You may have driven by our little Church in south Edmonton, or seen a banner at a parade or protest, and wondered what the heck is a Unitarian and why should you care anyways? We've written this little guide to answer these questions and hope you will invest 5 minutes of your day to read it and to learn about us! You just may find out that you are a Unitarian as well and want to come for a visit!

Who are Unitarians?

Modern Unitarianism was started in the eastern US over 200 years ago by American intellectuals including Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and others. Unitarians just couldn't get their heads around how God could be a man, a holy spirit, and a creator - so they rejected this idea of a trinity and began to call themselves Unitarians. They weren't that much different than other Protestant sects of the day, but they valued an individual's right to decide on and create their own understandings of mysteries like gods, spirits, prophets and dogmas. Unitarianism expanded through the years and now there are Unitarians in 28 countries, but the largest number still live in the USA. Unitarianism came to Canada in 1811 and now there are congregations in all 10 provinces.

What are Unitarian Universalists (UUs)?

Westwood is a Unitarian Universalist congregation. Universalists also were protestant Christian Americans in the 19th century. However, they couldn't believe in a god that would send humans to eternal torture and damnation, but rather believed in universal salvation for all and began calling themselves Universalists. In 1961 the two denominations merged and became known as Unitarian Universalists (UUs).

So what do UUs believe?

Westwood is a non-creedal congregation, so members and friends do not have to believe the same things in order to respect and learn from each other. That said, there are seven principles that all UUs support. As you read the principles that follow, ask yourself how many of them you believe in as well?

• The inherent worth and dignity 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'll bet you agree with most or all of the principles above, and thus a common saying at Westwood is that there are thousands of UUs in Edmonton - most just don't know it! Of course you may have other beliefs that guide your life. Likely certain texts, music, cultural activities or grounding ideas from your youth are also important principles for you. Most UUs do as well, and thus Westwood has UU Buddhists, UU Christians, UU Hindus, UU Pagans, UU Humanists and UU Atheists. All are welcome.

So what happens at the Church?

Westwood hosts community, social, educational, musical and support groups most days of the week, but on Sunday mornings we gather together. A UU service will be familiar to most people who have attended a Christian service. There will likely be readings, meditations, candles, singing, a children's story, a sermon or presentation, a collection plate, and coffee after the service. But each service is different with a unique theme, so if you are thinking about dropping in - come at least twice!

Do UU Congregations have Leaders, Priests or Bishops?

No, however, many UU congregations have professional ministers. At Westwood the Rev. Anne Barker is our part-time professional minister. Like all UU ministers, Anne has a Masters degree from an accredited university, and thus is trained to minister, but not to dictate to members. Canadian UUs also place a small tax on their congregations to support a few leaders who undertake professional development, fund raising and special projects for us - but Westwoodians govern, support and control our own affairs.

Why do people come to Westwood?

UUs attend congregations for many reasons, but the most important is probably because they enjoy learning, sharing and searching with and from others in a community. Some also come for the music, some for the children's program, some for friendships they have built, some for the discussion and debate, some for quiet meditation - none yet for the coffee, but we are working on it!

Do people like me come to Westwood?

Quite likely. Most services begin with a welcome to all, regardless of their education, income, age, sexual orientation or religion. Because UUs are unique there might not be someone exactly like you, but we are confident there are Westwoodians who will like you, and vice versa!

Why do you want me to come to Westwood?

Well, first, it is not because we can or want to save (or steal) your soul. We believe that a growing and vibrant congregation of UUs is better able to serve each other and the larger community, by inspiring and supporting each of us to live more fully and thoughtfully on our planet. Westwoodians believe there are lots more folks in Edmonton of similar liberal persuasions seeking community. We welcome what you have to offer!

What next?

The next step is up to you. UUs aren't very good at proselytizing, so we won't be banging on your door, and no free tracts!

Thank you for taking time to read this. We hope to greet you at Westwood! Feel free to download this text and foward it to a friend, paste it onto Facebook or respond with a question. This website has links to a great deal more information about Unitarian Universalism. We invite you to visit us at the church on Sunday morning at 10:30 or to continue to explore our website.