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How was the service?

12 September 2021 at 09:37

How was your service today? Did you have an Ingathering service? If so, what did that look like?

submitted by /u/Redwood_Dreamer
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Just discovered UU, cautiously pessimistic

13 September 2021 at 06:30

So for context, I'm a 20-something. In the last few days, I've become interested in exploring spirituality. But there have always been little things that bothered me about them, with making any sort of specific commitment, and I've never been one for how much they try to force an opinion.

That being said however, after spending about a quarter of my life going from edgy atheism to just depressed and isolated, I'd like to think there is something beyond what I can perceive or study, and I'd like to show whatever may be out there that I am at least trying and hope they understand and accept that. Then I happened upon UU in a Reddit thread by chance (or perhaps by divine design if you are convinced of such), and I had been mildly intruiged when hearing about it previously. So I came here reading through the thread, and I liked a lot of what I read in theory.

Then came the anecdotes about the practice. I've encountered a lot of talk about this 8th Principle, and a lot of chaos. Further, while I recognize I'm not in the greatest position to have an informed opinion, my gut instinct doesn't seem to coincide with consensus. On another instance where I considered buying a book that I reached through a link here, I encountered the spelling of 'folx'. And there, I do feel comfortable as both bisexual and transsexual in openly (though respectfully, mind you) disagreeing with the mindset that sort of thing tends to stem from. Lastly, I've seen comments attesting to congregations consisting of generally older people, and of an active desire for demographic diversity. While I've no problem with diversity, I can't relate to actively seeking it out; and being a young'in I'm not exactly looking to be surrounded by people thrice my age.

It overall, to me, feels very reminiscent of the political screeding one may expect to see from apocalyptic Protestant congregations, just from a different cultural 'side'. And, I've enough experience to know I don't care for that sort of thing, having come from an extended family of devout Pentecostals. It registers for me as alienating in a very familiar way.

That all being said, I do want to supplement all that I've said above by confirming that I have gathered congregations can be very different from each other. Which on the one hand, could mean what I'm looking for is out there, but on the other makes everything I've looked at somewhat uncertain, and I already couldn't be sure I'd actually find what I'm seeking.

I'm overall left feeling rather conflicted. Because on the one hand, I'm still quite interested in exploring spirituality in a way that isn't going to try to force a particular doctrine; which everything I read tells me is exactly what UU offers. But at the same time, what I'm hearing is telling me a very different story. So I've left it to simply ask you folks outright for an outside take on my situation. I recognize some of my issues may not make me seem the best person in terms of my non-religious beliefs, so I will endeavor to be as respectful as I can in those domains so long as I can expect the same. I'm looking to explore myself, not proselytize politics; I find that doing so is rarely productive for anyone anyway.

Lastly, I hope the long essay I have written doesn't prove insurmountable, and thank you to anyone who's gotten far enough to read this particular sentence.

submitted by /u/Cronaviruschan
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Has anyone had their prayers literally answered before? Or not?

20 September 2021 at 09:58

It's a very rare occurrence, but I have seen it both in my life and others. I initially made posts regarding this in the Christian subs, but the replies were overly monotheistic in nature (if you worship more than one God you're going to have a bad time, etc)

I discuss God a lot with people in general and my therapist in particular (who is Christian, but knows I am UU) God/Higher Power/Divinity etc has made His/Her/Their presence made known in my life in many ways, but NGL this has been a really bad year for me so far, so I am praying for myself and loved ones a lot. (I pray everyday and have for about 2 decades now)

I have had questions directly answered before, and also...not. I feel I have a generally good relationship with The Great Big Thing, and obviously He/She/They are not some kind of cosmic slot machine you put prayer coins into and expect a big payoff...that would be very disrespectful. But yet I continue to pray and have faith because...we're all on this Big Blue Boat together, and bound by something greater than all of us.

submitted by /u/Berabouman
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Although it is encouraged to borrow ideas and creeds from other religions, is it okay to be critical of other religions if you guys don't find their beliefs very good?

24 September 2021 at 10:51

So I was watching on A&E the show where Leah Remini discusses how she escaped Scientology and then made a special episode where she later covers Jehovah's Witnesses and how they are a cult of repression, fear mongering, isolation, not allowing free will because it is "Satanic", emotional abuse, emotional blackmail, etc. Basically, a cult as repressive as Scientology and it got me thinking that with UUism being open-minded and allowing different religious ideas and backgrounds, is it okay to be critical of other religions because I have always been critical some religions as I personally don't like what they believe in, such as Christian Science for being anti-medicine and the Jehovah's Witnesses for what was shown in the Leah Remini series. Of course, Scientology is one I'm critical of, that's a given so almost no one likes them but even then, is it okay if you don't feel those religions practice stuff you don't like?

submitted by /u/ForeverBlue101_303
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Please share!?

