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Looking to make friends :)

By: /u/Oakandoracle

I’m new to the UU faith and don’t have a community or congregation anywhere near me.

I’m just wanting to see if there’s anyone who would want to be friends :)

A little about me

  • 24 y/o F
  • practices Celtic and pagan spirituality paths
  • from BC Canada !!
  • 🍃🍃friendly
submitted by /u/Oakandoracle
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New to Unitarian Universalism. Where should I look and how can I join/participate?

By: /u/goliv04053

I'm Brazilian and got out of religion (ex-christian). Nothing against the minister of the church I were member but I became oversaturated with religion. Born and raised in a Christian family sometimes make it a one choice and others.... You know the rest.

My mom is a member of a Assembly of God church but when I was young I preferred the baptists because I considered (and kinda consider them in some ways as Moderates).

But as various protestants and neo-pentecostals churches do the thing like: The other religion follow the devil and yadda yadda. They will go to hell if they don't convert. I think you all know the rest. And when I begun to think more outside of the box even if I was on a slow pace or thinking outside but not much I still get annoyed because of some hypocrite behaviors and like: "We are good and the other religion is bad and worship the devil" but when you look the "devil worshiping people" you see them doing more to help people than "us".

In resume, got out and I feel better. Taking care of my mental and physical health. And I want to join something with the same ideals like mine so I chose UU. How can I learn more and how can I join?

Tl;dr: Ex-christian (Baptist / Brazilian Baptist Convention) who got oversaturated by religion because of being raised in a Christian family who wants to know more and thinks joining UU.

Sorry for the long text. And also, my English sometimes get broken. Also, writing this question inside a bus.

submitted by /u/goliv04053
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My church has a problem with social media.

By: /u/arsenokoitai96

My church (close to Boston hint) has a problem with social media.

An instagram account never used and a facebook that posts the live transmission each Sunday. Need some advices friends of this fellowship of Reddit.

I have been thinking church is this two way street that getting to know each other makes people to know us as a church community. I need ideas but it feels the congregation faces melancholy of a past splendor or a past minister... I think getting to know each other is the first step of any outreach idea. An ongoing to know each other that keeps the theology of fellowship and unity alive. But, in my case, many of the church members say hi the first weeks and then go back to their groups of friends... I wish I could have more tools to sort dialogue and conversation with Congregations where most of its members are old beyond the age of Jesus Christ.

submitted by /u/arsenokoitai96
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Chalice Lighting Words Based on Stress

By: /u/JaredTheMountainLion

So, the youth group at my church is doing a sermon based on stress and procrastinating. They asked me to help them with the chalice lighting because they couldn't think of anything, and as it turns out, neither can I.

Collectively, we came up with this:

"Be mindful that with life comes stress and anxiety, We light this chalice in hopes of warding off all the negativity, if only for this day"

We're unsure what we think of it. Is there anything better or is this good enough?

submitted by /u/JaredTheMountainLion
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A new website hosting town hall meetings on the upcoming Article II vote.

By: /u/EarnestAbe

https://uutheconversation.org/

The topic is the upcoming GA vote to replace the Seven Principles with the Six Values (+ Love). The first planned town hall web meeting is March 27.

https://uutheconversation.org/index.php/town-hall-meetings/

(Note that there was a Fifth Principle Project announcement about this. I am unsure of how coordinated this effort is with the "Save the Seven Principles" website and Facebook group.)

submitted by /u/EarnestAbe
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"What Unitarian Universalism Loses as it Becomes Politically Narrow"

By: /u/rastancovitz

What Unitarian Universalism loses as it becomes politically narrow

Two quotes from the online piece:

"The narrowing of political perspectives within the Unitarian Universalist community poses significant harm to the church and its members. This trend towards ideological homogeneity often transforms UU spaces into monoliths, fostering echo chambers characterized by groupthink and intellectual laziness. Such insular environments exacerbate extremism and 'us versus them' tribalism, not just within UU but in greater society."

"In many respects, the national church has transformed into a partisan political organization rather than a religion. Even many UU laity who are politically left and social justice activists have expressed discomfort with the idea of the church functioning as a political platform. They come to a church for spiritual growth and an oasis from the toxicity they get from the news and social media in their daily life."

submitted by /u/rastancovitz
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Alternatives to UU?

By: /u/ShreksMiami

My husband and I have recently moved to a new town, and the people at our local UU are really un -welcoming. It’s not a bad church, we’re just introverts and have felt pretty awkward and not welcome at the church. There also isn’t a coffee hour, or any kind of mingling time, which there was at our old UU, and that allowed us to get to know people. Also, we’re probably 20-40 years younger than her than most congregants.

We are wondering if there are any similar churches that anyone knows of that we can try. It’s a mid-size town, about 40,000 people, so there won’t be a ton of options. Does anyone have any ideas?

submitted by /u/ShreksMiami
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OWL question

By: /u/clawhammercrow

I am posing this here before I take it to our DRE or minister. Are there resources for families that can be accessed between OWL sessions? My 7th grader got shafted by lockdown and has never been to OWL. They just finished a 4-6th grade session, and the unit for his cohort starts this fall. I need guidance now on burgeoning sexuality, particularly around pornography use. Due to the way he communicates with me, I think our relationship and trust level would suffer if I was the one leading this conversation, and six months is a long time to wait for help.

submitted by /u/clawhammercrow
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Church committee heavy lifts?

By: /u/_jhb

Hi friends,

I go to a church in the greater Boston area and have an observation about the committees that I am part of. It seems as though every committee has a pretty heavy lift and does many activities with a fairly large time commitment involved. This is fine, and I am glad to help, but I wish people would chill a little. Has anyone else had similar experiences with committees and committee work at their church?

Also, just an observation in general: I wish that there was more time devoted to getting to know each other at said church. I understand the point of outreach and getting new members, but I wish the faith as a whole worked at cultivating its current members more. (Maybe that's a generalization.)

Thoughts? Thanks for reading.

submitted by /u/_jhb
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UU Social Media Policies/Online Code of Conduct

By: /u/unseelieseed

Do any of you have any policies in place at your congregations for both staff and members regarding social media policies and online codes of conduct? Curious about what that would look like.

submitted by /u/unseelieseed
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Lovely podcast about Justice

By: /u/Odd-Importance-9849
Lovely podcast about Justice

A friend recently recommended a podcast called The Emerald to me. The most recent episode is called Justice and I found it quite beautiful. It's a podcast so it's lomg of course.

submitted by /u/Odd-Importance-9849
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Our Whole Lives (Owl) programs as non church goers?

By: /u/OhGoOnYou

Whenever sex education is brought up in a reddit discussion, there is mention of the OWL program. I have kids and I'm looking for a supplementary sex education program for them. Are these programs just for UU members? Or can non church goers attend? How do I find a program? We are in Oregon, near Portland.

submitted by /u/OhGoOnYou
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Do we UUs really listen to minorities or just those minorities we agree with?

