From Principles to Shared Values – 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, all centered around love:
- 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.
This multi-year process of discernment and discussion, writing and revision, and eventually a final democratic vote was the process of review and revision. A review is mandated by UUA bylaws to happen every 15 years, and the language describing Unitarian Universalist faith has changed multiple times over the course of our history. We encourage you to review the final adopted language of Article II (PDF, 3 pages), which includes our Shared Values.
What We Stand For:
Ours is a faith without creed or dogma. Yet we are a demanding faith, one that calls on the power of our minds, our hearts and our hands to create a better world. Our tradition has been forged out of commitment to principles that nurture spiritual and religious growth.