I wonder if the language being proposed as an eighth UU Principle might work better if added to our Purposes? I’ll paste both below for comparison. See what you think. Feel free to share with others, if you like.
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The Principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association (proposed new language in bold)
We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote:
• The inherent dignity and worth of every person;
• Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
• The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
• The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
• Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part
• We will journey together toward spiritual wholeness by building a diverse, multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.
Purposes of the Unitarian Universalist Association (proposed new language in bold)
The Unitarian Universalist Association shall devote its resources to and exercise its corporate powers for religious, educational and humanitarian purposes. The primary purpose of the Association is to serve the needs of its member congregations, organize new congregations, extend and strengthen Unitarian Universalist institutions and implement its principles.
The Association declares and affirms its special responsibility, and that of its member societies and organizations, to promote the full participation of persons in all of its and their activities and in the full range of human endeavor without regard to race, color, sex, disability, affectional or sexual orientation, age, or national origin and without requiring adherence to any particular interpretation of religion or to any particular religious belief or creed.
We will journey together toward spiritual wholeness by building a diverse, multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.
Nothing herein shall be deemed to infringe upon the individual freedom of belief which is inherent in the Universalist and Unitarian heritages or to conflict with any statement of purpose, covenant, or bond of union used by any society unless such is used as a creedal test.
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In some ways, you could say the Principles are the eye of the needle we hold to suture this wounded world. The Purposes are more like the needle’s leading point. The suture material itself? That’s us.
In fellowship,
Craig Moro
Minister, Wy’east UU Congregation
Portland, OR