done (02/28/83)
Thanks to all those who identified with my previous posting. This one is a reply those who wrote back asking for an elaboration of Unitarian beliefs. The best summary of Unitarian ideas I've found so far was published in the Unitarian Universalist Pocket Guide, in the chapter "Our beliefs" by David O. Rankin: 1. We believe in the freedom of religious expression. Every individual should be encouraged to develop their own personal theology, and to present openly their religious opinions without fear of censure or reprisal. 2. We believe in the toleration of religious ideas. All religions, in every age and culture, not only possess an intrinsic merit, but also a potential value for those who have learned the art of listening. 3. We believe in the authority of reason and conscience. The ultimate arbiter in religion is not a church, or a document, or an official, but the personal choice and decision of the individual. 4. We believe in the never-ending search for Truth. If the mind and heart are truly free and open, the revela- tions which appear to the human spirit are infinitely numerous, eternally fruitful, and wondrously exciting. 5. We believe in the unity of experience. There is no fundamental conflict between faith and knowledge, reli- gion and the world, the sacred and the secular, since they all have their source in the same reality. 6. We believe in the worth and dignity of each human being. All people on earth have an equal claim to life, liberty, and justice, and no idea, ideal, or phi- losophy is superior to a single human life. 7. We believe in the ethical application of religion. Good works are the natural product of a good faith, the evidence of an inner grace which finds completion in social and community involvement. 8. We believe in the motive force of love. The governing principle in human relationships is the principle of love, which always seeks the welfare of others and never seeks to hurt or destroy. 9. We believe in the necessity of the democratic process. Records are open to scrutiny, elections are open to members, and ideas are open to criticism, so that peo- ple might govern themselves. 10. We believe in the importance of a religious community. The validation of experience requires the confirmation of peers, who provide a critical platform along with a network of mutual support. Amazingly enough, I have received no flames at all kindled by my previous posting. There is hope for this newsgroup yet! Don Ellis
rregier (03/26/83)
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