25 September 2021 at 04:33

What Brought You to Unitarian Universalism?

28 September 2021 at 16:34

I'm currently reading "Testimony: The Transformative Power of Unitarian Universalism" edited by Meg Riley. It is a great book! I've found it to be so encouraging to my faith. My family officially joined our local UU Church last Sunday after about a year of virtually attending. I'm so glad we have finally found a place to belong.

I'd love to hear your story! What brought you to Unitarian Universalism? How has it changed your life over the years?

submitted by /u/Redwood_Dreamer
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Why we are not a cult? how can we prove them wrong?

6 October 2021 at 00:38

Am I the only one who's getting tired of people, especially from evangelical Christians, who claim we are nothing but a hippie, devil-in-disguise cult, just because our beliefs are not in line with theirs? Like, I saw a few UU sermons on YouTube and a good chunk of the comments were full of hateful Christians who claim we're falling for the Devil's temptation and Christ is the answer. I'm getting tired of it so, what are your guys' best rebuttals against these hateful and judgemental people?

submitted by /u/ForeverBlue101_303
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My email to Governor Newsom (CA) What do you think…

8 October 2021 at 00:59

Dear Governor Newsom:

I have a weird and fantastic idea for your consideration. Today I was listening to news radio and a report said the homeless epidemic is the No. 1 concern for most Californians. Later, I read an article about how luxury cruise ships are retired and sent to "grave yards" to be dismantled. I put one and one together and I came up with the following idea.

Like in FDR's New Deal, help for the country must come from the top down. So why doesn't California buy some of the ships destined to be retired and provide centralized housing to the "unhoused and destitute" while the ships are anchored in local ports. I've noticed that the epidemic seems most critical in very popular port towns.

I don't know if you've ever been on a cruise ship but most of the rooms are not luxurious. Yet, they can provide a safe haven to single men and women.

Currently, Italy is using a cruise ship as a prison. I do not mean lets jail the homeless. Not by any measure of this suggestion. Yet, a room, a bed, shower, and centralized ammenities, medical care, and resources may be the 1st step to helping willing and able bodied people come back to us whole. The ships are huge and like some of our military ships, they are similar to small cities.

We need to get aggressive to fight the current tent cities and the dehumanization felt by our fellow Americans...all the while giving people the tools, to "learn how to fish".

I reiterate, let’s do this only for willing partincipants... the destitute trying to regain their place in society. As such, the stay for participants should be finite and the participants should be treated with the upmost respect. Everyone needs a little help at some time.

It is more cost effective to renting rooms at local hotels and motels and as such, the residents should be able to board and go off board at their convenience... hopefully to look for jobs.

This type of unconventional tactic might be the key to fixing our current state of emergency all the while at a good cost and in the absolute benefit to our residents and the state.

Best regards,

[u/TonyinLB]

submitted by /u/TonyinLB
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Going to a UU Church for the first time

16 October 2021 at 17:56

Hey folks. I would say that after watching some sermons and reading things about the faith, I'm safe to say that I do consider myself a Unitarian Universalist and whenever I have the chance, I'm interested in going to a UU church whenever they have a service but because I've never been to one, what is the experience usually like?

I was raised Catholic so in those churches, the experience was basically full of stain-glassed windows, smells of candles and incense, and priests talking and singing in low voices about the sermons, while also donating money and doing communion, and singing mellow music. How different is it?

submitted by /u/ForeverBlue101_303
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Went to My First UU Service

20 October 2021 at 14:16

I feel UU is a good fit for me and my family.

I went to my first service and liked a lot about it.

But all they ended up talking about was social justice and politics. There was no element of spirituality to the service. It honestly felt like I was back in college in a Socialogy class. I am a staunch Democrat and even I felt very uncomfortable. I was immensely disappointed because i want very badly to find a home with UU.

Is what I experienced a common occurrence in UU or is it a rare experience would you say?

Thanks

Tdlr: went to UU Service, liked a lot of things but the sermon was all politics and no religion. Is it always like this? Is this common or rare?

submitted by /u/websurfer49
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Do you guys often face hatred for being a Unitarian?

21 October 2021 at 01:03

I was watching this really nice sermon from a UU church in Albuquerque and the comments were just heartbreaking as all it was is from hateful Christians shoving their beliefs down our throat, claiming that we have nothing to stand on, and an empty religion and it got me thinking, have you guys faced hatred for being UU? I remember that is what happened in 2008 when a psychopath caused a shooting at a UU and he spewed almost the same hateful rhetoric these Christians are preaching.

https://youtu.be/gVAHTRW8MB0

submitted by /u/ForeverBlue101_303
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Campus Ministry training w/ UUA - especially for young adults & college students!

