As those who follow the institution of Unitarian Universalism know we constantly struggle with summary statements of our faith. On the one hand we are fiercely non-creedal, suspicious of any attempt to box us in. On the other hand we are a community of faith, we have observable traits, and we have a need for summary statements. This last point is why we keep trying to come up with “elevator speeches,” brief descriptions of what we think and believe even though our tradition is dynamic and resistant to such brief descriptions…
The deal has been and I think needs to continue to be that our various statements of faith must be seen as descriptive rather than proscriptive. That is we are not trying to tell people what they must believe if they come among us, but rather to describe what one will find, who we are, as best we can say, at this moment in time.
Therefore our statements must be challengeable and changed as times demand.
On balance I am happy with our existing document and don’t really think we need to change it at this time. And accepting that there is going to be some tweaking I have three preliminary thoughts regarding the draft document.
First, in the Sources document, third paragraph where the clause currently reads “and other world religious traditions,” it is my observation that Buddhism has risen above the generality to such a degree among us that this clause would more accurately read “Buddhism and other world religious traditions…”
Second, I am very uncomfortable with the whole concluding sentence to this section that attempts to address concerns regarding cultural and religious “misappropriation.” While I think there are some legitimate issues here, to follow the misappropriation argument to its logical conclusion would have each of us limited to the religious expression of our most distant genetic ancestors. I know most although not all advocates for this perspective do not hold such extreme views; still, where any reasonable line might be drawn is far from obvious. Frankly it’s questionable whether there can be such a line in a world that exists within a web of cross-fertilization. I personally sincerely doubt there can be. The bottom line of it is I just do not think this subject is settled among us and I strongly believe the sentence should be deleted.
And last in the principles themselves the whole commentary on the seventh principle leaves me cold. And that is unacceptable. This is the most exciting theological assertion of our times, it is to my mind and heart the deep insight of our spiritual way. And while it is in part about ecology, it is vastly more about who and what we are in this world. It deserves, I think it demands, something much larger, more heartful than the current draft language even hints at…
Two cents at the beginning of the conversation…
James
Section C-2.2 Identity.
The Unitarian Universalist Association is composed of congregations rooted in the heritage of two religious faiths: the Unitarian heritage ever questioning and ever seeking the unity in all things, and the Universalist heritage ever affirming the power of hope and God’s infinite love. Both traditions have been shaped by heretics, choice-makers who in every age have summoned individuals and communities to maintain their beliefs in spite of persecution and to struggle for religious freedom.
Section C-2.3 Sources.
The living tradition we share draws from many sources. Unitarianism and Universalism are grounded on more than two thousand years of Jewish and Christian teachings, traditions, and experiences. Unitarian Universalism is not contained in any single book or creed. It draws from the teachings of the Abrahamic religions, Earth-centered spirituality, and other world religious traditions. It engages perspectives from humanism, mysticism, theism, skepticism, naturalism, and feminist and liberation theologies. It is informed by the arts and the sciences. It trusts the value of direct experiences of mystery and wonder, and it recognizes the sacred may be found within the ordinary. Wisdom and beauty may be expressed in many forms: in poetry and prose, in story and song, in metaphor and myth, in drama and dance, in fabric and painting, in scripture and music, in drawing and sculpture, in public ritual and solitary practice, in prophetic speech and courageous deed. Grateful for the traditions that have strengthened our own, we strive to avoid misappropriation of cultural and religious practices and to seek ways of appreciation that are respectful and welcomed.
Section C-2.4 Principles.
In order that we might work together in harmony to make our communities and our world more likely to protect and nurture all that is positive and hopeful; and in order that members of our congregations might find spiritual challenge to become their best selves as they worship and work together to create the Beloved Community, we, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to honor and uphold:
The inherent worth and dignity of every person At the core of Unitarian Universalism is recognition of the sanctity of every human being across the lifespan. We are relational creatures, capable of both good and evil. We have experienced enough brokenness, including in ourselves, to seek the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. We are called to make choices that help to heal and transform ourselves and the world, and to move toward solidarity with all beings.
Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations Grateful for the gift of life and mindful of our own mortality, we seek to respond with generosity and loving action. We are called to live in right relationship with others.
Acceptance of one another and encouragement of spiritual growth We seek to enter dialogue with one another in mutual love and respect, honoring our varied backgrounds and paths. We are called to stretch and deepen our faith through religious education, creative engagement, and spiritual practice in our congregations and in our lives.
A free and responsible search for truth and meaning Unitarian Universalism is an evolutionary religion that encourages and supports lifelong spiritual exploration. Unitarian Universalist religious authority lies in the individual, nurtured and tested in congregation and wider community. In a spirit of humility and openness, we are called to seek truth and meaning, wherever found, through experience, reason, intuition, and emotion.
The right of conscience and the use of democratic processes We seek to ensure that all voices are heard, especially those often left out on the margins. We are called to promote fairness, accountability, honesty, and transparency.
The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all We seek to create, sustain, and celebrate multi-generational and multi-cultural communities where oppression cannot thrive and where hope and peace flourish. We are called to counter legacies of injustice and to foster reconciliation.
Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part Inspired by the beauty and holiness of the Earth, we become more willing to relinquish material desires. We recognize the need for sacrifice as we build a world that is both just and sustainable. We are called to be good stewards, restoring the Earth and protecting all beings. As free yet interdependent congregations, we enter into this covenant, promising to one another our mutual trust, kindness, and support. Should we break this covenant, we will seek to repair the relationship and recommit to the promises we have made.
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