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		<title>American Unitarian Conference Forum - All Forums</title>
		<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/</link>
		<description>American Unitarian Conference Forum - http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:24:05 -0600</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Arian Catholic Church</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=902</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 10:40:21 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=902</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Rev Smith, how close is your theology to this Arian denomination?

http://arian-catholic.org/

 The Arian Catholic Creed

I BELIEVE IN ONE GOD, 
Creator of Heaven and earth,  
And of all things visible and invisible.
And in his Spiritual Son, Jesus Christ,  
Whom was born of Mary and Joseph, 
Was not consubstantial nor co-eternal with God the Father almighty, 
Suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, died, and was buried. 
On the third day His Spirit was resurrected. 
He ascended into Heaven, 
And sitteth at the right hand of God, the Father almighty.
Whence he shall come again to judge the living and the dead, 
Of whose Kingdom there shall be no end. 

And I believe in the Holy Spirit, 
The Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church,
The communion of saints, 
The forgiveness of sins, 
The resurrection of the Spirit, 
And life everlasting. 
Amen.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Rev Smith, how close is your theology to this Arian denomination?

http://arian-catholic.org/

 The Arian Catholic Creed

I BELIEVE IN ONE GOD, 
Creator of Heaven and earth,  
And of all things visible and invisible.
And in his Spiritual Son, Jesus Christ,  
Whom was born of Mary and Joseph, 
Was not consubstantial nor co-eternal with God the Father almighty, 
Suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, died, and was buried. 
On the third day His Spirit was resurrected. 
He ascended into Heaven, 
And sitteth at the right hand of God, the Father almighty.
Whence he shall come again to judge the living and the dead, 
Of whose Kingdom there shall be no end. 

And I believe in the Holy Spirit, 
The Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church,
The communion of saints, 
The forgiveness of sins, 
The resurrection of the Spirit, 
And life everlasting. 
Amen.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>&quot;Devil is in the Vatican&quot;</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=901</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:07:38 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=901</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[From Times Online 
March 10, 2010
Chief exorcist Father Gabriele Amorth says Devil is in the Vatican
Richard Owen in Rome

"Father Amorth told La Repubblica that the devil was "pure spirit, invisible. But he manifests himself with blasphemies and afflictions in the person he possesses. He can remain hidden, or speak in different languages, transform himself or appear to be agreeable. At times he makes fun of me."

What, no horns or tail?

Blasphemies...uh oh, here comes the exorcist to a neighborhood near you.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blasphemy

The Exorcist remains one of the scariest movies.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[From Times Online 
March 10, 2010
Chief exorcist Father Gabriele Amorth says Devil is in the Vatican
Richard Owen in Rome

"Father Amorth told La Repubblica that the devil was "pure spirit, invisible. But he manifests himself with blasphemies and afflictions in the person he possesses. He can remain hidden, or speak in different languages, transform himself or appear to be agreeable. At times he makes fun of me."

What, no horns or tail?

Blasphemies...uh oh, here comes the exorcist to a neighborhood near you.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blasphemy

The Exorcist remains one of the scariest movies.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Breathe in -- Breathe out</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=900</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:23:29 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=900</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Breathe in -- Breathe out



Relax and Smile



Breathe in -- Breathe out



Relax and Smile



Breathe in -- Breathe out



Relax and Smile



Now is the time to just be YOU.



If you are not relaxed and able to smile ---



Repeat the above as often as you can.



Take the time to just be YOU.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Breathe in -- Breathe out



Relax and Smile



Breathe in -- Breathe out



Relax and Smile



Breathe in -- Breathe out



Relax and Smile



Now is the time to just be YOU.



If you are not relaxed and able to smile ---



Repeat the above as often as you can.



Take the time to just be YOU.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>What is going on?</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=899</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 09:07:59 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=899</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[‘What is going on?’  This is a question many are asking.  What the future holds -- I have no answer.  I do know -- I will continue to promote the Unitarian Faith.  I will continue to write of our love for God and humanity as a family.

A lot of well meaning people talk a lot.  Few become involved or walk their talk.  Each day people are quick to say what cannot be done.  They attack the beliefs of others without offering a loving alternative or way.  

Each day I see good people come and go.  I see leaders who do not lead in an appropriate way.  I see the frustration of the people with the way things are.  There is a lot of talk but nothing seems to change.

Promises are made then nothing is done.  We have not the time or money is an excuse.  Without active leadership an organization fails.  People loose their hope and faith when no progress is seen. 

I have seen our faith divided into many factions.  Some want to return it to just a Christian denomination.  This path marginalizes most of the human family.  This is not the path I walk but is better than many alternatives.