21 October 2021 at 11:13

Hello, everyone! Hope we're all having a great fall so far! Just wanted to let y'all know that next week, we (the Unitarian Universalist Circle at William & Mary) will be having a workshop with national UU leaders on building community and campus ministries. It will be on the 27th starting at 7p, virtual, and open to everyone. Please consider RSVPing!

https://forms.gle/o2TcGagWniHS7x7i9

Facebook page for the Circle: Unitarian Universalist Circle at W&M

submitted by /u/JTribe9
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Outdoor Service Guides for UU youth!

1 November 2021 at 01:40

I grew up in a UU church and now learning about the Outdoor Service Guides! r/outdoorserviceguides it seems that that organization’s values line up great with how I understand UU. I’m thinking that having organized activities not centered on churchiness would be fun and help make UU more popular/accessible. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks!

submitted by /u/DomineAppleTree
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So, does anyone know any charities which could help R. Rapey's Victims?

4 November 2021 at 13:23

R. Rapey (R. Kelly) did some of the most disgusting abuse of children I have seen since reading the accounts a man gave of his mother's abuse in A Child It. Teenage Children were forced to eat feces and drink urine and engage in bondage.

What type of Charities could I contact for my Church to help me and my church help could help black victims of child sexual abuse like R. Rapey's?

submitted by /u/OdinsGraycat
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Any Meadville-Lombard seminarians here?

5 November 2021 at 20:08

Hello my beautiful UU folks,

Any Meadville-Lombard seminarians here? I'm applying as a transfer from my current seminary (I moved across the country and they don't offer an online program) and would love to chat!

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Is it common to continue going to other churches/temples after joining a UUC?

9 November 2021 at 12:50

Our nuclear family is mixed faith. I was raised Catholic, still consider myself Catholic, but I am also a perennialist, who respects and loves to study the truth at the core of all faiths.

Would it be frowned upon to take my family to a UUC, while I continue to go to church from time to time at my Catholic parish as well?

submitted by /u/omwayhome
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What is a typical service like?

16 November 2021 at 00:16

I have an interest in possibly attending a Unitarian Universalist Church in the future if I get the opportunity, but I curious of what the average service is like. I’m not Christian (ex Catholic), and I’m worried it could just be like a nondenominational Protestant service. Thank you for any answers

submitted by /u/Friendlynortherner
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Religion Recommendations I Guess?

26 November 2021 at 18:25

So, from what I've seen of it so far, I love UU. Very inclusive and socially open. However, I understand that there is not such an emphasis on God and the Divine. For me, I feel like it might be important to be a part of a congregation that emphasizes God more. But I do have a particular idea of God- namely, I would call myself a Unitarian (which already excludes most Christian traditions) Panentheist. A lot of traditions within Brahmanism, Sufism, Judaism, and others have similar ideas about God. I have been attracted to a few different religions- Bahai, Buddhism, Sikhism, even Islam and Hinduism- but when I dig deeper I usually find something or another that keeps me from converting. So my question is this: Is there a congregation/religion that is socially and intellectually open like UU, while maintaining intellectual honesty, while also emphasizing an approach to God similar to what I've described? Bonus if the congregation is not super boring (sorry for bluntness) and/or has a strong community and/or actually does stuff for their community. This may be a hard ask. Thanks in advance!

submitted by /u/HerbieLoadedFully
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Children’s books about the nativity story for nonbelievers?

28 November 2021 at 06:50

Are there any children’s books about the nativity story that don’t assume the reader is Christian? Like that are told the way the Judeo-Christian cannon tells “myths” from other traditions? Maybe with like “their king” or “their savior” instead of “our/your savior”?

My wife and I are UU and don’t consider ourselves Christian. We celebrate Christmas and want to teach our children about Christianity as well as other world religions, and don’t want to treat the Christian perspective as the default.

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How important is it to...

5 December 2021 at 22:24

Wear a mask in public and get vaccinated in order to protect others from getting the virus?

View Poll

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Any Congregation Recommendations in KC Area?

5 December 2021 at 22:42

I live about 45 min out from KC (Kansas side). There is a local UU congregation where i live, but they are still closed due to COVID, and there were no people my age in the Zoom service I went to, and that makes connecting with others and making friends hard. So, I figured I would expand my search. Are there any good UU congregations in KC? I have been watching some services of All Souls Unitarian in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and noticed that there's a congregation of the same name in KC. Are they affiliated or similar at all? Thanks!

submitted by /u/HerbieLoadedFully
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Flaming Chalice candle holders for sale.

8 December 2021 at 13:36
Flaming Chalice candle holders for sale.

I am a UU potter and make chalices. Tiny ones to fit in a bag, table chalices for home and large boat chalices for sanctuaries. Check out the different colors and styles at www.flamingchalice.com

https://preview.redd.it/klmxnh935d481.jpg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=33b94655e8a1f5feab0ca66cce0d827a1f8cfb10

submitted by /u/Chalicelady
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Is the UU church for me?

