What is Unitarian Universalism?

With its historical roots in the Jewish and Christian traditions, Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religion - that is, a religion that keeps an open mind to the religious questions people have struggled with in all times and places.

We believe that personal experience, conscience and reason should be the final authorities in religion, and that in the end religious authority lies not in a book or person or institution, but in ourselves. We are a "non-creedal" religion: we do not ask anyone to subscribe to a creed.

We affirm the worth of all women and men. We believe people should be encouraged to think for themselves. We know people differ in their opinions and lifestyles, and we believe these differences generally should be honored.

We seek to act as a moral force in the world, believing that ethical living is the supreme witness of religion. The here and now and the effects our actions will have on future generations deeply concern us. We know that our relationships with one another, with diverse peoples, races, and nations, should be governed by justice, equity, and compassion.

Our congregations are self-governing. Authority and responsibility are vested in the membership of the congregation. Each Unitarian Universalist congregation is involved in many kinds of programs. Worship is held regularly, the insights of the past and the present are shared with those who will create the future, service to the community is undertaken, and friendships are made.

(Excerpts from "We Are Unitarian Universalists", pamphlet #3047) © Unitarian Universalist Association, 1995

For a Brief History of Our Church click here.

To find out more about the history of Unitarianism and other frequently asked questions click on the link below to go to the web site of the Unitarian Universalist Association in Boston