Elevator speech (ritual, tradition, choices, choice, church)

[Kungfuzed]

From talking with a dozen or so different UU members, I have a feeling that no two members have the same "Elevator speech". When someone asks you what a Unitarian Universalist is, what do you say?

[lilithu]

Originally Posted by Kungfuzed

From talking with a dozen or so different UU members, I have a feeling that no two members have the same "Elevator speech". When someone asks you what a Unitarian Universalist is, what do you say?

Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religious tradition, rooted in Judaism and Christianity, heavily influenced by the Eastern traditions via Transcendentalism, that now embraces the truths of many faith traditions while recognizing that none have a monopoly (or even got it all right, including ourselves). We do not all agree on the nature of God (or if there even is one), but we are united in our faith in the inherent worth of humanity, and the need for human action to pursue social justice.

[lilithu]

Elevator speech, take two:
Unitarian Universalism is a religion based on the inherent worth of every person and our interdependency to one another. Because of that, we emphasize relationship over creed. We encourage people to bring their own experience of truth to add to our chorus; we welcome people as their whole, complex selves; and we work for a world that is more just, so that the comfort and joy we find within our own walls can be spread in ever widening circles.

[Trey of Diamonds]

Like Lilithu, I have more than one. My favorite is the one I use at work.

We're the old hippies who get together to drink coffe during the day and have a few beers at night all the while discussing what we think about religion and spirituality.

Out of all that the only comment I ever get is "You drink beer at church?" with an occasional reference to old hippies and flashbacks as well. If the person I'm talking to is more serious about wanting to know about UU I'll go into more detail and that does happen on occasion.

[lilithu]

Old hippies? Speak for yourself!

[J Bryson]

Same here...I was punk wannabe back in the day.

I say "We believe that everyone is responsible for his or her own spiritual development, and that it's best to concentrate on taking care of each other, and making the world the best place possible". I usually get a smile from that, along with some variation of "Well, that sounds fine!"

[SoCalUni]

If I am asked I just tell them that we respect everyone's right to make their own choices, we expect our members to bring differences with them and contribute to our diversity that our acceptance does not stop at the doors of our congregation but is extended to all and that the most important principle is a kind, loving and respectful relationship with all members of humanity.

[J Bryson]

Originally Posted by SoCalUni

If I am asked I just tell them that we respect everyone's right to make their own choices, we expect our members to bring differences with them and contribute to our diversity that our acceptance does not stop at the doors of our congregation but is extended to all and that the most important principle is a kind, loving and respectful relationship with all members of humanity.

Well, sure...but can you say that five times fast?

[Green Gaia]

Recent elevator "speech" I gave to someone at work. I don't usually talk about religion at work, but had mentioned something about going to church on Sundays while we were trying to plan a lunch for a few of us. My co-worker was shocked that I went to church and wanted to know what kind of church allowed me in the door! Anyway, this was the gist of it:

Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religion that is open and welcoming to all people and does not take a stance on matters of faith (i.e. whether there is a god, afterlife, etc.), but rather allows for personal revelation and belief. We are a community of many different people who all have the same goal: to make the world a more peaceful and just place for all.

[Trey of Diamonds]

Originally Posted by Green Gaia

My co-worker was shocked that I went to church and wanted to know what kind of church allowed me in the door!

You know, I get that a lot too. But usually its from Baptists family and friends who know me well. When I tell them I teach Sunday School they take a couple steps back and look up, sure that bolts of lightening are sure to follow. Sometime I swear there's nothing more fun than scaring Baptists.