12 December 2021 at 21:19

Lately, I have been a spiritual wanderer sort to speak attempting to find a place that best fits my understanding of spirituality, ethics, morals, etc.

For while (since 2016), I’ve been as involved as I can with many religious communities attempting to find what fit the best.

Admittedly, I was reluctant to embrace the UU church. Not because it was a bad option, quite the contrary actually, but because I felt for some reason my beliefs already existed in full in some crevice of a pre-established religion with it’s own book or doctrine detailing a comprehensive theology, etc.

To my dismay that doesn’t seem to be the case. Atleast not in a mainstream sense.

I come from a Mahayana Buddhist background. The Dharmic religions always seemed to have made the most sense to me but I’ve always appreciated Abrahamic religions as well. I still have a great interest in them.

I also am very much interested in the occult and esoteric world concepts. I also have a background in New Ageism and upon recently learning it’s esoteric ties I enjoy their ideas very much.

Ultimately, because I haven’t made a decision I lack what I really want in a religion which is a sense of community to share and discuss beliefs with people but also put into practice in a very real and tangible way of helping people.

It does concern me how UU doesn’t have a holy text, rituals, etc but that’s only because that’s what I often associate a religious body to have. However, I guess in this case it’s a good thing because it alleviates the church from being dogmatic.

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I give up (on my local UU church, will look elsewhere)

13 December 2021 at 09:12

I'm more aligned with UU than I am with liberal Christianity, and I should probably be able to find my home there, but I just cannot with my local church. Maybe I'm stuck in the past - they had a great, challenging, interesting minister years ago (he retired). I attended yesterday, the current minister tends to "scold" the congregation for all the things they aren't doing well enough (having their own beliefs, not being covenental enough, not respecting "God language" and Christianity enough, posing the possible risk that we won't do what minister wants us to do next with sufficient seriousness and reverence ). I really don't need to spend my Sunday socially distanced, in a mask, scolded, and then hustled out (because no coffee hour and no socializing permitted at this time). I'm also now wondering if minister really does respect humanists and others who aren't of minister's particular "pro-God-talk" mindset. What will we be "corrected" for next?

I want UU to survive, I think that it offers something that we need and cannot usually get elsewhere, but sometimes I look at individual churches and wonder how that will be possible.

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Positive UU depiction in Pen15 on Hulu

13 December 2021 at 11:44

The comedy series Pen15 actually has a UU main character whose church isn't treated like a joke (hey, Simpsons!). I've never seen that before to this extent (this is where you feel free to tell me I'm missing some obvious reference).

(NPR story where creator/star Anna Konkle mentions UU background, warning for sexual content)

Now, I know it's not a show for everyone (gets pretty uncomfortable at times, but is hilarious IMO), but it was super refreshing this season just to see a UU church youth group, some UU stuff in the community, and even a UU service, like you would any other religion that a character happened to be part of. Chalices in the background and all.

Two discussion questions:

Did the youth group give anyone else flashbacks to their '90s/early 2000s YRUU or RE experience?

And equally important, does anyone's real church have quilts draped on all the pews? It seems like something we'd do. 😉

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How does / does your UU congregation celebrate Christmas?

22 December 2021 at 18:22

We are not a Christian church, but I really enjoy our candlelight and carols service on Christmas Eve.
We practice a secular Christmas at home and it's nice to be able to enjoy that with our church friends.

While our church occasionally talks about Jesus as a teacher during the year......... talk about the nativity, or the Holy Family, or angels, etc. is not part of our holiday celebration. We do non-religious carols like Good King Wenceslas , Jingle Bells, Winter Wonderland, Silver Bells. There might a "savior" or two in there, IDK, I don't really care.

We also have a solstice celebration with earth poems and bonfires and intention setting practices.

Does your church do anything for the holiday season?

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Seeking liberal young adult community/advice

26 December 2021 at 20:41

Hello, I'm a married man in my late 20s and expecting a baby. I used to be a devout evangelical Christian, but has grown more and more liberal over the past 5 years. I have studied buddhism and some new age-like (or should I say non-dual) traditions (such as A Course in Miracles and Seth) , and recently become more interested in psychedelics after several impactful experiences with psilocybin mushroom.

Both my wife and I are in the mental health field. We both find it hard to find local young adult friends that also have interest in progressive spirituality.

I live in Ontario, Canada. Our local UU church is mostly nice, elderly adults. The lack of people in 20s and 30s bothers me though. I really wonder why this is. Where are the spiritually-inclined younger people? Do people here have any advice for me?

Thanks.

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Have Unitarians lost their way?

31 December 2021 at 00:15

I was raised in a Unitarian church, and while I still find the basic principles and values to be worthy, I haven't been a regular church attendee since my mid teens. I'm 64 now. I should state that I grew up in Silicon Valley, so that you understand that science was the focus of a lot of the people my family interfaced with. I have been atheist since a very tender age (maybe 6 or 7).

