many of those are in England and Transylvania, where tens of thousands of Unitarians still reside (please see www.icuu.net). There are also Christian (or Biblical) Unitarians in the U.S., some of whom are very conservative. There are also liberal Christian Unitarians, some of whom are part of the U.U.A., some of whom are not (please see www.uua.org/uucf).

Universalists, who largely got their start here in the U.S. in the 1700's, believed in universal salvation: that is, that everyone will go to heaven eventually. In the late 1800's, quite a few Universalists moved from this belief to a stance of religious pluralism similar to that of the Unitarians: that there is a universal religion, or that all religions are one religion, and that they all worship the same god. This group, headed by the Universalist Church of America, formed the second half of Unitarian Universalism.

Unitarian Universalism was created when the Universalist Church of America merged with the American Unitarian Association in 1961, after more than 30 years of working together on topics of religious pluralism.

There are very few Christian Universalists today, and those that exist are almost entirely within the Unitarian Universalist church. Those few outside of Unitarian Universalism are usually Quaker Universalists.

Today, there are conservative Christian/Biblical Unitarians, who adhere to the historical Unitarian beliefs and who have nothing to do with the Unitarian Universalist Association; liberal Christian Unitarians, some of whom are within the Unitarian Universalist church, and others without; a very few Christian Universalists; and of course, Unitarian Universalists.

Unitarian Universalism has moved beyond the beliefs of its two religious parents to become its own vibrant religion that has very little to do with either the belief in universal salvation or the unity of God. Unitarian Universalism today is a non-creedal faith, where members are free to follow whatever spiritual path they find meaningful. To learn more about our beliefs, please see Are My Beliefs Welcome?, Our Unitarian Universalist Principles, and Frequently Asked Questions About Unitarian Universalism.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

UUism for "Non-Religious" People, "Primarily" Homosexual?

QUESTION: I am researching UU and so far find it very interesting and comfortable on the surface. I am reading A Chosen Faith and I like what UU stands for. However, I have never been a "religious" person in the sense that organized religion has bothered me and caused problems in my life. Does UU understand this perspective and what should I expect to get out of Liberal Religion if I am not a very religious person to begin with? Also, I've been told that UU is largely a homosexual religion. I'm sure this changes from congregation to congregation and quite honestly I couldn't care less. However, can you tell me if the Monte Vista congregation in Montclair, CA is primarily gay? I would like to know before making the leap into a new religion (btw, I was raised Jewish). Sorry if this question is really confused and complex. I hope you can help. Thanks so much.

David
La Verne, CA

ANSWER: You would be surprised at how many Unitarian Universalists share your sentiments! It is not at all unusual for UUs to come from non-religious backgrounds, or to consider themselves not very religious people even after becoming involved with the church. Our congregations would be than understanding of this perspective.

Regarding your other question: Unitarian Universalism is very supportive of the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and intersex people. This does not make us a "largely a homosexual religion," though. There are quite a few gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people in our congregations, and you are right that this varies congregation to congregtion. However, there are not any more G.L.B.T.I. people in our congregations than in the general population by percent: that is, about 5-10% of the general population is not heterosexual, and about 5-10% of our congregations are not heterosexual.

There are many excellent congregations in your area. If you don't feel comfortable in your closest congregation, I encourage you to try another congregation in your area, since they differ greatly one to another.

You may also be interested in reading the following pamphlets:

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Family Angry at Attending a 'Non-Christian' Church

QUESTION: I have been attending my local Unitarian Universalist Church for about three months and it feels so right and good to me. I agree and feel good about all the services and the messages. My deepest intuition tells me that everything taught there is good and right. This is so new to me in that all my life I went to all kinds of christian churches (catholic, methodist, baptist, ect...) and there was always something that I didn't agree with (women's roles, non acceptence of people of different religions, sexual preference, ect). I would always just bite my tongue and grin and bare it. The Unitarian Universalist Church is where I belong. Now here is the problem and question. My family are all "Christians" as they have told me. My Mother has told me that she is very hurt and upset that I am attending this church because it is NOT a Christian Church. They don't study the Bible and follow Christ's example. I have informed my Mother that I am not attending this church to hurt her and rebel. Rather I'm attending this church because it feels right to me and that it makes me happy. I set down a boundry with her and told her that I don't want to discuss this with her anymore because it is offensive to me. Even though I know I'm right in my decision and that it is good to follow my own heart, there is still this little corner in my heart that is hurt with my family. I still consider myself Christian mostly because that is how I was raised and it is a part of me. But there are many things that don't sit will with me in most Christian churches. I don't feel that attending a Unitarian Universalist church should be such a big deal. They should be happy I'm even going to church at all. *giggle* My question is, has anyone else had this problem and how did they deal with it?

Anne
Chandler, AZ

ANSWER: It sounds as if you are in a very uncomfortable situation. My sympathies are with you! Sadly, there are many people, UUs especially, who are faced with similar problems.

My first and foremost recommendation is that you talk with your UU minister. She or he will be able to help you grapple with your spirituality and your family relationships, and will also be able to put you in contact with other UUs who have dealt with this in the past. Find contact information for your church.

You referred to Unitarian Universalism being a non-Christian church. This is not entirely true. UUism is historically (although no longer exclusively) Christian, and there are still quite a few Christian UUs and Christian UU churches. The Christian UU group is called the UU Christian Fellowship.

To learn more about Unitarian Universalist views of Christianity, Jesus, the Bible, prayer, worship, church, etc., please visit Pamphlets: Unitarian Universalist Beliefs. You will find a collection of essays on various different subjects, which you may find helpful in your own spiritual quest and in your discussions with your family.

Best of luck!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

UUism a Good Fit for the Spiritually and Ethically Diverse

QUESTION: I am 42 yrs. old. I was raised miltary protestant, have always thought that the Jewish faith made more sense, and developed a respect for the Moslem religion while living in the middle east. I believe in gay marriage, but am not gay, and racial equality though I not considered a minority. I have never quite figured out therefore what "religion" I am. Would UU be a good place to look? My kids have had some basic Christian values from Protestant preschools and camps, but I want them to be more open minded toward other religions as well.

Laura Curtis
San Antonio, Texas

ANSWER: It sounds as if Unitarian Universalism might be just the religion you are looking for! Many Unitarian Universalists come from backgrounds as spiritually and ethically diverse as your own.

Unitarian Universalism has members who identify as Christian, Jewish, Moslem, Hindu, Pagan, humanist, agnostic, atheist, and with many other faiths. There are also people who are singularly Unitarian Universalist. Our communities have a rich interfaith dialogue, both within our congregations and with different religious groups.

Our religious education is a particuarly rich aspect of our faith. Your children would be able to hold onto those Christian values that they cherish, as well as learn about Unitarian Universalist values (which you can get a glimpse of by reading the UUA's principles) along with the religious beliefs of the major world religions. For more information on our religious education, please visit Religious Education.

I also encourage you to contact your local church. Your local minister will be able to answer your questions in depth, you may be able to visit some religious education classes, and you can better understand Unitarian Universalism by seeing it in action.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Religious Inquiry and Plurality

QUESTION: I was raised Roman Catholic, and my family are devout Catholics. When I got married I converted to Methodism because of my wife, but we have both become cynical of organized religions because we feel that they all in some way are intolerent of people. I was comfortable as a Methodist until they began to turn more active against gays, and anyone else who didn't seem to fit their model of Christianity. Both my wife and I spent a number of years in the Military before we met. I spent time in Thailand and in Germany and have been reading alot about the different beliefs in the world. My question is, as I research more and more about the UU church, what can you tell me that will help me understand and believe that the UU church really is as open and nurturing of all people as the literature seems to say. I am looking for something, both my wife and I enjoy learning about people and cultures different than our own and I see the similarities in religions more than the differences. We both are students of history and enjoy and thrive on learning and expanding our knowledge base, but I am also looking for a church where I can meet and associate with people who are as open to discussion and learning as I am. Can you help me understand how to really decide if deciding to go to a UU church would provide me the kind of atmosphere I have been looking for?

Tim
Columbia, MD

ANSWER: It seems that Unitarian Universalism has exactly the atmosphere of religious inquiry and plurality that you are hoping for. We are indeed as "open and nurturing of all people" as our literature says! :) Unitarian Universalism is actively engaged in welcoming people from all different backgrounds, and with all different faiths.

Within Unitarian Universalism, there are people who identify as Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Pagans, Hindus, humanists, atheists, agnostics, and with many other groups. Since there is no official Unitarian Universalist set of beliefs, Unitarian Universalists are free to follow different religious paths. This encourages an amazing spiritual dialogue in our congregations from which people from all faith backgrounds benefit.

If you would like to see this interfaith dialogue in action, I encourage you to visit your local UU church. I believe there is one in your town!

If you have any other questions, just ask! Also, feel free to contact your local UU minister to discuss these concepts more completely.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

African-American Groups

QUESTION: I am very interested in the UU church. As an African-American, I am a little concerned that I found very little information that pertains specifically to African-Americans. Are there African American-focused groups. If not, I would like to know about starting one. How would I go about that? Thank you.

