Newcomers' Bulletin Board Archive
November 2002 - March 2003
March 2003
QUESTION: Here's an odd one for you. Having been an atheist
most of my life, after much reflection and research elected to join
the pagan movement. We seem to share a common belief in the acceptance
of others. However, much of the UU stance seems to be based on current
mainline religious concepts (i.e.- Early Christian, Muslim, Buddhist,
etc.) How exactly do you square members who have a monothestic approach
to faith, without excluding those who do not have a central archtype
(say, Hindus, animists or followers of a number of polytheistic
religions). Myself tends toward a modified dualistic belief system,
so it doesn't affect me as much, but I was curious how it is handled
within the Church.
PS: As a leader of pagans for a few years in my area, I've always
had the best of relations with the UU Church- one of the few who
did not condemn us for our practices.
CT Blake
Spring, TX
Monday, April 14, 2003
RESPONSE: Most UU congregations will offer support for a
wide variety of belief systems. Members who affirm monotheism, and
those who are followers of other traditions, worship together in
a supportive and caring environment where together, people can question,
arrive at their own truths, and be supported on their spiritual
journey. I am glad to know that you have had good experiences in
your contacts with UU communities, and I would hope that you would
find such a welcome should you visit a congregation and decide to
join.
Best wishes on your journey,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Although I have not been religiosly active for
many, many years, I have known for some time that my beliefs coincide
closely with Unitarian Universalism. Now I wish to become active
again, in part because I am going through a bit of personal crisis
on several levels. While I want the strength of a fellowship to
help me through, I am also wondering if I can get some individual
counseling akin to my own beliefs through the church. I am a Christian,
and my beliefs mirror the Christian UUs. I have been sort of "afraid"
to attend a service, though I can't say why (I think I'm looking
for outreach before I go). Can you address these issues? BTW, I
find this column very enlightening; thank you for your wisdom!
Laurel
Phoenix, AZ
Sunday, April 13, 2003
RESPONSE: I believe that you will find a warm welcome when
you enter a Unitarian Universalist congregation. You are fortunate
to live in an area that has several congregations nearby; members,
in general, affirm a variety of beliefs, from Christian to humanist
to earth-centered to Buddhist and more. The clergy who serve each
congregation will have different policies and practices regarding
pastoral counseling; some congregations may also have pastoral associates
or lay ministers who may be of help to you. You might also find
small group ministry (covenant group ministry) active in the congregations
you visit; this can be a way of exploring your faith and sharing
that of others, in a more intimate setting where you can freely
share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns.
I wish you well on your spiritual journey!
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am from Indonesia. I have been longing for a
church that can tolerate interfaith marriage such as a moslem and
christian - win to win solution and not loss -win ot win and loss
solution.
I may start an universalist church in Indonesia. What should I do?
How could I become a universalist pastor in Indonesia?
Thank you very much.
Totok S. Wiryasaputra
Perum Banteng Permai 26 Yogyakarta Indonesia
Friday, April 11, 2003
RESPONSE: I encourage you to be in touch with the Rev.
Olivia Holmes, Director of the UUA's Office of International
Relations, about your interests. Rev. Holmes works with Untiarians
and Universalists around the world, and can provide you with the
information you need.
Best wishes on your faith journey,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I have belonged to UU congregations at various
times in my peripatetic past and now reside in generally fundamentalist
southeast Alabama. Even Montgomery is too distant. I would like
a course of study either by email or regular mail to substitute
for UU church attendance. Is this available?
Thank you in advance.
Robin Hunt
Enterprise, Alabama
Saturday, April 05, 2003
RESPONSE: The Unitarian Universalist Association has over
1040 congregations throughout the US and in other parts of the world,
but we understand that you may live in a place where getting to
a congregation is not practical. We recommend that you visit, and
consider joining, the Church of the Larger Fellowship, a congregation
of more than 2,000 people who unite on email, by print, phone, and
FAX. The Church of the Larger Fellowship,
founded in the 1940's, has a senior minister and several associate
pastors as well as a religious educator on staff to serve people
around the world. Visit their web site, and find out more!
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am greatly disturbed as i'm sure most of your
members are by the US led war in Iraq. I'm outraged by the support
coming from the "Christian" right. I'd like to be part
of an anti-war movement. I know there are lots of organizations
out there, but i'm turned off by most of them as i don't care for
their political rhetoric and their violent, counter productive tactics.
I would like to be part of an organization that is responsible and
committed to the cause for the long haul. Do you have any such movenment
within your church? If not can you recommend one that you feel is
responsible?
john lawrence
new york
Thursday, March 27, 2003
RESPONSE: While it is true that many Unitarian Universalists
were deeply opposed to pre-emptive war with Iraq, it is not true
that this feeling is universally held. Unitarian Universalist congregations
worked hard, during this time of conflict, to provide a space for
social action and witness, and for respectfully and faithfully hearing
the views of many people, in many different directions. UU congregations
do not directly become involved in political action, although members
as individuals may choose to do so. You will, however, typically
encounter UU congregations involved in witnessing in support of
their beliefs.
I encourage you to visit your
local UU congregation and find out more.
-- Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I was raised as strict roman catholic, but was
always irritated and doubtful of what was taught. In the past few
years I have discovered that I am a Pagan. I also have 2 small children
who I try and give them a sense of belief. I am looking for a place
where my children (and myself) can find knowledge, wisdom and understanding
and also a sense of community. Being a pagan, in itself, can be
very difficult, as I feel I have to hide in the "closet".
Would UUA be a place where myself and my family be welcomed and
not judged for what we believe?
Arah Kiernan
New Orleans, La.
Sunday, March 23, 2003
RESPONSE: Every Unitarian Universalist congregation is different,
but the best answer to your question will come in your visits to
the UU congregations in your area. Earth-centered traditions are
an important part of the lives of over twenty percent of UUs today,
according to our last survey of religious beliefs among Unitarian
Universalists. How this influence is incorporated into the practices
and programs of each congregation will vary. I believe that if you
take the time to visit UU congregations in your area, you are likely
to find a warm welcome, and like-minded people to join with you
and your children on your faith journey.
-- Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I was wondering if anyone knows of a UU church
in Seminole county, Fl. There appears to be several UU churches
in central Florida, but they're all 20 miles or more away from my
home and not in my county. If you know of a church or even an informal
UU group that isn't listed on the web site, I would love to know
about it.
David Cartwright
Sanford, Fl
Monday, March 17, 2003
RESPONSE: Your best source of information for this and other
questions about UU congregations in a particular area, will come
from the UUA District Office
closest to you. Here you can find information and links to your
UUA district office as well as the resources each district provides.
-- Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Re: children's education - Are the Ten Commandments
taught as part of the religious education?
