7th Principle: Respect for the Interdependent Web of All Existence of Which We Are a Part

In other words, “We care for the Earth.”

As Unitarian Universalists we affirm and promote 7 Principles and the sources of faith from which they are drawn. They represent the backbone of the religious community in which we participate.

Examples of the 7th Principle in Action

• The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) is committed to environmental justice, highlighting and seeking solutions to issues such as climate change and mountaintop removal coal mining, and working with other organizations to change public policy.
   
• The UUA’s Green Sanctuary program sets forth a comprehensive series of actions that integrate an Earth-oriented spirituality into congregations and recognizes congregations that are dedicated to creating environmental change.

Worship

Chalica is a week-long celebration of our Unitarian Universalist Principles. Each day, a chalice is lit and the day is spent reflecting on the meaning of that day’s principle and doing a good deed that honors that principle.

• The UU Congregation of Smithton offers an excellent selection of readings, songs, and discussion questions for each day of Chalica, and posted video of the same: Chalica Day Seven (YouTube).

Curricula

• The Tapestry of Faith children’s curriculum Love Surrounds Us explores all the Principles in the context of Beloved Community of family/home, school, neighborhood. Session 14 shows how we are living our seventh Principle; it encourages our children to care for the earth and helps them understand that our actions affect every living thing on our planet, including ourselves.

Perspectives

• 7th Principle Fruit and Nut Muffins from A Half Baked Life
  “These muffins are another way I get to live my values. They're vegan... and incredibly delicious.”

Learn more about the Beliefs & Principles of Unitarian Universalism, or read our online magazine, UU World, for features on today's Unitarian Universalists. Visit an online UU church, or find a congregation near you.