What is Unitarian Universalism?

Is Unitarian Universalism right for you?

You might be a Unitarian Universalist if…

You don’t consider yourself a ‘church person’.
Your beliefs don’t mesh with any church’s dogma.
You think there isn’t a place where you will fit in.
You are spiritual but not religious.
You are a free thinker who appreciates the value of other perspectives.
You enjoy tradition without the rigidity of dogma.
You want a community that provides a non-judgemental religious home.
You might be a Unitarian Universalist if you are looking for a spiritual community that promotes acceptance of one another and respect for different beliefs.

Unitarian Universalist Principles

UU's do not profess a single unifying creed or belief. What brings us together is our common commitment to a search for meaning and truth as guided by the principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations:

The inherent worth of every person
Justice, equity and compassion in human relations
Acceptance of one another and encouragement of spiritual growth in or congregations
A free and responsible search for truth and meaning
The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large
The goal of world community with peace, liberty and justice for all
Respect for the interdependent web of existence of which we are a part

Unitarian Universalist Sources

Here at UUSL we believe that every person is free to search for his or her own personal truth and is responsible for his or her spiritual growth. We recognize no one text as the main source of inspiration for that spiritual journey, instead we recognize many different sources:

Direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to the forces which create and uphold life
Words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice
Wisdom from the world's religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life
Jewish and Christian teachings which call us to respond to God's love by loving our neighbors as ourselves
Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of the mind and spirit
Spiritual teachings of earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms' of nature

Why UUSL?

Why UUSL is Bev's Chosen Church

13 years ago, Liz and I were “church shopping”, having become dissatisfied with our previous church - too much dogma, non-relevant sermons, boring hymns…

When we mentioned this to our good friend, Mary R, she said “you should try my UU church in Laconia - it’s filled with great people and I think you will like the services and music!” We did! And we never looked back! In these past 13 years we’ve been involved in many facets of our new church life - parish committee, worship committee, stewardship committee, fundraising, choir, altar arrangements, and coffee hour! But it always comes back to the wonderful people we’ve met and work with to accomplish the goals of our church - acceptance of one another, our spiritual growth and our search for truth and meaning.

We love our UU church - and we give freely and happily to help support its expenses and it many missions. And yes - I have my bias - I love our choir and our choir director and the incredible music we produce!

Why UUSL is Linda's Chosen Church

This church is my safe place to tend my faith in something greater than myself. Something I didn’t even know I needed.

Also, I feel like I’m part of something really worthwhile. I get to have surprising conversations about diverse topics like the Buddhist meaning of essence and how to reduce my carbon footprint. I feel accepted just as I am and I’m learning how to be more resilient. For me, it all started with Rev. Judith’s service that first Sunday, which gave me such a huge sense of relief and hope. Also, I love listening to the choir’s beautiful harmonies.

Best of all, I’m constantly reminded of the amazing power of a small group of committed people to make good things happen…. Collectively, the people here do a million and one things for the church and community. Whether we’re collecting food, clothing or single-use plastics, installing LED bulbs to save energy or serving on a committee to help our church.

Well, that’s it for me. I’d like to wrap up with one final thought.

All in all, I know I receive at least a hundred-fold more than I give to this church. In my mind, what I learn here spills over in every aspect of my life, in so many positive ways. So, thank you for supporting this church, which has made a real difference to me and so many others.