Jean & Peter Andersen
Damascus, MD
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
RESPONSE: Unitarian Universalist religious education draws
its teaching from many sources, including the Bible. In the course
of learning about the Old Testament and our Judeo-Christian heritage,
children may be introduced to the Ten Commandments as part of the
religious literature which illustrates this heritage. Use of such
material varies from congregation to congregation. At the same time,
UU congregations do not use the Ten Commandments as a basis for
their religious education focus, but instead present a perpsective
based on the principles and purposes of Unitarian Universalism which
affirm support for a wide variety of beliefs and traditions.
-- Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I was wondering if someone could relate to me
the history of the Seven Principles. How were they created? Who
was involved? What sources were used for each principle?
Will McDermott
Hamburg, New York
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
RESPONSE: The use of the Seven Principles follow a long
tradition of religious statements of faith (other religions often
call this a creed) which arose in both the Unitarian and Universalist
traditions. During World War II, the American Unitarian Association
(one of the two founding organizations of the UUA), affirmed a set
of five principles on which it believed most Unitarians would agree.
They were: Individual freedom of belief; discipleship to advancing
truth; the democratic process in human relations; universal brotherhood,
undivided by nation, race, or creed; and allegiance to the cause
of a united world community.
In 1961, when the American Unitarian Association merged with the
Universalist Church of America to become the Unitarian Universalist
Association, those principles were incorporated into a new Statement
of Purpose, and can be seen in the current set of Purposes and Priniciples
of the Association. The original statement drafted in 1961 became
dated, however, and in the late 1970's, the sexist language seen
in teh orignal document was reworked after a group of women, led
by Lucile Schuck Longview of Lexington, MA, who proposed to the
UUA General Assembly in 1977 a re-articulation of UU faith which
eliminated sexism. This effort, brought forward by the Women and
Religion Resolution, provided the impetus, says author Edward Frost,
for revising the UUA Purposes and Principles. After much debate,
revision, and negotation, a new and revised set of Purposes and
Principles were affirmed by the General Assembly in 1985 and included
as part of the UUA Bylaws.
For further reading on this subject, we recommend "With Purpose
and Principle," Essays about the seven principles of Unitarian
Universalism, by Edward Frost, and "Our Seven Principles in
Story and Verse," by Kenneth W. Collier. Both are available
through the UUA Bookstore.
-- Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Hello, I am 16 and I was raised Roman Catholic.
All my life I've known it was not for me, but I have been forced
to go to a Catholic Church week after week. My mother is a very
strong Catholic, and when I even calmly talked with her about not
being Catholic any more, she flipped. And that was just be saying
how I didn't believe in what I was taught, I have yet to bring UU
up. I found out about UU a few years ago and have been studying
it and I really think this is for me. Though I will only be 17 in
May, will I still be able to fully join?
Stefani
North Canton, Ohio
Monday, March 10, 2003
RESPONSE: Stefani, we appreciate your interest in Unitarian
Universalism and hope that you will continue to learn about this
faith, and all the religions of the world. Unitarian Universalism
is a religion which welcomes people from many faith backgrounds
and encourages them to participate in this religion while bringing
who they are, and their cultural and faith traditions, with them.
Telling a parent that the religion in which you have been raised
doesn't seem right any more, can be a difficult step. Parents want
the best for their children; they want their children to have a
strong value system, and to be able to live in a challenging world
with the spiritual and practical resources that can help them be
successful and independent -- and caring and faithful -- adults.
I am sure that your mother wants no less for you.
I would encourage you to see if you can connect with a UU congregation
in the Canton area through their youth group. The youth movement
within UUism is very strong, and can provide you with a more direct
connection to Unitarian Univeralism than you may have had thus far.
I also encourage you to read more about our faith, in the newcomer
section of our website (http://www.uua.org/newcomers/
) and to share this information with your mother. We have a number
of pamphlets which are designed for newcomers and for youth and
young adults, and these may also be helpful to you and your mother.
One of our pamphlets talks about coming to this faith from Catholic
and Jewish perspectives, and it, too, may help answer questions
and respond to some of your mother's concerns.
I wish you good luck on your spiritual journey.
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I have read your newcomer's area as well as your
principles and purposes. I am very excited to find such an organization
that respects the differences between people. I was raised Catholic
and went to rote services every Sunday for 18 years of my life.
I did not stay in the Catholic church once I was on my own. I struggled
to believe as my parents and others did but could never feel what
they all professed to feel and believe. I do believe in ethical
living and that relationships should be based on honesty and compassion.
I do miss the community of the Catholic church that I participated
in as a child--the social gatherings, pancake breakfasts, sharing
with a community of generally good people.
I am excited that there is an organization out there that welcomes
persons of all beliefs. All my adult life I have avoided discussing
religion with most people because a non-believer such as myself
is ostracized and looked upon as a bad person. I am a good person
who cares about and loves others and strives to do good in this
world.
How does the UU deal with people like myself who do not believe
in God? Would I really fit in or would I still have to refrain from
admitting that I did not believe in God in order that others (myself
included) would be comfortable? Looking forward to a response.
Anita
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Saturday, March 08, 2003
RESPONSE: Anita, as an atheist, you certainly would feel
comfortable in many UU congregations. The beliefs you will encounter
among members of UU congregations range from Christian to Buddhist
to Jewish to atheist to pagan and agnostic -- and much in between.
A fairly significant percentage of the membership of any UU congregation
would be likely to describe itself as agnostic or atheist-- I suspect
that you would find a range of fifteen to thirty percent in any
congregation.
As is always the case, the beliefs found in UU congregations vary
from congregation to congregation. Please take the time to visit
and get to know the members in a congregation, experience the worship
offered, and see whether the congregation feels like a 'fit' for
you. I hope you'll find a warm welcome when you attend!
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am a non practing Jew and my wife is a non practicn
Catholic. We are consdiering joing a UU fellowship with the recent
birth of our triplets.
Having serached your website over the past few months, I have noticed
how polictal you are. I thought Universalits were for the sepeartion
of Church and State?
Ian Lilien
Providence, RI
Friday, March 07, 2003
RESPONSE: Ian, Congratulations to you and your wife on the
birth of your children!
You ask about whether we are for the separation of Church and State,
and ask about our political involvement. My response is that we
in fact are very supportive of the separation of church and state,
and have made that support well known through our defense of civil
liberties and our efforts to counteract Faith Based Initiatives
which the current U.S. presidential administration has tried to
foster.
Our public witness focus extends primarily to three areas: racial
justice, the role of religion in society, and family matters. The
role of religion and society certainly includes civil liberty defense,
and it is in that context that you hear our voice. We believe that
we can not stay silent when the civil liberties of others are at
risk, but rather, we must join with other people of faith to encourage
Unitarian Universalists and others, to speak out and defend the
civil rights of people who wish to speak their mind in public settings.
