Unitarian Universalism 101

Path to Membership: Our members live throughout the region and come from diverse religious traditions or have no formal spiritual background. Wherever you might be on your life journey, you are welcome here. While membership is not a requirement, if you have found a home here or just want to learn more about Unitarian Universalism, we invite you to attend our next UU 101 series.

You will learn:

- UU identity, history, theology, and structure.

We will:

- Offer you an opportunity to reflect on your spiritual journey

- Answer any questions you have

Meeting Dates: After service on Sunday, April 7, 14, and 28 for an hour and 15 minutes each.

Learning Plan:

We begin with “What is Unitarian Universalism?” We will watch one of the following videos together. Feel free to watch any of these on your own before the session if that suits your learning style.

1. We are Unitarian Universalists. This is a three minute quick introduction, you may have already watched on our website: We Are Unitarian Universalists

2. A History of Unitarianism (This is 7 minutes; by Rev. Sean Neil-Barron)

3. A History of Universalism (5 minutes by Rev. Sean Neil-Barron).

4. What is a Unitarian Universalist – Testimonies (2 minutes):

5. Sermon on Liberation and Love by Rev. Yadenee Hailu (11 minutes). If you decide to watch this on your own, you might listen for her description of “how” we live our faith and reflect on the “how” of your commitments to love and liberation.

6. UU theology video by Rev. Matthew Johnson: (12 minutes):

• After watching Matthew’s Theology video, you might enjoy watching this video of “Holy Now” by Peter Mayer, a favorite UU musician: (4 minutes)

• Here is a favorite hymn by Yseye Barnwell of Sweet Honey in the Rock “We Are. . .”

7.  Here is a link to information about our flaming chalice: You can also explore the Many Beliefs of Unitarian Universalists.

What does it means to be part of a local congregation – and an international movement. (total watch time: 11 minutes)

A.     What does it mean to be a member? (5 minutes)

B.      What is the UUA? (3 minutes)    

C.     This short film (3 minutes) is about international Unitarian Universalism:

In the first class, we will follow this agenda:

1. Welcome & Introductions

2. Chalice Lighting

3. Facilitators and participants share personal religious/spiritual stories as they feel comfortable

4. Focus on the history of Unitarian Universalism

5. Impressions/Questions/Check Out

6. Chalice Extinguishing