These twelve essays from Unitarian Universalist leaders emerge as part of a movement in the faith from focusing on individual identity to relational connectedness. Through personal stories and thoughtful reflections, the contributors describe how we might grow our souls through our connections with one another and with the Holy. They invite us to move beyond the age-old theological question "Who am I?" and ask instead, "Whose are we?" This new emphasis suggests that we are all part of something larger, something that both includes us and transcends us. Group exercises and journaling prompts accompany the essays, making this an ideal resource for use in congregational settings or small gatherings. Helping us to be more vulnerable with one another and to express things not easily defined in precise ways, Not for Ourselves Alone offers fertile new ways for Unitarian Universalists to grow in the life of the spirit.
I read this book over several weeks as a shared read with a small group that discussed the readings and did the exercises. I found the exercises useful and sharing thoughts with others is always an enlightening experience. The highlight for me has to be the very high quality and selection of the readings. These readings are reflections by some very thoughtful and articulate people and were great to read. While doing the book in a group was great, I'd also recommend the book just for those who would read the readings independently.
A good offering of essays designed to stimulate sharing, exploration, and discussion of faith among Unitarian Universalists. Recommended for use with small groups, congregational leadership, and religious leadership staff groups.