Theology
The Unitarian Christian Association, as its name suggests, exists primarily to preserve and celebrate Unitarian Christianity.
In short, the Unitarian Christian tradition is founded on a theological position (originally espoused by Michael Servetus and Francis David) that dissents from the doctrine of the Trinity instead affirming the unity of God and placing emphasis on the humanity of Jesus. This strict monotheism is arguably more akin to Islamic and Jewish positions than the positions of larger Christian groups such as the Roman Catholic Church - and as a result, they may be regarded by some fellow Christians as 'unorthodox' or 'heretical'.
In tandem with their aim to promote Unitarian Christian beliefs, the UCA also maintains an ethos of theological open-mindedness and inclusivity shaped by its links with the Free Christian tradition. This is highlighted by the UCA's Foundational Declaration (Recast Edition) which states the following:
"The Bible is central to our faith and Jesus is the Teacher, Exemplar and Master. We will read and search scripture for truth, interpreted by the authority of Conscience. All creeds and confessions restrict belief and the free Inquiry we need for Knowledge. By loving one another, we show ourselves to follow the example of the Jesus. In all things, in faith and deeds, we seek to follow the His Great Commandment that God is One and we should love God with all that we are, and love neighbour as ourselves. We know that how we act is much more important than what the words we say and that, in all times, the words of Jesus still show the way, more important than those uttered in later days. Unity is found not in creeds or doctrines, but by following and being obedient to His teachings. This we affirm."
Not all NSPCI ministers see themselves as Unitarian.
Read more about this topic: Unitarian Christian Association
Famous quotes containing the word theology:
“Only men of moral and mental force, of a patriotic regard for the relationship of the two races, can be of real service as ministers in the South. Less theology and more of human brotherhood, less declamation and more common sense and love for truth, must be the qualifications of the new ministry that shall yet save the race from the evils of false teaching.”
—Fannie Barrier Williams (1855–1944)
“A theology whose god is a metaphor is wasting its time.”
—Mason Cooley (b. 1927)
“When the Devil quotes Scriptures, it’s not, really, to deceive, but simply that the masses are so ignorant of theology that somebody has to teach them the elementary texts before he can seduce them.”
—Paul Goodman (1911–1972)