By: /u/rastancovitz

Two example from the below post:

The large majority of blacks and Latinos polled said that they did not find offensive so-called microaggressions such as, "America is a land of opportunity," "Where are you from?," "I don't notice people's race," and "Everyone can succeed in this society if they work hard enough." Commenting on the poll, Columbia University sociologist Musa Al-Gharbi wrote, "(M)any whites, in their eagerness to present themselves as advocates for people of color and the cause of antiracism, neglect to actually listen to ordinary black or brown folk about what they find offensive, or what their racial priorities are.

In 2020, Minneapolis activists vigorously pushed for defunding the police, leading to the city council to endorse the idea. However, when they later surveyed the black community, a large majority did not support this cause. As a result, a ballot proposal to defund the police was overwhelmingly rejected, with 75% of black voters opposing it. National polls consistently indicate that the majority of black Americans want an equal or increased police presence in their neighborhoods.

The Consequences of Ignorance and False Assumptions in Activism

submitted by /u/rastancovitz
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Small Jewish Groups

By: /u/commonorange

Would it be normal to have small “Jewish” groups for anyone interested at a UU church? Would that be a weird thing to propose? I am Jewish but our local synagogues are brutal with social stuff and not overly welcoming. I love the local UU church and I love the general approaches (religious Ed, atmosphere of welcoming) but I want a little more spirituality than it offers. I’m wondering if any UU groups ever experiment with Shabbat dinners or Rosh Chodesh (Jewish women’s celebration focused on the moon).

submitted by /u/commonorange
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Observing Lent

By: /u/SnooPeppers7217

Anyone here observing Lent?

As a former Catholic, I have to say I always enjoyed Lent. Forty days of “giving up” something and starting with Ash Wednesday, which is a reminder of our mortality. I always felt Lent was the only mystical or deeply meditative aspect of Catholicism (obviously people may disagree).

Even now as a UU I observe. Anyone else feel similar?

submitted by /u/SnooPeppers7217
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How is this a religion?

By: /u/Bobandwalter_1983

It seems that this is just Atheism but religious, so I'm wondering how it's a religion and not an idealogy as unlike Satanism it doesn't have a God.

submitted by /u/Bobandwalter_1983
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I've been going through a rough breakup, mainly over the topic of religion.

By: /u/Full_Ahegao_Drip

I wouldn't say it's the only factor in me dumping her but I'd say it was the straw that broke the camel's back. She's born and raised Conservative Jewish while I'm born and raised Unitarian.

We get stereotyped as being only nominally religious but that's not the case for me. I spend well over a third of my yearly income and spend on average about 28 hours a week at directly UU-related functions usually as part of an older Northeastern US fellowship but I'm also active in helping support smaller facilities and causes.

Of course I was plenty open to converting to Judaism, even an Orthodox conversion since that's usually what's preferred for marriage even among the most liberal Jews. However I made it clear that I would continue to be active in my community and would expect her to at absolute minimum be respectful of my participation.

I did my best to tell her about how many Jews see zero contradiction between their Jewish faith/identity and UUA.

Yet whenever I took her to services and other events she was disparaging, called it the "most goyish thing" she'd ever seen.

Without getting into too much of a rant, she went out of her way to be disrespectful to myself and others.

It got to a point where she was bringing it up to say that I'm not a real man, which burns extra deep since I'm a trans man.

Long story short I basically told her this was a dealbreaker for me and that we could either come to some sort of compromise or we could go our separate ways. She wouldn't budge so as much as it hurt, I dumped her.

It sucks because out of all the people I've dated she's someone I very deeply fell in love with. We were friends and Krav Maga sparring partners for about a year before we started dating but it looks like we won't be able to be friends, it's too raw and painful.

But there's tittles of pride in that I put up a boundary and stood my ground even when it was torture.

This isn't necessarily a call for advice more of a vent. Share your own insights and experiences if you want.

submitted by /u/Full_Ahegao_Drip
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UUs and Cohousing

By: /u/smiling-heart

I heard ~11% of Cohousing residents (in the US) are UUs! Three cohousing communities are participating in events at the end of February. If you’re interested in learning more about San Francisco Bay area cohousing opportunities, consider joining February 24 or February 25 in person event. Details are posted here https://www.cohousing-solutions.com/artofneighboring

submitted by /u/smiling-heart
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Why are liberal Quakers considered Christian, but Unitarian Universalists aren't?

By: /u/VteChateaubriand

Seeing QuakerSpeak's video about a Muslim Quaker got me wondering why are Quakers considered Christian, even though they accept other religions like UU does? What is it that makes them different from the UU in a way that makes them Christian?

submitted by /u/VteChateaubriand
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Yet another money/tithe/pledge question...

By: /u/aint_noeasywayout

I've been deep diving in this subreddit and have found a lot of discussion around the money/tithe/pledge issue. It seems there are a lot of people who ultimately felt unwelcomed, or were outright told they were unwelcome, based on income. There are also a lot of folks saying that it doesn't matter, at least at their local churches.

I am stuck. Ten years ago I attended my local UU Church until it came time for pledging. I was a broke college student and struggled with transportation to the church. I distinctly recall talking to another member about how I couldn't afford even the lowest check box to pledge, and they told me to go without Starbucks once a week... I didn't eat out or drink at all at that point in my life. I didn't even respond because that response was enough for me to feel like these weren't my people, despite otherwise feeling very welcomed and like I belonged.

I am finding myself again in a place with a deep need for community. My family and I went to a service today and during the "offering", the stand in minister said that the offering was just as important as any other involvement in the church, if not more. It was heavy on the guilt. Only after the plate was back up was it stated that if we were joining for the first time, to skip the plate. Somehow, I forgot about this aspect of the church entirely. I was so stressed out the whole time about money. A family member had a donut and a cup of coffee and all I could think about was that we were being judged for what we left in the offering plate vs what we took. Probably paranoia, but I was really overwhelmed at the thought.

The church's website says that we should be giving 5-10% of our income. We are deeply in debt, have several thousand in medical bills alone every month, and are desperately trying to catch up. I'm not hurting like I was as a college student, but I'm still hurting in a way that 5-10% of our income would leave us beyond fucked, if I'm being completely honest.

I don't know exactly what I'm looking for with this post. I'm so lonely but I can't afford to pay for companionship at the level they want. And the church didn't feel like it once did. It was so empty, hardly anyone stayed to chat after service, and the service was awkward and boring. This month is apparently pledge month too, so we picked the worst time to start coming (again?).

submitted by /u/aint_noeasywayout
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UU in Iceland

By: /u/UrFace111

Are there any UU congregations in Iceland? We're planning a vow renewal there and I'm wondering if I can reach out to them for an officiant.

submitted by /u/UrFace111
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Are you an adult who was in foster care as a child?

By: /u/HeyitsWillow

Hello! I am a doctoral student exploring the outcomes for adult alumni of the foster care system and how trauma informed care may improve outcomes. Understanding that UU communities are passionate about social justice issues, I am considering the possibility that former foster youth may seek community in this space. If you are 18+ and experienced foster care, will you please take a moment to help me in my research? I appreciate your time! Thank you!

submitted by /u/HeyitsWillow
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Worshiping what exactly?

