Unitarian Church in Summit

History

Seeking to form a liberal religious community, a small group of individuals founded The Unitarian Church in Summit in 1908. In 1913, with the assistance of the American Unitarian Association and the New Jersey Universalist Convention, they built the Church on the corner of Springfield and Waldron Avenues in Summit.

Today, The Unitarian Church in Summit is one of more than 1000 congregations throughout the United States belonging to the Unitarian Universalist Association. We are a self-sustaining regional congregation, numbering approximately 400 members who come from some 50 surrounding communities. We are a Welcoming Congregation. Membership is open – without regard to race, ethnic background, affectional or sexual orientation or political persuasion – to all who find themselves in sympathy with the principles of this congregation.

The Unitarian Church in Summit is self-governing, with its own by laws. The congregation is responsible for the calling of its Ministers, and for electing a Board of Trustees to direct the work of the church.

Mission

We are a religious fellowship whose purpose is to stimulate and support individuals in their quest for spiritual and ethical values, recognizing the right to freedom of belief.

Though diverse and tolerant in matters of spirituality, we find a strong sense of community here, united in the principles we share with the Unitarian Universalist Association:

We affirm

• The inherent worth and dignity of every person
• Justice, equity and compassion in human relationships
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning
• The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large
• The goal of world community, with peace, liberty and justice for all
• Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part

All members of the congregation, in concert with our elected leaders and ordained ministers, participate in the ministry of the church. This work includes: worship services; religious education; music and other cultural programs; fellowship; stewardship and community outreach.

Vision

In covenant with one another, we, the members of The Unitarian Church in Summit, commit ourselves, through our resources, programs and facilities, to be a center for peace and religious tolerance, as well as a beacon to all who search for truth and reason in their lives, and a voice for social justice in our community and throughout the world.

To this end, we will strive to provide an open and inviting religious presence, serving as a source of inspiration to inner harmony and outward resolve.