Principles of religious education

Unitarian Universalist Religious Education is grounded in the Seven UU Principles. These principles are used to promote a sense of social justice and responsibility, tolerance, identity, and spiritual growth. Our purpose is to involve children in a religious community in which they develop a spiritual sense of themselves, their connection to others, and their connection to the world as a whole.

The non-dogmatic teachings of Unitarian Universalism encourage individuals to seek their own truths. Our religious education program acknowledges the responsibility and capacity of individuals to make informed decisions about what is true. We hope to provide an environment in which ideas are freely explored and a strong sense of community is formed.

Unitarian Universalist Principles and Purposes Interpreted for Children

We Affirm and Promote (We Believe):

• The inherent worth and dignity of every person (that each and every person is important).
• Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations (that all people should be treated fairly).
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations (that our churches are places where all people are accepted and where we keep on learning together).
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning (that each person must be free to search for what is true and right in life).
• The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large (that everyone should have a vote about the things that concern them).
• The goal of a world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all (in working for a peaceful, fair and free world).
• Respect for the interdependent web of existence of which we are all a part (in caring for our planet earth).