I encourage you and your family to visit UU congregations near
you, and get to know both the people and the social justice issues
with which the congregation connects. I believe that over time,
you'll get a good sense of the orientation of UU congregations toward
justice and in defense of our personal freedom and civil liberty.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I've read bits of the site and I read that Unitarian
Universalists believe in a higher power, wether it's "God"
or something else but do not believe in the trinity. My question
is can you believe in the Trinity and still be a UU?
Sarah
Maryland
Monday, March 03, 2003
RESPONSE: Sarah, one of the things that is inclusive and
exciting to many people who are members of UU congregations, is
how welcoming Unitarian Universalists are of people who come from
other faith traditions. In a typical UU congregation, you will find
people who have been at one time in their life, Roman Catholics,
Protestants, Jews, agnostics, atheists, and probably members of
a number of other religions as well.
Having said this, the name of our faith tradition, Unitarian Universalist,
lifts up the belief in one higher power that unites us. We experience
our faith in different ways, and many people will tell you that
they don't believe in a higher power, while a number do. But I suspect
that few people in our faith tradition would call themselves trinitarians,
because the belief in a holy trinity would seem in opposition to
the uniting and loving spirit which you find at the core of most
UUs' faiths.
Best wishes on your spiritual journey, wherever it leads you.
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Hi. I've recently been investigating UU, and have
found it much to my liking. I would describe my position as "agnostic."
Most of the questions I have seen on this board address people of
Jewish and Christian beliefs coming into UU. But what about someone
who is agnostic? What kind of reception should I expect at my local
UU fellowship? And exactly what perecentage of your membership is
agnostic?
Thank you.
Shaun
Radford, VA
Monday, March 03, 2003
RESPONSE:
Shaun, as an agnostic, you certainly would feel comfortable in
many UU congregations. The beliefs you will encounter among members
of UU congregations range from Christian to Buddhist to Jewish to
atheist to pagan and agnostic -- and much in between. A fairly significant
percentage of the membership of any UU congregation would be likely
to describe itself as agnostic -- I suspect that you would find
a range of ten to twenty percent in any congregation.
As is always the case, the beliefs found in UU congregations vary
from congregation to congregation. Please take the time to visit
and get to know the members in a congregation, experience the worship
offered, and see whether the congregation feels like a 'fit' for
you. I hope you'll find a warm welcome when you attend!
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
February
2003
QUESTION: I'm interested in learning more about the UU church
and attending services there. I was raised Catholic, but am finding
myself opposed to Catholic teaching in some areas, and even further
opposed to mainline Protestant teaching, especially in social areas.
Politically, however, I am best described as a Libertarian, and
consider myself to be conservative on economic issues (and very
liberal on most social issues). How conected is the UU church to
political issues, and would someone with a political leaning like
mine be welcome?
Sue Weber
Dexter NM
Friday, February 28, 2003
RESPONSE: As with most issues, the political involvement
in UU congregations will vary from one congregation to another.
UUs as a group are considered 'societally conscious,' and this means
that they tend to be involved in social change organizations and
often in political action as individuals. UU congregations are not
connected to political causes as congregations, but it would be
typical to find enthusiasm for political involvement among groups
of UUs.
Having said this, I think that you will not find yourself alone
in your libertarian leanings or your conservative/liberal split
orientation. While it is probably true that the majority of UUs
would be called 'politically liberal,' not all are -- and in fact,
depending on the part of the country you are from, the numbers could
vary significantly. My suggestion is that you visit UU congregations
in yoru area, and take the time to get to know the congregation
and the people. I hope you'll find support for your point of view,
and above all, respect from those you are in community with.
--Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Do Unitarian Universalist followers engage in
activities such as "baptism" or "christening" (or whatever you want
to call it)? If a member wanted something such as this performed,
could that happen?
Kim
Houston, TX
Thursday, February 20, 2003
RESPONSE: Dear Kim:
Unitarian Universalist congregations engage in dedication of children
(the word 'dedication' is the one most commonly used to refer to
baptism, christening) and this service can be a wonderful and moving
one for families and all members of congregations. When youth come
of age (usually, ages 12-14) in UU congregations, they often engage
in a coming of age program which puts them in relationship with
a mentor, helps them consider questions about their core beliefs,
and often results in their writing a personal Credo which they present
to a congregation. When individuals (usually high school to adult)
join a UU congregation, the act of membership is recognized by a
ceremony, which often includes a welcome from the elected and called
leaders of a congregation, a gift of membership, and public recognition
of the importance of the commitment being made to the congregation
and the covenant shared by the congregation and the new members.
While I suspect that your question relates to adult baptism or christening,
I want to provide you with a few references. Child dedication is
discussed in the pamphlet "We
Dedicate This Child" by Mary-Ella Holst, and the meaning of
membership was the topic of study for the UUA's Commission on Appraisal
several years ago, and was followed by a lengthy report found at
http://www.uua.org/coa/reports_issued.html.
I hope this is responsive to your question.
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am Orthodox Christian and my husband is Jewish;
we went through interfaith counseling prior to our wedding (we wrote
our own wedding ceremony and contained things from both of our faiths).
We are thinking about starting a family and are concerned raising
them in a "2 religion" house. My aunt recommended the Unitarians
as a potential solution! Is it common for interfaith couples to
attend the Unitarian church? Would the Unitarians encourage/allow
us to celebrate both Christian and Jewish traditions with our family?
Do Unitarian churches ever offer counseling/discussion groups on
this subject?
look forward to hearing your reply,
Emily
San Francisco, CA
Monday, February 17, 2003
RESPONSE: Dear Emily:
For many couples, Unitarian Universalism is an ideal affirmation
of their different faith traditions which can bring gifts into a
shared faith. You can read more about coming to UUism from different
perspectives in two of our pamphlets, "Can
We Find a Home Here? Answering Questions of Interfaith Couples"
by Catherine Bowers and "Discovering
Unitarian Universalism from Catholic and Jewish Perspectives"
by Patrick T. O'Neill and Linda R. Weltner which, though referencing
Catholicism in particular as opposed to Christianity, may shed some
light on different views of UUism from other perspectives. You might
also wish to read "UU
Religious Education and Your Child" by Gaia Brown, which would
provide you with some answers to frequently asked questions about
our perspective regarding religious education.
I think that the question that may linger is about whether your
respective faith traditions are in sympathy with the principles
of Unitarian Universalism. That may take some consideration on your
part; you might wish to read our principles,
which inform our religious practice, and also should think about
visiting UU congregations in your area, of which there are a number.
You can find a UU congregation near you by going to http://www.uua.org/CONG.
With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Despite the fact that I'd heard the mention of
UUism on more than one occasion in the past, I never had the chance
to discover what it was truly about -- as far as I knew, it was
simply another religion, just one that happened to hold services
with a variety of other religions involved. As many of those interested
in UUism, I'd always been a very open-minded individual, always
feeling as somewhat of the "oddball-out" amongst even my friends,
who are almost all born and raised Baptists.
UUism is a dream come true to me, so far, each of it's views and
principles sparkling so true with my own that it's almost too good
to be true, yet I'm quite eager to embrace the fact that there may
be a religion out there where I can be myself and believe in the
manner I choose, as opposed to having to shape my beliefs around
being told what's "right" and "wrong."
I have a question, however, concerning the belief in universal
salvation. I agree wholeheartedly with the concept, yet I was curious
as to how UUism would view those individuals that were criminals
... that had, perhaps, ignored the goodness within, and had willfully
murdered, raped, or done an act of malice upon mankind. How would
they be considered? Would they still be accepted as equal at God
( or a higher power's ) table, or would they be considered fallen?
Also, I was wondering if UUism had a general view towards abortion.
I saw it mentioned that they serve as a support in "female reproduction
health issues," but the term is somewhat vague, and I was curious
as to whether UUism would deem abortion as unjust or acceptable.
Thank you very much.
Melisha
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Friday, February 14, 2003
RESPONSE: Your two questions ask about universal salvation
and about abortion.
The belief in universal salvation and in the goodness of each person
is very central to Unitarian Universalist thought, having come from
the Universalist side of our religious history. Unitarian Universalists
place a high degree of emphasis on the role each individual has
to lead a life in which positive change can be brought to the world;
there is a focus on who we are and what gifts we each bring into
the world while we inhabit it. Having said that, it should be made
clear that Unitarian Universalism does not support the idea that
anyone can do anything they want -- far from it! Our principles
call us to live responsibly and kindly, and to respect the rights
and beliefs of others in the world. You can read more about UU history
and the origins of our faith at http://www.uua.org/pamphlet/3600.html;
you can read about our principles and purposes, which guide our
faith, at http://www.uua.org/aboutuua/principles.html.
The Unitarian Universalist Association has a long record of supporting
freedom to choose, which includes the right to safe, legal abortion.
The Association's resolutions and actions on this issue, which date
back to 1963, can be found on our web site at http://www.uua.org/actions/#women.
While it is certainly up to each individual UU congregation as
to the position they choose to take on a particular issue, it is
clear that the overwhelming majority of Unitarian Universalists,
and those who attend UU congregations, are in strong support of
freedom of choice.
With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am very interested in joining a spiritual
community that prioritizes ethics, reason, and tolerance. The UU
church has been highly recommended to me by persons whose wisdom
I respect. However, I am an orthodox muslim and am a bit dismayed
not to find any mention of the Islamic faith on your web site. I'm
sure that I share many of the philisophical objections to the actions
of minority groups within Islam - like Arab and Indo-Pakistani male
and cultural chauvanists and terrorist cults akin to the Branch
Dravidians of Waco, Texas - as most of your members; however, I
now feel a little fearful that, as a Muslim, I may be stereotyped
and/or marginalized in this church. Exactly what is your position
on Islamic philosophy, and did I overlook this information on your
web site? If not, why?
saliha-natasha almonor
boyds, maryland
Thursday, February 13, 2003
RESPONSE: Thank you for your thoughtful post. I believe
that you would find a warm welcome within a Unitarian Universalist
congregation and within our faith tradition. While it is true that
Islamic tradition is not explicitly mentioned on our website, if
you reflect on our purposes and principles (found on the web at
http://www.uua.org/aboutuua/principles.html),
you will find mention of the sources from which we draw learning,
including these:
- 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.
I would suggest that these are some of the elements found in Islam
which might be consistent with Unitarian Universalist thought and
teaching. Additionally, you may know that the President of the UUA,
Bill Sinkford, reached out to the Muslim community immediately following
the acts of September 11. That outreach was documented on our web
site at http://www.uua.org/news/91101/uusreachout.html
and (referencing support of the Sikh community) at http://www.uua.org/news/91101/sikh.html.
Many UU congregations did community outreach during this time and
the months that followed, by escorting Muslim and Sikh children
to school so that they would not be harrassed, holding community
forums to educate people on our different faith traditions, and
so on.
So welcome to Unitarian Universalism. I hope that you will find
a warm reception if you choose to become associated with one of
our congregations -- a respectful place where you can be welcomed
for who you are and where your spiritual identity can bloom.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I have always been interested in the Universalist
church, but I have a major concern about its view on truth. It seems
that ethical truth and philosophical truth in the UU foundation
is relative to the individual. However, objective truth is crucial
for making ethical judgements (say that raping a little child is
really wrong, not just because we agree or believe that it is).
Can you please address this notion of truth?
Respectfully Yours,
Scott
Portland OR
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
RESPONSE: Dear Scott:
I think that what I can say most directly about truth, as you call
it, as that you should read the UUA's principles and purposes, which
are carried on our website at http://www.uua.org/aboutuua/principles.html.
One of those principles calls for "a free and responsible search
for truth and meaning." Others call us to a life that is respectful
and caring of one another. While there is no creed within Unitarian
Universalism which dictates what 'the truth' is, there certainly
is an affirmation of the individual's responsible search for their
own truth/s as we contemplate the great mysteries of life. For some,
this will not be enough. But for others, the affirmation of this
faith of the role each individual plays, is redemptive.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
January
2003
QUESTION: I am not very liberal or conservative,
and eventhough I was raised in some pretty fundementalistic beliefs
I have recently within the past four or five years started learning
all I can about different New Thought beliefs. Is UU a place where
I can learn to hone in on those beliefs?
Jason King
Dallas, TX
Saturday, February 08,
2003
RESPONSE: Dear Jason:
While I am not clear on your reference to 'new thought' beliefs,
I can tell you that I think Unitarian Universalist congregations
honor the different faith paths from which we arrive, and encourage
you to learn more about the religions of the world in order to develop
your own religious thinking. Each UU congregation will be different
and will offer different education options, so I encourage you to
visit and inquire. You can find a UU congregation by going to: http://www.uua.org/CONG.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Are you tolerant of those who cannot tolerate?
I do not believe in abortion, or, as you put it, reproductive rights.
While I find much of your faith within my belief set, I could never
imagine myself respecting the views of those I see as, quite frankly,
accepting of those who would harm a living human, born or unborn.
I have friends in a local UU church and they are good people who
have invited me to participate in their church. But this one things
nags at me. How would you respond?
Mike C
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
RESPONSE: Dear Mike:
The Unitarian Universalist Association has a long record of supporting
freedom to choose, which includes the right to safe, legal abortion.
The Association's resolutions and actions on this issue, which date
back to 1963, can be found on our web site at http://www.uua.org/actions/#women.
