 FAQFrequently Asked QuestionsBelow are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding Unity as a ministry.
What is Unity?
Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity. Unity is nondenominational, non-dogmatic, and introduces an enlightened Christianity which embraces the universal truths in other religions.
Unity's emphasis is on a path of spiritual awakening that moves humanity towards oneness through love, forgiveness, and acceptance of all people. Unity's focus is not on sin, but in creating a healthy relationship with God which is free of fear and guilt.
What are Unity's basic teachings?
Unity emphasizes a mind-heart connection to God and spiritual principles as a way of transforming all areas of one's life.
Unity does not practice all of the traditional Christian church such as water baptism and Holy Communion. It sees baptism as an inner activity of the Holy Spirit and communion as the daily practice of prayer.
Is Unity a denomination?
Some aspects of the Unity movement are denominational, and some are not. For example, there are more than 900 Unity churches and study groups affiliated with Unity's sister organization, the Association of Unity Churches International. This is a denominational aspect of Unity. In addition, the Unity Institute at Unity Village trains approximately 60 students every two years to be Unity ministers. This is also denominational. However, the majority of the work done by Unity involves prayer, publishing, and education services to people of all faiths. These non denominational aspects include the prayer ministry, Silent Unity, Daily Word (Unity's nondenominational inspirational monthly magazine), retreats, and continuing education classes that are open to everyone and teach Unity principles in nondenominational settings. For more of Unity's explanation and teachings regarding God, Jesus, Humankind, The Bible. About Unity
Does Unity believe in divinity of Jesus Christ?
Yes, Unity teaches that the spirit of God lived in Jesus, just as it lives in every person. Every person has the potential to express the perfection of Christ as Jesus did, by being more Christlike in everyday life.
Is there any connection between Unity and Unitarianism?
No, there is no connection, although there is sometimes confusion because of the similarity of the names. Each is a distinct organization with its own set of beliefs and practices.
What does Unity teach about sin and salvation, heaven and hell?
Sin is our separation from God, the Good, in consciousness. Salvation is now-not something that occurs after death. It happens whenever we turn our thoughts from fear, anxiety, worry, and doubt to thoughts of love, harmony, joy, and peace. The "fall" takes place in consciousness whenever we fall into negative habits of thinking. Heaven and hell are states of consciousness, not geographical locations. We make our own heaven or hell here and now by our thoughts, words, and deeds.
Is Unity an Offshoot of Christian Science?
No. Unity and Christian Science, as well as many other New Thought groups, had their beginnings in the latter part of the nineteenth century. The application of principles, the methods of teaching, and the organization of the two movements are quiet different.
Does Unity practice baptism and communion?
Yes, symbolically. Whereas baptism by water represents the cleansing of the consciousness, spiritual baptism signifies the inflow of the Holy Spirit. Baptism is a mental and spiritual process that takes place within the individual as he or she aligns with the spirit of God. Spiritual communion takes place through prayer and meditation in the silence. The word of Truth is symbolized by the bread and body of Jesus Christ. The conscious realization of God-life is symbolized by the wine and blood of Jesus Christ. Unity practices communion by appropriating, or partaking, of the spiritual energy represented by these elements.
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