By: /u/kissfan7

Maybe this is a misstated question, but what exactly are we worshiping when the minister says "Come, let us worship."

I know for many UUs, the answer would be God. But for other UUs?

submitted by /u/kissfan7
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Question on Article II Section C-2.2 organization

By: /u/bemrys

Can anyone explain why the line "We work to be diverse multicultural Beloved Communities where all thrive." is in the Justice subsection and not in the Pluralism subsection?

I have no problem with the line, just wondering why it wasn't in Pluralism.

submitted by /u/bemrys
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What are memberships for?

I’ve looked around and from what it looks like, they’re just to give you more responsibility in the congregation? I would assume if you pay for it, that’s how the congregation is upkept because the Sunday donations go to local causes?

Someone please correct me if I’m wrong; I’m just trying to understand the difference between member and nonmember.


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Looking to go to a UU Service, advice?

By: /u/AStackOfUsedNapkins

I've been struggling a lot lately and am at a point where I really feel that I need community and something to really touch on the spirituality side of things. However, I have very very little experience with religion in general, and what little I do is tainted.

When younger, around 17, I was dragged to sunday service at a non-denominational mega campus style church, the kind where the church resembles a massive Ampitheater and there's a starbucks. It was, interesting, and you could kinda just wander in, all sorts of people would show up, you could get lost in a crowd. I stopped going and haven't really interacted with religion or spirituality in any serious way since.

Now, I'm a late 20s visibly queer brown woman, and from what I've read, UU congregations tend to skew older and white. I also imagine they are smaller. I'm terrified of showing up. I did find a service I want to attend (UU of Church of Buffalo), but have zero clue what to expect or how to show up.

Questions I have in no particular order:

-Do I need to RSVP before hand, or contact them to let them know I'll be arriving?

-What should I wear (I really only have ragged jeans and a tee)?

-How early should I arrive?

-What's proper etiquette?

Thanks for any help. I really want to show up.

submitted by /u/AStackOfUsedNapkins
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Only a few days left to approve amendments to be voted on at GA! They need 15 congregations each!

By: /u/Odd-Importance-9849

For anyone whose board (or congregation) hasn't reviewed amendments to Article II proposed by congregations, several still need a congregation or board to support them to make it. There are only 5 total that have been proposed. You can find two threads at discuss.uua.org. One thread has amendments that have not yet gotten enough support and the other thread has the ones that have. Please, they only need draft minutes from your board with approvals! Emails are provided for the contact people and they should be able to share with you forms to attach your minutes to.

submitted by /u/Odd-Importance-9849
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In the context of UU philosophy and theology, how many of you are interested in emergence and synergy?

By: /u/Odd-Importance-9849

More specifically, I'm wondering how many of you are excited about the ideas of Daniel Schmachtenberger, particularly what he has to say about emergence.

For those who don't know what I'm talking about, here's a taste: https://civilizationemerging.com/media-old/emergence/

submitted by /u/Odd-Importance-9849
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Is Water Communion based in any way on Robert A. Heinlein’s Stranger in a Strange Land?

By: /u/AardvarkPatient63

Recently, I was trying to remember the water brother ceremony from Robert A. Heinlein’s novel Stranger in a Strange Land (pub. 1961) and googled ‘Water Communion’ and was interested to see that is a practice in the UUA, started in 1980. Stranger in a Strange Land is a very spiritual book (the central message of which—or at least the message of the protagonist if not the author—is ‘Thou art god’) about which had an enormous influence on new age and ‘hippie’ (meant without pejorative) culture, and one of the central features is the ceremony of sharing the water of life (ie just water) , which establishes brotherhood (a term explicitly glossed in the book as being without gender due to the Martian language—one of the first water brothers of the protagonist is a woman). In other words, it’s plausible that people interested in the UUA would be reading and influenced by this book.

However, sharing water is hardly unique to Heinlein, and I don’t know anything about the history of Water Communion in the UUA beyond a cursory googling. Does anyone know if those who created the practice were inspired by Stranger in a Strange Land? Or is it just one of those coincidences, perhaps the two being cousins influenced by the same longer traditions about water?

submitted by /u/AardvarkPatient63
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Curious about a response to these articles

By: /u/Dayshade

Hey, I've become interested in spirituality and UU particularly (due to the pluralism/syncretism, rationalism, and lack of creeds) recently and came across these articles detailing some things that seem problematic to me - was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on them?

The first is at https://whyevolutionistrue.com/2024/01/02/the-uus-go-woke/ which links to https://news.fairforall.org/p/the-ideological-takeover-of-the-church

submitted by /u/Dayshade
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Discussion forums lessons learned?

By: /u/elTomPar

Do people have good examples or stories of digital forums to create connection and improve communication within a UU congregation? Any lessons learned to share? Open social media isn't cutting it. The idea is to have a closed, curated membership forum where people will be more open to sharing and discussion.

I'm presently advocating for a Discourse forums, or similar, in my own church. Here is a UUA example https://discuss.uua.org/.

Thanks.

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CUC National Events

By: /u/bengaliburgerboy

Does anyone know if the CUC holds any summer programs like SUUSI where I could meet more young adult UU followers like myself?

submitted by /u/bengaliburgerboy
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Hi everyone! Recent member here with a little question

By: /u/Ladderclimbert

I (25m) have been an agnostic/atheist who has received a Christian upbringing, and after some soul searching I started a spiritual journey of sorts. I tried to convert to Reform Judaism, a very progressive branch of Judaism, but geography and other reasons prevented me from doing so.

I felt a little defeated but that was until I found out about UU. I was in love with the idea of being united by the shared 7 principles, rather than scripture, traditon or religious law. This way I still get to explore my beliefs and such without worrying about whether or not am I violating the core beliefs of my chosen religion, and I still get to celebrate the Christian holidays with my family.

I "attend" UU online as I live in a European village with only a Catholic Church and a fundamentalist Baptist congregation. I love that there are no formal requirements in order to convert to UU, but I also feel that I lack something this way.

So my question would be: is it possible to get certificate that I'm now UU? Like a certificate of conversion? Like not even a physical one, just a pdf or something. Would a UU Rev grant me one if I were to contact one?

Happy New year btw!

submitted by /u/Ladderclimbert
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Dating

Hey everyone 👋🏾

I am a bipoc and would like to find people within the UU community to possibly date.

Does anyone have any advice on how I could find others to connect with?


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Holiday Season 2023

By: /u/Remarkable_Cream1423

Hey guys! Since the holidays are almost done, which ones did you celebrate? As someone who has ties to the UU Christian Fellowship, Advent Sunday marked the first day of a new year and the beginning of the holiday season. If you don’t necessarily celebrate them in the traditional sense, how do you? Thanks and have a happy end to 2023

submitted by /u/Remarkable_Cream1423
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Revised Ask

By: /u/RainbowRhymes

Since my previous post was apparently not clear enough, I'm looking for something closer to the now defunct Fellowship for Secular Humanist Unitarian Universalists (FSHUUN). Since this is no longer an option and my beliefs differ slightly, what are my options? A single fellowship is what I'm looking for, or perhaps two or three, that are more focused on deism and historical (18th ish century Unitarian/Universalism).