Others have taken control and declared there is no God.  Atheists have been put into many leadership positions and pulpits.  This has destroyed the view of Unitarians and Universalists as any faith at all.  This path I find repulsive and will not support.

When the Unitarians and Universalist merged   the idea was to form a place where all who loved God could come together in worship and love.  Each congregation could worship the One God in their own ways.  This dream was distorted and lost.

Long before this merger we saw the blending of eastern and western teachings.  This view encompassed all the best teachings attribute to the inspiration of God.  Spirituality and growth in knowledge and wisdom was the primary goal. 

We also saw a blending of the teachings of the nature religions into a part of the whole.  We saw humanitarian efforts that were not equaled by any other faith group.  These efforts too were then distorted and lost.

Many of the initiatives started became part of the efforts of main stream religions.  Unitarians and Universalists were marginalized and denied entrance into some of the organizations they were instrumental in starting.

The American Unitarian Conference was started to restore Unitarianism to its pre-merger state.  Unfortunately some in power tried to erase more than 100 years of inclusiveness and marginalize those who do not hold a Christian view.  This caused a rapid decrease in the membership of the AUC.

Not since the days prior to Ralph Waldo Emerson and David Hume has a strictly Christian outlook for Unitarians been enforced or maintained.  Emerson himself left the Unitarian pulpit when his views expanded beyond Christianity.  Those in power at his time only wanted Christian views expressed.

Still Unitarians claim him as one of the truly great Unitarians.  He had a vision of just how great and inclusive the Unitarian Faith could be.  

Unitarianism became the fastest growing faith in America till the time of the merger into the UUA.  Because of its rapid growth it lacked the organizational structure to maintain all that needed to be done.  The Universalist had the structure but not the numbers to sustain their organization.

Initially the UUA grew but since it lost the Unitarian vision its numbers have steadily declined.

Today our Country, world, and faith are in a deep depression.  In 2008 Paul Yonge and I met in Atlanta and agreed to form ‘Unitarian Community’ to promote the Unitarian Faith:  ‘One God -- One human family.’   It would be inclusive of all people who love and worshiped One God and would serve humanity through humanitarian efforts.

The same year, 2008, I became a member of the Board of Directors for the AUC.  After a couple of meetings the directors stopped meeting. Promises were being made and nothing was accomplished.  After a year I sent the directors notice that I resigned.  This should have triggered new elections but not even an acknowledgement was received from the president, the founder of the organization.  One director asked me to keep posting on the AUC forum.  That I have done although more limited than before.

I started a journal and formed a Unitarian Community group on Beliefnet.  As of today this group has 351 members listed.  Another member started a discussion thread about the AUC on the UU forum page.  It has received more views than any other thread.  Unitarian Community is the only large Unitarian Group on Beliefnet.

My journal has received a lot of attention -- over 31,000 visits.  For 2009, I was voted The Beliefnet Member of the Year receiving 44% of all the votes cast.    I say this not to brag but to show that there is great interest in the Unitarian Faith.  

Last week I started a Unitarian Faith thread on the Spirituality Boards on Classmates.  I have set up a personal page on Face book.  This is a work in process.  Here again I will promote the Unitarian Faith.

Rev. Maurisa Brown-Latham and her husband have also made some remarkable strides in promoting  and organizing their vision of Unitarianism.  Promoting only the Christian heritage they have a wonderful website that is constantly updated.  They have also started Unitarian Ministries International as an organization for lay and Ordained Unitarian Christian Ministers.  This has been remarkably done in a very short time span.

Their words indicate they will later expand to include non-Christian Unitarians.  This, however, at present marginalizes those Unitarians with non-Christian views.  I applaud their efforts but also sense their frustration.  They have hit the wall of acceptance and growth that ‘Christian Only’ has built.

Like the AUC, Unitarian Community, and others the lack of established churches joining with them has created the problem of people saying, “We have no place to meet and worship.”  It is difficult to grow beyond a certain point without dedicated people in many locations establishing home fellowships and churches.

Surveys show 70% of American Christians are not happy with the doctrine of their denominations.  Most hold the Unitarian view that there are many different and acceptable ways outside of Christianity to worship God.  Few are willing to leave their denominations or drop the Christian denominational label.

Those who do leave most often refer to themselves as Spiritual but not Religious.  This is the fastest growing segment of the population.  Turning away from the church for many different reasons most of these individuals do not know there is a place for them in the Unitarian Community.

In my opinion, there is much more work needed to promote the Unitarian Faith.  There is a growing hunger for truth.  Young people want to gain in knowledge and wisdom.  They see the mess that has been caused by greed and the lust for control and power.  They know there must be a better way.

