Being Lieral in an Illiberal Age

			Being Liberal in a Illiberal Age

A Study Guide

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Author: Patricia Bowen

Publisher: Unitarian Universalist Association

Pub. Date: 1993

Available From: UUA Bookstore

Theme and Description Allows both individuals and groups to explore the book Being Liberal in an Illiberal Age by Jack Mendelsohn. Introduces Unitarian Universalism, encourages participants to develop and articulate their personal beliefs and values, explores the meaning for religious liberals of traditional religious concepts such as God, sin, prayer and authority, and examines the role of social action in liberal religious life.

Goals for Participants

To explore and articulate their religious phi losophy or faith stance
To develop their spiritual or religious understandings
To explore the history and sources of Unitarian Universalism
To explore fundamental religious concepts such as God, authority, Jesus, the Bible, prayer, and faith
To consider the relationship of social action and liberal religion.

Age Range Adult

Size of Group For individuals or groups of 4 to 12

Space Requirements A comfortable meeting room with space to divide into small groups

Number of Sessions 5

Length of Sessions 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours (flexible)

Leader Training No special training required

Leader Preparation 1 to 2 hours

Strengths

Fosters excellent group interaction
Gives a variety of activity choices in each session
Is grounded in participants' own experiences, beliefs, feelings, and thoughts
Is an excellent introduction to Unitarian Universalism and personal theology; equally valuable for newcomers or veterans of liberal religion
Helps people answer the question "What is a Unitarian Universalist!"

Limitations Relies largely on reflection and discussion in small and large groups

Adaptability

Originally written for members of the Church of the Larger Fellowship, this program works well for groups of any manageable size as well as for individual study
Sessions or individual activities can be used for shorter programs, such as newcomer orientations.

Unitarian Universalist Values While grounded in all the Principles and Purposes, this program particularly addresses the inherent worth and dignity of every person; justice, equity, and compassion in human relations; acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations; and a free and responsible search for truth and meaning.