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Help!

By: /u/RainbowRhymes

Can someone point me to UU congregations that are deist-friendly? I had a list but alas, I lost it. Even if they aren't explicitly Deist, add them! Free-thinking congregations, members of the UU Christian Fellowship, and other fit my rather broad definition of deism. Streaming is important by the way

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UU World mag Fall/Winter 2024

By: /u/QueenZecora

has it been mailed out yet? I don't have mine. I know they stopped publishing once a season and now just 2x year, right?

submitted by /u/QueenZecora
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Is there like a better name for this?

By: /u/Bobandwalter_1983

Llike really, two words as the name for this ideology? When someone asks my view on religion I don't wanna say "oh I'm a Unitarian Universalist" it's super long.

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Is Unitarian (Universalism) a nationalist religion

By: /u/prescod

Why does each nation define their own principles and values rather than collaborating across imaginary lines on a map and having a global outlook?

Does any other religious tradition grant that level of prinacy to national organizations?

submitted by /u/prescod
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Young Adult Con -- All Welcome!

By: /u/quirkyhistory
Young Adult Con -- All Welcome!

Who: All 18-35 year olds

What: Fun weekend UU conference

When: January 12-14, 2023. Doors open at 7 pm (potluck dinner provided). Activities begin at 9.

Where: People’s Church of Kalamazoo

1758 N. 10th St. Kalamazoo, MI 49009

www.peopleschurch.net

Experience fabulous workshops, worship, games, food, friends and fun! Spend the weekend at the church with other UU young adults from around the region connecting, laughing, playing, resting, and filling your spirit.

submitted by /u/quirkyhistory
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What is the future of the church?

By: /u/estheredna

What do you think will make our church thrive and succeed in the next 5, 10, 15 years?

I was just reading Rev Debus's Hold My Chalice. She's asked by congregation leaders to come up with a plan and, she jokes, " I’m not sure they got what they were hoping for, because I think they were looking for the practical ideas they could implement." and then goes on to list out broader minsterly ideas the group could think about.

But it got me to thinking, if you were to write out practical, implementable ideas - what would you like to see change? It can be pie-in-the-sky ideas.

A few things I'd like to see

- the UUA to be as serious about reparations as they said they were last General Assembly. Live your values. I'd personally like to see a portion of that go to divinity school scholarships to diversify our pool of ministers.
- with the congregational minster shortage, more and meatier tools for congregations that are lay-led.
- more collaboration between churches, facilitated by regional staff. Let's stuff the newsletter with ideas and inspiration from members (not just think pieces by ministers or workshops by staffers). I want to know where i can find a CUUPs program or a Death Cafe. I want to know what different churches do for music, for social enrichment, for social justice. I want to think "Oh, that church down the road is good at ____ while the one two towns over is really strong in the ___ area" instead of each UU church being its own island.

What else?

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Question

By: /u/FurryGoBrrrrt

Are there any places of worship that follow more to the Unitarian side than Universalist? At least in America ?

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Need advice please - from 'practicing UUs'

By: /u/Fickle-Friendship-31

EDIT: New Lyrics!

God rest ye Uni-tarians let nothing you dismay

We come together in this space to celebrate our way

The Christmas songs and stories may our beliefs betray.

Oh tidings of peace and harmony, harmony

Oh tidings of peace and harmony

This story talks about a babe through many wonderous songs,

Folks traveling from far away to join a reverent throng

To see a birth that gave them hope and help them to belong

Oh tidings of peace and harmony, harmony

Oh tidings of peace and harmony

We may not all agree to all the details and their worth

But lately hope’s in short supply around this planet earth

Together we can celebrate each day as a new birth.

Oh tidings of peace and harmony, harmony

Oh tidings of peace and harmony

Thanks everyone - I truly appreciate your input.

Original post:

We are probably 75% agnostic/non Christian, 15% atheist, and the rest Christian, Buddhist or Jewish. Our minister is Christian and Buddhist.

I am doing the service this Sunday 12/17 - Title is Practicing Christmas as UU and it focuses on how many of us celebrate Christmas as a cultural holiday, like thanksgiving, not a religious holiday. We'll sing Christmas songs, not hymns. I found a funny version of God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman that other UU churches have used and rounded up a group to sing it on Sunday.

However, I have gotten feedback from 3 three people that it could be offensive. My opinions are 1) why are people so serious?, 2) if non Christians 'put up with' Joy to the World and Silent Night at UU churches, why can't the very few Christians 'put this in a box' and not be offended.

What do you all think? I do plan to offer some words in the welcome of the service to make sure people understand that this service is to honor the non Christian, but not to 'bash' Christian.

Ugh. TIA

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Michiganders: What church do you go to?

By: /u/Unlucky_Signature390

I live in Michigan and when I get my license I'd love to find a church to go to. Preferably within the Lapeer, Flint, and Pontiac triangle.

What church do you go to? And what is it like? Does it lean Christian? Does it lean Pagan? Does it lean Atheistic? Is it completely neutral?

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Podcasts for beginners/those curious about UU?

By: /u/Unlucky_Signature390

I (19 trans male) have labelled myself an atheist since I was 14. Recently I've found myself leaning agnostic. However, I've also somewhat realized that the only thing I hated about Christianity was the bigotry and dogma. I told this to a friend and they pointed me here. I know nothing, but from what I've been told you guys are basically a progressive branch of gnostic Christianity. I've been told UU embraces science, human rights, and does away with any dogma/doctrine. No homophobia, no transphobia, no misogyny, etc. Which is something I love to hear (if what I've been told us correct).

I'd like to learn more. Most of my time is spent in class or at work, so a podcast would work better than a book. Any suggestions?

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Use of the phrase “As God intended” as a UU

By: /u/SnooPeppers7217

I’m a UU. As such, I’ve been exploring my relationship with God, higher powers and theism in general. I was raised Catholic and taught to believe in God in terms of Jesus and the holy Trinity. I don’t necessarily have any problem with this element of the Catholic faith or religion but I’m thinking about it.

I do find myself using phrases like “As God intended” sometimes for things I feel like are natural concepts I agree with (eg snow on Christmas Day, having a fire while camping, and so on). I say this because I think it’s a cool phrase and adds some emphasis on the idea or whatever. But I wonder how this comes off to other folks who are not theists, of which there some in UU. Any thoughts or opinions here?

UPDATE: thank you all! I’d like to mention that I’m not really a believer in the Christian concept of God, preferring a notion of the Devine.

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Lightning Lane passes -- how valuable is staying at a Disney Property

By: /u/GustaveFerbert

My wife and will be in Orlando next month. We’re staying in a hotel near the parks, but not in a Disney property. We would like to use the Lightning Lanes if possible, and understand that they are available early for Disney guests at 7 am and not until 8 am for everyone else. We can switch hotels without penalty, but wonder if the benefit of early access is worth the extra cost? Basically we're asking if passes are generally available at 8 am for decent times after the Disney guest-only period or if the only reliable way to get them is to stay in Disney hotel?

