What IS Unity?
Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus and the power of prayer. Unity honors the universal truths in all religions and respects each individual’s right to choose a spiritual path.
Founded in 1889 by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, Unity offers a practical philosophy for living. Unity has no strict creed or dogma, but offers a comprehensive teaching for all who are seeking a deeper understanding of their spiritual nature. Charles Fillmore said Unity is a “practical Christianity.”
Today, we say that Unity is culturally Christian, but spiritually inclusive, and that Unity is metaphysically Christian. The teachings of Jesus Christ are central to Unity, but it is the teachings which are more important that the teacher. There is one God, but there are many paths to God, and we honor all paths. Unity is more interested in teaching HOW to think than in WHAT to think. Unity teachings have been described as “a spiritual resource for daily living.”
For a look at how Unity fits into the New Thought movement, CLICK HERE to view or download an image in org chart layout.
What Does Unity Teach?
UNITY teaches that God is love, that God is within all people, and that God is, therefore, always available to everyone.
UNITY recognizes value in all religions and spiritual paths and never requires a new member to drop membership or affiliation with any other church or spiritual organization.
UNITY teaches that all persons have the freedom to pursue the beliefs and practices that enhance their lives. Therefore, Unity does not pressure anyone to subscribe to a set dogma or creed.
UNITY teaches that a life of prayer changes us, not God. God is unchangeable, absolute Good.
UNITY teaches positive, practical ways to apply spiritual principles in our daily lives.
UNITY teaches holistic living – including health, prosperity, harmonious relationships, and the development of positive attitudes – the ideal objective for all seeking to live a spiritual life.
UNITY teaches that the Bible is a textbook of spiritual principles, and that each of us has the freedom and ability to interpret those principles according to our present level of understanding.
Beliefs
- There is only One Presence and One Power active in the universe and in our lives, God the Good.
- Human beings have a spark of divinity within. Their very essence is of God and, therefore, they are inherently Good.
- We are co-creators with God, creating reality through thoughts held in mind.
- Through affirmative prayer and meditation, we connect our heart-mind with God.
- Knowing and understanding the laws of life, we must live the Truth that we know.
Values
INSPIRATION – We recognize the presence of the Sacred in our daily lives.
INTEGRITY – We embody and model what we teach in thoughts, words, and actions.
ACCEPTANCE – We welcome all people and honor all paths to God. We embrace each person as a unique expression of Spirit.
COMMUNITY – We are here to grow and support one another in our awareness of the Presence of God and to experience the depth of unconditional love.
GRATITUDE – Living in the infinite flow and inexhaustible supply of God, we thrive!
Namaste’
…meaning – I honor the Place in You in which the entire universe dwells. I honor the Place in You which is of love, of truth, of light, and of peace. When You are in that Place in You, and I am in that Place in me, We are One.