Living The UU Principles

Once a month we have an adult and a child lead a multigenerational part of the service called, “Living the Unitarian Universalist (UU) Principles.” The adult and child are chosen ahead of time so they can prepare the words they will say. We do a different principle every month, from October to April. In the order of service we list the principle we’re celebrating and the speakers. This is an example, using the First Principle:

In unison: We affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

The Worship Associate or the Minister said these words to introduce the element of service and the speakers:

The seven UU Principles are the values that hold us together as a congregation, that give us our identity and draw others to join us. When we say we affirm these principles, we give them our stamp of approval. When we say we will promote them, we try to live by them and help others to know how to live by them. Today _______________________ and ____________________ (names of presenters) will introduce one of the UU Principles and tell us what it means to them.

The adult and child go to the podium and read this script, which includes their prepared words. (Each month the script changes according to the principle being used.)

First speaker: (adult speaker) This year we are focusing on the seven UU principles. Today we celebrate the first UU principle:

We affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

Second speaker: (child speaker) Another way to say this principle is:

We respect all people through our words and actions.

First speaker: (adult speaker) To me, living this principle in my life means: (20-30 seconds)

Second speaker: (child speaker) To me it means: (20-30 seconds)

First speaker: (adult speaker) In the days ahead we ask you to be conscious of this UU principle and to think about what it means in your own life.

Second speaker: (child speaker) Please join us now in saying the words of the first principle as printed in your order-of-service:

All: We affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of every person.