Unitarians can unite and fill this real human need.  Will we unite to promote the love of God and the service to humanity through humanitarian efforts?  Will we unite to promote love, harmony, and peace for all mankind?

I do not know what the future holds, but I will continue to promote the Unitarian Faith.

What will you do?]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[‘What is going on?’  This is a question many are asking.  What the future holds -- I have no answer.  I do know -- I will continue to promote the Unitarian Faith.  I will continue to write of our love for God and humanity as a family.

A lot of well meaning people talk a lot.  Few become involved or walk their talk.  Each day people are quick to say what cannot be done.  They attack the beliefs of others without offering a loving alternative or way.  

Each day I see good people come and go.  I see leaders who do not lead in an appropriate way.  I see the frustration of the people with the way things are.  There is a lot of talk but nothing seems to change.

Promises are made then nothing is done.  We have not the time or money is an excuse.  Without active leadership an organization fails.  People loose their hope and faith when no progress is seen. 

I have seen our faith divided into many factions.  Some want to return it to just a Christian denomination.  This path marginalizes most of the human family.  This is not the path I walk but is better than many alternatives.

Others have taken control and declared there is no God.  Atheists have been put into many leadership positions and pulpits.  This has destroyed the view of Unitarians and Universalists as any faith at all.  This path I find repulsive and will not support.

When the Unitarians and Universalist merged   the idea was to form a place where all who loved God could come together in worship and love.  Each congregation could worship the One God in their own ways.  This dream was distorted and lost.

Long before this merger we saw the blending of eastern and western teachings.  This view encompassed all the best teachings attribute to the inspiration of God.  Spirituality and growth in knowledge and wisdom was the primary goal. 

We also saw a blending of the teachings of the nature religions into a part of the whole.  We saw humanitarian efforts that were not equaled by any other faith group.  These efforts too were then distorted and lost.

Many of the initiatives started became part of the efforts of main stream religions.  Unitarians and Universalists were marginalized and denied entrance into some of the organizations they were instrumental in starting.

The American Unitarian Conference was started to restore Unitarianism to its pre-merger state.  Unfortunately some in power tried to erase more than 100 years of inclusiveness and marginalize those who do not hold a Christian view.  This caused a rapid decrease in the membership of the AUC.

Not since the days prior to Ralph Waldo Emerson and David Hume has a strictly Christian outlook for Unitarians been enforced or maintained.  Emerson himself left the Unitarian pulpit when his views expanded beyond Christianity.  Those in power at his time only wanted Christian views expressed.

Still Unitarians claim him as one of the truly great Unitarians.  He had a vision of just how great and inclusive the Unitarian Faith could be.  

Unitarianism became the fastest growing faith in America till the time of the merger into the UUA.  Because of its rapid growth it lacked the organizational structure to maintain all that needed to be done.  The Universalist had the structure but not the numbers to sustain their organization.

Initially the UUA grew but since it lost the Unitarian vision its numbers have steadily declined.

Today our Country, world, and faith are in a deep depression.  In 2008 Paul Yonge and I met in Atlanta and agreed to form ‘Unitarian Community’ to promote the Unitarian Faith:  ‘One God -- One human family.’   It would be inclusive of all people who love and worshiped One God and would serve humanity through humanitarian efforts.

The same year, 2008, I became a member of the Board of Directors for the AUC.  After a couple of meetings the directors stopped meeting. Promises were being made and nothing was accomplished.  After a year I sent the directors notice that I resigned.  This should have triggered new elections but not even an acknowledgement was received from the president, the founder of the organization.  One director asked me to keep posting on the AUC forum.  That I have done although more limited than before.

I started a journal and formed a Unitarian Community group on Beliefnet.  As of today this group has 351 members listed.  Another member started a discussion thread about the AUC on the UU forum page.  It has received more views than any other thread.  Unitarian Community is the only large Unitarian Group on Beliefnet.

My journal has received a lot of attention -- over 31,000 visits.  For 2009, I was voted The Beliefnet Member of the Year receiving 44% of all the votes cast.    I say this not to brag but to show that there is great interest in the Unitarian Faith.  

Last week I started a Unitarian Faith thread on the Spirituality Boards on Classmates.  I have set up a personal page on Face book.  This is a work in process.  Here again I will promote the Unitarian Faith.

Rev. Maurisa Brown-Latham and her husband have also made some remarkable strides in promoting  and organizing their vision of Unitarianism.  Promoting only the Christian heritage they have a wonderful website that is constantly updated.  They have also started Unitarian Ministries International as an organization for lay and Ordained Unitarian Christian Ministers.  This has been remarkably done in a very short time span.