Akaii
Washington, DC

ANSWER: The UU group called Diverse & Revolutionary Unitarian Universalist Multicultural Ministries has many African-American members. While they are not focused exclusively on African-American concerns, since they represent people from many different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, they have been very involved with African-American concerns in the past.

If, after familiarizing yourself with DRUUMM, you remain interested in forming a group specifically relating to African-American Unitarian Universalists, I recommend that you work both with DRUUMM and with the Multicultural Growth & Witness staff group to create such a group.

If I can help in any way, or if you have any other questions, please let me know!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Jesus

QUESTION: I was born and raised Jewish whereby Jesus Christ does not play a part in the services. I don't discount him, I just view him as a great sage of that time just like Abraham, Issac, Moses, etc. I was wondering what part Jesus plays in UU

Ellen
Lindenhurst, NY

ANSWER: There are many people who come to Unitarian Universalism from Judaism—and many still identify as Jewish within the UU church!

Jesus is one of many different historical figures whom UUs highly regard. For many Unitarian Universalists, Jesus and his teachings provide insight into understanding how to live our lives: "The man called Jesus of Nazareth... was an example of the supremacy of human agency, as well as the model of struggle for healing and recognition of the inherent worth and dignity of the poor and oppressed. Universalists and Unitarians embraced this powerful example, insisting on God's universal grace, the innate goodness of humanity, and the freedom and ability of men and women to discern and live in right relationship with one another and the divine. Today, while not our sole example for moral living, Jesus' message remains strong in our efforts to create a beloved community here on earth, impelling us to witness to the injustices of this time."

This is not the only view of Jesus and Christianity within Unitarian Universalism. Because of the freedom within our faith, there are many differing opinions on almost everything, including the role of Jesus in our church.

For more information, you may be interested in reading the following essays, written by UU authors:

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Must Be a Member to Get Married in the Church?

QUESTION: Do you have to be a member of your church in order to get married in it?

Stacie
Huntington, NY

ANSWER: Each congregation determines their own policies regarding weddings. That said, every UU congregation that I know of allows non-members to be married in their churches. However, often church members get a significantly reduced cost for renting the space, and for hiring the minister for the service.

If you would like to book a specific UU church for a wedding, I recommend that you contact that church directly. Find each congregation's contact info. If you don't have a specific church in mind, you can use that same site to search for your nearest UU church, or you can contact the district office in charge of your area. The district staff will be able to recommend a church for you.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Finding a Congregation with Different Style of Service

QUESTION: I'm returning to UU after spending some years in the Roman Catholic Church. I'm not a Christian—it's a long story (one could call me a 'Deist'). Anyway, I attended a UU church in my area, and I didn't like it, gave it another chance, and didn't like that, and I've arrived on what it is that bothers me. Their liturgy seems to me to be Methodism without Jesus. I understand that UU can be seen as a Protestant tradition, but do you have pointers on how I might find a congregation that has less of a Protestant feel, and a more contemplative, introspective attitude on our faith-journey? Thanks.

Scott
Bay Area, CA

ANSWER: Different UU congregations have different styles of services, and you may need to shop around before you find the one that fits your needs. Luckily, the San Francisco Bay area has a number of UU churches to choose from. See the nine churches closest to San Francisco. You can also search for a congregation.

Because both Unitarianism and Universalism come from out of the Christian tradition, most UU congregations choose to hold Sunday services that use the same general pattern of hymns, readings, and sermons. You might want to call the ministers at some congregations near you to find out what their services are like.

Good luck on your search!

Margy Levine Young
Office of Electronic Communications

Will My Beliefs Be Welcome?

QUESTION: Years ago my sister asked me to help a Native friend find stolen Hopi religious artifacts. She knew of my ability to locate missing objects, people, etc. on maps, which is what mapdowsing is. In my search for the artifacts which turned out to be ancient Kachina dolls I was and still am party to many unusual experiences. The Kachina dolls (Taalawtumsi) are regarded as powerful living gods by the Hopi and from personal experience I agree. At times I have acted as a messenger for the ancient ones. In return I have received messages that "They are aware of my search and I am protected."

I have been called a "Witch" by the Natives and also "very spirtual." I don't feel particularly spiritual, just open minded with a limited psychic/ESP sense. I believe in a greater power and for some unknown reason know that Jesus and the Taalawtumsi are one. I have been told, by a Hopi Snake Priest, that the return of the dolls is important for the world. I am wondering if a "organized" religion will accept my beliefs.

Via Con Dios,

Michael
Iowas City, IA

ANSWER: The essense of Unitarian Universalism is that personal experience, conscience, and reason should be the final authorities in religion, and that in the end religious authority lies not in a book or person or institution, but in ourselves. We believe that each person must find his or her own spiritual path. It sounds like you are actively exploring yours.

You may want to visit the Unitarian Universalist Beliefs & Principles area of our website for more information about our religion. Each UU congregation is different, and so I encourage you to search for congregations in your area. You can check out their websites and then pay a visit to those that look interesting to you to find out more. If there is no UU congregation in your area, the Church of the Larger Fellowship is a UU congregation that meets entirely by mail and over the Internet.

Best wishes to you on your journey,

Margy Levine Young
Office of Electronic Communications

Transferring Credentials from Another Denomination

QUESTION: I am ordained in a denomination outside the UU. What is the procedure for becoming a minister with the UU?

Becky
Groton, CT

ANSWER: Becoming a Unitarian Universalist minister requires a call to ministry, dedication, hard work, and discernment. The successful candidate needs to graduate from an accredited theological school and successfully complete a meeting with a regional sub-committee on candidacy for the ministry and an evaluation by the Ministerial Fellowship Committee of the UUA. For more information, please see Becoming a Unitarian Universalist Minister.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Are Atheists Welcome?

QUESTION: Hi! This very evening, as I was driving home from work in Charles Town, WV, I passed a Unitarian Universalist church. I had no idea there was one in Frederick! That said, I have a few questions about the Unitarian Church. I am a fully committed atheist, and I have somewhat hostile feelings toward Christianity (mainly because of the violence committed in the name of it, as well as because of the many conversion plots launched against me). Would there be a place for me in the Unitarian Church? I am looking to meet new people who share beliefs similar to mine. I'm a college student, majoring in history and philosophy, and I love to discuss religious aspects of both of these subjects. Should I attend a Unitarian service or am I barking up the wrong tree?

Ashley
Frederick, MD

ANSWER: Atheists are more than welcome at Unitarian Universalist congregations. While the Unitarian and Universalist churches were historically Christian, some Unitarian and Universalist congregations began to open their definitions of faith to accept atheists, agnostics, and people of different faith backgrounds as early as the 1830s. When the Unitarian and Universalist churches in America merged in 1961 to form the Unitarian Universalist Association, they decided that the UU church should have no creed, so that people with a variety of beliefs, including atheism, would be welcome.

While we don't require anyone to adhere to any set of beliefs, we do encourage our congregations and Unitarian Universalists to consider some basic guidelines for their churches and lives, which we call our principles. One of those principles is acceptance of one another. Hopefully you would feel comfortable with sharing a spiritual community with Christians, as there are UU Christians in many congregations. I know many atheist UUs who have found their own spiritual lives enriched by discussions with deists.

Please explore our website for more information about Unitarian Universalism, and write again with any other questions!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

What Do You Mean by "Worship" and "Faith"?

QUESTION: First of all, thank you for the terrific Newcomer's Q&A page. It has been immensely beneficial in helping me understand your "faith" before I strike up the courage to visit one of your congregations.

My question pertains to your Q&A. What do you mean by "worship" and "faith"? Does this imply that there is a god or gods to worship? My evolving philosophy would probably fall more along the lines of a Religious Humanist. Is there a place for my family and I in a UUA congregation?

David Petersen
Manalapan, NJ

ANSWER: Like most things in Unitarian Universalism, we do not define "worship" or "faith," but leave it up to each individual to define these concepts for themselves. Unitarian Universalism is a free faith, that has no creed or set of stated beliefs. (For more about this, please see We Are Unitarian Universalists.)

Almost all UU congregations have regular community gatherings on Sundays that most people refer to as worship services, although some are called just "services," or "meetings," "gatherings," or other terms. They are usually facilitated by ordained ministers, religious education classes for our children, religious music, potluck dinners, study groups, and much more. "It stands to reason then that no one style of worship has universal appeal among us. Some worship services are formal, with a sense of decorum and a devotional atmosphere. Other services are marked by applause, a pulpit-pew dialogue, and familiar banter."

Just because they are called worship services does not necessarily mean that the people attending these services are worshiping anyone, anything, or any deity. A majority of Unitarian Universalists describe themselves as primarily Humanist or Agnostic in their views of deities, though many UUs have very divinity-based concepts of worship.

(For more discussion of worship in Unitarian Universalist congregations, please visit the pamphlet Worship in UU Congregations quoted above.

