Unitarian Universalism

The Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte is one of approximately 1,000 Unitarian Universalist congregations in the United States.  Our denomination is grounded in centuries of critical thinking, and our particular progressive movement developed out of 18th-century liberal Christianity and from spiritual forebears who placed a high value on the use of reason in spiritual matters.

Unitarian Universalists are people of all ages, people of many backgrounds, and people of many beliefs. We are brave, curious and compassionate thinkers and doers. We create spirituality and community beyond boundaries, working for more justice and more love in our own lives and in the world.

Unitarian Universalism draws from our heritages of freedom, reason, hope, and courage, building on the foundation of love. We covenant, congregation-to-congregation and through our Association, to support and assist one another in our ministries.

Jewish and Christian teachings are an important part of our tradition as are humanist teachings,  direct experience of the mystery and wonder of life, Earth-centered traditions and wisdom from many cultures, traditions and religions.

Unitarianism had its roots in 16th-century Europe and was based on the ancient idea of the unity of the deity – that the various theistic religions are actually talking about the same God. Just one God. In 1568 in Transylvania, that belief was codified and named. Unitarianism spread slowly across Europe.

In 1794, the noted scientist and Unitarian minister Joseph Priestley came to America from England and started the first church here that called itself Unitarian. Many liberal Christian congregations voted to become Unitarian. In the 19th century, with the theologically similar Universalists and others, Unitarians helped lead efforts to abolish slavery, improve healthcare, assure the rights of women and establish universal public education. In the 20th and 21st centuries, members of our religious tradition have put faith into action by being in the forefront of movements such as civil rights, marriage equality, LGBTQ rights, immigration reform and economic and environmental justice.

Unitarian Universalism is a living tradition that has changed in many ways from the original Christian roots of its Universalist and Unitarian heritages, and it continues to evolve today. Most recently, this evolution has taken the form of adopting new language to describe who we are as UUs. At General Assembly in June 2024, UUs voted to replace existing Seven Principles and Six Sources language in our bylaws with language describing Unitarian Universalism through these shared values:

• Interdependence: We honor the interdependent web of all existence and acknowledge our place in it.
• Pluralism: We are all sacred beings, diverse in culture, experience, and theology.
• Justice: We work to be diverse multicultural Beloved Communities where all feel welcome and can thrive.
• Transformation: We adapt to the changing world.
• Generosity: We cultivate a spirit of gratitude and hope.
• Equity: We declare that every person is inherently worthy and has the right to flourish with dignity, love, and compassion.

We arrived at this description of Unitarian Universalism after a multi-year process of discernment and discussion, writing and revision, and eventually a final democratic vote.

To explore the rich history and diverse sources of our liberal faith, we invite you to visit the website of our national association, the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations.