Unitarian Universalism is an open-minded faith that does not have a religious creed or dogma. A set of seven principles outlines the beliefs of UUs, which draw upon many spiritual sources, including earth-based traditions. If you are looking for a community that is welcoming to you, is child and parent friendly, supports diversity, and provides spiritual guidance, the UU might be your spiritual home.
Origins of the UU
Unitarian Universalism began as two separate faiths, which joined in 1961 to form the Unitarian Universalist Association. The Unitarians are a liberal branch of Christianity that does not believe in the Trinity, the “Father, Son and Holy Spirit”. Universalists believe in universal salvation, an idea that was condemned as heresy by the Catholic church in 544. Thomas Star King, a Universalist minister of the nineteenth century summed the two ideologies up this way: “The one [Universalists] thinks that God is too good to damn them forever, and the other [Unitarians] thinks they are too good to be damned forever.”
Inclusive to All
Today the UU is faith that honors all religious traditions--Jewish, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islam, and Pagan traditions--because “no single religion has a monopoly on wisdom”. The fourth principle, “A free and responsible search for truth and meaning” supports the right of religious freedom for everyone, including Pagans. The first, and perhaps most important principle, “The inherent worth and dignity of every person” guides UUs to welcome ethnic diversity, as well as the Gay, Lesbian, Bi, and Transgender families to their congregations. The seventh principle promotes the “Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part” which reminds UUs that they are part of nature and to treat her with care. Although Wicca does not have a set doctrine on these ideas, the majority of Wiccans support everyone’s right to freedom of religion, the sacredness of every person, and promotes a respectful relationship with the Earth.
Family Friendly
Most UU churches have the resources to provide youth religious education for its members and visitors. Many Wiccan covens do not provide any instruction for minors and may not even provide childcare for events. This makes it very challenging for parents to participate in the Pagan community. The UUA provides curricula for their churches to use, which include topics on religious literacy in world religions, social justice and action, as well as UU history, all taught in a fun structured environment. Youths are not told what to think but asked to explore ideas, and to be comfortable with not having all the answers. It is expected that a youth’s spirituality will evolve over time. Many Wiccan families want their kids to choose their own faith, and the UU can provide the education needed so that youths can do just that.
Spiritual Guidance
There are times in everyone’s life where one could use some spiritual guidance. At the UU, the minister can provide pastoral care when a family member dies, perform a wedding or handfasting, or recommend some books to you on a particular topic. Unlike traditional churches, a UU minister does not tell you what to believe or make judgments about you, nor are they the boss of a church. A UU church democratically decides on a minister who is then ordained by the church members. The leadership of a UU church is partnership between the minister and his or her congregation. Best of all, anyone can be a UU minister: man, woman, gay, straight, transgender, bisexual, black, white–anyone.
If you are a Wiccan, with a family, with no Pagan community, or in a multi-faith family, the UU would be a great spiritual home for you. If you are looking for a place where your kids are appreciated, where questions are welcomed, where many faiths are explored, please consider visiting a Unitarian Universalist fellowship near you.
Works Cited and Recommended Reading:
"The Unitarian Universalist Pocket Guide", Fourth Edition, Edited by Willaim G. Sinkford
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