Our Beliefs
We are Diverse and Inclusive in our Beliefs
Unitarian Universalist congregations are committed to seven Principles that include the worth of each person, the need for justice and compassion, and the right to choose one’s own beliefs. In a Unitarian Universalist (UU) fellowship you can bring your whole self. No person or group is excluded or marginalized. Belief in a God or Gods is not required to fully participate in everything we have to offer.
Our beliefs are diverse and inclusive. We have no shared creed. Our shared covenant (our seven Principles) supports “the free and responsible search for truth and meaning.” Though Unitarianism and Universalism were both liberal Christian traditions, this responsible search has led us to an inclusive spirituality drawn from six sources: from scriptural wisdom to personal experience to modern day heroes.
Reflection on Important Questions
- The existence of a Higher Power
- Life and Death
- Sacred Texts
- Prayer and Spiritual Practices
We are united in our broad and inclusive outlook, and in our values, as expressed in our seven Principles. We are united in shared experience: our open and stirring services, religious education, and rites of passage; our work for social justice; our quest to include the marginalized; our expressions of love.
Learn more about Unitarian Universalists from a variety of beliefs and backgrounds: Atheist/Agnostic, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Humanist, Jewish, Muslim, Pagan, and more.
Sacred Texts
Unitarian Universalists treasure many sacred texts, but do not hold one above another. In other words, we do not hold the Bible—or any other account of human experience—to be THE infallible guide or an exclusive source of truth. We recognize that much biblical material is mythical or legendary, but that it shouldn’t be discarded for that reason. Rather, we treasured it for what it is. We believe that we should read the Bible as we read other books—with imagination and a critical eye. We also respect the sacred literature of other religions. Contemporary works of science, art, and social commentary are valued as well. We hold, in the words of an old liberal formulation, that “revelation is not sealed.” Unitarian Universalists aspire to truth as wide as the world—we look to find truth anywhere, universally.