Backyard to the Universe
Small Group Ministries
Belief Statements and Codes of Ethics
Unitarians and Universalists historically have been careful about statements of belief, especially about making anyone subscribe to such a statement in order to be a member of the church. However, in our concern over having specific statements that people – especially children – can use when asked about their beliefs by non-Unitarian Universalists, we have adopted the ‘principles’, or ‘affirmations.’ These are statements about the things that we strive for, or “covenant to promote.”
Behind these principles held in community, each of us has beliefs from which the affirmations arise. This diversity of beliefs drawn from various sources sets us apart as Unitarian Universalists.
Check-in: How are things for you today?
Topic/Activity
Consider your beliefs in the following areas:
L ife force – What do you believe about creation and re-creation in the universe? Is there a being or energy? If so, is it personalized or distant?
A uthority for your beliefs – From where do you draw your authority for your beliefs? Some sources may be scriptures and sacred writings, revelations, experiences, deep feeling from within yourself.
S earch and spiritual journey – Describe your obligation to searching, or is it even necessary?
E veryone else – How do you see the spiritual search and practices of others? How similar must they be to yours in order for you to relate and interact?
R elation to the world -- What is your place, role, responsibility in relation to the people and the universe? What influence does the universe have on you, and how do you influence the universe?
Closing Words May be read by multiple voices.
I affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of every person. Is there any person whom I have disrespected? Am I in right relation to all people? Does someone need to hear from me today?
I affirm and promote justice, equity, and compassion in human relations. Is there any person whom I have treated unfairly? Have I taken the time to be compassionate with every person I have encountered? Have I made an effort to loosen the bonds of oppression created by my own living? (If white, temporarily able-bodied, or exclusively heterosexual, have I made an effort to loosen the bonds of oppression created by my own living as a member of the dominant culture?)
I affirm and promote acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations. Have I compassionately offered others the opportunity for growth, and have I truly accepted people, even those who are not like me and those who do not fit my idea of "okay"?
I affirm and promote a free and responsible search for truth and meaning. Is my life a reflection of a search for truth and meaning, or am I stuck in the "getting and having" place which deadens people? Can I move a little further from "getting and having" and a little closer to truth and meaning today? How will I do that today?
I affirm and promote the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large.Have I listened to others, and tried to think the way they think, see their point of view? Have I encouraged consensus and connections so that democracy is an everyday fact of life, or have I tried to stack the deck in my own favor? Have I allowed the "tyranny of the majority" to silence anyone?
I affirm and promote the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all. What have I done today to promote peace, understanding, and freedom throughout the world, and in my own corner of the world?
I affirm and promote respect for the interdependent web of existence of which we are a part. How have I reduced the negative impact of my living on this planet? What could be done more healthfully?
Rev. Beverley Boke, First Universalist Society, Hartland 4 Corners, VT, from REACH Fall 2000
Likes and Wishes: How was this session for you?
Zidowecki, January 2006