While it is certainly up to each individual UU congregation as
to the position they choose to take on a particular issue, it is
clear that the overwhelming majority of Unitarian Universalists,
and those who attend UU congregations, are in strong support of
freedom of choice. Having said that, I would hope that in a UU congregation,
your views, and you, would be respectfully listened to and heard,
as I would hope for all people.
With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I have been exploring your website and
reading of your beliefs and would like to know what you beleive
the source of evil in this world is, if I understand correctly that
you do not beleive in Satan or hell. And I would also like to know
where any sense of right or wrong can come from if there is no "Universal
Being" or "God" who has given us rules to live by and to whom we
must give account.
Terry Borrowman
Star Lake, NY
Monday, January 20, 2003
RESPONSE: Dear Terry:
The belief in universal salvation and in the goodness of each person,
is very central to Unitarian Universalist thought, having come from
the Universalist side of our religious history. Unitarian Universalists
place a high degree of emphasis on the role each individual has
to lead a life in which positive change can be brought to the world;
there is a focus on who we are and what gifts we each bring into
the world while we inhabit it.
You can read more about UU history and the origins of our faith
at http://www.uua.org/pamphlet/3600.html;
you can read about our principles and purposes, which guide our
faith, at http://www.uua.org/aboutuua/principles.html.
With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am interested in attending some of the
UU services in the area, but the webpage for the local UU congregation
indicates that they provide support to Planned Parenthood. I don't
believe abortion is an issue limited to individual choice and would
not want to contribute financially to that organization. I guess
my first questionis; is a pro-life belief inconsistent with the
beliefs of unitarians. Second, is supporting Planned Parenthood
a choice of each individual congregation, or does the larger community
also do so?
Thanks.
Sheri Bridgman
Moweaqua, Illinois
Thursday, January 16, 2003
RESPONSE: Dear Sheri:
The Unitarian Universalist Association has a long record of supporting
freedom to choose, which includes the right to safe, legal abortion.
The Association's resolutions and actions on this issue, which date
back to 1963, can be found on our web site at http://www.uua.org/actions/#women.
While it is certainly up to each individual UU congregation as
to the position they choose to take on a particular issue, it is
clear that the overwhelming majority of Unitarian Universalists,
and those who attend UU congregations, is in strong support of freedom
of choice.
With best wishes for your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am trying to find a Unitarian Universalist
site in the Western suburbs of Chicago? Can you help? I was also
curious if the Unity Church designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is still
a working organization or mostly used as a museum now.
Jay
Naperville, Illinois
Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 19:08:09
RESPONSE: Dear Jay:
You can find a complete listing of all UU congregations on our
website at: http://www.uua.org/CONG.
The congregation to which you refer, Unity Temple UU, is located
in Oak Park, IL, and is still very much in existence! You can contact
this congregation by emailing: office@unitytemple.org
or calling them at: 708-848-6225.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Is there a UU policy on joining a fellowship/church
in regards to prior membership to other religious bodies? For example,
if someone belonged to a Methodist Church, would you encourage her/him
to end membership prior to joining a UU fellowship? If there is
a policy, must each individual fellowship follow it? If not, is
there a general attitude about dual memberships?
Kathy
Boone, NC
Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 16:41:21
RESPONSE: There is no requirement which states that you
must end your membership in another denomination before becoming
a member of a UU congregation -- although I think that, if you feel
in sympathy with a UU congregation, it may be a good practice to
do so in the interest of good communication on all sides! Each UU
congregation will have different policies around dual membership,
and you would need to check with the bylaws of a given congregation,
or the membership committee, to understand their policies or practices.
I will say that as a matter of caring for the congregation in which
you belong (and here, I am addressing multiple membership in UU
congregations), all UU congregations are self-supporting and pay
a certain sum of money to both the national UUA headquarters, to
support member programs and services, and to the UUA district in
which each UU congregation is a member (in your case, I believe
it is the Thomas Jefferson District). Since it's likely that that
might amount to $75-85 total per member, it's a real boost to responsible
membership to only be a member of one UU congregation at a time,
and then support that congregation as generously as you are able
so that their good works can be nurtured!
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am delighted, as a newcomer, to learn
more about the UU community! My personal situation is that while
I am very "liberal" or humanist in my religious leanings,
my wife is a fairly conservative Evangelical Christian. I would
like to have the Unitarian Church become a home for our growing
family, but I want a place where my wife may be able to feel comfortable.
Are there resources in the UU community for religious liberals married
to religious conservatives? Thank you for your time and consideration!!
Bruce
Baltimore, MD
Friday, January 10, 2003 at 00:45:01
RESPONSE: Unitarian Universalism is an affirming religion
which tends to welcome all faith traditions if they are supportive
of our principles and purposes -- which uphold many paths to finding
religious 'truth.' The religion tends to be socially liberal, meaning
that UUism has historically supported equal
rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons;
an end to oppression of people on economic and racial grounds; and
support for women's reproductive health issues. There is no demand
that such issues be supported, but the Association has taken a historic
"stand" on these issues as stated in the actions
taken at our annual General Assembly on such matters.
I would encourage you and your wife to visit the UU congregations
in your area, and to look at our pamphlet
on interfaith couples coming to UUism, as ways of exploring
whether this faith can work for both of you and for your family.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am from the state of Mississippi or one
would say the Bible Belt.. I have attended the Southern Baptist
church all my life. I have always felt uneasy in the church. The
baptist have a way that they dandle you on over the fire of "hell".
The reason I know about the Unitarian church is because a good friend
of mine married a young lady from New England and she attended and
belongs to a Unitarian Church in her growing up years. She was having
a conversation with my wife a few days ago and she said some things
that really struck a cord with me and had always believed that way
but could not put Unitarian to it until now. My wife is Baptist
was somewhat uneasy of the beliefs . I am wondering what the Unitarians
belief in hell is about etc..or if there is a belief..? From I have
read thus far one beliefs or the beliefs of the Unitarians would
really be looked down upon where I was raised. But not me. I really
fell easy. Thanks
Harry S. Aust
Greenwood, MS
Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 10:22:56
RESPONSE: One of the central tenets of Universalist faith
(one of the two traditions which united in 1961 to become Unitarian
Universalism) holds that there is 'universal salvation' for all.
One of the meanings of this thought -- that we are all beloved members
of the universe and the human family -- is that there is no hell.
The other part of this, of course, is that many UUs also believe
that there is no heaven -- instead, focusing on our deeds here on
earth as being those which are important, can make a difference
in our lives and in our society.
One of the things you may learn if you explore UUism, is that there
are many different views of faith, of the Bible, and of the role
of God in our lives. Our pamphlets might be a way in which you can
explore these different belief systems; you can find out more about
the basic beliefs of UUs on our website as well. If you want to
look for a UU congregation, you live in the Mid-South District of
the UUA. You can find out about the churches in the Mid-South District
on their website.