Their words indicate they will later expand to include non-Christian Unitarians.  This, however, at present marginalizes those Unitarians with non-Christian views.  I applaud their efforts but also sense their frustration.  They have hit the wall of acceptance and growth that ‘Christian Only’ has built.

Like the AUC, Unitarian Community, and others the lack of established churches joining with them has created the problem of people saying, “We have no place to meet and worship.”  It is difficult to grow beyond a certain point without dedicated people in many locations establishing home fellowships and churches.

Surveys show 70% of American Christians are not happy with the doctrine of their denominations.  Most hold the Unitarian view that there are many different and acceptable ways outside of Christianity to worship God.  Few are willing to leave their denominations or drop the Christian denominational label.

Those who do leave most often refer to themselves as Spiritual but not Religious.  This is the fastest growing segment of the population.  Turning away from the church for many different reasons most of these individuals do not know there is a place for them in the Unitarian Community.

In my opinion, there is much more work needed to promote the Unitarian Faith.  There is a growing hunger for truth.  Young people want to gain in knowledge and wisdom.  They see the mess that has been caused by greed and the lust for control and power.  They know there must be a better way.

Unitarians can unite and fill this real human need.  Will we unite to promote the love of God and the service to humanity through humanitarian efforts?  Will we unite to promote love, harmony, and peace for all mankind?

I do not know what the future holds, but I will continue to promote the Unitarian Faith.

What will you do?]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>'Duty -- Honor -- Country'</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=898</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 07 Mar 2010 22:46:34 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=898</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Duty -- Honor -- Country’ is a noble saying.
Most of us have no clue as to its meaning.
We like mottos and sayings but do not contemplate the meanings.
What sounds good we tend to repeat.

Duty is to accept responsibility for all that we do.
We have the duty to love and nurture our family.
We have the duty to love and serve our God.
We have the duty to pursue harmony and peace for all.

Honor is difficult for many to comprehend.
We achieve honor by being true to our word.
We achieve honor by doing our best at each task.
We achieve honor by striving for the good of all humanity.

Country is more than a geographic location or place.
It is the totality of the human family.
Wherever a single human dwells - that is our country.
This is the country we love and serve and many give their life.

‘Duty -- Honor -- Country’ is more than a nice saying.
It is the obligation of every man and woman.
How we accept this obligation defines who we are.
Many dedicate their lives to this simple phrase.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Duty -- Honor -- Country’ is a noble saying.
Most of us have no clue as to its meaning.
We like mottos and sayings but do not contemplate the meanings.
What sounds good we tend to repeat.

Duty is to accept responsibility for all that we do.
We have the duty to love and nurture our family.
We have the duty to love and serve our God.
We have the duty to pursue harmony and peace for all.

Honor is difficult for many to comprehend.
We achieve honor by being true to our word.
We achieve honor by doing our best at each task.
We achieve honor by striving for the good of all humanity.

Country is more than a geographic location or place.
It is the totality of the human family.
Wherever a single human dwells - that is our country.
This is the country we love and serve and many give their life.

‘Duty -- Honor -- Country’ is more than a nice saying.
It is the obligation of every man and woman.
How we accept this obligation defines who we are.
Many dedicate their lives to this simple phrase.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Where Science and Buddhism Meet</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=897</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:48:06 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=897</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Where Science and Buddhism Meet

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qj_i7YqDw...re=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlmrHMBW36w&NR=1

He states this is not an exclusively Buddhist application..just that it fits well with science in addition to other traditions.

Unitarianism., at least modern forms, shares much of the same outlook.  The struggle we, and all religions face, is dealing with the truth of our reality, despite what old holy books say  (or at least understanding the message in those holy books differently)  Unitarianism is fundamentally an evolving religion..or should be...not chained to the past.  Keep the best, what is true, and grow.

Of course the snide rejoinder is..."Ok, I am going to take this mostly space bat and crush  your mostly space head, don't worry, it isn't real."]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Where Science and Buddhism Meet

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qj_i7YqDw...re=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlmrHMBW36w&NR=1

He states this is not an exclusively Buddhist application..just that it fits well with science in addition to other traditions.

Unitarianism., at least modern forms, shares much of the same outlook.  The struggle we, and all religions face, is dealing with the truth of our reality, despite what old holy books say  (or at least understanding the message in those holy books differently)  Unitarianism is fundamentally an evolving religion..or should be...not chained to the past.  Keep the best, what is true, and grow.

