The Unitarian Renewal Group is one of several Unitarian societies looking at the future of Unitarianism in the UK. Described as: “A ‘ginger’ group that promotes inclusivity and tolerance of diversity in Unitarian congregations”, here’s the foreword from their recent ‘Viewsletter’ (July 2023), which gives a flavour of their thinking:

“VIEWSLETTER July 2023
Our current theme of ‘Welcoming’ has stirred much interest. Everyone wants to feel sure that whoever steps inside the door of any of our churches, chapels or meeting houses will feel welcome, enough perhaps to want to stay, participate and become a member.

At this time, we ought also to be thinking about welcoming back those who have been missing during the Covid restrictions. There is evidence that churchgoing has declined quite seriously this last couple of years, even precipitating closures, alas. What can be done to encourage a return now the Covid risk has waned? Certainly a smiling welcome is called for, and an absence of any criticism for absentees.

Over against this, we have the phenomenon of Zoom services including hybrid services. These raise a number of questions. Are ‘online’ services as good, as effective and as satisfying as real, in-person gatherings? We hear different views. One minister has taken a firm line and will have no truck with online worship. And this minister’s congregation is growing.

Others say that Zoom services include housebound folk who would otherwise miss worship completely. The widespread deterioration of public transport would support that view too. And do ‘online’ members have the same financial responsibilities, and voting rights and responsibilities as actual attenders?

All are welcome, whether sitting with the church mouse or clicking with the computer mouse. What does the future hold here?” JM.

To find out more about them, get in touch with their Secretary, Celia Midgley, here: Celia Midgley.