You May Be a Unitarian Universalist and Not Know It

[Alex]

You May Be a Unitarian Universalist and Not Know It
by Malcolm Tatum
Jul 30, 2011

Unitarian Universalists are a little different from many other religious groups. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the faith is the fact that no one is told what they must believe. Instead, people who choose to attend a UU church are urged to engage in an ongoing and responsible search for truth wherever they may find it. This has led to the creation of an eclectic religion that draws wisdom from a wide range of faith traditions as well as many other ideologies.

Organized along congregational lines, the flavor and feel of UU congregations will vary from one place to another. Some congregations will have strong ties to traditional Unitarian Christian expressions that were found in the American Unitarian Association during the 19th century, while others will emphasize the Christian concept of universal reconciliation that was so much a part of the Universalist Church of America prior to the merger of the two denominations in 1961. There are also congregations in which the overall tone will be focused more on other faiths or ideologies, while also allowing room for each person to pursue the path they believe helps them in the journey through life.

With Unitarian Universalism, there are no creeds that must be observed or accepted as a test of faith or membership. The denomination has over the years adopted specific principles that member congregations affirm and individual members are encouraged to incorporate into how they think and act. When a UU congregation is at its best, it can be a very warm and welcoming environment for people who feel marginalized or rejected in other houses of worship.

Along with traditional brick and mortar communities, the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations is also home to a virtual congregation that is open to people all over the world. This virtual congregation, known as the Church of the Larger Fellowship, provides online opportunities for worship, study and interaction with other members. Materials for home study and use in small groups can also be ordered from CLF. For people who do not feel comfortable in the houses of worship found locally but still want very much to live out their lives as part of a UU community, the Church of the Larger Fellowship is well worth considering.

UU's are often active in the life of their communities, providing time and resources to helping the homeless, supporting social reforms, and working for equality for all people, regardless of age, race, orientation, economic, or educational status. While admittedly a mixed bag that some people may find difficult to enjoy, others thrive in this type of open environment, finding interaction with people holding different understandings but still dedicated to freedom in thought to be refreshing.

If you are the type of person who tends to accept people as they are, believe that everyone has the right to responsibly study and follow their own path, and insist that mutual cooperation and involvement within the local community is important, then you may be a Unitarian Universalist. Visit the local congregation and see what you think.

with permission from (c) Malcolm Tatum