Unitarian Church of Calgary

We come together in beloved community, guided by our Unitarian Universalist principles and sources, to grow in wisdom, welcome and deepen relationships, and act for a just and sustainable world.

The statement is structured such that the conditions under which we come together (“beloved community” and “UU principles and sources”) are stated up front. From there, three bullet points or goals progress from the individual (“grow in wisdom”), to the church community (“welcome and deepen relationships”), and to the world (“act for a just and sustainable world”).

We come together

This phrase gives a warm opening and says that in order for the church to exist, we must come together and bring our energy and resources (Latham’s elements of “identity of people” and “means of fulfillment”). WEare the church.

in beloved community,

The word “beloved” was chosen not only because of its dictionary meaning of “loved” or “dear to the heart,” but also because of its larger meaning of an inclusive vision of humankind striving together for peace and justice as popularized by Martin Luther King Jr.’s concept of beloved community. It defines the way we are with each other.

guided by our Unitarian Universalist principles and sources,

This phrase identifies our common ground – the seven UU principles and six sources of our faith. It also satisfies Latham’s elements of “source of authority” and “posture towards truth.” The phrase covers a large amount of philosophical material that does not have to be repeated in the Purpose Statement itself.

to grow in wisdom,

The word “wisdom” was chosen to encompass philosophical, spiritual, ethical and intellectual growth – ideas that came up at the April congregational workshop.

welcome and deepen relationships,

This phrase refers to the connections that happen within our church community, although it can also relate to non-church relationships – even relationships with the divine. Relationships can only deepen in an environment of compassion, trust and acceptance, thus all these elements are implied in the phrase. “Welcome” emphasizes the concept of outreach to form new relationships, as well as being an oblique reference to our status as a Welcoming Congregation.

and act for a just and sustainable world

The word “act” was chosen for its specific call to deeds. The words “just” and “sustainable” express ideas about social and environmental action that couldn’t be easily captured in one word.