Are We Really Radical? A Call for a Conversation on Change

As Unitarians, we often pride ourselves on being open-minded and rational in our approach to faith. We believe in the power of change and the need for continual progress. But, when it comes to our physical places of worship, are we truly radical?

As I reflect on the state of our church buildings, I'm reminded of the Victorians – a generation that ushered in an industrial revolution. They weren't bogged down by sentimentality for the past. Instead, they embraced the new, and it changed the world. If they had clung to old buildings and old ways of thinking, they might never have sparked the transformation that led to the world as we know it.

Our attachment to old buildings might be holding us back. It's time to ask ourselves: Are we embracing change as the Victorians did? Or are we too sentimental about our history, too attached to the physicality of our past?

As a Unitarian Minister, I understand the significance of historic buildings. They connect us to our past and provide a tangible link to the generations that came before us. But, we must balance our respect for history with our need to evolve and grow. We must differentiate between tradition, the living faith of the dead, and traditionalism, the dead faith of the living.

If we're serious about being radical, we need to be open to change, even if it means letting go of our old buildings. We need spaces that facilitate our evolving forms of worship, our growing communities, and our ever-changing understanding of faith. Let's not allow our attachment to old buildings to prevent us from fully embracing the future.

I invite all of us, as a community of Unitarians, to start a conversation about radical change. Let's be truly radical, not just in words but in actions. Let's consider our church buildings and ask ourselves if they serve our current needs or if they hold us back. Let's discuss how we can balance our respect for the past with our need for progress.

Together, we can shape a future that honours our tradition while embracing change. Together, we can ensure that our faith is a living faith that adapts, grows, and meets the needs of our community.

In light of our call for radical change, the idea of creating a new, shared building for the Unitarian community is a powerful manifestation of our commitment to collaboration and progress. A new building offers more than just a physical space for worship; it represents a renewed commitment to unity, cooperation, and the principles that define us as Unitarians.

However, building a shared space requires us to work together and overcome the pettiness that sometimes divides us. It's an opportunity to set aside our individual egos and join forces to create something that benefits all. This shared building can be a testament to our capacity to unite and collaborate for the common good.

To make this vision a reality, we need to:

Open the Dialogue: Let's start conversations within our individual chapels about the possibility of coming together to build a shared space. By discussing the benefits and potential challenges, we can build support for this idea.

Set Up a Task Force: Forming a task force comprising representatives from each chapel can help us explore options and make decisions collectively. This group can work together on fundraising, selecting a location, and overseeing the construction process.

Transcend Our Differences: In the process of building a shared space, we may encounter differences in opinions and priorities. Let's acknowledge these differences and work through them respectfully, keeping in mind our shared values and goals.

Engage the Congregation: Let's involve our congregations in the process of creating a new building. Whether through fundraising, volunteering, or contributing ideas, our congregants can play an active role in bringing this vision to life.

Celebrate Our Unity: Once the new building is ready, let's celebrate it as a symbol of our unity and commitment to collaboration. Let's use it as a space where we can continue to grow together and work towards the betterment of our faith and the wider community.

As we embark on this journey, let's remember that a shared building represents more than just bricks and mortar. It embodies our collective commitment to cooperation, progress, and the core principles of Unitarianism. Let's embrace this opportunity, overcome our pettiness, and work together to create a space that reflects the best of who we are as Unitarians.

"While we strive for radical change, let's also consider how Unitarianism needs to evolve with the changing socio-political and environmental landscape. We must be willing to adapt, as clinging to outdated perspectives may render us irrelevant to younger generations. It is important to discuss the potential benefits of taking a political and ecological position.

Aligning with Modern Values: Embracing progressive political and ecological stances is crucial for staying relevant and resonating with younger generations. Many are deeply concerned about social justice and environmental issues, and they seek communities that reflect their values.

Engaging the Community: A political and ecological position enables Unitarian churches to participate actively in advocacy, activism, and community organizing. This increases our visibility, attracts new members, and fosters community engagement and social responsibility.

Continuing Social Justice and Ethical Action: Unitarianism has a proud history of advocating for social justice and ethical action. By embracing political and ecological positions, we can continue this tradition and promote policies that advance justice, equality, and sustainability.

Moral Imperative: Our faith teaches us the importance of caring for the Earth and its inhabitants. Taking an ecological stance fulfils our moral responsibility to protect the planet and future generations.

Interfaith Collaboration: A shared political and ecological perspective can facilitate collaboration with other faith communities. Interfaith dialogue can lead to broader coalitions for advocacy and mutual understanding.

Preventing Decline and Ensuring Relevance: Addressing contemporary issues helps counter declining membership numbers. A proactive stance on societal and environmental challenges ensures that our faith remains relevant and continues to grow.

Future-Proofing: By adapting to the modern world and taking a stand on political and ecological issues, we can create a lasting, positive legacy for future generations of Unitarians.

As we embark on this journey of radical change and work towards a shared building, let's also commit to embracing political and ecological positions. The world is changing rapidly, and we must adapt if we want to remain relevant and impactful. Together, we can shape a future that honours our tradition, embraces change, and responds to the pressing needs of our community and the world.

While the thoughts I express today might not be entirely novel, they resonate with an age-old truth: change is constant. We must be open to change, even when it feels uncomfortable. One of the churches I have the honour of serving boasts a rich history that bears testament to this very notion.

From its roots in 1687 at the Castle Hey Chapel, it transitioned to Benns Garden Chapel in the 18th Century, moving onwards to the Renshaw Street Chapel in the 19th Century, before finding its current home at Ullet Road Church by the close of the 19th Century. Each move was a testament to the congregation's commitment to adapt and grow, reflecting the changing needs of the community and the world around them.

Now, as we navigate the complexities of the 21st Century, I can't help but ponder the future of Ullet Road Church. A magnificent grade 1 listed building, it stands as a testament to architectural beauty and centuries of faith. Yet, in our quest for evolution, do we dare to consider another shift? Could we even contemplate the idea of selling such a revered edifice?

It's a thought that weighs heavily on my heart, and it's a question that, for now, I leave hanging in the air. As Unitarians, we've always embraced change, but are we ready for what the next chapter might demand of us?