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Article II and UU theology in general

By: /u/Odd-Importance-9849

I just re-read the proposed Article II for UUA bylaws that will be voted on in the upcoming GA and I finally identified something that's been nagging at me. It emphasizes relationship with other people, but there's not much about relationship with ourselves or our inner worlds. I suppose that I persoanlly do get a lot of that from the Buddhist teachings my particular congregation brings in from time to time. Our congregation also has lay led homebrewed contemplative practices that are inspired by the six sources and beyond. However, is there much in the UU theological tradition itself that deals with our inner worlds (psychology, meditation practices, spirit/soul models, self-awareness, etc.)? It seems like there such a focus on other people in UUism generally and not much about developing ourselves. Is it just me that feels this way? I suppose the fire communion is an example, but even that practice is vague. My personal point of view is that our inner worlds greatly influence how we can show up with other people, so it's an important piece of the puzzle. I don't want dogma, clearly I'd be barking up the wrong tree with that, but what about theory on the level of "the interconnected web of which we all are a part"? The interconnected web is a profound theological concept in my opinion. Beside inherent worth & dignity (or inherent worthiness) what else do we have inside ourselves?

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I feel so awkward going back

By: /u/UnblinkingHyperbole

A few months ago, I had a burst of energy about going to church again. I [M/31] attended UU Meetings for about five or so Sundays, and stayed after each time. I even signed up to be part of SGM (Small Group Ministry)

But after a month or so, it slowly became so taxing. I started dreading going. Getting up to get ready on Sunday felt like an absolute chore. I just felt so burnt out, and I'm not even really part of it. Part of it could be the life I lead now. I have a somewhat active social life, and work demands a lot of me as well. I genuinely thought I could just fit SGM in, but I forgot it was happening, twice. I try so hard to remember, but it keeps getting blotted out by something else. Work, friends, girlfriend. Its exhausting.

As of now, I haven't been back in the chapel for almost two months. I want to go back, but at this point, this awkward, heavy feeling gets worse every Sunday. I want this to be part of my life, but even if I can drum the enthusiasm up, would they even want me back in?

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Does the UU Church condemn the consumption of alcohol and drugs?

By: /u/HeyBroWhatisUp

This question has been lingering at the back of my head for quite some time now. Almost all religions (not all), either the Abrahamic religions or Eastern religions condemn this type of behavior to some degree. What is the UU's stance on consuming alcohol and drugs like marijuana? Also, what about premarital sex? I've always been curious because I've heard UU is a progressive organization, but its also a culmination of many religions, and many religions more of less condemn this type of behavior.

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UU Common Read: Ruttenburg’s “On Repentence and Repair”

By: /u/Greater_Ani

Anyone else reading Ruttenburg’s “On Repentence and Repair” with their congregations or on their own?

I just started a few minutes ago and can already tell I‘m going to be interested in what others think.

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How many UUs skip the Sunday worship service and only participate in small groups or service activities?

By: /u/jojobaggins42

Hello everyone! I'm not UU, I'm more of a humanist, and I've gone to probably a dozen Sunday services of the UU church near me over the past year. I've volunteered my time to help out with projects on a handful of occasions. And I've attended some luncheons. I keep hoping that the sunday service will improve once I know more people and can feel more comfortable.

I really like the few people I've gotten to know, but to be honest, I do not like going to the services on Sunday. There are references to belief in God and faith (which I don't believe), touchy feely stuff, hymns being sung, etc. It feels like a bad fit for me in that sense.

This Sunday, one of the songs was all about faith in God being the answer and I just closed my hymnal and stood there politely, even though the choir leader was trying to get everybody to participate. I'm not going to participate when I don't believe.

And the coffee hour afterward feels awkward to me because while some folks have talked with me, it feels mostly like small talk. People there gravitate toward the people they already know well and are friends with and I feel left out. Yesterday after the touchy feely service, I just left and didn't go to coffee because I just felt so mismatched with the service. (Small group situations have been much better.)

I'm curious how many folks regularly skip attendance on Sundays and just do other offered activities that have more depth and actual participation and sharing?

Or could you share things your UU does to welcome visitors in a way that makes them comfortable and feel included?

I get the sense that this community genuinely wants to be welcoming, but just misses the mark and that's why they are not getting new and/or younger people attending again after a first visit.

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Reflection on the harm of banning books

By: /u/WasAble

A member of our Fellowship reflected on why it is important for all children to see themselves represented in childrens literature. She's a librarian and educator who has thought about this topic for many years.

She reads a commonly-banned book at the beginning of the video (until January, when our permission to include that reading expires). Set aside 15 minutes and watch the video. Here's the link: https://youtu.be/A8IjBv3RnDo

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Pastoral Search Committee?

By: /u/Greater_Ani

Has anyone here ever been on a pastoral search connitteee for a UU congregation?

If so, what was the experience like? Did you find it rewarding or frustrating? or both? How time-consuming was it? What did you have to do? I am imagining that you would have to somehow figure out what the congregation wanted in a minister, then cast a more or less wide net for a candidate, then evaluate the candidates? Right?

I‘m trying to figure out if I should volunteer/try to get myself nominated for a search committee that my congregation is putting together,

Another issue: We had been a lay-led congregation for our entire history until we stuck our toes in the water a few years ago with a part-time interim minister who is now leaving. I am not sure if this is an anomaly or not, but we never had a vote about whether or not we wanted a minister in general before hiring our first minister, partly because sentiment was split on the issue and partly because those who really wanted to hire a minister, saw a perfect opportunity (someone local that they liked and would be willing to take a part-time position) and wanted to take action before that opportunity went away, So, instead of having a vote on whether or not we wanted a minister in general, we just had a vote on whether or not we would hire that one person in particular for a short period of time as sort of a trial run.

Well, now that this contract minister is leaving, instead of having a vote about the “experiement” and whether or not we want to continue to have a minister, they just decided to go ahead with another search.

I have pointed this out and was told that we will indeed have a vote soon (at our next quarterly meeting), but it is clear that they are still going ahead with forming the search commiteee in the meantime.

So, I am feeling a bit befuddled by and apprehensive of the process so far.

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Going to try it out, looks promising! What should I expect?

By: /u/k7cody

Hello!

Thank you for having me.

I'm an atheist in Southern UT that is going to try out the UU here in St George, UT. I'm interested in seeking a sense of community and joining social circles outside of just kids school, our neighborhood etc in a place that is welcoming to an atheist.

What should I expect? Will I be welcomed as an Atheist?

Also, I dont know how to ask this without coming across as ageist or something, but can I expect millennials like myself? I dont mind what age anyone is, but would like it if there are other families or possibly other millenials.

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Which phrasing do you prefer?

By: /u/Greater_Ani

My church has just put out a document in which we read that “chalice lighters” (the children who light candle in the chalice at the beginning of each service) “are expected to state their pronouns.”

To my ears, “expected” sounds coercive. (A little like there might be a nun waiting in the wings to slap them with a ruler if they don’t state their pronouns). I would rather the document read “chalice lighters are encouraged (or strongly encouraged) to state their pronouns.”

