The Unitarian Church of Lincoln is one of more than 1000 Unitarian Universalist (UU) congregations worldwide. Unitarian and Universalist histories date back over 400 years to the Reformation. Universalists, organized in 1793, and Unitarians, organized in 1825, shared a rich heritage of religious liberalism and social concern. The two organizations consolidated in 1961 to form the
Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). We honor many early Unitarians and Universalists, including Thomas Jefferson, Susan B. Anthony, Margaret Sanger and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Living Tradition
The living tradition we share draws from many sources:
- Direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces that create and uphold life.
- Words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice, compassion and the transforming power of love.
- Wisdom from the world’s religions which inspires us to our ethical and spiritual life
- Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science and warn us against idolatries of mind and spirit.
- Spiritual teachings of Earth-centered religions, which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature.
Many non-Unitarian Universalists are confused about what our denomination stands for. We have no creed or dogma, and each member is free to search out her or his own version of the Truth (with or without a capital "T").
One helpful sourcebook for non-Unitarian Universalists who want to learn more about us is 100 Questions that Non-Members Ask about Unitarian Universalism. This book was published by the Nashua, NH, church, and is a good starting place to learn about us.
Other good reference sources are available from our parent organization, the Unitarian Universalist Association. And, of course, our minister and members are always available to discuss our own individual perspectives on religion.
Remember that there is no "handbook" to learn. Each member is free to conduct her or his own quest for the meaning of religion, and what a member may believe today could change tomorrow with a new insight.
Come, join us in this exciting venture!