Unitarian Universalists use the word "faith" in two different ways; the first is essentially a synonym for "religion," as in "our liberal faith." The other way it is used is the more common "have faith in the goodness of your neighbor" use. As with the word "worship," our use of "faith" does not necessarily indicate any divine being; a UU is more likely to say that she or he has faith in a fellow human being than in fate or God.

On the UU Humanist's website you will find a great deal more information on Unitarian Universalist Humanism.

If you would like to see first-hand how Unitarian Universalists worship, I encourage you to locate your local Unitarian Universalist church. You might also be interested in contacting your local Unitarian Universalist minister to discuss any of these questions. That would provide you with someone who is theologically trained, who has a lot of experience discussing these issues in depth, and who would be able to talk to you personally.

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

Congregations Close in the Summer?

QUESTION: I have been religious all my life. I have attended church all that time. The last few years I have attended a liberal protestant church. I moved. I have learned about uu and have started getting involved in attendence. I am suprised to find out that UU Congregations seem to "close" down in the summer. I am amazed. Summer is always the time for church activitys, outdoor events etc. Why do UU Congregations do this? It seems really weird and odd.

Carl
Bay City, MI

ANSWER: Each Unitarian Universalist congregation determines its own calendar, and they vary greatly one to another. Some of our churches do shut down in the summer, while others stay open all year round.

Those that do change or reduce their schedules in the summer do so for a number of reasons. The most significant reason is that church attendance drops in the summer because so many people, especially those with school-aged children, go on vacation. For this reason, many churches go from two services to one service each Sunday.

Many churches use the summer months to allow their ministers to take a break from the regular demands of the pulpit. The ministers use this time to get further training, explore their own spirituality, and get connected with the greater UU and ministerial communities. This has the result of enriching their ministry, greatly benefiting their congregations.

Congregations also use the summer as a time to encourage lay (non-minister) leaders to contribute to the church. Many of our congregations have lay-led services in the summer, which provide refreshingly different views and voices in the pulpit, and give the congregations a chance to get to know their fellow members better.

Another sadder reason why some churches aren't open in the summer is that some churches just don't have the money to stay open all year round. The cost of church staff, building upkeep, etc. is too much to add three more months of expenses onto an already-stretched budget.

Even those congregations whose churches are closed in the summer often get together for summertime church activities, like picnics, dinners, etc. Also, many congregations have groups that attend one of our Unitarian Universalist summer camps or conference centers. Just because the building is closed doesn't mean that the flame has died!

I hope that this answers your question. Please feel free to explore our website (www.uua.org) for more information about Unitarian Universalism. If you have any further questions, just ask!

Sincerely,
Erika Nonken
UUA Public Information Assistant

How Much is a Meaningful Financial Contribution?

QUESTION: My interest in joining is presently stalled by some embarassment of my economic reality. My salary is about $36K, wife unemployed for over a year. We understand the church isn't a country club, so we're not afraid of being turned away. I guess we're just not sure what we can comfortably pledge would be meaningful as the church might define it (they've made a point of mentioning only 20% of their members contribute 80% of their dollars). I hate to be so squirrely but can you give me an idea of a dollar amount or percentage of salary which is considered quote "meaningful" before I arrange a meeting with the minister?

Brian
Bay Area, CA

ANSWER: Your question is important, because it goes to the issue of commitment to a spiritual community and the meaning of membership in that community. I believe that most any UU congregation I can think of would tell you that they hope members will give at a level that signifies their commitment to that community. Many encourage a commitment of 3% to 5% of income...and that will obviously be a different number for different people. I believe that most important is your deep commitment, and with that comes doing what you can for something of importance to you and your family.

Polytheistic Beliefs

QUESTION: Here's an odd one for you. Having been an atheist most of my life, after much reflection and research elected to join the pagan movement. We seem to share a common belief in the acceptance of others. However, much of the UU stance seems to be based on current mainline religious concepts (i.e. Early Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, etc.) How exactly do you square members who have a monothestic approach to faith, without excluding those who do not have a central archtype (say, Hindus, animists or followers of a number of polytheistic religions). Myself tends toward a modified dualistic belief system, so it doesn't affect me as much, but I was curious how it is handled within the Church.

PS: As a leader of pagans for a few years in my area, I've always had the best of relations with the UU Church—one of the few who did not condemn us for our practices.

CT
Spring, TX

RESPONSE: Most UU congregations will offer support for a wide variety of belief systems. Members who affirm monotheism, and those who are followers of other traditions, worship together in a supportive and caring environment where together, people can question, arrive at their own truths, and be supported on their spiritual journey. I am glad to know that you have had good experiences in your contacts with UU communities, and I would hope that you would find such a welcome should you visit a congregation and decide to join.

Best wishes on your journey,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Individual Counseling

QUESTION: Although I have not been religiosly active for many, many years, I have known for some time that my beliefs coincide closely with Unitarian Universalism. Now I wish to become active again, in part because I am going through a bit of personal crisis on several levels. While I want the strength of a fellowship to help me through, I am also wondering if I can get some individual counseling akin to my own beliefs through the church. I am a Christian, and my beliefs mirror the Christian UUs. I have been sort of "afraid" to attend a service, though I can't say why (I think I'm looking for outreach before I go). Can you address these issues? BTW, I find this column very enlightening; thank you for your wisdom!

Laurel
Phoenix, AZ

RESPONSE: I believe that you will find a warm welcome when you enter a Unitarian Universalist congregation. You are fortunate to live in an area that has several congregations nearby; members, in general, affirm a variety of beliefs, from Christian to humanist to earth-centered to Buddhist and more. The clergy who serve each congregation will have different policies and practices regarding pastoral counseling; some congregations may also have pastoral associates or lay ministers who may be of help to you. You might also find small group ministry (covenant group ministry) active in the congregations you visit; this can be a way of exploring your faith and sharing that of others, in a more intimate setting where you can freely share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns.

I wish you well on your spiritual journey!

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Starting a Universalist Church in Indonesia

QUESTION: I am from Indonesia. I have been longing for a church that can tolerate interfaith marriage such as a moslem and christian—win to win solution and not loss-win to win and loss solution. I may start an universalist church in Indonesia. What should I do? How could I become a universalist pastor in Indonesia?
Thank you very much.

Totok
Yogyakarta Indonesia

RESPONSE: I encourage you to be in touch with the Director of the UUA's Office of International Relations, about your interests. They work with Unitarians and Universalists around the world, and can provide you with the information you need.

Best wishes on your faith journey,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Course of Study by Email or Mail

QUESTION: I have belonged to UU congregations at various times in my peripatetic past and now reside in generally fundamentalist southeast Alabama. Even Montgomery is too distant. I would like a course of study either by email or regular mail to substitute for UU church attendance. Is this available?
Thank you in advance.

Robin
Enterprise, AL

RESPONSE: The Unitarian Universalist Association has over 1040 congregations throughout the US and in other parts of the world, but we understand that you may live in a place where getting to a congregation is not practical. We recommend that you visit, and consider joining, the Church of the Larger Fellowship, a congregation of more than 2,000 people who unite on email, by print, phone, and FAX. The Church of the Larger Fellowship, founded in the 1940's, has a senior minister and several associate pastors as well as a religious educator on staff to serve people around the world. Visit their website, Quest for Meaning, and find out more!

Best wishes,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Anti-War Movement

QUESTION: I am greatly disturbed as I'm sure most of your members are by the US led war in Iraq. I'm outraged by the support coming from the "Christian" right. I'd like to be part of an anti-war movement. I know there are lots of organizations out there, but i'm turned off by most of them as I don't care for their political rhetoric and their violent, counter productive tactics. I would like to be part of an organization that is responsible and committed to the cause for the long haul. Do you have any such movenment within your church? If not can you recommend one that you feel is responsible?

John
New York

RESPONSE: While it is true that many Unitarian Universalists were deeply opposed to pre-emptive war with Iraq, it is not true that this feeling is universally held. Unitarian Universalist congregations worked hard, during this time of conflict, to provide a space for social action and witness, and for respectfully and faithfully hearing the views of many people, in many different directions. UU congregations do not directly become involved in political action, although members as individuals may choose to do so. You will, however, typically encounter UU congregations involved in witnessing in support of their beliefs.

I encourage you to visit your local UU congregation and find out more.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Are Pagans Welcome?

QUESTION: I was raised as strict roman catholic, but was always irritated and doubtful of what was taught. In the past few years I have discovered that I am a Pagan. I also have 2 small children who I try and give them a sense of belief. I am looking for a place where my children (and myself) can find knowledge, wisdom and understanding and also a sense of community. Being a pagan, in itself, can be very difficult, as I feel I have to hide in the "closet". Would UUA be a place where myself and my family be welcomed and not judged for what we believe?