What do you all think?

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Went to a congregation for a visit and the speaker (not the pastor) started yelling at everyone saying "what the he** is wrong with you"

By: /u/isothien

We have a local UU Congregation and I have been a few times trying to decide if it's for me or not. The last time I went, a lady in charge of various committees came up to the microphone and started yelling at people and swearing saying what the hell is wrong with all of you and why don't you come to the things I set up. Sounds like she is in charge of various meet ups, maybe work parties or fund raising things, and she clearly just got fed up that not enough were attending.

What got me though is it seemed perfectly normal and nobody batted an eye to her yelling at and swearing at everyone in the room. Not a very respectful way to be heard and if I'm honest it really put me off to that Congregation and I haven't been back since.

Does this kind of thing happen often? Was it an unusual thing? 🤔

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Who are some fictional characters you picture as Unitarian-Universalist?

By: /u/ForeverBlue101_303
Who are some fictional characters you picture as Unitarian-Universalist?

Since I don't think there's a lot of UU representation in media, here are my picks of fictional characters I can imagine being UU, which are Luz Noceda from The Owl House and Gwen Stacy, aka Spider-Gwen or Ghost Spider

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Has your church experimented with the following version of whole worship? Where every single age is at Sunday service from beginning to end with no separate faith formation / “Sunday school” for kids.

By: /u/raybklyn

This is pretty detailed so my apologies for the length…you should see my emails. :)

Our congregation has been experimenting with a version of Whole Worship where all ages are present for the entire service. Young children (ages 1-6 or so) sit on rugs at the front of the sanctuary to the foot of the podium playing with toys, wriggling and interacting as young kids do. Throughout the room there are a handful of very young children in their parents’ arms.

There are between 5 and 10 young kids at every service. They do have one role near the end of the service when they drop stones in water before a moment of silence.

There have been concerns voiced by a substantial proportion of the congregation: the moment of silence is never silent, the kids are a constant distraction during the message, and the lack of an alternate place for children during the service does two things - it puts a burden on families who want their children to be in a kid friendlier space during the service and does not offer targeted religious education for kids.

We used to have the first portion of the service for whole worship and then the kids would go to the lower floor - which is 80% child oriented art, education and play spaces - for religious education / kid social time.

Although church leadership claims our form of whole worship is common in UU, the group who has been disenchanted with the state of affairs has been unable to find any congregation who is currently doing service this way.

Has your congregation tried whole worship in this manner?

If so - Has your church stuck with it? How have you dealt with the distractions and noises young children provide?

Church leadership has decided to offer two services - one at 10 geared towards kids, fellowship between and a second service at 11:15. With less than 100 active members it is hard to see how this works long term so maybe there is another way we haven’t considered.

Thanks for getting this far and have a great day / week / season.

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How would you handle a vicious smear campaign in your congregation? Does the UU condone stigmatizing mental health?

By: /u/WorthThanks1314

Recently I was involved as a designer with a UU church. One of the members took a disliking to me and sent my personal information to the congregation, including my name, phone, email, address, and financial information. She then claimed I was unprofessional, scamming the organization, and mentally unhealthy.

The board and congregation believed her. They fired me.

The way this congregation treated me was abysmal, I've never experienced anything like it in my nearly 50 years of life. I've never had a design client treat me this bad, ever. And I've worked with well over a hundred with marketing, design and consulting.

What I want to know is ...

Does the UU condone stigmatizing mental health?

Has this happened in your congregation / fellowship? If so, how was it handled?

If not, what is the best policy for addressing this?

I've reached out the the local conference and to the main headquarters about this.

As it stands for me and how I was treated, I'm not seeing any difference between UU and any other toxic organized religion. And unless there is accountability within the organization, I'll not attend any UU ever again.

Edit : Some extra info and I wanted to add that this has been a massively demoralizing, soul-crushing experience. The way UU presents itself makes it seem very welcoming and inclusive, and my wife and I had intentions of joining as members. There is no way we want to associate with abusive people and those who enable it. Stigmatizing mental health is hate speech.

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I'm looking for some advice around showing integrity in my faith, related to my upcoming marriage and potential baptism. Can anyone help?

By: /u/Odd_Lingonberry_4286

My fiancée and I are getting married in September next year. Neither of us are baptised, nor Church-goers but we would like to share our relationship with a higher power so have chosen to be married in a Church. My family is Anglican, so we have booked a date with our local Anglican Church.

When it comes to my own spirituality, I strongly align with the beliefs of Unitarian Universalists. I believe in a higher power, appreciate the principles of Christianity, Humanism and when travelling, have always revered the sacred spaces of all religions - from Shinto to Buddhist to Muslim, with the highest regard. I believe that wherever I pray, or connect, that higher power will hear me.

Our priest is liberal and doesn't expect us to be baptised. However, he has offered baptism is we are interested. In terms of connecting with God, something is calling me to be baptised. I feel as though it will be a symbolic gesture of my spirituality that I've never undertaken in my life before, as it has been an entirely personal journey.

Despite this, however, my beliefs are so liberal, I feel I would completely lack integrity by being baptised. My fiancée and I, for instance, have a live-in relationship and this will not change. I also believe that humans are human and much of the strict 'rules' purported by Christianity doesn't reflect the multitude of experiences, mistakes, learnings, growth etc. that encompass being human.

And yet still, I feel an urge to have that connect with god solidified in baptism - even though I will not live my life according to the rules of a strict Christian Church. I feel in such a crisis and the experience has left me with so much shame, even though usually, I feel comfortable with my choices and life. I don't feel like I can be baptised unless I follow the rules exactly as it really lacks integrity.

Ironically, I have no issue with being married in the Anglican Church. I respect that space and see it it as a space of reverence that is a pathway to that higher power, due to the faith of the people who worship there.

I'm not sure what to do, or even perhaps what I am asking because I'm having trouble even explaining my own complicated feelings around this dilemma. Any advice from your perspective is so welcome.

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Anyone scared about the Future of our religion if Trump or DeSantis is elected.

By: /u/APROPERCAT

The Heritage Fondation has basically created a document called the 2025 Project which calls for America to be turned into a Christian Country in which the LGBT and non-Christians rights would no longer be recognized.

Do you feel this could be the end of us in the United States?

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"Left vs. Left": philosophical differences, and the upcoming replacement of the Seven Principles

By: /u/EarnestAbe

https://naunitarians.org/project/left-vs-left-whats-happening-here-aint-exactly-clear/

The talk starts at 4:00. The first 45 minutes are a general discussion, contrasting identity liberalism with traditional (enlightenment) liberalism. An overview of how this is affecting UU begins at 48:50. And then a specific discussion on the UUA Article II begins at 59:10.

The motion to change Article II (which will replace the Seven Principles with Six Shared Values ), was passed provisionally at GA 2023. The final vote will take place next summer, at GA 2024.

EDIT: the title wording should have been "... and the upcoming vote to replace the Seven Principles," because the Principles will not be replaced unless this is approved by 2/3 of the delegates to GA 2024. Regardless of how you feel on this issue, this is a good time to get engaged with the delegate selection process in your congregation.

