Unitarian Universalism affirms and promotes eight Principles*, grounded in the humanistic teachings of the world’s religions. Our spirituality is unbounded, drawing from scripture and science, nature and philosophy, personal experience and ancient tradition as described in our six Sources.

People of diverse theological backgrounds and a variety of belief systems—atheists, agnostics, and believers—find a home at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Amherst (UUSA), where we gather to share our individual paths and to nurture our collective search for truth and meaning.

As one member of the UUSA said: “I believe in mystery that transcends all knowing. Unitarian Universalism allows me to explore that mystery without creeds or scriptures that tell me what to believe. Unitarian Universalism—with its message of love and inclusion—is my spiritual home, and I thrive in this UUSA neighborhood.”

For more information on the many beliefs of Unitarian Universalism, please see the UUA webpage People of Many Beliefs.

What Unites Us?

Unitarian Universalists are seekers, united by our understanding that we are all still learning about ourselves, each other, and the mystery. We are united by our commitment to make the world a better place through our actions. Our open-mindedness and our commitment to justice is expressed in our covenant to affirm and promote our eight* Principles.

At the UUSA, we are united also in the shared experience of our faith community. We worship together, care for each other, learn from each other, and work together to bridge difference with love.

As our Director of Religious Education, Rebecca Fricke, says: “Let’s make our Unitarian Universalism a verb—let’s UU every day in every way we can and make our faith real.”

*Note: The UUA has not yet officially adopted the 8th Principle, though the UUSA – and many other congregations – have. To read more about the 8th Principle, adopted by the UUSA on June 13, 2021 during our Annual Meeting. Changing the Principles at the UUA level is a process. It is democratic and not quick. Here is a link that outlines the process since this requires changing their bylaws AND the principles themselves.