I recently started dating after a divorce, and came across a UU minister who was single. She explained the diversity of her church, including New Age spiritual people and pagans.

I always felt that the principle that we use Reason to interpret the world around us was one of the stronger components of the the Unitarian belief set. But I would consider New Age spiritualism and paganism to be too herpy-derpy to even apply Reason to figure out where they fit in the world.

Have Unitarians become too tolerant of silly things like this? What's next, astrology? I know we're supposed to be Tolerant of all, but when we compromise Reason in favor of Tolerance, we end up with mental mush.

What do you think?

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Are you a Theist?

2 January 2022 at 18:51

This is purely out of curiosity from me. Please do not complain about another poll. Lol

View Poll

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Upcoming Retreats? Mental health at all time low

5 January 2022 at 14:23

Need some help.

Best friend checked himself on suicide watch. (Great- I’m proud of him!) Treatment restricts communication w friends (bad for me)

Another good friend passed away last year. (Horrible)

Single dad to special needs son (blessing, but challenge)

On uua.org many links for references to conference centers that host UU retreats, most are canceled due to covid.

Anyone of any upcoming retreats? I’m needing help. Thanks

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New to uu - looking for online groups

10 January 2022 at 03:14

I've just discovered uu and am looking for online support as there is no uu churches in my areas.

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What do you believe?

23 January 2022 at 22:01

Similar to a previous poll I posted. I'm honestly just curious.

I wanted to add an option for 'other' and 'I don't know', but ran out of poll options. If this applies to you, you can comment below!

View Poll

submitted by /u/Rising_Phoenyx
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I want to visit my towns uu church but I’m very nervous.

27 January 2022 at 21:52

I have a lot of anxiety and I’m wondering if it’s really ok to just show up on Sunday? Should I email or call before the first time I go? I don’t know how active it is or what’s expected of me. I’m sure I’m over thinking this lol.

I watch a service from the town over online so I have a little bit of knowledge. But I really want to go to a service in person. I don’t know what I’m really looking for. Maybe some reassurance or stories from your first time at a service?

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Suggestions for kids books?

29 January 2022 at 22:01

I'm looking for some books to share with my child - especially ones that tell about different religious stories and practices, appreciation of differences, and love of nature. Any suggestions?

My child is about 2 years old, so I'm looking for ones that would be appropriate for toddlers. But, I'm also open to favorite books for older kids too.

Unfortunately we don't live anywhere close to a UU community, so going to a congregational library isn't an option for us.

Thanks!

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Using Minecraft to dismantle racism & ableism: My brief video for a Unitarian Universalist project.

2 February 2022 at 22:19

“MAD Pride Palace: Rolling Over Racism” is the title of my newest video, less than 11 minutes long.

I’m a quadriplegic, so to make this brief video I used the videogame Minecraft to create it with support from several caregivers & friends. This is a portfolio for our Unitarian Universalist Beloved Conversations, a program for seeking to embody racial justice as a spiritual practice.

I especially want to thank Elijah Gittens, who repeated my voice for clarity. Produced by Aciu! Institute. I played the parrot.

I would love to hear your reaction, publicly or message me.

Click here to watch my video, please share & comment:

https://youtu.be/pHpK1sgaFVs

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The Vocal Minority — How Did Atheism Come To Dominate The Religious Conversation On Reddit

7 February 2022 at 18:08

Don’t know if this is the right place to post this, but it honestly felt like the only place I could, as well as potentially fitting with UU’s philosophy of respecting all belief systems, and besides the idea is in my head and I just feel the need to write it out. Forgive me if I am wrong in posting this here.

So, as the titles says, it’s no secret that atheism (or perhaps more accurately anti-theism) absolutely dominates the spiritual conversation on Reddit. r/atheism is a big sub, anti-religious subs seem to outnumber the straightforwardly religious ones (they are certainly pushed further by the site’s search and algorithms), subs like r/religion — ostensibly devoted to discussion about religion — are instead devoted almost entirely to atheists criticizing and trying poke holes in it (the same “gotcha!”/mic drop atheist talking points like “why does god let babies have cancer?” are repeated ad nauseam) and many of the larger religious subs regularly have zealous atheists storming in to hijack the conversation. Even non-religious subs occasionally have them barge in to tear down others’s religion (mention Catholicism in any way and chance of sparks flying increases exponentially). Atheists are upvoted and rewarded constantly for their opinions, to an almost suspicious degree.

And yet they are the minority; Reddit atheists continuously claim their lack of belief is rising, but even a cursory reading of the data shows this is untrue and can only be claimed through blatant skewing of information to support such a narrative; namely lumping atheism in with three other demographics — secular, irreligious, and agnostic people — and acting like this combined grouping all represents atheists… when they actually form the smallest demographic in that grouping, being vastly outnumbered by people who are theistic, agnostic, and/or influenced by religious principles but do not participate in any organized religion — e.g., people who identify as Christian but do not regularly attend church, people who express general spirituality but do not ascribe to any specific group, people who simply haven’t decided they believe, etc..

