Can you have a religion without a theological creed?

In a religious association without a theological creed, is there a unifying theology? How does a Liberal Theology manifest itself in the words, actions and aspirations of Unitarian Universalists?

The formal definition of theology implies a set construct, system or school of opinions about God and humankind’s relationship to the world. Our religious tradition certainly arose from theological assertions. Unitarianism refers to a belief in the unity of God, distinguishing early Unitarians from Trinitarians; and Universalism affirms salvation for all people. The two come together to form the most doctrinally free of all denominations which, ironically, has two doctrines in its name. The roots of Unitarian Universalism are Christian. There are some churches and members who are Christian today, however, the elements of worship and beliefs of individuals are diverse. In a single pew, Jews, Buddhist, Pagans, and Agnostics sit together. To join a Unitarian Universalist congregation, there is no required assent to creed. Members are not provided a school of opinions concerning God and religious questions.

The common ground which unites Unitarian Universalists is a set of principles that outlines NOT WHAT what we are to believe BUT HOW we are to act in the world. Ideally, our actions are guided by respect, reason, love and inquiry. This demonstrates a commitment to living an ethical life. This is a theology in that the principles encourage individuals to engage in direct experience of the nature of God or the Sacred without denying another person’s experience.

The Unitarian Universalist faith is heretical. The Greek root is "hairesis" which means choice. We are empowered as individuals to make choices about theology. In the face of Mystery, our devotion is not to conform to an institutionalized system but to develop our own set of beliefs and practices based upon experience. Within a religious community we are reminded of the diversity of perspectives so as not to become authoritarian in our own.

Amy Freedman

Minister, Channing Memorial Church
Newport, Rhode Island