Arah
New Orleans, LA

RESPONSE: Every Unitarian Universalist congregation is different, but the best answer to your question will come in your visits to the UU congregations in your area. Earth-centered traditions are an important part of the lives of over twenty percent of UUs today, according to our last survey of religious beliefs among Unitarian Universalists. How this influence is incorporated into the practices and programs of each congregation will vary. I believe that if you take the time to visit UU congregations in your area, you are likely to find a warm welcome, and like-minded people to join with you and your children on your faith journey.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Informal UU Groups

QUESTION: I was wondering if anyone knows of a UU church in Seminole county, FL. There appears to be several UU churches in central Florida, but they're all 20 miles or more away from my home and not in my county. If you know of a church or even an informal UU group that isn't listed on the website, I would love to know about it.

David
Sanford, FL

RESPONSE: Your best source of information for this and other questions about UU congregations in a particular area, will come from the UUA District Office closest to you.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Ten Commandments

QUESTION: Re: children's education—Are the Ten Commandments taught as part of the religious education?

Jean & Peter
Damascus, MD

RESPONSE: Unitarian Universalist religious education draws its teaching from many sources, including the Bible. In the course of learning about the Old Testament and our Judeo-Christian heritage, children may be introduced to the Ten Commandments as part of the religious literature which illustrates this heritage. Use of such material varies from congregation to congregation. At the same time, UU congregations do not use the Ten Commandments as a basis for their religious education focus, but instead present a perpsective based on the principles and purposes of Unitarian Universalism which affirm support for a wide variety of beliefs and traditions.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

History of the Seven Principles

QUESTION: I was wondering if someone could relate to me the history of the Seven Principles. How were they created? Who was involved? What sources were used for each principle?

Will
Hamburg, NY

RESPONSE: The use of the Seven Principles follow a long tradition of religious statements of faith (other religions often call this a creed) which arose in both the Unitarian and Universalist traditions. During World War II, the American Unitarian Association (one of the two founding organizations of the UUA), affirmed a set of five principles on which it believed most Unitarians would agree. They were: Individual freedom of belief; discipleship to advancing truth; the democratic process in human relations; universal brotherhood, undivided by nation, race, or creed; and allegiance to the cause of a united world community.

In 1961, when the American Unitarian Association merged with the Universalist Church of America to become the Unitarian Universalist Association, those principles were incorporated into a new Statement of Purpose, and can be seen in the current set of Purposes and Priniciples of the Association. The original statement drafted in 1961 became dated, however, and in the late 1970's, the sexist language seen in teh orignal document was reworked after a group of women, led by Lucile Schuck Longview of Lexington, MA, who proposed to the UUA General Assembly in 1977 a re-articulation of UU faith which eliminated sexism. This effort, brought forward by the Women and Religion Resolution, provided the impetus, says author Edward Frost, for revising the UUA Purposes and Principles. After much debate, revision, and negotation, a new and revised set of Purposes and Principles were affirmed by the General Assembly in 1985 and included as part of the UUA Bylaws.

For further reading on this subject, we recommend With Purpose and Principle: Essays About the Seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism, by Edward Frost, and Our Seven Principles in Story and Verse: A Collection for Children and Adults by Kenneth W. Collier.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

How Old Do I Need to Be to Join?

QUESTION: Hello, I am 16 and I was raised Roman Catholic. All my life I've known it was not for me, but I have been forced to go to a Catholic Church week after week. My mother is a very strong Catholic, and when I even calmly talked with her about not being Catholic any more, she flipped. And that was just be saying how I didn't believe in what I was taught, I have yet to bring UU up. I found out about UU a few years ago and have been studying it and I really think this is for me. Though I will only be 17 in May, will I still be able to fully join?

Stefani
North Canton, OH

RESPONSE: Stefani, we appreciate your interest in Unitarian Universalism and hope that you will continue to learn about this faith, and all the religions of the world. Unitarian Universalism is a religion which welcomes people from many faith backgrounds and encourages them to participate in this religion while bringing who they are, and their cultural and faith traditions, with them.

Telling a parent that the religion in which you have been raised doesn't seem right any more, can be a difficult step. Parents want the best for their children; they want their children to have a strong value system, and to be able to live in a challenging world with the spiritual and practical resources that can help them be successful and independent—and caring and faithful—adults. I am sure that your mother wants no less for you.

I would encourage you to see if you can connect with a UU congregation in the Canton area through their youth group. The youth movement within UUism is very strong, and can provide you with a more direct connection to Unitarian Univeralism than you may have had thus far. I also encourage you to read more about our faith, in the newcomer section of our website and to share this information with your mother. We have a number of pamphlets which are designed for newcomers and for youth and young adults, and these may also be helpful to you and your mother. One of our pamphlets talks about coming to this faith from Catholic and Jewish perspectives, and it, too, may help answer questions and respond to some of your mother's concerns.

I wish you good luck on your spiritual journey.

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Are Atheists Welcome?

QUESTION: I have read your newcomer's area as well as your principles and purposes. I am very excited to find such an organization that respects the differences between people. I was raised Catholic and went to rote services every Sunday for 18 years of my life. I did not stay in the Catholic church once I was on my own. I struggled to believe as my parents and others did but could never feel what they all professed to feel and believe. I do believe in ethical living and that relationships should be based on honesty and compassion. I do miss the community of the Catholic church that I participated in as a child—the social gatherings, pancake breakfasts, sharing with a community of generally good people.

I am excited that there is an organization out there that welcomes persons of all beliefs. All my adult life I have avoided discussing religion with most people because a non-believer such as myself is ostracized and looked upon as a bad person. I am a good person who cares about and loves others and strives to do good in this world.

How does the UU deal with people like myself who do not believe in God? Would I really fit in or would I still have to refrain from admitting that I did not believe in God in order that others (myself included) would be comfortable? Looking forward to a response.

Anita
Albuquerque, NM

RESPONSE: Anita, as an atheist, you certainly would feel comfortable in many UU congregations. The beliefs you will encounter among members of UU congregations range from Christian to Buddhist to Jewish to atheist to pagan and agnostic—and much in between. A fairly significant percentage of the membership of any UU congregation would be likely to describe itself as agnostic or atheist—I suspect that you would find a range of fifteen to thirty percent in any congregation.

As is always the case, the beliefs found in UU congregations vary from congregation to congregation. Please take the time to visit and get to know the members in a congregation, experience the worship offered, and see whether the congregation feels like a 'fit' for you. I hope you'll find a warm welcome when you attend!

Best wishes,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Separation of Church and State

QUESTION: I am a non-practicing Jew and my wife is a non-practicing Catholic. We are considering joining a UU fellowship with the recent birth of our triplets.

Having searched your website over the past few months, I have noticed how political you are. I thought Universalists were for the separation of Church and State?

Ian
Providence, RI

RESPONSE: Ian, Congratulations to you and your wife on the birth of your children!

You ask about whether we are for the separation of Church and State, and ask about our political involvement. My response is that we in fact are very supportive of the separation of church and state, and have made that support well known through our defense of civil liberties and our efforts to counteract Faith Based Initiatives which the current U.S. presidential administration has tried to foster.

Our public witness focus extends primarily to three areas: racial justice, the role of religion in society, and family matters. The role of religion and society certainly includes civil liberty defense, and it is in that context that you hear our voice. We believe that we can not stay silent when the civil liberties of others are at risk, but rather, we must join with other people of faith to encourage Unitarian Universalists and others, to speak out and defend the civil rights of people who wish to speak their mind in public settings.

I encourage you and your family to visit UU congregations near you, and get to know both the people and the social justice issues with which the congregation connects. I believe that over time, you'll get a good sense of the orientation of UU congregations toward justice and in defense of our personal freedom and civil liberty.

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Belief in the Trinity

QUESTION: I've read bits of the site and I read that Unitarian Universalists believe in a higher power, wether it's "God" or something else but do not believe in the trinity. My question is can you believe in the Trinity and still be a UU?

Sarah
Maryland

RESPONSE: Sarah, one of the things that is inclusive and exciting to many people who are members of UU congregations, is how welcoming Unitarian Universalists are of people who come from other faith traditions. In a typical UU congregation, you will find people who have been at one time in their life, Roman Catholics, Protestants, Jews, agnostics, atheists, and probably members of a number of other religions as well.

Having said this, the name of our faith tradition, Unitarian Universalist, lifts up the belief in one higher power that unites us. We experience our faith in different ways, and many people will tell you that they don't believe in a higher power, while a number do. But I suspect that few people in our faith tradition would call themselves trinitarians, because the belief in a holy trinity would seem in opposition to the uniting and loving spirit which you find at the core of most UUs' faiths.

Best wishes on your spiritual journey, wherever it leads you.

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Are Agnostics Welcome?

QUESTION: Hi. I've recently been investigating UU, and have found it much to my liking. I would describe my position as "agnostic." Most of the questions I have seen on this board address people of Jewish and Christian beliefs coming into UU. But what about someone who is agnostic? What kind of reception should I expect at my local UU fellowship? And exactly what perecentage of your membership is agnostic?

Thank you.

Shaun
Radford, VA

RESPONSE: Shaun, as an agnostic, you certainly would feel comfortable in many UU congregations. The beliefs you will encounter among members of UU congregations range from Christian to Buddhist to Jewish to atheist to pagan and agnostic—and much in between. A fairly significant percentage of the membership of any UU congregation would be likely to describe itself as agnostic—I suspect that you would find a range of ten to twenty percent in any congregation.

