The Unitarian Universalist Society of Fairhaven, Massachusetts Unitarian Universalist Principles and Sources In the 1980's, our congregations met in focus groups to consider a set of Principles we could all mostly agree with and a set of sources from which we draw our inspiration. This process took three years of discussion, from 1981 to 1984, and then the fine points of language were struggled with and agreed upon with a final vote at the 1985 Annual General Meeting (AGM). Another source was added in 1995. We are clear that these Principles and Sources will change as our collective understanding changes. Following are the Principles and Sources in the words that are written into our Byelaws. You can learn more about us by logging onto our Association website at www.uua.org. "We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote: * The inherent worth and dignity of every person, * Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations, * Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations, * A free and responsible search for truth and meaning, * The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large, * The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all, * Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. The Living Tradition we share draws from many sources: Direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces that create and uphold life, Words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice, compassion, and the transforming power of love, Wisdom from the world's religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life, Jewish and Christian teachings which call us to respond to God's love by loving our neighbors as ourselves, Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of the mind and spirit, Spiritual teachings of Earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature. "Grateful for the religious pluralism that enriches and ennobles our faith, we are inspired to deepen our understanding and expand our vision. As free congregations we enter into the covenant, promising to one another our mutual trust and respect."