"Final approval of the Article II proposal requires a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the 2024 General Assembly to adopted [sic] the revision as the new Article II of the UUA bylaws."

https://www.uua.org/uuagovernance/committees/article-ii-study-commission

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Bad experiences as a guest

By: /u/deleted-desi

The first time I went to my only nearby UU congregation, I was treated to a sermon centering on the idea that As women, we are natural mothers, even if we don't have children of our own. I'm an infertile woman in my 30s, I've had a hysterectomy, I don't have or want my own children, I'm not a mother, I will not be a mother in the future. Yet throughout the sermon I was informed that all women are naturally maternal, blah blah blah. It really sounded no different than what my conservative Christian family used to tell me when I still talked to them.

I didn't want to stay for coffee hour. When I tried to leave, two long-time members kept trying to corner me into an unwanted conversation and literally stood in front of the door. Only when I asked them "Why are you blocking the door?" did they sheepishly move out of the way.

Because I'm apparently quite stupid, I went back again last Sunday. This week's sermon was about something related to racial inclusivity. The congregation is almost entirely White, which is ironic given their lip-service to "diversity", but I don't find it inherently problematic to be in a heavily-White crowd. I'm Indian American and there was a Black couple there as well, but literally everyone else was White. Oh well. The problems began during coffee hour when I was repeatedly questioned about my life experiences as an Indian American. I'm sure they thought they were "questioning their beliefs" or whatever, but in reality they were just projecting a bunch of false assumptions onto me and then making baseless accusations. I was honestly disgusted and I left after about 25 minutes.

I won't be returning again. This is the only UU congregation within an hour of my home. If this is how they treat their guests, I don't want to find out how they treat me when they feel comfortable.

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Prediction: a uu game from 1972

By: /u/troublesomegay
Prediction: a uu game from 1972

While cleaning out a closet at church a while ago I found this game… does anyone recognize it? I can’t find anything online and even though I reached out to beacon press and the UUA no one’s gotten back to me so far. I can add more pictures of the inside if that’s helpful. I’m hoping to learn more about the game’s origins and history.

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Is Unitarian Universalism Christian or it’s own separate thing?

By: /u/SmortJacksy
Is Unitarian Universalism Christian or it’s own separate thing?

So, there’s this UU church about 25 minutes away from my house, and I’d never really thought about it before. But, I recently started a band and have been looking for a place we can practice, and I figured nearby churches would be a good place to look. This caused me to wonder about the lack of super overt Christian imagery. I then looked up what UU actually was and, while impressed by the idea of considering all the worlds religions, im curious how Unitarian Universalists see themselves. Do you guys see yourselves as a denomination of another religion or as your own thing? Also, your churches are beautiful. Just had to say that.

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Please pray for me for peace and healing never been this low

By: /u/VolumeImmediate9895

Hello, I am doing this because it is literally a last resort before homelessness. I am in my 30's and have taken care of a family member for the past 8 months. The family member passed and I tried to find a job really hard because I just lived off of their income, anyway, no job and the months passed and I lost my car and I got diabetic neuropathy and now I cannot work a job outside of the home because of my legs. I also have crippling anxiety and live in a rural area. I have applied to endless online jobs but to no avail. I am losing my internet and probably going to be homeless at the end of the month. I have no speakable family because they dont like that i am gay and i also have horrible credit so i cannot borrow money. I know this looks suspicious as hell, but I promise you it is not, it is just a last resort. I am hungry and going to lose everything. If anyone could help at all my cashapp is $captainmidnight515 anything that you send will help me. Also, if you cannot send money please send prayers. I missed my loved one I took care of so bad, and so much heartache, but I would still do it again, we have some good times. Please just send good thoughts and vibes, I have also tried a few churches and food banks to no avail. Sorry, and I know people have it worse than me, just feeling down. I just do not want to live anymore. Will this ever get better? I hope it does but I don’t think it will. I just miss them and all this is just more than I can take. Please just manifest, pray for me, anything, there has to be an end to this.

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I’m interested in UU but definitely not ready to become a member… is that okay? Can I still attend services or participate in other ways?

By: /u/emmyloo22

So, honestly, I’m not sure all that becoming a UU member entails... But I’ve been going to UU services — maybe 6 or 7 over the past few months — and so far I’ve really enjoyed the sense of community and how the services/sermons make me think more deeply about what’s going on in the world and in other people’s lives. I love that they share the donation baskets with organizations that are philanthropic and justice-oriented. I enjoy the singing and the stories and the little moments of meditation.

I think I want to do more and to even try making new friends with the UU crowd, but I’m worried about the whole “membership” aspect and how similar it may be to more traditional/organized religions. I don’t want to feel like I’m obligated to come each week or feel like I’m trapped in some kind of agreement to be UU… and the prospect of having a “chalice guide” (as they call it) kinda gives me cult vibes. 😅(Side note that may relevant: I was once approached by the door greeter and she kept thanking me for joining, telling me I should come back again, and touching my arm. It made feel pretty uncomfortable — I guess because it reminded me of how some Christian churches proselytize. Since then I’ve waited until the last minute before going in to avoid another situation like that. Everyone else has been great lol!)

All that being said, I totally understand if that’s, you know… kinda the point of going to church haha. Maybe you can’t be a part of the UU congregation without jumping in. At the end of the day though, I’m really looking for a way to socialize with like-minded people, to establish some routine to my life, and explore my spirituality as an Atheist. I don’t necessarily want to take unfair advantage of the community — but I’m just not yet passionate about the church or engrossed in its philosophies. I think I need to become involved on my own time and in my own terms.

Here’s my big question: Do I need to become an official member to take part in the church? For instance could I try out some of the clubs/activities first to see if it’s all a good fit? I’m thinking maybe this Sunday I will try one of the post-service groups that do meditation or group work… and I saw they have trunk or treat planned for this October which sounds like a lot of fun. (I’m a single woman, no kids, and I don’t get any trick or treaters where I live!!) Would it be okay to just show up, listen to the service, donate some money, and take things slow? Is there a point where I’ll no longer be welcome as a “guest”?

I’d really love any advice.. I sent an email to the church a few days ago basically saying all this and they only replied “come next Sunday and we’ll talk to you about the membership process.”

submitted by /u/emmyloo22
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New to UU, dealing with severe depersonalization, but hopeful

By: /u/GhostingTabby

Hello! I joined the UU church recently, although I had always been vaguely aware of it, in a way, I was a UU without knowing it!

I recently had a mental health crisis after using psilocybin, and ended up having an incredibly intense, scary, ego-death trip without my consent (I took a very small dose, but my doctors think that because of several chronic conditions, my body doesn't metabolize substances the same way as the average person). I had to do out-patient treatment for a month, but the nature of my crisis is not entirely psychological, so it helped, but only a little. Essentially I entered a crisis where I don't see anyting as real, and the concept of time triggers severe, all-encompassing panic. It's hard to describe, but I am chronically disoriented, things seem upside down and inside out and my own mental processes are very disorganized. Imagine trying to send a work email with a hangover, after stepping off a roller coaster. And the keyboard is set to another language, and the screen is not facing you.

