Emerging Understanding: a Testimonial on an Emerging Identity

Emerging Understanding - by Joe Donatone

What does it mean to be a Unitarian Universalist? For many of us, the answer to this question lives in our rich history of activism, showing up, and representing the change we hope to see in the world. We boldly live-out our values and encourage others to be their very best selves. We are emboldened by a living justice and spiritually nourished by the fight for freedom and equality. This is an excellent definition of what we do and how our faith operates.

But where does that spirituality come from? What sparks or prompts our emergence into our Unitarian Universalist identities?

I am fortunate to serve on the Worship Committee at my church. This year we have embarked on a journey to enrich and enliven the worship experience, each Sunday. We do this through conceptual series that last about six weeks. As the church year begins again, and we gather together fully in community, the committee has been exploring "emergence."

This series has featured a weekly testimonial from a member of the congregation. We asked, simply, "For you, what does it mean to be a Unitarian Universalist and how have our Unitarian Universalist values shaped an emergent moment in your life?" Roughly organized by stage of life, I was tasked to share my story as a recent Unitarian Universalist who has emerged (again) as a student.

Have a listen:

Emerging Opportunities - by Rev. Kiersten Allen

Emerging Understanding - by Joe Donatone

Emerging Love - by Rachel Gardiner and Nicki Drumb

Emerging Service - by Joan Erwin