There are many religions and philosophies out there today, some quite ancient, some relatively new, and there are even hybrids of religions. There are also different schools of thought, sects, various ways to worship, different places to gather, levels of activism, and so many different messages.
The first one that is going to be looked at today is Unitarian Universalism.
What is it?
In 1961, the Unitarians and the Universalists joined together to form what we know today as Unitarian Universalism. It is a liberal denomination and focused on activism for social justices for others.
Unitarian Universalists abide by seven principles, are diverse in the faith of its members, history, ethnicity, and spirituality, and have come together from this backgrounds to practice their faith.
Beliefs.
Belief in any particular religious text is not required; neither is a belief in God or any particular deity. Some Unitarian Universalists believe in God, some in many gods, and some in no deity. All are accepted as they are. Each congregation decides on how they will share food and drink together- some through an informal coffee hour after services or before, others use a formal ceremony.
Heaven and hell is considered a state of mind, not places that you will go to. Jesus Christ is viewed as an outstanding human being, but only divine in the way that all life has a divine spark.
The Seven Principles.
There are seven principles that UU members adhere to. They are:
- 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.
Religious Practices.
There are not necessarily any set religious practices of Unitarian Universalists. Many congregations meet on Sunday, have a worship service, and then coffee or some type of meal together. The practices that are present in Unitarian Universalist churches are:
- The lighting of the flaming chalice.
- Vocal and instrumental music.
- Prayer and/or meditation
- Sermon- and the sermon may be about politics or social issues, or Unitarian Universalist beliefs.
Sacraments.
Unitarian Universalists celebrate the dedication of children, marriages, coming of age, and commemorate the dead, but feel that all of life is a sacrament and should be celebrated through compassion and justice.
Many traditions and schools of thought are felt to have wisdom in them and make up the source of thought with Unitarian Universalism.
Edited/Published by: SB