The idea that religious belief is “dying” or “declining” is farcical clickbait; it is true and provable that attendance of churches and such is declining in much of the developed world, but church attendance does not equal faith; many people these days believe in higher powers and the supernatural and simply do not see organizations like churches or such as necessary to express or hold that faith. I myself am among them. I believe strongly in God and the afterlife, but see churches as mere places of teaching/advice/shelter rather then some necessary aspect of believing. No matter which way you slice it, atheism is a small minority, with the overwhelming majority of people identifying with some sort of faith; religion may be becoming more personal, but it is going nowhere soon.

So why do atheists so utterly dominate Reddit? And could the site culture in anyway change to foster more equal religious discussion on Reddit? Clearly these angry, intolerant atheists are a vocal minority and social media does not represent the whole (I have not known many atheists in real life — proving the point about them being a minority — but those I did know were good, normal people who respected others), but I have not encountered this problem with actual religious groups online; the extremists are there, but do not dominate as with atheists.

To be clear; this is not to suggest that atheism is any less valid a belief then any other. Such an idea would be contrary to the ideals of this movement. I am simply seeking to start conversation about the possibility of improving online discourse (if that’s possible; as an internet veteran, I have generally leaned more into simply ignoring The DiscourseTM due to its lack of value).

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I want to try and be a UU, but boy does a service really bring the Catholic PTSD feeling back in strong…

11 February 2022 at 01:09

Former Catholic and now UUs, how do you reconcile the similarities? Jesus!!!! (For lack of a better term)

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I attended my first in person UU service today!

13 February 2022 at 13:52

Thank you to everyone that suggested I go. I did email them and got two responses saying to wear my mask and that I was welcome to come.

It’s a very small group of people that are a little older. They don’t have a minister so they take turns doing the service. Todays was on the history of Valentine’s Day and love. It was so wonderful.

It was everything I wanted it to be and I will be going back!

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Howdy!

14 February 2022 at 09:36

I am unique when it comes to being a Unitarian Universalist. My beliefs follow those of one of the denominations that founded the UUA, the Universalist Church of America (1886 to 1961). My beliefs as a Trinitarian Universalist differ greatly from those of the majority of you, which is good. My views are continually shifting, as does my understanding of religious expression. What draws me to UU is its emphasis on action and [radical] love. My confession of faith, which is a paraphrase of the Winchester Profession of Faith, is as follows:

I. I truly believe that the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments reveal God's character as well as mankind's responsibility, interest, and ultimate destiny.

II. I believe in one God, whose nature is Love, revealed in one Lord Jesus Christ by one Holy Spirit of Grace, who will eventually restore the entire human family to righteousness and happiness.

III. I maintain that holiness and genuine happiness are closely intertwined and that believers should take care to keep order and do selfless acts because these things are beneficial and helpful to humanity.

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Disillusioned but not Dejected

14 February 2022 at 18:48

For those who responded to my initial post, thank you for welcoming me! I have stated that I'm looking for a Universalist church modeled after the Universalist Church of America. It's been extremely disconcerting that I haven't been able to find such a place of worship. Unfortunately, there's no interest in starting one in my area, leaving me with little options. I'm comfortable enough attending a UU church but do feel somewhat out of place. My beliefs are squarely in the 19th incarnation of Universalist theology, yet I'm not a Unitarian. There is but one congregation (First Universalist in Providence, RI) that fits the bill but I live too far to attend services and be an active member. My other options are to worship with the Sanctuary Downtown (Denver) and Community Universalist Church (Christian Universalist Association). Both options don't fit, leading to a crisis of sorts. First Universalist doesn't offer live streaming nor do they record their services.

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Understanding Christian discernment from a UU perspective

24 February 2022 at 09:30

Hello all! I have been greatly heartened by the last time I posted here regarding spiritual issues. When I post on Christian subs, it is kind of...conservative most of the time. God is big!

To clarify, I identify as UU and believe all Gods are one. However, my therapist is Christian and so when I speak to her, I use God for the ease of communication. I learned about the Christian idea of discernment from a Christian minister with UU experience - essentially if you feel calm and at peace, that would be discernment. Unease = not.

(I understand that all these are big ideas, I am simplifying so I don't write an entire novel here. I have been UU for about 15 years now.)

I am at an in-between space in my life where I need to make clear choices about certain things, including careers and choice of residence. Understandably these are not easy to make! I have done some good work with a UU spiritual director - in our conversations, a certain career choice felt "right" and gave me great peace of mind.

