Unitarian Universalist Principles

We, as a member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote

• The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
• Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
• The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
• The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
• Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

Unitarian Universalist Roots

Unitarian Universalism (UU) is rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition. "Unitarian" once meant the belief that God is of one essence, in contrast to the Trinity. "Universalist" meant the belief that all people would find salvation with God, in contrast to original sin and predestination. Today "Unitarian" affirms the oneness of reality, with no split between a natural and a supernatural world. "Universalist" affirms the interdependence of all people and things.

Prominent Unitarians and Universalists have included Louisa May Alcott, Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Thomas Jefferson, Horace Mann, Beatrix Potter, and Albert Schweitzer.

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.

More Information

Still want to know more about Unitarian Universalism? Visit the UU Church of Nashua's 100 Questions That Non-Members Ask About Unitarian Universalism, or see the Unitarian Universalist Association's About Unitarian Universalism.