A Religion of “Freedom”

*This article is for educational purposes only.  Relate does not promote involvement in this religion.

When you walk in a church, and you see a Catholic Cross next to star of David, you have to ask yourself where you are.

You are probably standing in a Unitarian Universalist church, one of the freest religious institutions found in the world today.

In this church, you may have a devoted follower of Jesus on your right, and an atheist on your left, each freely worshiping what they believe in, yet still part of the same church.

How is this possible?

It’s simple; the concept of Unitarian Universalism is based on freedom. Each member of the church, no matter their background, past creed, or beliefs, has the freedom to find their personal truth and faith. The church does not advocate or condemn any belief on the matter of faith, and it’s simply unified by a committed search for spiritual growth. These liberal ideas have caused the church to become a center of cultural, and theological variety in each of its meetings.

Unitarian Church

The Unitarian Universalist churches hold Mass every Sunday. Worship usually begins with the lighting of the Flaming Chalice, the religious symbol of the church. The ritual is followed by vocal or instrumental music, meditation time, and a sermon about theology, holidays, or social issues.

What called my attention to this religion is its history of humanist effort. Ranging from the 1500′s with freedom of speech and religion, to the 1800′s with women’s rights, they have always promoted and fought for equality. Even today, the church does its best to support the acceptance of individuals into society, no matter what their race, background, or sexual inclination.

The members of the church voice their principles through parades, and ceremonies. Weddings, for instance, can be heterosexual or same-sex, even in states in which they are not legally recognized.

Furthermore, the church promotes environmental improvement through ecology-based worship and religious education. Since 2002, fifty-nine Unitarian Universalist congregations have been accredited as Green Sanctuaries in recognition of their environmental achievements.

While many people appreciate the achievements of the church, some dislike its lack of structure. Many criticize the church’s lack of formal creed, and its need to borrow rituals from other religions. In spite of this, I value this religion for nurturing a place of liberty and equality in such an exclusive world as ours. Through all of its work, Unitarian Universalism has shown to be a religion that celebrates the earth, freedom, and the united journey to the truth.

Picture Credits:

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http://www.uua.org/visitors/worship/index.shtml

Tags: church, educational, freedom, purpose, religion, unitarian, universalist