About Unitarian Universalism

Unitarian Universalism

Unitarian Universalism is a theologically diverse, liberal religion born of the union of two reformist Christian-based faiths: Unitarianism and Universalism. Founded in 1793, the Universalist Church of America was based on the idea of universal salvation. The American Unitarian Association was founded in 1825, and promoted the oneness of God. Both religions had long histories of liberalism and activism; Unitarians and Universalists were among the most outspoken advocates for social change, including abolition, women's suffrage, and prison reform. After the two faith groups joined together in 1961, many UU's became active in the Civil Rights Movement.

Today, Unitarian Universalists continue to stand at the forefront of social justice and change, being involved in the most pressing issues of our time, including racism, sexism, LGBTQ rights, and climate change. Our rich theological pluralism encourages us to embrace the teachings of all religions. We do not share a common creed, but we do share a covenant which affirms the right of individuals to a free and responsible search for true meaning.

The symbol of Unitarian Universalism is the flaming chalice, which represents "the light of reason, the warmth of community, and the flame of hope."

For a more in-depth look at our history, please read Our Historic Faith.

The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) is the parent organization for the more than 1,000 UU congregations in the United States. As a member of the UUA, The Fourth Unitarian Society of Westchester is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive faith tradition based on our Seven Principles (see below). Each member congregation of the UUA is democratic, sets its own priorities, and makes its own independent decisions regarding all issues including the hiring of ministers and staff.

Our Seven Principles

Although Unitarian Universalists are not bound by any specific dogma or doctrine, there are Seven Principles which we hold as our moral guides. As member congregations of the UUA, we covenant to affirm and promote:

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

Our Commitment to Social Justice

Throughout history, Unitarians and Universalists have been at the forefront of the fight for social justice, living out our legacy of "deeds, not creeds". Part of our service to our communities is to advocate for change on the local, state, national and international levels. As such, members of our religion have often been leaders in the most critical social movements, including the abolition of slavery, women's suffrage, civil rights and reproductive rights. Today, we continue that tradition through our commitment to justice on the most pressing issues of our times: climate change, LGBT rights, racial oppression, immigration, voting rights, and more. To read more about the UUA's commitment to social justice, click here.

The Sources of our Faith

Grateful for the religious pluralism that enriches and ennobles our faith, we are inspired to deepen our understanding and expand our vision. The living tradition 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.

The Vision for Unitarian Universalism

We Unitarian Universalists (UUs) envision a life filled with compassion for all, shared in beloved community, and lived in a just world. We commit ourselves to pursuing this vision faithfully, passionately, and humbly. We invite all who share our vision to join us in this spiritual journey.
(Created through the Gathered Here process, 2012)
source: UUA website, 2015

Want to know more about Unitarian Universalism? Visit the UUA website!

Commit2Respond is a campaign of faith and conscience for climate justice, led by Unitarian Universalist (UU) organizations.

Unitarian Universalists affirm unconditional, universal love as a foundation and grounding for our actions in the world. Standing on the Side of Love is a campaign to mobilize UUs and allies in response to identity-based violence, exclusion and oppression.