Welcome: A Unitarian Universalist Primer

by Patricia Frevert

Features common Unitarian Universalist prayers and readings, including the seven Principles and six Sources, chalice lightings, quotations from UUs of yesterday and today, and a glossary. Plus introductions to UU history, religious education and social justice.
Praise for A Unitarian Universalist

"A thoughtful and spirit-filled introduction to our liberating and nourishing faith." Rob M. Hardies, senior minister, All Souls Church, Unitarian, Washington, DC

“This Primer is precisely what a newcomer a brief, lucid history; commonly used readings and prayers; and inspirational quotations that indicate something of our theological diversity and devotion to justice.” Marilyn Sewell, senior minister, First Unitarian Church, Portland, Oregon

Genres: Religion, Spirituality, Nonfiction

77 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2008

Reviews

[Jung · Rating 4 out of 5]

[4 stars] One of the few silver linings of social distancing is that so many spaces have gone virtual, including a local Unitarian Universalist congregation that I’ve been wanting to attend for years but haven’t been able to manage with an unpredictable chronic illness. After a few months of services, I wanted to know more about the beliefs, history, and sources of wisdom informing my experiences. Welcome provides an introductory overview to UU’s religious pluralism and social change focus that was great for a relative newcomer like myself. Recommended for those who like learning about religion and people looking for a spiritual home that blends faith, reason, and justice.

Goodreads Challenge: 64/90

[Zechariah Shrum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met with a UU minister and he provided this primer along with a few worksheets. This is exactly what it sounds like: brief primer on Unitarian Universalism. It touches on the 7 principles and the 6 sources. It talks about the history of Unitarianism, Universalism, and the merger in 1961. It explains how UU is a covenantal faith rather than a creedal faith. The primer also includes common liturgical themes such as chalice lighting and hymns. UU is an evolving liberal religion and if you are interested in a brief introduction written from a UU-perspective, then check it out!

[Ryan Burg · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not enough

I bought this book hoping to go a little deeper into the tenants of the UU faith. This was simply a collection of quotes.

[Andrew Hartley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great introduction to the history and faith of Unitarian Universalism (UU)

[Kirsten D · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great short primer!

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short, simple introduction to the basic principles of Unitarian Universalism. It is most helpful for those who are new to this denomination and are searching for the answer to what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist. The book includes a historical background of the religion, outlines the basic tenets and also includes relevant quotes. I found it very helpful, as I am just beginning to attend UU services and explore this path.

[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Small informative crash course on UU. A bit heavy on the quotes to fill out the book-otherwise it could have been just a long pamphlet. At least it helps inquiring minds as to what and where to go next.

[Gregory · Rating 3 out of 5]

Primer is the right description. It is very short, but probably a good starting place that would leave a newcomer hungry for more.

[Stacie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short intro to Unitarian Universalism. Bits and pieces of its theology. Good quotes. Easy read - a skim not a plunge of this religious tradition.