History:

Unitarian Universalism was formed from the consolidation of two religions: Unitarianism and Universalism.  Both had origins in Europe during the Reformation.  Unitarians were Christians who didn’t believe in the Holy Trinity of God, but in the unity, or single aspect, of God.  Unitarian beliefs later evolved to stress the importance of rational thinking, a direct relationship with God, and the humanity of Jesus. Universalism emerged as a Christian denomination with a central belief in universal salvation, i.e., that all people will eventually be reconciled with God.

Both religions were brought to America by colonists in the late 1700’s and early 1800’s and became widely practiced in urban(Unitarian) and agricultural (Universalist) societies during these centuries. A consolidation of the faiths in 1961 formed the denomination known as the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations, Inc. with headquarters in historic Boston.  

In the fifty years since the merger, Unitarian Universalism has continued to evolve as a liberal religion embracing diverse spiritual beliefs and advocating for equality, social justice and compassion.