....In Our Own Words
The voices of lay members and friends are an important part of Unitarian Universalist worship services. Within our faith tradition, we learn from each other's truths, and we are inspired by each other's questions.
What We Value
In 2001, our Long Range Planning Committee held a "Values Sunday," during which members and friends were asked to express what was most important to them. These are some of the responses.
I. Community: Valuing the beloved community
"Going to church allows me to feel an upsurge of the good feelings and good works of those that attend; a community where tolerance, respect, and above all appreciation of diversity is valued, not as a worn-out rhetoric but a vibrant and authentic value."
"...a community where one is accepted even if you are uncertain or do not agree with the majority."
"I value that the church asks us what we value."
II. Programs: Valuing organized activities, events, education, and groups
"I value the opportunity to be involved in the programs offered by the church. These range from programs that stimulate thought, e.g. religious expression, discussion groups. There are also opportunities to influence the life of the church through involvement in various committees."
"I value social events - a chance to get to know people, especially all the new people, without having to volunteer for anything or join a committee."
"I come here for my daughter to understand values, what is important and how to live with all peoples."
III. Incarnation: Valuing the individual and group expression of UU values in the world
"I want to be a part of this group's expression in the world; a beacon of social justice."
"I value our caring for the greater community and working to bring our UU values to the rest of the world."
"Here I am challenged to make my longings be translated into action - action for justice, action for hope."
IV. Worship: Valuing the weekly worship service
"I value our worship services as a time to be challenged, stretched, educated, and to have our hearts touched."
"Emerson provides me - on a weekly basis - a morals, values, and attitude 'tune up'."
"Sunday services renew me so that I might do my own healing work in the world."
V. UU Theology: Valuing the principles and sources of UU'ism as expressed at Emerson
"I value our mobile hanging at the front of the sanctuary saying that spiritual truth flows from many sources, that no one spiritual leader or sacred text has a monopoly on truth."
"I like that personal theology is left to the individual; we can explore our beliefs and not be ridiculed."
"I value the UU principles and presence of thoughtful, deeply considering people as we struggle with the living out of our principles with the church and in society."