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Are My Political Beliefs Welcome?

QUESTION: I'm interested in learning more about the UU church and attending services there. I was raised Catholic, but am finding myself opposed to Catholic teaching in some areas, and even further opposed to mainline Protestant teaching, especially in social areas. Politically, however, I am best described as a Libertarian, and consider myself to be conservative on economic issues (and very liberal on most social issues). How conected is the UU church to political issues, and would someone with a political leaning like mine be welcome?

Sue
Dexter, NM

RESPONSE: As with most issues, the political involvement in UU congregations will vary from one congregation to another. UUs as a group are considered 'societally conscious,' and this means that they tend to be involved in social change organizations and often in political action as individuals. UU congregations are not connected to political causes as congregations, but it would be typical to find enthusiasm for political involvement among groups of UUs.

Having said this, I think that you will not find yourself alone in your libertarian leanings or your conservative/liberal split orientation. While it is probably true that the majority of UUs would be called 'politically liberal,' not all are—and in fact, depending on the part of the country you are from, the numbers could vary significantly. My suggestion is that you visit UU congregations in your area, and take the time to get to know the congregation and the people. I hope you'll find support for your point of view, and above all, respect from those you are in community with.

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Baptisms or Christenings

QUESTION: Do Unitarian Universalist followers engage in activities such as "baptism" or "christening" (or whatever you want to call it)? If a member wanted something such as this performed, could that happen?

Kim
Houston, TX

RESPONSE: Unitarian Universalist congregations engage in dedication of children (the word 'dedication' is the one most commonly used to refer to baptism, christening) and this service can be a wonderful and moving one for families and all members of congregations. When youth come of age (usually, ages 12-14) in UU congregations, they often engage in a coming of age program which puts them in relationship with a mentor, helps them consider questions about their core beliefs, and often results in their writing a personal Credo which they present to a congregation. When individuals (usually high school to adult) join a UU congregation, the act of membership is recognized by a ceremony, which often includes a welcome from the elected and called leaders of a congregation, a gift of membership, and public recognition of the importance of the commitment being made to the congregation and the covenant shared by the congregation and the new members. While I suspect that your question relates to adult baptism or christening, I want to provide you with a few references. Child dedication is discussed in the pamphlet We Dedicate This Child by Mary-Ella Holst, and the meaning of membership was the topic of study for the UUA's Commission on Appraisal several years ago, and was followed by a lengthy report: Belonging: The Meaning of Membership, with Study Guide (PDF, 166 pages).

I hope this is responsive to your question.

Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Interfaith Couples: Christian and Jewish

QUESTION: I am Orthodox Christian and my husband is Jewish; we went through interfaith counseling prior to our wedding (we wrote our own wedding ceremony and contained things from both of our faiths). We are thinking about starting a family and are concerned raising them in a "2 religion" house. My aunt recommended the Unitarians as a potential solution! Is it common for interfaith couples to attend the Unitarian church? Would the Unitarians encourage/allow us to celebrate both Christian and Jewish traditions with our family? Do Unitarian churches ever offer counseling/discussion groups on this subject?

Look forward to hearing your reply,

Emily
San Francisco, CA

RESPONSE: For many couples, Unitarian Universalism is an ideal affirmation of their different faith traditions which can bring gifts into a shared faith. You can read more about coming to UUism from different perspectives in two of our pamphlets, Can We Find a Home Here? Answering Questions of Interfaith Couples by Catherine Bowers and Discovering Unitarian Universalism from Catholic and Jewish Perspectives by Patrick T. O'Neill and Linda R. Weltner which, though referencing Catholicism in particular as opposed to Christianity, may shed some light on different views of UUism from other perspectives. You might also wish to read UU Religious Education and Your Child by Gaia Brown, which would provide you with some answers to frequently asked questions about our perspective regarding religious education.

I think that the question that may linger is about whether your respective faith traditions are in sympathy with the principles of Unitarian Universalism. That may take some consideration on your part; you might wish to read our principles, which inform our religious practice, and also should think about visiting UU congregations in your area, of which there are a number.

With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Universal Salvation, Abortion

QUESTION: Despite the fact that I'd heard the mention of UUism on more than one occasion in the past, I never had the chance to discover what it was truly about—as far as I knew, it was simply another religion, just one that happened to hold services with a variety of other religions involved. As many of those interested in UUism, I'd always been a very open-minded individual, always feeling as somewhat of the "oddball-out" amongst even my friends, who are almost all born and raised Baptists.

UUism is a dream come true to me, so far, each of it's views and principles sparkling so true with my own that it's almost too good to be true, yet I'm quite eager to embrace the fact that there may be a religion out there where I can be myself and believe in the manner I choose, as opposed to having to shape my beliefs around being told what's "right" and "wrong."

I have a question, however, concerning the belief in universal salvation. I agree wholeheartedly with the concept, yet I was curious as to how UUism would view those individuals that were criminals ... that had, perhaps, ignored the goodness within, and had willfully murdered, raped, or done an act of malice upon mankind. How would they be considered? Would they still be accepted as equal at God (or a higher power's) table, or would they be considered fallen?

Also, I was wondering if UUism had a general view towards abortion. I saw it mentioned that they serve as a support in "female reproduction health issues," but the term is somewhat vague, and I was curious as to whether UUism would deem abortion as unjust or acceptable.

Thank you very much.

Melisha
Fayetteville, NC

RESPONSE: Your two questions ask about universal salvation and about abortion.

The belief in universal salvation and in the goodness of each person is very central to Unitarian Universalist thought, having come from the Universalist side of our religious history. Unitarian Universalists place a high degree of emphasis on the role each individual has to lead a life in which positive change can be brought to the world; there is a focus on who we are and what gifts we each bring into the world while we inhabit it. Having said that, it should be made clear that Unitarian Universalism does not support the idea that anyone can do anything they want—far from it! Our principles call us to live responsibly and kindly, and to respect the rights and beliefs of others in the world. You can read more about UU history and the origins of our faith; you can also read about our principles and purposes, which guide our faith.

The Unitarian Universalist Association has a long record of supporting freedom to choose, which includes the right to safe, legal abortion. The Association's resolutions and actions on this issue date back to 1963.

With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Islamic Philosophy

QUESTION: I am very interested in joining a spiritual community that prioritizes ethics, reason, and tolerance. The UU church has been highly recommended to me by persons whose wisdom I respect. However, I am an orthodox muslim and am a bit dismayed not to find any mention of the Islamic faith on your web site. I'm sure that I share many of the philisophical objections to the actions of minority groups within Islam—like Arab and Indo-Pakistani male and cultural chauvanists and terrorist cults akin to the Branch Dravidians of Waco, Texas—as most of your members; however, I now feel a little fearful that, as a Muslim, I may be stereotyped and/or marginalized in this church. Exactly what is your position on Islamic philosophy, and did I overlook this information on your website? If not, why?

Saliha-Natasha
Boyds, MD

RESPONSE: Thank you for your thoughtful post. I believe that you would find a warm welcome within a Unitarian Universalist congregation and within our faith tradition. While it is true that Islamic tradition is not extensively mentioned on our website, if you reflect on our purposes and principles, you will find mention of the sources from which we draw learning, including these:

Direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces which create and uphold life;
Words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice, compassion, and the transforming power of love;
Wisdom from the world's religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life.

I would suggest that these are some of the elements found in Islam which might be consistent with Unitarian Universalist thought and teaching. Additionally, you may know that the President of the UUA, Bill Sinkford, reached out to the Muslim community immediately following the acts of September 11. Many UU congregations did community outreach during this time and the months that followed, by escorting Muslim and Sikh children to school so that they would not be harrassed, holding community forums to educate people on our different faith traditions, and so on.

So welcome to Unitarian Universalism. I hope that you will find a warm reception if you choose to become associated with one of our congregations—a respectful place where you can be welcomed for who you are and where your spiritual identity can bloom.

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Ethical/Philosophical Truth vs. Objective Truth

QUESTION: I have always been interested in the Universalist church, but I have a major concern about its view on truth. It seems that ethical truth and philosophical truth in the UU foundation is relative to the individual. However, objective truth is crucial for making ethical judgements (say that raping a little child is really wrong, not just because we agree or believe that it is). Can you please address this notion of truth?

Respectfully Yours,

Scott
Portland, OR

RESPONSE: I think that what I can say most directly about truth, as you call it, as that you should read the UUA's principles and purposes, which are carried on our website. One of those principles calls for "a free and responsible search for truth and meaning." Others call us to a life that is respectful and caring of one another. While there is no creed within Unitarian Universalism which dictates what 'the truth' is, there certainly is an affirmation of the individual's responsible search for their own truth/s as we contemplate the great mysteries of life. For some, this will not be enough. But for others, the affirmation of this faith of the role each individual plays, is redemptive.