Somehow, among this, I decided to join a UU church. I say I go every Sunday, but truthfully, my grasp of time and space is so scattered that it's not even easy to type this. And it's extra scary because I'm a boring, uptight professional who never dabbled in substances. What is happening to me is my dirty little secret.

In UU I find a little wedge of partial peace. I find myself not being able to feel fully present during service, but some things stick. I notice for even mere seconds at a time that I quiet the unrest and ask myself "How can I be of service?" " How can I uphold my promise to this person/animal/community" "What new promise can I make internally to be a better wife/daughter/sister?". And although I haven't chatted other members yet, even as I type this, I feel the love of this community is real. I know people are rooting for me, the way I am rooting for them, even without reading these words.

So thank you all for being a part of this, whatever it is. Thank you for your service, for your commitments, for your just being you.

submitted by /u/GhostingTabby
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My theory on why UU church isn't attracting more millennials and Gen Z's.

By: /u/Keilaj

I am an agnostic atheist, who recently attended a few UU churches. I thought because the church seemed progressive I might enjoy it. I didn't. And then it dawned on me: THIS IS A COMPLETE WASTE OF MY TIME! I think UU churches attracted boomers who would simply become Nones if they were millennials or Gen Z. I am actually a late X-er in my early 40's, but even I see no use in religion. It must be much easier for millennials and Z, to just dismiss religion altogether as something their parents or even grandparents did. As unnecessary superstition amd ritual.

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Christ and the Apostles

By: /u/Sertorius126

I'm asking various Christian adjacent subreddits their reaction to an excerpt to a speech given by the non-Christian ʻAbdu'l-Bahá given in 1912 in New York City. Do you feel that he gives an accurate rendering of the mission of Christ and the apostles and the nature of His Kingdom?

"The divine Prophets came to establish the unity of the Kingdom in human hearts. All of them proclaimed the glad tidings of the divine bestowals to the world of mankind. All brought the same message of divine love to the world. Jesus Christ gave His life upon the cross for the unity of mankind. Those who believed in Him likewise sacrificed life, honor, possessions, family, everything, that this human world might be released from the hell of discord, enmity and strife. His foundation was the oneness of humanity. Only a few were attracted to Him. They were not the kings and rulers of His time. They were not rich and important people. Some of them were catchers of fish. Most of them were ignorant men, not trained in the knowledge of this world. One of the greatest of them, Peter, could not remember the days of the week. All of them were men of the least consequence in the eyes of the world. But their hearts were pure and attracted by the fires of the Divine Spirit manifested in Christ. With this small army Christ conquered the world of the East and the West. Kings and nations rose against Him. Philosophers and the greatest men of learning assailed and blasphemed His Cause. All were defeated and overcome, their tongues silenced, their lamps extinguished, their hatred quenched; no trace of them now remains. They have become as nonexistent, while His Kingdom is triumphant and eternal."

submitted by /u/Sertorius126
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Two UU Ministers Arrested Today Protesting Against Atlanta’s Cop City

By: /u/Maketaten
Two UU Ministers Arrested Today Protesting Against Atlanta’s Cop City

Common Dreams News Article

“Five "Stop Cop City" demonstrators, including faith leaders, were arrested Thursday morning after chaining themselves to construction equipment at Atlanta's proposed Public Safety Training Center just outside of city limits in DeKalb County, Georgia.

The arrestees are Rev. Jeff Jones, a Unitarian Universalist volunteer community minister; Rev. David Dunn, a Unitarian Universalist minister; Ayeola Omolara Kaplan, an Atlanta-based revolutionary artist; Atlanta resident Lalita Martin; and Georgia resident Timothy Sullivan, according to the Atlanta Community Press Collective.”

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UUCF & Christian denominations

By: /u/Zillenialucifer

I’m a Naturalistic Christopagan that has been getting involved with my local CUUPs chapter but am searching for a local UUCF chapter to supplement the Christo part of my practice alongside the Pagan. So far, I have been able to develop my Christianity by also attending an Episcopal Anglo-Catholic church as well as a United Methodist Church & I really enjoy them both. I was wondering if there is anybody else in my position & what were your experiences like attending Christian churches while remaining actively involved with the UUA in a non-Christian capacity? Or for those who are involved with the UUCF, do you supplement your practice with other denominations & if so, which ones?

submitted by /u/Zillenialucifer
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The book of Mormon

By: /u/Blueberry_Muff1n

Hello everyone, I still don't know very much about unitarians, and I would like to know if it's ok for a Unitarian to read and believe in the Book of Mormon. More specific, someone who reads it and goes to UU Church because doesn't believe in the dogmas of the LDS church (considering they aren't 100% truthful to the Book). I would be very thankful if someone could answer this!

submitted by /u/Blueberry_Muff1n
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Any UUs in the DFW area?

By: /u/lavendula_moon

hi guys!! i grew up attending a UU church in houston every sunday from ages 3-17. when i went off to college in DFW, i lost my church home.

right now i’m trying to decide between the UU Church of Oak Cliff or the Denton UU Fellowship. anyone been to either of these and have good experiences?

going to a new church as a young adult is nerve-wracking to me, i’m used to attending the sunday school and getting to know everyone that way. not sure how to get to know people through just attending services 😅

submitted by /u/lavendula_moon
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I had a dream recently that I went to a UU church

By: /u/hijetty

I was raised in a very religious, conservative, homophobic family and while I've never formally joined or even been to a UU church, I like to jokingly say to myself that I'm a non-practicing Unitarian.

When I was in college I developed a huge gay crush on a guy and it basically forced myself to accept that I was gay.

So I had this dream and I nervously go to this UU service in a beautiful old church. Everyone is really nice and wearing bright colors. It all seems very chill, both "religious" and very relaxed. I sit down and I noticed my crush from college is sitting across the aisle from me. At some point there's some prayer where everyone stands up and links their arms over each other's shoulders and I get to connect with my crush.

He smiles like he recognizes me but doesn't say anything. After the prayer we sit down and he joins me and leaves his arm around my shoulder. At first my brain goes to how wrong this is (even though I've abandoned my former religious identity 15+ years ago), but I then realize we're at a UU church and I'm able to relax and just enjoy the moment. It becomes one of those dreams you don't want to wake up from and even when you do, you're left with this incredibly happy feeling. That feeling me and my friend are able to enjoy just sitting in the pew.

He just smiles at me and I rest my head on his shoulders and then I woke up. I wish this actually meant something other than that I still have a deep seeded crush on this guy, but I still thought I would share about my first time going to an UU service.

Even though this was obviously just a dream, the affirmation and openness of the UU church reaches people in unique ways and for that I'm thankful. 🙂

submitted by /u/hijetty
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Where to donate to firebombed UU congregation

By: /u/Zinnia0620

In case anyone was wondering where to donate to the Plano, Texas UU church that was firebombed. There is no specific fundraiser but I dug up their overall "giving" link.

https://www.communityuuchurch.org/uua/connections/giving/

submitted by /u/Zinnia0620
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