If you’re unfamiliar with Unitarian Universalism, you may have questions about our beliefs and practices. Our denomination, the Unitarian Universalist Association, is an association of more than 1,000 churches and fellowships. Each congregation is autonomous, answering only to its own membership. Important decisions are made by the democratic process.
The UUA was formed in 1961 by the merger of the American Unitarian Association and the Universalist Church of America. As a denomination we affirm:
- 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, equity and justice for all;
- Respect for the interdependent web of all existence, of which we are a part.
Our denomination has evolved over the centuries to its present liberalism from two important challenges to orthodox Christian theology. Unitarianism taught that there is in Jesus the same divinity that is in us all–whether that makes all of us equally children of God or simply children of humanity. Universalism taught that we are going to the same reward–whether that is heaven or the unending sleep of the soul at death.
Our members come from diverse backgrounds. Many were once members of other denominations and faith traditions. Some consider themselves Christian, some honor Jewish traditions, while others look to humanist, agnostic, pagan and other religious traditions. We have many interfaith and multi-ethnic families and members in our Unitarian Universalist churches. All share a devotion to freedom, a commitment to reason, and a belief in the sanctity of every human being.
You can learn more about Unitarian Universalism at www.uua.org.