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

New Thought Beliefs

QUESTION: I am not very liberal or conservative, and even though I was raised in some pretty fundamentalistic beliefs I have recently within the past four or five years started learning all I can about different New Thought beliefs. Is UU a place where I can learn to hone in on those beliefs?

Jason King
Dallas, TX

RESPONSE: While I am not clear on your reference to 'new thought' beliefs, I can tell you that I think Unitarian Universalist congregations honor the different faith paths from which we arrive, and encourage you to learn more about the religions of the world in order to develop your own religious thinking. Each UU congregation will be different and will offer different education options, so I encourage you to visit and inquire. Find a UU congregation.

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Tolerant of Intolerance

QUESTION: Are you tolerant of those who cannot tolerate? I do not believe in abortion, or, as you put it, reproductive rights. While I find much of your faith within my belief set, I could never imagine myself respecting the views of those I see as, quite frankly, accepting of those who would harm a living human, born or unborn. I have friends in a local UU church and they are good people who have invited me to participate in their church. But this one things nags at me. How would you respond?

Mike C

RESPONSE: The Unitarian Universalist Association has a long record of supporting freedom to choose, which includes the right to safe, legal abortion. The Association's resolutions and actions on abortion, date back to 1963.

While it is certainly up to each individual UU congregation as to the position they choose to take on a particular issue, it is clear that the overwhelming majority of Unitarian Universalists, and those who attend UU congregations, are in strong support of freedom of choice. Having said that, I would hope that in a UU congregation, your views, and you, would be respectfully listened to and heard, as I would hope for all people.

With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Source of Evil

QUESTION: I have been exploring your website and reading of your beliefs and would like to know what you believe the source of evil in this world is, if I understand correctly that you do not beleive in Satan or hell. And I would also like to know where any sense of right or wrong can come from if there is no "Universal Being" or "God" who has given us rules to live by and to whom we must give account.

Terry
Star Lake, NY

RESPONSE: The belief in universal salvation and in the goodness of each person, is very central to Unitarian Universalist thought, having come from the Universalist side of our religious history. Unitarian Universalists place a high degree of emphasis on the role each individual has to lead a life in which positive change can be brought to the world; there is a focus on who we are and what gifts we each bring into the world while we inhabit it.

You can read more about UU history and the origins of our faith and you can read about our principles and purposes, which guide our faith.

With best wishes for your spiritual search,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Are Pro-Life Beliefs Welcome?

QUESTION: I am interested in attending some of the UU services in the area, but the webpage for the local UU congregation indicates that they provide support to Planned Parenthood. I don't believe abortion is an issue limited to individual choice and would not want to contribute financially to that organization. I guess my first questionis; is a pro-life belief inconsistent with the beliefs of unitarians. Second, is supporting Planned Parenthood a choice of each individual congregation, or does the larger community also do so?

Thanks.

Sheri
Moweaqua, IL

With best wishes for your spiritual search,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Membership in Multiple Denominations

QUESTION: Is there a UU policy on joining a fellowship/church in regards to prior membership to other religious bodies? For example, if someone belonged to a Methodist Church, would you encourage her/him to end membership prior to joining a UU fellowship? If there is a policy, must each individual fellowship follow it? If not, is there a general attitude about dual memberships?

Kathy
Boone, NC

RESPONSE: There is no requirement which states that you must end your membership in another denomination before becoming a member of a UU congregation—although I think that, if you feel in sympathy with a UU congregation, it may be a good practice to do so in the interest of good communication on all sides! Each UU congregation will have different policies around dual membership, and you would need to check with the bylaws of a given congregation, or the membership committee, to understand their policies or practices.

I will say that as a matter of caring for the congregation in which you belong (and here, I am addressing multiple membership in UU congregations), all UU congregations are self-supporting and pay a certain sum of money to both the national UUA headquarters, to support member programs and services, and to the UUA district in which each UU congregation is a member (in your case, I believe it is the Thomas Jefferson District). Since it's likely that that might amount to $75-85 total per member, it's a real boost to responsible membership to only be a member of one UU congregation at a time, and then support that congregation as generously as you are able so that their good works can be nurtured!

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Religious Liberals Married to Religious Conservatives

QUESTION: I am delighted, as a newcomer, to learn more about the UU community! My personal situation is that while I am very "liberal" or humanist in my religious leanings, my wife is a fairly conservative Evangelical Christian. I would like to have the Unitarian Church become a home for our growing family, but I want a place where my wife may be able to feel comfortable.
Are there resources in the UU community for religious liberals married to religious conservatives? Thank you for your time and consideration!!

Bruce
Baltimore, MD

RESPONSE: Unitarian Universalism is an affirming religion which tends to welcome all faith traditions if they are supportive of our principles and purposes—which uphold many paths to finding religious 'truth.' The religion tends to be socially liberal, meaning that UUism has historically supported equal rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons; an end to oppression of people on economic and racial grounds; and support for women's reproductive health issues. There is no demand that such issues be supported, but the Association has taken a historic "stand" on these issues as stated in the actions taken at our annual General Assembly on such matters.

I would encourage you and your wife to visit the UU congregations in your area, and to look at our pamphlet on interfaith couples coming to UUism, as ways of exploring whether this faith can work for both of you and for your family.

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Beliefs About Hell

QUESTION: I am from the state of Mississippi or one would say the Bible Belt.. I have attended the Southern Baptist church all my life. I have always felt uneasy in the church. The baptist have a way that they dandle you on over the fire of "hell". The reason I know about the Unitarian church is because a good friend of mine married a young lady from New England and she attended and belongs to a Unitarian Church in her growing up years. She was having a conversation with my wife a few days ago and she said some things that really struck a chord with me and had always believed that way but could not put Unitarian to it until now. My wife is Baptist was somewhat uneasy of the beliefs. I am wondering what the Unitarians belief in hell is about etc... or if there is a belief...? From I have read thus far one beliefs or the beliefs of the Unitarians would really be looked down upon where I was raised. But not me. I really fell easy. Thanks

Harry
Greenwood, MS

RESPONSE: One of the central tenets of Universalist faith (one of the two traditions which united in 1961 to become Unitarian Universalism) holds that there is 'universal salvation' for all. One of the meanings of this thought—that we are all beloved members of the universe and the human family—is that there is no hell. The other part of this, of course, is that many UUs also believe that there is no heaven—instead, focusing on our deeds here on earth as being those which are important, can make a difference in our lives and in our society.

One of the things you may learn if you explore UUism, is that there are many different views of faith, of the Bible, and of the role of God in our lives. Our pamphlets might be a way in which you can explore these different belief systems; you can find out more about the basic beliefs of UUs on our website as well. Look for a UU congregation.

With best wishes to you in your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Community Spending

QUESTION: I was raised Roman Catholic, but disagreed with several key issues and converted to the Episcopal Church. While I feel comfortable in the Episcopalian community, I strongly disagree with the financial direction of my present community. The ratio of clergy/staff-to-layperson indicates that MOST of the money is used just to maintain a place of worship and what might be considered "social services to ourselves." Only a token amount of church money is shared with the needy in this or other communities.

Do the Unitarians have any specific guidelines for the way a community spends its money? Or is that something that is solely for each community to decide?

LuAnn
Topeka, KS

RESPONSE: Because Unitarian Universalist congregations are formed as entities affirming congregational polity, decisions around how monies are spent are determined within each congregation—and each UU congregation will be somewhat different from another in how these decisions are made and funds spent. I encourage you to visit the UU congregation in your area and find out more.

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Affectational and Racial Equality

QUESTION: I believe in GOD or a higher spirit, but I also believe and respect the earth, water, moon sun and such.

I have a open mind on some issue and then closed on others. I feel that races should not mix, or we would all be one color, same for the same sex relationships, however, I do not (and I want to stress that) condem anyone for how they believe, and that if my dd chose to do either one, that I would love her just the same and accept her for her beliefs.

What exactly is UU and what are the main beliefs?

Thank you understanding and answering.

Randi
Springtown, TX

RESPONSE: Your belief in earth-centered sources is very consistent with much of Unitarian Universalist thinking which upholds the natural religions as one key influence on Unitarian Universalist thought. You might be interested in reading our principles and purposes.

Your other beliefs, around affectational and racial equality are, I believe, not consistent with the predominant beliefs held by the majority of Unitarian Universalists. We have had a long standing position of supporting full equal rights for gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual people, and have long supported (for well over a century) the civil rights of people of color. The positions officially held by the Association on these and other issues are formed through our annual General Assemblies, and you can review all actions taken by the Association to see our positions in detail.

I wish you the very best in your religious search.

Faithfully yours,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Becoming a UU Minister

QUESTION: From an early age, I have felt a "call" to Ministry. Over the years I have participated in numerous organizations, and explored views from Alexandrian Wicca to Zionists. My strongest impression seems to resonate along lines the U.U. encourages, tolerance, and free thought. How do I begin a process twards Ordination in the U.U. ? What are the requirements and expectations to be recognized as an accredited Minister with your organization?