With best wishes to you in your spiritual search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I was raised Roman Catholic, but disagreed
with several key issues and converted to the Episcopal Church. While
I feel comfortable in the Episcopalian community, I strongly disagree
with the financial direction of my present community. The ratio
of clergy/staff-to-layperson indicates that MOST of the money is
used just to maintain a place of worship and what might be considered
"social services to ourselves." Only a token amount of
church money is shared with the needy in this or other communities.
Do the Unitarians have any specific guidelines for the way a community
spends its money? Or is that something that is solely for each community
to decide?
LuAnn
Topeka, KS
Saturday, January 04, 2003 at 13:07:16
RESPONSE: Because Unitarian Universalist congregations are
formed as entities affirming congregational polity, decisions around
how monies are spent are determined within each congregation --
and each UU congregation will be somewhat different from another
in how these decisions are made and funds spent. I encourage you
to visit the UU congregation in your area (for more information
on UU congregations and their locations, go to http://www.uua.org/CONG
) and find out more.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I belive in GOD or a higher spirit, but I
also believe and respect the earth,water,moon sun and such.
I have a open mind on some issue and then closed on others. I feel
that races should not mix, or we would all be one color, same for
the same sex relationships, however, I do not (and I want to stress
that) condem anyone for how they believe, and that if my dd chose
to do either one, that I would love her just the same and accept
her for her beliefs.
What exactly is UU and what are the main beliefs?
Thank you understanding and answering.
Randi
Springtown, TX
Friday, January 03, 2003 at 16:48:55
RESPONSE: Your belief in earth-centered sources is very
consistent with much of Unitarian Universalist thinking which upholds
the natural religions as one key influence on Unitarian Universalist
thought. Our principles and purposes can be found on the web, and
you might be interested in reading them.
Your other beliefs, around affectational and racial equality are,
I believe, not consistent with the predominant beliefs held by the
majority of Unitarian Universalists. We have had a long standing
position of supporting full equal rights for gay, lesbian, transgender
and bisexual people, and have long supported (for well over a century)
the civil rights of people of color. The positions officially held
by the Association on these and other issues are formed through
our annual General Assemblies, and you can review all actions taken
by the Association on the web to see our positions in detail.
I wish you the very best in your religious search.
Faithfully yours,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: From an early age, I have felt a "call"
to Ministry. Over the years I have participated in numerous organizations,
and explored views from Alexandrian Wicca to Zionists. My strongest
impression seems to resonate along lines the U.U. encourages, tolerance,
and free thought. How do I begin a process twards Ordination in
the U.U. ? What are the requirements and expectations to be recognized
as an accredited Minister with your organization?
Michael
Olathe, KS
Thursday, January 02, 2003 at 17:27:35
RESPONSE: The Unitarian Universalist ministry requires a
demanding and rigorous program of study at an accredited theological
school, clinical pastoral education, an internship, and a successful
interview with the UUA's ministerial fellowship committee. Complete
information to outline the process, as well as relevant contacts,
is available
on our website.
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
December 2002
QUESTION: I am planning a wedding and my fiancee
and I are very interested in having our ceremony at a Unitarian
church. My question is, do you allow priests to come in to do at
least part if not most of the ceremony? I am planning to start attending
service at a Unitarian church but my fiancee and his family are
Catholic. I was raised Catholic but do not feel that it is where
I feel comfortable or where I feel comfortable raising my children.
The trouble is that our families really want us to be married by
a priest and I feel that we need to have some sort of compromise.
If someone could let me know what the general policies are for this,
that would be great. Thanks.
Rachel
Norton, MA
Sunday, December 29, 2002 at 13:48:17
RESPONSE: Most Unitarian Universalist congregations and
their ministers will be very welcoming to co-officiants for weddings
and services of union. You should contact the individual Unitarian
Universalist congregation in which you are interested and speak
with the minister(s) of that congregation to see what their practice,
and that of their congregation, is. You may also be interested in
learning more of the views of UUs who come from different religious
backgrounds, and about interfaith couples in UUism and the questions
they tend to have. You might wish to see our pamphlets on these
subjects, "Can
I Find a Home Here" and "Discovering
Unitarian Universalism from Catholic and Jewish Perspectives."
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Please explain the concept of "salvation".
What is one to be saved from? Why is a "savior" needed?
Why is the individual disempowered? Your Association appeals to
me with the exception of this issue. Perhaps your clarification
would help. Thank you.
Kay
NYC
Saturday, December 21, 2002 at 23:08:20
RESPONSE: I'm not sure where your question comes from, so
my resonse may be a little abstract. As you may know, many religions
embrace the idea of individuals needing to follow the way of God
so that they may be 'saved' (from hell) and go to heaven. Unitarian
Universalists believe that all people have a place at the Welcome
Table -- all people are good, are saved, are embraced rather than
a chosen few. We do not, in general, believe in the concept of needing
a savior, nor in disempowerment -- rather Unitarian Universalism
embraces the idea of empowering each individual to make change in
the world for the good of humankind.
Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I'm a freshman at the Virginia Military
Institute and have somewhat paradoxial views on life. I'm conservative
in my political ideals, but liberal in my religious. I'm about to
go to my first congregation when I come home for Christmas and I
want to know if some of my conservative nature will go over well.
I'm not opposed to the use of force to dispose of Saddam or other
dictators if all other options fail, but then again I don't support
violence for violence sake. Will the congregation I go to be able
to understand where I'm coming from?
Joe
Virginia Beach, VA
Friday, December 13, 2002 at 15:10:12
RESPONSE:
Dear Joe:
Contrary to what some people think of as 'typical Unitarian Universalist'
thinking, not all UUs are politically liberal! We tend to make assumptions
around peoples' politics, and this may be some of what concerns
you as your think about going home for Christmas. I hope that your
congregation will be open and welcoming to you as you return home,
and that they will respect your political beliefs and your thinking
as caring, respectful people should do. And I hope that you will
take the time to explain your thought processes in a caring and
respectful way to others -- because this is how we can best learn
from one another.
As you may know, our President, the Rev. William Sinkford, understands
that not all of us will think the same way as we face issues around
a possible war with Iraq. Rev. Sinkford's statements on this issue,
including the holiday letter which is now on the front page of our
web site, can be found at http://www.uua.org/president.
Additionally, you may want to connect with our Young Adult and
Campus Ministry Office around a campus ministry group that can help
you maintain your strong UU connections at college and put you in
a faith community which feels safe and where you can discuss your
questions and be heard without feeling like you are being judged.
I encourage you to contact Michael Tino, Director of the Young Adult
and Campus Ministry Office at mtino@uua.org
and to visit the Young Adult
and Campus Ministry website for further information.
With best wishes to you for the holiday season,
Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I recently read an article about the Unitarian
Universalist. I found it very interesting and insiteful, so much
so that I have began doing research on the topic and plan on attending
a service in the near future. My question is how do the Unitarian
Universalists view gay and lesbian relationships?
