Unity

Unity is a form of Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. Sometimes confused with Unitarian and Unification churches, Unity as a religion is a positive belief in universal principles that have been demonstrated to work in people’s lives repeatedly. It is the practice of these principles that is the focus of the belief rather than on doctrines. It is believed that the practice of spiritual principles leads us to better character and conduct in the individual.

Formed in Kansas City, Missouri in the late 1800’s by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, Unity began as simple study groups meant to augment a person’s chosen faith. In other words Unity, in the beginning, was not intended to be a church. But those who did not subscribe to any other traditional belief approached the Fillmore’s to begin what became a worldwide movement. 

While the Unity theology is based in the Gospels, Unity encourages the view of a spiritual life that is a journey rather than a destination. Every Unity student is encouraged to keep an open mind to teachings from all religions as well as one’s own experience, conscience, and reasoning process. In this way each person develops an individualized belief system and spiritual practice. 

Unity’s view of the Bible is that it is the word of God interpreted by human beings. As one reads the Bible, two things become apparent from a Unity viewpoint. The first is that people’s names change. Abram became Abraham, Jacob became Israel, Saul became Paul and so on. In each case, the change seems to be associated with a change of mind or an upliftment in consciousness in their spiritual life or their view of God. The second is that God’s name changes. Elohim (one God with many divine powers) becomes Yahweh (Jehovah or I am what I am) and finally Jesus calls God Father. God continually becomes more personal. The question must be asked, “Did God have a change of mind or an upliftment in consciousness?” The answer is “No!” Human consciousness about God was uplifted. The final conclusion for Unity is that the Bible is the story of the evolution of human consciousness about God.

Regardless of a belief about the Bible, or any other doctrines or creed, Unity primarily believes in personal responsibility in our worldly existence. In other words, our outward reality reflects an internal reality. Reverend Martha Giudic once said, “Thoughts held in mind produce after their kind.” Precisely stated, this phrase embodies Unity’s belief that positive thinking is the first step in creating the kingdom of Heaven on Earth. People choose whether to focus their attention on the negativity of their circumstances or on the opportunity for learning, growing, and becoming stronger by overcoming our impulse to see the worst. In other words we reap (in the world) what we sow (in our minds). This teaching is reflected in Jesus’ golden rule as well as the Hindu idea of karma that teaches that which goes around comes around whether you think positive or negative thoughts or do good or bad things.

The ministry of Jesus is primarily one of compassion, love, and acceptance. It seems clear, however, that he had little patience for those who used their religious authority to take advantage of the less fortunate. His story of the “Good Samaritan” was one that broke down barriers of bigotry and prejudice. He seemed to prefer the company of common people often referred to as sinners. Sinners in Unity are people who think and behave in error. In other words, sinners are people who make mistakes.

Unity believes people are not punished for their sins but by them. The difference between Unity and traditional Christianity is in its view of God and our existence. Traditional Christianity believes that we were created in original sin and God is outside our realm; while Unity believes that God exists within each individual as an idea of perfect potential. Our belief is that we are born not in original sin but original blessing. Although we may fall in consciousness from God, God never separates from us.

Unity students recognize that spiritual learning is ongoing and work to forgive others and themselves. They are encouraged to align with the spirit of the Christ within for personal guidance and direction that will best enhance their spiritual growth. 

By prayer and meditation we keep our connection with God strong. Also, through publications such as, The Daily Word, services, classes, and retreats, Unity supports and encourages people of all faiths who seek to know God.

The Unity ministry provides a safe and sacred space for study, participation, fellowship, support, transformation and awakening to the joy of living in God’s world.

Unity believes we are each a child of God in whom God is well pleased. 

For further information see www.Unity.org