Michael
Olathe, KS

RESPONSE: The Unitarian Universalist ministry requires a demanding and rigorous program of study at an accredited theological school, clinical pastoral education, an internship, and a successful interview with the UUA's ministerial fellowship committee. Complete information to outline the process, as well as relevant contacts, is available: Becoming a UU Minister.

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Allow Priests to Perform Weddings?

QUESTION: I am planning a wedding and my fiancee and I are very interested in having our ceremony at a Unitarian church. My question is, do you allow priests to come in to do at least part if not most of the ceremony? I am planning to start attending service at a Unitarian church but my fiancee and his family are Catholic. I was raised Catholic but do not feel that it is where I feel comfortable or where I feel comfortable raising my children. The trouble is that our families really want us to be married by a priest and I feel that we need to have some sort of compromise. If someone could let me know what the general policies are for this, that would be great. Thanks.

Rachel
Norton, MA

RESPONSE: Most Unitarian Universalist congregations and their ministers will be very welcoming to co-officiants for weddings and services of union. You should contact the individual Unitarian Universalist congregation in which you are interested and speak with the minister(s) of that congregation to see what their practice, and that of their congregation, is. You may also be interested in learning more of the views of UUs who come from different religious backgrounds, and about interfaith couples in UUism and the questions they tend to have. You might wish to see our pamphlets on these subjects, Can We Find a Home Here and Discovering Unitarian Universalism from Catholic and Jewish Perspectives.

With best wishes,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Salvation

QUESTION: Please explain the concept of "salvation." What is one to be saved from? Why is a "savior" needed? Why is the individual disempowered? Your Association appeals to me with the exception of this issue. Perhaps your clarification would help. Thank you.

Kay
NYC

RESPONSE: I'm not sure where your question comes from, so my resonse may be a little abstract. As you may know, many religions embrace the idea of individuals needing to follow the way of God so that they may be 'saved' (from hell) and go to heaven. Unitarian Universalists believe that all people have a place at the Welcome Table—all people are good, are saved, are embraced rather than a chosen few. We do not, in general, believe in the concept of needing a savior, nor in disempowerment—rather Unitarian Universalism embraces the idea of empowering each individual to make change in the world for the good of humankind.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Politically Conservative, Religiously Liberal

QUESTION: I'm a freshman at the Virginia Military Institute and have somewhat paradoxial views on life. I'm conservative in my political ideals, but liberal in my religious. I'm about to go to my first congregation when I come home for Christmas and I want to know if some of my conservative nature will go over well. I'm not opposed to the use of force to dispose of Saddam or other dictators if all other options fail, but then again I don't support violence for violence sake. Will the congregation I go to be able to understand where I'm coming from?

Joe
Virginia Beach, VA

RESPONSE: Contrary to what some people think of as 'typical Unitarian Universalist' thinking, not all UUs are politically liberal! We tend to make assumptions around peoples' politics, and this may be some of what concerns you as your think about going home for Christmas. I hope that your congregation will be open and welcoming to you as you return home, and that they will respect your political beliefs and your thinking as caring, respectful people should do. And I hope that you will take the time to explain your thought processes in a caring and respectful way to others—because this is how we can best learn from one another.

As you may know, our President, the Rev. William Sinkford, understands that not all of us will think the same way as we face issues around a possible war with Iraq. Rev. Sinkford's statements on this issue, including his holiday letter.

Additionally, you may want to connect with our Young Adult and Campus Ministry Office around a campus ministry group that can help you maintain your strong UU connections at college and put you in a faith community which feels safe and where you can discuss your questions and be heard without feeling like you are being judged. I encourage you to contact the Director of the Young Adult and Campus Ministry Office at yayadirector @ uua.org and to visit the Young Adult and Campus Ministry website for further information.

With best wishes to you for the holiday season,

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Gay and Lesbian Relationships

QUESTION: I recently read an article about the Unitarian Universalist. I found it very interesting and insiteful, so much so that I have began doing research on the topic and plan on attending a service in the near future. My question is how do the Unitarian Universalists view gay and lesbian relationships?

Barbara
Chandler, AZ

RESPONSE: Unitarian Universalism is totally supportive of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons. We have a program called "The Welcoming Congregation," which nearly thirty percent of our congregations have completed, meaning that they signify that they are wecoming of g/l/b/t people. You can find out more about the Welcoming Congregation program and more about our office of Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian and Transgender Concerns. We have a long history in support of g/l/b/t issues.

If you search for a UU congregation you will note that there is a rainbow chalice symbol which will appear for any Welcoming Congregation.

If you wish further information on this subject, please feel free to contact the obgltc staff group, at lgbt @ uua.org.

Best wishes,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Suggestions for Newcomers

QUESTION: I have been searching for a religion to suit me and my family for sometime now; desperately wanting more spiritual growth but not wanting to conform to a "one-way" view! I am a very accepting an open-minded person and would like to raise my children to be the same. I was raised Roman Catholic and have been non-practing for about 10 years. Most of my family is still Catholic with one sister now a "saved" Christian. I have found myself drawn to Buddhism, but not wanting to give up some of my Christian beliefs.

After coming across your site and reading about Unitarian Universalists I was very intrigued! How wonderful to have congregations of people with open minds with various beliefs! I am excited to explore this religion, yet very nervous about being a newcomer. Any suggestions?

Bernadette
North Branch, MI

RESPONSE: Thanks for writing to us! I believe that in Unitarian Universalism your family can find a spiritual home that allows you to bring to it your roots, your faith system, and a place in which you and those you love can grow in faith. All UU congregations will be different in some ways, although they will share their core beliefs—so I encourage you to visit the congregations near you (learn more about these by visiting the Heartland District website).

As a newcomer to UUism, you can find out more in several ways. There is information for newcomers on our website. Some of our pamphlets will also be of use to you, and I encourage you to look at those. There is also an email list for newcomers to UUism, moderated by people who are 'experienced UUs' and who can answer your questions.

I hope these suggestions will be helpful to you. If you have other questions, please feel free to ask! Best wishes to you and your family on your faith journey.

Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Religion in Life Emblem for Scouts

QUESTION: My son is a Cub Scout trying to earn his Webelo badge. There is a religious section that has religious emblems of faith. Is there a religious emblem for Cub Scouts of UU faith?

Jennifer
Somerset, MA

RESPONSE: The UUA's disagreements with the Boy Scouts of America have received some significant amount of media attention over the years. While the BSA takes a dim view of the UUA's belief systems, the UUA does continue to award a Religion in Life badge to UU scouts. Further information can be found at Unitarian Universalists and Scouting. You can also contact the UUA Youth Office if you have particular questions: youth @ uua.org.

Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Original Sin

QUESTION: I was raised Catholic, but over the years, I have had more and more disagreements with the Catholic church and am now shopping around for a new religion. I've read some things about UU, and gone to a UU church in the area a couple times, and I like it so far. I have a couple questions I need to know answers to before I make any decisions. Does the Unitarian Universalist church believe people are fundamentally good, fundamentally evil, or neither? What's the UU take on original sin?

Yvonne
Washington, DC

RESPONSE: You ask a question which is quite central to the tenets of Unitarian Universalism. The concept of Universalism holds that there is universal salvation for all—that is, in contemporary terms, that we are all children of God and all welcome at God's table. When children are dedicated in the UU tradition, you are not likely to hear any conversation about original sin, but instead to hear affirmation of the value of each person as a change-maker and a potential positive force in the world. UUs put a high degree of emphasis on the role each of us has to bring about positive change in the world, so this is no trivial matter—and one of the wonderful saving principles of our faith is our belief in the role each of us has to be a teacher, to determine our own path to the Truth, to help one another.

I hope that this responds to your question adequately; please feel free to contact me if I can be of further assistance.

Best wishes,

Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Finding a UU Minister to Perform a Wedding

QUESTION: My fiancé and I are planning a wedding for the Fall of 2003. We were both raised Roman Catholic, but have decided that we would not like a traditional Catholic church ceremony. We would like to have a ceremony that our close friends and families can participate in.

We would like to have whoever performs the ceremony be willing to work with us in creating something that is uniquely ours.

A friend recommended that we explore a Unitarian Universalist minister to officate our wedding.

Do you think a UU minister would fit what we are looking for? Do you have any suggestions on begin searching for the appropriate person?

Thanks,

Beth-Anne
Medford, MA

RESPONSE: Congratualtions on your upcoming nuptials! It sounds like a UU minister may indeed be a good fit for you. A good first step is to find a congregation near you. Once you have the contact information give the congregation a call for information. You may want to begin by visiting a service and then making an appointment to talk with a minister.

On a personal note I come from a Roman Catholic background as well and had my daughter christened in a UU church last year. The minister was very open and helpful in creating a ceremony that I was comfortable with as well as my largely Catholic family. In the end both families said it was the best ceremony they'd ever been a part of!

Good Luck!

Julie Albanese
Web Designer/Developer

Can UUs Claim a Religious Basis for Objecting to a Public Policy?

