Submission 161
John Hansman
River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation (Bethesda, MD) 4034
What is your suggestion or idea?
The existing statement of purpose of the UUA is to assist member congregations.
The re-draft of Article II states:
““The purpose of the Unitarian Universalist Association is to actively engage its
members in the transformation of the world through liberating Love.””
I have a concern that the UUA is transforming from a member association to a central HQ that will try to enforce a set of public policy positions on congregations and ministers. Such a shift would be contrary to ““acceptance of one another”” and ““a free and responsible search for truth and meaning””.
What is the reason for your amendment idea?
I think that the focus of the UUA should remain on its traditional function of helping member congregations to grow in membership and financial stability. The new language implies that the UUA will try to enforce its particular vision of ““transformation through liberating love”” on ministers and congregations.
Have you discussed this idea with your congregation or other UUs?
No.