While working on this with my therapist before (this was before the UU director) she once asked me "what does God want you to do?" While God has occasionally answered with thunder and trumpets before (most of my many spiritual experiences have been numinous in nature) I felt peace in contemplation.

Putting the two and two together, I was wondering if God was answering because discernment = peace with a certain decision?

I am well aware that the spirit cannot be fully comprehended with the mind, yet we all have minds, which is how I am writing this. Since I am not part of any congregation at the moment, I thought I would ask here. I am continuing to pray on it.

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Just wanted to leave you with this today

26 February 2022 at 03:47

Edit: Just to clarify, I never meant to be disrespectful or anything, i am an universalist and didnt mean to be offensive. I was drawn to UU because it seems more free to believe whatever you want to believe, and mix and match between different religions. I love this, and would like to spend some more time in UU circles. Thought this might be appreciated here, but if i offended anyone, I am sorry and it was not my intention. I an open to people having different religious views, an open way of looking at faith and religion. Just wanted to spread some love ❤️

Luke 3:6 "And all people will see God's salvation." (NIV)

John 17:2 "since thou hast given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom thou hast given him." (RSV)

1 Corinthians 15:22[28] "For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive." (ESV)

1 John 2:2 "He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." (NIV)

Romans 5:18 "Then as one man's trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one man's act of righteousness leads to acquittal and life for all men." (RSV)

Romans 11:32[28] "For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all." (NIV)

John‬ ‭1:16‬ ”For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.” (ESV)

All people shall be saved, jew and gentile, man and woman. We are all saved by the grace of God.

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Religious Discussion Groups

2 March 2022 at 21:57

Are there any online UU different religions discussion groups? I'm not entirely sure if this even is a thing, but the congregation where I'm at in the world isn't very interested in the discussion of it very much and focuses way more on secular humanism (which is great for sure). I just want to talk with others more about our spiritual journeys, topics in different religions, etc. Is this something that exists?

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Former Muslim here. Do I have a place here?

13 March 2022 at 10:34

As you can see, I wrote about my experiences within Islam as a convert in my history. I still believe in One God. I still think Muhammad was a Prophet and that Jesus was the Messiah. I just don't think Islam itself is good for my future. Do I have a place within UU?

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UU Foster Parents

17 March 2022 at 01:20

I’m a foster parent and I’ve noticed there are very few UU foster parents compared to other local churches and their involvement in foster care. My minister explained it to me that UUs are more focused on tackling the systematic problems that cause foster care to be necessary, rather than the end result of children needing safe homes to live in.

I’m wondering if there are any UU foster parents here, or if you know of any UU Foster Care groups or ministries? It’s starting to feel pretty lonely over here.

I tried making a foster care Ministry in my own church, but there just wasn’t any interest from other congregants, and there’s been little practical support from my local congregation.

When I read about the support foster parents get in other local churches (meal trains, babysitting, baby showers, mentoring, tutoring, driving, help around the house, etc) I admit to feeling jealous or wistful. But I’m not interested in joining a Christian church, and I actively want the kids in our care to experience my congregations RE and Owl programs.

I’d really just love to talk some foster parents who are UU. I don’t know anyone else who’s a foster parent, and it would be nice to talk to other people who have similar interests, struggles, and life experiences.

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What if I am Universalist but not Unitarian? Will I fit into a UU church? Have you come across other UU members/pastors that share a similar position?

22 March 2022 at 20:34

Hi all,

I think the title of my post says it all. Basically I believe in the trinity and I believe in the divinity of Jesus, but I am universalist. Would I be totally at odds walking into a UU church with both the people and the sermons etc? Is it common to occasionally come across a UU member or even a pastor with these beliefs? I find my beliefs really don't fit into a theological bucket very well. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

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Are anti-vaxers welcome?

23 March 2022 at 10:25

Or how does a UU church deal with members who choose not to get vaccinated?

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Multi-Faith discussions, come join us today.

31 March 2022 at 02:40

All faiths are welcome, small group of 4000+ members, for religious discussions and general chats.

Official Discord: https://discord.gg/theology

Partner website chat: thechat.cafe/theology/

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I have noticed my body heating up in prayer, EFT, or sometimes in therapy. What does it mean?

4 April 2022 at 22:50

Crossposted from /energywork to get more insights.

I'm going through a difficult time now and I'm praying as one of my ways of coping. My therapist once said in a landmark session that the body is connected to the Spirit, and I have experienced that.

In doing energy work and LoA stuff, I've also noticed that my body heats up whenever this happens. It's not extreme heat and I don't sweat, but I definitely feel hotter. Seems to happen when I'm doing any of the above.

I've had many spiritual experiences across varied traditions (Jhanna, experiences of Christ etc) but heat is constant.

Any wisdom on this would be appreciated!

