The Sources of UU Belief
As Unitarian Universalists, we are proud of our efforts to maintain open minds in the search for truth. We are not asked to adhere blindly to myths or creeds, but are called to look at varied possibilities, to test assumptions, and to discuss our beliefs. We see the development of personal religion as an ongoing and ever-changing task.
UUs come from Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and other backgrounds.
UUs may be deists, theists, atheists, or agnostics.
UUs may be conservatives, moderates, liberals, or socialists on economic and social issues.
The living tradition which we share draws from many sources:
- Direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures,
which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces which create
and uphold life;
- Words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers
and structures of evil with justice, compassion, and the transforming power of love;
- Wisdom from the world's religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life;
- Jewish and Christian teachings which call us to respond to God's love by loving our
neighbors as ourselves;
- Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results
of science, and warn us against idolatries of the mind and spirit;
- Spiritual teachings of earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life
and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature.
Grateful for the religious
pluralism which enriches and ennobles our faith, we are inspired to deepen our
understanding and expand our vision. As free congregations we enter into this covenant,
promising to one another our mutual trust and support.
(Adapted from the UUA website and from a UUCCH visitors' pamphlet)