What is Unitarian Universalism?
Unitarian Universalism came about from the consolidation of two older Christian denominations, Unitarianism and Universalism. In 1961, the denominations merged to form Unitarian Universalism. UUFR is a member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). A flaming chalice (a wide-mouthed, stemmed cup), held within two overlapping circles representing the two denominations, is a symbol of our faith. Unitarian Universalists (UUs) are religious liberals. While our roots are in Christianity (and some of us today are Christian UUs), the denomination as a whole is no longer considered a Christian denomination. Rather, we acknowledge many sources of religious and spiritual meaning and inspiration. We emphasize religious tolerance, respect for science and human reason, and taking actions to build a world of justice and peace. All UUA member congregations affirm these seven Principles: • The inherent worth and dignity of every person; • Justice, equity and compassion in human re
Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religious faith which values a free and responsible search for truth and meaning, the inherent worth and dignity of every person, justice, equity and compassion in human relations, and respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. Our religious roots going back to the Protestant Reformation. Our earliest leaders questioned the rigid orthodoxy and creeds of the established Church. Unitarianism and Universalism both came to this country in the 18th century and found fertile ground. Throughout the following decades and centuries our commitment to the search for truth has enabled us to be open to the findings of the best in Biblical scholarship, to the truths found in other world religions, to the use of reason and the scientific method, to the sense of transcending wonder and mystery affirmed by all cultures which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces which create and uphold life. We are a people
“Unitarian Universalism is a caring, open-minded religion that encourages you to seek your own spiritual path. Our Faith draws on many religious traditions, welcoming people with different beliefs. We are united by shared values, not by creed or dogma. Our congregations are places where people gather to nurture their spirits and put their faith into action by helping to make our communities—and the world—a better place.” -http://uua.org/visitors/index.
The short answer is that it is a religion without creed or dogma that is open to all regardless of race, color, social status, sex, disability, sexual orientation, age or national origin and without without requiring adherence to any particular interpretation of religion or to any particular religious belief or creed. To learn more about Unitarian Universalism as a religion, see the following links listed below.