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YA Ministry Newsletter - April 2022

5 April 2022 at 16:30

Hello Everyone, I hope to start participating more often here. Part of why I want to be here is to share my monthly newsletter, The Sweet Potato, a roundup of UU young adult ministries. The April 2022 edition just came out. Anyone is welcome to read and sign up to get it, as we especially encourage older adults to share this resource with UU young adults in their lives. Thank you for reading.

http://www.icontact-archive.com/archive?c=1865738&f=2835&s=2967&m=88704&t=4d346956761806c231ebb15964ac288f52d3b81aae1182ca96cb7e7e69be25b5

Also this newsletter is part of the work of the Young Adult Revival Network - uuyarn.org

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Cognitive Dissonance on the principles (More specifically 1 and 2)

5 April 2022 at 16:44

How does one deal when struggling with the principles, most specifically the first two?

I'm finding it hard to find worth and dignity in certain people...

I'm finding it hard to deal with certain people compassionately...

These certain people mean me and people close to me harm. I've got friends that are LGBTQ+ and I will defend them and their rights, using violence if necessary.

That doesn't sound too UU to me.

What do you do when you're confronted with certain people that go so far against your beliefs that you find it hard to feel any sort of worth in them?

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Sexual abuse

8 April 2022 at 16:28

Do any of you have any resources for individuals sexually abused by religious professionals? I have been searching for a support group and can’t find one.


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Are you a UU Theist?

9 April 2022 at 16:58

I'm just wondering if I'd be an odd one out in a UU congregation

My beliefs fluctuate between polytheism and panentheism

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Is there a specific reason for the existence of both this sub and r/unitarianuniversalist?

23 April 2022 at 23:08

What I mean is has there been some point(s) of contention in the past or some sort of schism? I notice this sub has more moderators.

edit: I've also come across UUnderstanding and what I've seen there sems pretty disturbing and very alt-right to me. Just trying to understand if UU is a good path or a good fit for me...

I've made other posts this evening if anyone wants to check those out and offer any feedback.

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Is UU actually trans and queer positive?

28 April 2022 at 15:24

because so far, the answer I'm getting is no, not really. I'm sensing a lot of using the fourth principle as an excuse to be either outright phobic or to "both sides" issues of bigotry. See:

https://old.reddit.com/r/UUreddit/comments/ualfsr/is_there_a_specific_reason_for_the_existence_of/i6j1n2q/?context=10000

I'm honestly not trying to stir anything up, I just feel disappointed rn.

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My thoughts on the first principle and evil

3 May 2022 at 03:30

I'm still figuring out if UU is the right path for me. I've been thinking a lot about the first principle and how challenging that can actually be.

Of course it informs us that actions which violate the worth and dignity of the individual ought to be condemned and never tolerated, actions including but not limited to murder, rape, child molestation, assault, abuse, discrimination, white supremacy and many others. But that's the easy part, isn't it?

But how are we to affirm the worth and dignity of even the people who themselves have commited these acts, ie. the rapists, murders, assaulters and oppressors? To my mind, the first principle firstly rejects the idea that anybody is "born evil", and that every person has the inherent potential for goodness.

Secondly, it seems to inform that even in the case of someone who has commited terrible actions and needs to face the consequences of those actions (for example being removed from society and placed somewhere where they can't cause further harm) we still have a moral obligation to see the human being and that we ought to oppose capital punishment or any form of cruel and unusual punishment and that the first aim of justice should always be rehabilitative/restorative rather than punitive for the sake of vengeance.

I also have the thought that harmful actions themselves are not the result of some supernatural evil, but rather (often but not always) the result of traumas, mental defects, mental illness, and other factors that a society is better able to address when we do recognize that every person has inherent worth and dignity. That's not to say that people don't have personal responsibility for their actions, but rather that we shouldn't dehumanize anybody, regardless of what they have done, as a pretext to treat them as though they are some kind of monster rather than human.

Lastly, I suspect the first principle is the first precisely because it is challenging and difficult, and it does present certain paradoxes.

I don't know really what other UU's think of all this. I don't know if this is what is actually meant in the first principle. Maybe I have it all wrong? What are your thoughts? Would this community be a good place for me?

EDIT: I want to thank the people who have shared their thoughts with me, on this post and others I have made recently. I have come to the conclusion that UU is not the path for me. I simply cannot reconcile the first principle, and the contradictions I see within it, with my own view and experience of human nature. Nor can I with those I see in some of the other principles as well. In some ways I admire you all. But I don't think I'm one of you. So I think I'll return to the outskirts, and wander for a while longer.

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Essay: "Why the UUA is Doomed to Fail"

7 May 2022 at 14:53

From the author: "The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) is attempting to both increase general UU membership and greatly increase racial minority membership. While the goals are admirable, the UUA’s approach is ill-conceived and likely to fail."

https://davidcycleback.com/2022/05/05/why-the-uua-is-doomed-to-fail/

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❌