Barbara
Chandler, Arizona
Sunday, December 01, 2002 at 19:50:24
RESPONSE: Dear Barbara:
Unitarian Universalism is totally supportive of gay, lesbian, bisexual
and transgender persons. We have a program called "The Welcoming
Congregation," which nearly thirty percent of our congregations
have completed, meaning that they signify that they are wecoming
of g/l/b/t people. You can find out more about the Welcoming Congregation
program at http://www.uua.org/obgltc/wcp/wc1expln.html , and more
about our office of Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian and Transgender Concerns,
at http://www.uua.org/obgltc/
. We have a long history in support of g/l/b/t issues, and some
of this history is recorded at http://www.uua.org/obgltc/resource/history.html
.
If you search for a UU congregation at http://h5.uua.org/CongDir/CongShow.asp?DISPLAY=ALL&submit=View+Entire+Directory+Now%21 you will note that there is a rainbow chalice symbol
which will appear for any Welcoming Congregation.
If you wish further information on this subject, please feel free
to contact Simona Munson in the obgltc staff group, at smunson@uua.org
.
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I have been searching for a religion to
suit me and my family for sometime now; desperately wanting more
spiritual growth but not wanting to conform to a "one-way"
view! I am a very accepting an open-minded person and would like
to raise my children to be the same. I was raised Roman Catholic
and have been non-practing for about 10 years. Most of my family
is still Catholic with one sister now a "saved" Christian.
I have found myself drawn to Buddhism, but not wanting to give up
some of my Christian beliefs.
After coming across your site and reading about Unitarian Universalists
I was very intrigued! How wonderful to have congregations of people
with open minds with various beliefs! I am excited to explore this
religion, yet very nervous about being a newcomer. Any suggestions?
Bernadette
North Branch, MI
Tuesday, December 03, 2002 at 23:13:50
RESPONSE: Dear
Bernadette:
Thanks for writing to us! I believe that in Unitarian Universalism
your family can find a spiritual home that allows you to bring to
it your roots, your faith system, and a place in which you and those
you love can grow in faith. All UU
congregations will be different in some ways, although they will
share their core beliefs -- so I encourage you to visit the congregations
near you (learn more about these by visiting the Heartland District
website at http://www.uua.org/heartland/
).
As a newcomer to UUism, you can find out more in several ways.
There is information for newcomers on our website, at
http://www.uua.org/newcomers/index.html
. Some of our pamphlets will also be of use to you, and I encourage
you to look at those featured at http://www.uua.org/pamphlet/basic.html
. There is also an email list for newcomers to UUism, moderated
by people who are 'experienced UUs' and who can answer your questions.
I hope these suggestions will be helpful to you. If you have other
questions, please feel free to ask! Best wishes to you and your
family on your faith journey.
Deborah Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
November 2002
QUESTION: Hi! I converted from methodism to Wicca
during college and am on the lookout for a place to go on Sundays
that isn't my parents' church but which has similar stuff going
on - civil rights work, potlucks, etc. I've been thinking that a
UU congregation might be a good place for this as from what I've
read it sounds like UU's are spiritual without being fundies.
I'm looking for a large group that does good, spiritual work but
not a coven (the intensity of small-group workings isn't really
my thing).
Could someone let me know if I'm looking in the right place? Hope
I'm making sense, here.
Thanks!
Ealasaid
San Jose area, CA
Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 22:18:42
RESPONSE: You can search for information on UU congregations
by going to our online directory at http://www.uua.org/CONG/
. You are located in our Pacific Central district, and you can also
contact the PCD office for further information about finding a congregation
that meets your needs: pcd@pcd-uua.org
.
Best wishes to you in your search,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: My son is a Cub Scout trying to
earn his Webelo badge. There is a religious section that has religious
emblems of faith. Is there a religious emblem for Cub Scouts of
UU faith?
Jennifer
Somerset, MA
Friday, November 22, 2002 at 00:17:21
RESPONSE: Dear Jennifer:
The UUA's disagreements with the Boy Scouts of America have received
some significant amount of media attention over the years. While
the BSA takes a dim view of the UUA's belief systems, the UUA does
continue to award a Religion in Life badge to UU scouts. Further
information can be found by going to http://www.uua.org/re/scouts.html
. You can also contact Jesse Jaeger, Director of the UUA Youth Office
if you have particular questions: jjaeger@uua.org
.
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I was raised Catholic, but over
the years, I have had more and more disagreements with the Catholic
church and am now shopping around for a new religion. I've read
some things about UU, and gone to a UU church in the area a couple
times, and I like it so far. I have a couple questions I need to
know answers to before I make any decisions. Does the Unitarian
Universalist church believe people are fundamentally good, fundamentally
evil, or neither? What's the UU take on original sin?
Yvonne
Washington, DC
Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 16:42:36
RESPONSE: Dear Yvonne:
You ask a question which is quite central to the tenets of Unitarian
Universalism. The concept of Universalism holds that there is universal
salvation for all -- that is, in contemporary terms, that we are
all children of God and all welcome at God's table. When children
are dedicated in the UU tradition, you are not likely to hear any
conversation about original sin, but instead to hear affirmation
of the value of each person as a change-maker and a potential positive
force in the world. UUs put a high degree of emphasis on the role
each of us has to bring about positive change in the world, so this
is no trivial matter - and one of the wonderful saving principles
of our faith is our belief in the role each of us has to be a teacher,
to determine our own path to the Truth, to help one another.
I hope that this responds to your question adequately; please feel
free to contact me if I can be of further assistance.
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: My fiance' and I are planning a wedding
for the Fall of 2003. We were both raised Roman Catholic, but have
decided that we would not like a traditional Catholic church ceremony.
We would like to have a ceremony that our close friends and families
can participate in.
We would like to have whoever performs the ceremony be willing
to work with us in creating something that is uniquely ours.
A friend recommended that we explore a Unitarian Universalist minister
to officate our wedding.
Do you think a UU minister would fit what we are looking for? Do
you have any suggestions on begin searching for the appropriate
person?
Thanks,
Beth-Anne
Monday, November 25, 2002 at 16:13:14
Medford, MA
RESPONSE: Dear Beth-Ann:
Congratualtions on your upcoming nuptials! It sounds like a UU minister
may indeed be a good fit for you. A good first step is to visit
our 'Find a Congregation Near
You! search page for a church in your area. Once you have the
contact information give the congregation a call for information.
You may want to begin by visiting a service and then making an appointment
to talk with a minister.
On a personal note I come from a Roman Catholic background as well
and had my daughter christened in a UU church last year. The minister
was very open and helpful in creating a ceremony that I was comfortable
with as well as my largely Catholic family. In the end both families
said it was the best ceremony they'd ever been a part of!
