This entry originally appeared as an article in our November Emersonian. The Universalist symbol to the left is known as the Off-Center Cross–it was created in 1946—some still use it today. Within my lifetime, Unitarian Universalism has always been a combined faith, but Universalism is the tradition that speaks more to me. The idea that there is no eternal damnation, that we are all called to love and be loved. Yes, on one side it sounds pretty flower child, but it’s also a holy charge. The Universalist ideal relates to the Buddhist concept of the bodhisattva- I am not truly saved until EVERYONE is. How must I move in the world, and what differences can I make in my work and my passions to truly build a better world? This is a critical lens to my calling. Through the month of November, we’ll consider stories and gifts of our Universalist heritage. What does it mean to accept love when we may not feel worthy of it? How do we reach out to all with this inclusive faith? How can we embrace the hopeful promises of Universalism when we are surrounded by the tragedies of the world? How do we keep on moving forward when our hearts feel broken and our spirits so very tired? These are important ideas that we can explore best in community—in our worship services and in religious education classes for all ages. In faith, Katy Carpman Director of Religious Education


]]>

Related Posts