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What
is Unitarian Universalism?
There's much discussion about whether UUism is a religion
or not. For instance, there is no set creed for our church
and no particular list of beliefs that must be taken on
faith. In general, that sets UUism apart from most other
faiths. In fact, many UU groups avoid the use of the word
'Church' to describe their community; many prefer the
labels 'Fellowship' or 'Congregation'. However, the UU
church of Spartanburg is a member of the Unitarian Universalist
Association. As such, we agree as a community to abide
by these principles:
The
Principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association
We,
the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist
Association, covenant to affirm and promote:
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The inherent dignity and worth of every person;
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Justice,
equity and compassion in human relations;
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Acceptance
of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth
in our congregations;
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A
free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
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The
right of conscience and the use of the democratic process
within our congregations and in society at large;
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The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and
justice for all;
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Respect
for the interdependent web of all existence of which
we are a part.
The
living tradition which we share draws from many sources:
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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;
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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;
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Wisdom
from the world's religions which inspires us in our
ethical and spiritual life;
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Jewish
and Christian teachings which call us to respond to
God's love by loving our neighbors as ourselves;
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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.
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