QUESTION: I have been reading over the web materials on UU and have the following question. UU seems to place a great deal of importance on advocacy, from civil rights to a variety of other forms of justice. I am wondering how being a member of a UU congregation, or of identifying yourself as a UU person, gives standing to a position taken from a legalistic standpoint. I know that's kind of vague, so let me give an example: Suppose my local school board has promulgated a policy such as a restrictive dress code, or perhaps they have native american mascots, or similar practice or policy that I believe should be opposed. Many times the only justifiable (legally not morally) defense or option for opting out of being included in the policy is to claim a religion based reason for non-compliance. Since UU has no specific creeds that would clearly indicate a religious objection to any governmental interference, how would a UU member claim such? Since it is so focused on cherishing individuality and individual differences, how statements related to religious freedom made? I hope that's a clear question!

Bob
Louisiana

RESPONSE: Your question is clear enough—at least I hope I'm going to get it right! I think you are asking about how Unitarian Universalist 'positions' on different issues are formed. The answer is that our General Assembly, held annually and bringing together delegates from all certified member congregations who vote on different issues, forms the basis for such policy. We are an Association of Congregations—meaning that members of the congregations determine our polity—and this extends to congregational delegates who form the basis for our position statements on different issues.

You can find an up to date list of actions taken and positions held by the Association on a variety of issues. I hope this response is helpful to you. If you have other questions, please feel free to contact me directly.

Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Ecumenical Organization

QUESTION: Is UU part of any ecumenical organisation? If so, which?

David
U.K.

RESPONSE: The UUA is in relationship with a number of other faith traditions. We maintain official observer status with the (US) National Council of Churches of Christ; the Interfaith Alliance, the International Association for Religious Freedom, the World Conference on Religion and Peace and the U.S. Conference on Religions for Peace. Additionally, we very often try to work in coalition with other faith groups, and also retain, as you may know, strong relationship as well with the General Assembly in Great Britain which connects Unitarian and Non-Subscribing Presbyterian churches in the UK and other parts of the world.

For more information on our international interfaith connections, you can visit two websites: that of our International Office, and the International Council of Unitarians and Universalists. As for interfaith connections, you can find more information in various parts of our website, but can visit news items which involve interfaith working processes.

With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Living with a "Non-Believer" Label

QUESTION: I am so glad to have found your website, particularly the Principles and Purposes in the Q&A section. Well done! I now have a "label" I almost feel comfortable enough to use to describe my belief system.

My two brothers, two sisters and I were raised as strict Catholics. My parents and my elder sister remain in involved in the Catholic Church today. Religion was not something my family could discuss openly at the dinner table; along with my peas and carrots, religious doctrine was simply shoved down my throat. Any dissension was punishable and I learned to keep my mouth shut and mastered a facade of attentiveness during the horribly tedious weekly church services. My parents insisted that my sisters and I attend a Catholic college (I do not know why this decree did not apply to my brothers). I almost did not complete my undergraduate degree because of this. Today, my younger sister has adopted her husband's Methodist upbringing and one of my brothers joined a covenant church as a young adult.

My youngest brother and I have remained un-practicing Catholics. I simply found too much single-mindedness, inconsistency and hypocrisy in religious dogma as a whole and the Catholic faith and people of the Catholic Church especially. My family has ostracized me for lack of religious conviction simply because they have no tolerance for listening to or understanding my unorthodox convictions.

How does one live down the "liberalist" tag that must plague "nonbelievers"?

Laurel Pohl
North Hampton, NH

RESPONSE: Your message moves my heart. It is one we have heard many times, but always, I remember why it is that I love this faith: because it is affirming, because it welcomes seekers and those who question, because in this faith, you can find your own path while being held by the presence of a saving and loving community and, if you believe, a god who loves us all.

Unitarian Universalism is not an 'easy' religion for people, and I think it is particularly challenging for people who have been brought up with a theological orientation which provided a clear message with clear and unchanging answers. While I do think it is easier for some people to exist in a faith system that provides those clear answers and behaviors that are to be adhered to, others will find that system restrictive.

The tag of being a 'liberal' comes, I think, from people who believe in their hearts that there is only one path, one answer. Some may be threatened by the UU commitment to personal faith exploration, and dismiss the faith tradition. But for those who exist in a world which seems not black and white, but technicolor with many shades, the exploration may seem the only sensible way to live. I expect that, if you are trying to explain your commitment to Unitarian Universalism to others, you should try and explain the UU principles and purposes, the fact that you do not have to leave the religious or cultural traditions of your childhood or your ancestors completely behind because they have informed who you are, and emphasize that this faith tradition welcomes all. More information about Unitarian Universalism, which may be helpful to you or your family, is available on the web. Please see information on our history, beliefs, and traditions.

With best wishes to you on your spiritual journey,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

Politics in Religion

QUESTION: Hello,

I am considering joining the UU church and I have attended the services a handful of times. I feel very comfortable with the service except I notice that political views tend to creep into the services quite often with a rather strong distaste for the repulican party. Does the UU church not welcome all political views? And how much do politics play into the religion as a whole? Thanks.

Lori
Charlotte, NC

RESPONSE: You are asking a very important question. Unitarian Universalism is a faith tradition that welcomes all. The character of each congregation is unique, however, and one thing that some folks who are UUs do—reflexively, I think—is assume that 'we are all alike.' Of course there are people who are UUs from many political perspectives—libertarian, democrat, republican, green party, independent, and many more as well. We all have a perspective to contribute.

I would suggest that if you are attending a congregation and find that someone is making an assumption about 'all of us' which you think is exclusive or which doesn't include you, that you gently remind them that we are all different, and that we all have perspectives which are informed by our experiences and orientation. And that you understand UUism to be a welcoming religion for all. That is, I think we all need to be reminded, and remind ourselves, of our diversity which extends to politics, gender orientation, religious philosophy, and much more.

As for the influence of politics into religious practice, I think that too, differs from congregation to congregation. But the call to social action is very strong throughout UUism—and in many congregations, social action will intersect in some way with political action. How strong the connection is will vary.

I hope this is helpful to you. If we can be of assistance, please let us know.

Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication

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Newcomers' Bulletin Board Archive, 2002-2006

Christmas Service

Unmarried Cohabiting Couples

Principle of Acceptance, Religious Education

Objective Moral Truths?

Unitarian Universalism in the UK

UUA/UCC Churches

Using the Word "God"

Welcoming of Christians?

Just UU? Developing Your Own Beliefs?

Do Ministers' Beliefs Vary?

Clockmaker Theory of God?

Democratic Process?

Accepting of Military Families?

Ordination?

Highly Educated?

Difference Between UUA and UCC?

True UU?

Welcome Homeosexuals?

pre-cana counseling?

Right to Die Movement?

What Do UUs Stand For?

Service Attire

How Does UUism Work in Practice?

Do UUs Celebrate Baptism?

Can Non-Members Attend Services?

Polytheism

Left-Wing Politics

Holidays Celebrated by UUs?

Buddhism: Tea Instead of Coffee After Service?

Water Ceremony

Interfaith Premarital Counseling?

Church for Gay People?

Welcoming to Military Officer, Republican?

Racial and Ethnic Diversity

Prayer, Individual Conscience and Death Penalty, Non-Sunday Meeting Times

Self-Actualization vs. Self-Centered Behavior

Accept Person Previously Addicted to Drugs, Imprisoned? Tithing? Cremation?

How Many UUs Are Different Faiths?

Is UUism a Religion?

Creed, Sacraments, Pluralism, Commandments, Sin, Non-Members, Conversion?

Questions from Catholic

How Do UUs Differ from Liberal Quakers?

How Welcome Are We to Christians?

When Did UUism Stop Being Christian? Why Would Atheists Come? Am I a UU? Seminary?

Welcoming of Agnostics

Deism and Theism

Logical Rationalization of Unitarian Universalism

American Unitarian Conference

UU View of Jesus? The Trinity?

UU Army Chaplains?

Sub-Group Necessary? UUs in Spain? Worship Online?

Evil and Sin

Whom Do We Worship?

Adult Religious Education

Child Dedication Service

No Religious Education; Would UUism Be a Good Place for Me?

What is Institutional Racism?

What is Social Justice?

Do We Believe in the Pope? Can People Under 18 Convert?

Are Pagans Welcome in Your Church?

Paganism, Religious Education

A UU Sub-Group to Fit Me? (Feminist

Is There a UU Equivalent to the Mormon Mission?

Atheism? Interfaith Dialogue?

Book Recommendations

Reincarnation, Buddhism, the Terms "Unitarian," "Universalist," and "Unitarian Universalism"

Young Adult, Spiritual Search, Join Congregation Not on Sundays?

Prejudice an Outdated Reaction; Bible's Message One of Love, Not Hate

Financial Contribution Required?

Typical UU Church Service?

How to Develop the "Spiritual Side"

Hugging; Can Children Stay Throughout Service?

Collective Individuality?

Not Supportive of Same-Sex Marriage; Jewish Husband Welcome?

Can I Afford to Attend a UU Church?

Channing's Unitarianism vs. Modern Unitarian Universalism