Good Luck!
Julie Albanese
Web Designer/Developer
QUESTION: I have been reading over the web materials on
UU and have the following question. UU seems to place a great deal
of importance on advocacy, from civil rights to a variety of other
forms of justice. I am wondering how being a member of a UU congregation,
or of identifying yourself as a UU person, gives standing to a position
taken from a legalistic standpoint. I know that's kind of vague,
so let me give an example: Suppose my local school board has promulgated
a policy such as a restrictive dress code, or perhaps they have
native american mascots, or similar practice or policy that I believe
should be opposed. Many times the
only justifiable (legally not morally) defense or option for opting
out of being included in the policy is to claim a religion based
reason for non-compliance. Since UU has no specific creeds that
would clearly indicate a religious objection to any governmental
interference, how would a UU member claim such? Since it is so focused
on ! cherishing individuality and individual differences, how statements
related to religious freedom made? I hope that's a clear question!
Bob Louisiana
Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 09:37:58
RESPONSE: Dear Bob:
Your question is clear enough - at least I hope I'm going to get
it right! I think you are asking about how Unitarian Universalist
'positions' on different issues are formed. The answer is that our
General Assembly, held annually and bringing together delegates
from all certified member congregations who vote on different issues,
forms the basis for such policy. We are an Association of Congregations
-- meaning that members of the congregations determine our polity
-- and this extends to congregational delegates who form the basis
for our position statements on different issues.
You can find an up to date list of actions taken and positions
held by the Association on a variety of issues, by going to http://dev.uua.org/actions/
. I hope this response is helpful to you. If you have other
questions, please feel free to contact me directly.
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Is UU part of any ecumencal organisation?
If so, which?
David
U.K.
Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 03:56:28
RESPONSE: Dear David:
The UUA is in relationship with a number of other faith traditions.
We maintain official observer status with the (US) National Council
of Churches of Christ; the Interfaith Alliance, the International
Association for Religious Freedom, the World Conference on Religion
and Peace and the U.S. Conference on Religions for Peace. Additionally,
we very often try to work in coalition with other faith groups,
and also retain, as you may know, strong relationship as well with
the General Assembly in Great Britain which connects Unitarian and
Non-Subscribing Presbyterian churches in the UK and other parts
of the world.
For more information on our international interfaith connections,
you can visit two websites: that of our International Office, at
http://dev.uua.org/international/
, and the International Council of Unitarians and Universalists
at http://www.icuu.org.uk/
. As for interfaith connections, you can find more information in
various parts of our website, but can visit news items which involve
interfaith working processes by going to http://www.uua.org/news
.
With best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: I am so glad to have found your website,
particularly the Principles and Purposes in the Q&A section.
Well done! I now have a "label" I almost feel comfortable
enough to use to describe my belief system.
My two brothers, two sisters and I were raised as strict Catholics.
My parents and my elder sister remain in involved in the Catholic
Church today. Religion was not something my family could discuss
openly at the dinner table; along with my peas and carrots, religious
doctrine was simply shoved down my throat. Any dissension was punishable
and I learned to keep my mouth shut and mastered a facade of attentiveness
during the horribly tedious weekly church services. My parents insisted
that my sisters and I attend a Catholic college (I do not know why
this decree did not apply to my brothers). I almost did not complete
my undergraduate degree because of this. Today, my younger sister
has adopted her husband's Methodist upbringing and one of my brothers
joined a covenant church as a young adult.
My youngest brother and I have remained un-practicing Catholics.
I simply found too much single-mindedness, inconsistency and hypocrisy
in religious
dogma as a whole and the Catholic faith and people of the Catholic
Church especially. My family has ostracized me for lack of religious
conviction simply because they have no tolerance for listening to
or understanding my unorthodox convictions.
How does one live down the "liberalist" tag that must
plague "nonbelievers"?
Laurel Pohl
North Hampton, NH
Monday, November 11, 2002 at 16:46:30
RESPONSE: Dear Laurel:
Your message moves my heart. It is one we have heard many times,
but always, I remember why it is that I love this faith: because
it is affirming, because it welcomes seekers and those who question,
because in this faith, you can find your own path while being held
by the presence of a saving and loving community and, if you believe,
a god who loves us all.
Unitarian Universalism is not an 'easy' religion for people, and
I think it is particularly challenging for people who have been
brought up with a theological orientation which provided a clear
message with clear and unchanging answers. While I do think it is
easier for some people to exist in a faith system that provides
those clear answers and behaviors that are to be adhered to, others
will find that system restrictive.
The tag of being a 'liberal' comes, I think, from people who believe
in their hearts that there is only one path, one answer. Some may
be threatened by the UU commitment to personal faith exploration,
and dismiss the faith tradition. But for those who exist in a world
which seems not black and white, but technicolor with many shades,
the exploration may seem the only sensible way to live. I expect
that, if you are trying to explain your commitment to Unitarian
Universalism to others, you should try and explain the UU principles
and purposes, the fact that you do not have to leave the religious
or cultural traditions of your childhood or your ancestors completely
behind because they have informed who you are, and emphasize that
this faith tradition welcomes all. More information about Unitarian
Universalism, which may be helpful to you or your family, is available
on the web. Please go to http://dev.uua.org/aboutuu/
for information on our history, beliefs, and traditions.
With best wishes to you on your spiritual journey,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
QUESTION: Hello,
I am considering joining the UU church and I have attended the
services a handful of times. I feel very comfortable with the service
except I notice that political views tend to creep into the services
quite often with a rather strong distaste for the repulican party.
Does the UU church not welcome all political views? And how much
do politics play into the religion as a whole? Thanks.
Lori
Charlotte, NC
Sunday, November 10, 2002 10:01 AM
RESPONSE: Dear Lori:
You are asking a very important question. Unitarian Universalism
is a faith tradition that welcomes all. The character of each congregation
is unique, however, and one thing that some folks who are UUs do
-- reflexively, I think - is assume that 'we are all alike.' Of
course there are people who are UUs from many political perspectives
-- libertarian, democrat, republican, green party, independent,
and many more as well. We all have a perspective to contribute.
I would suggest that if you are attending a congregation and find
that someone is making an assumption about 'all of us' which you
think is exclusive or which doesn't include you, that you gently
remind them that we are all different, and that we all have perspectives
which are informed by our experiences and orientation. And that
you understand UUism to be a welcoming religion for all. That is,
I think we all need to be reminded, and remind ourselves, of our
diversity which extends to politics, gender orientation, religious
philosophy, and much more.
As for the influence of politics into religious practice, I think
that too, differs from congregation to congregation. But the call
to social action is very strong throughout UUism -- and in many
congregations, social action will intersect in some way with political
action. How strong the connection is will vary.
I hope this is helpful to you. If we can be of assistance, please
let us know.
Best wishes,
Debbie Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
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