Of course the snide rejoinder is..."Ok, I am going to take this mostly space bat and crush  your mostly space head, don't worry, it isn't real."]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Dr. Quantum videos by Fred Alan Wolf</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=896</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:52:10 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=896</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Informative animated videos explaining basic quantum ideas.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfPeprQ7oGc

I like the flat land one.....and others.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWyTxCsIXE4&NR=1

"Spiritual" implications.

Double slit experiment
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfPeprQ7o...re=related

Quantum entanglement
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh8uZUzuR...re=related]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Informative animated videos explaining basic quantum ideas.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfPeprQ7oGc

I like the flat land one.....and others.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWyTxCsIXE4&NR=1

"Spiritual" implications.

Double slit experiment
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfPeprQ7o...re=related

Quantum entanglement
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh8uZUzuR...re=related]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>So atheists, liberals, and sexual exclusive people are smarter</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=895</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:30:36 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=895</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/02/26/lib...index.html

Very interesting article that is somewhat true, but it should not be used to generalized.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/02/26/lib...index.html

Very interesting article that is somewhat true, but it should not be used to generalized.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>YouTube series - The Hidden Story of Jesus</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=894</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:07:51 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=894</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhef6wa2M...re=related

The Hidden Story of Jesus (Part 1 of 11)

A look at comparative histories...Christianity, Hindu etc. by an English - Oxford - professor...Robert Beckford.

Post script: 
I just finished....very good series...the final point...it is the teachings that matter, not the dogma around him by the various traditions...Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist etc.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhef6wa2M...re=related

The Hidden Story of Jesus (Part 1 of 11)

A look at comparative histories...Christianity, Hindu etc. by an English - Oxford - professor...Robert Beckford.

Post script: 
I just finished....very good series...the final point...it is the teachings that matter, not the dogma around him by the various traditions...Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist etc.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>A Unitarian Confession</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=893</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:02:33 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=893</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[In regard to this Christian Unitarian statement (from Unitarian Ministries)

A Unitarian Confession:

We believe in one God, the Creator and Preserver of all things,

And in Jesus Christ, the one Lord of the Church, 

whose teachings and life form the standard of our faith and practice,

And in the holy spirit, the influence of God within us;

We believe in the divine element in conscience,

In free will and the responsibility that comes with it, In the inspiration and sanctity of Scripture,

In the forgiveness of sins,

In God's universal love for all humankind,

And in the future advancement of the whole human family to holiness and happiness. Amen

Q: In what way is Jesus Christ our Lord?  Granted, I believe it can be interpreted to mean different things...Lord has several meanings.  This came up when I was examining the UCC and DOC confessions and I remember asking a minister if there was an agreed upon meaning or if we were free to define it for ourselves.  His reply was that yes, traditionally it meant a divine office...whether we believed that or not was a matter of faith.  It is because of these specific words that I have trouble reciting a statement of belief.  Is it really a hindrance for anyone else?  
I recognize the concept as more of an original Unitarian Christian statement and it keeps Unitarian Christians on the outer edge of the Christian world.  

Let me state that the belief in no way would prevent me from being part of such a church if the term could be understood individually...such as along these lines:

American Heritage Dictionary

14. A man of renowned power or authority.
15. A man who has mastery in a given field or activity.

Most of the other definitions use the term in a regal setting...a relic of
the feudal era etc.

We think of Washington as one of the founding Fathers of the U.S. in a similar sense...we acknowledge his personal talents etc and are the inheritors of his efforts.

I understand others see Jesus as their mediator between their soul and God.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[In regard to this Christian Unitarian statement (from Unitarian Ministries)

A Unitarian Confession:

We believe in one God, the Creator and Preserver of all things,

And in Jesus Christ, the one Lord of the Church, 

whose teachings and life form the standard of our faith and practice,

And in the holy spirit, the influence of God within us;

We believe in the divine element in conscience,

In free will and the responsibility that comes with it, In the inspiration and sanctity of Scripture,

In the forgiveness of sins,

In God's universal love for all humankind,

And in the future advancement of the whole human family to holiness and happiness. Amen

Q: In what way is Jesus Christ our Lord?  Granted, I believe it can be interpreted to mean different things...Lord has several meanings.  This came up when I was examining the UCC and DOC confessions and I remember asking a minister if there was an agreed upon meaning or if we were free to define it for ourselves.  His reply was that yes, traditionally it meant a divine office...whether we believed that or not was a matter of faith.  It is because of these specific words that I have trouble reciting a statement of belief.  Is it really a hindrance for anyone else?  
I recognize the concept as more of an original Unitarian Christian statement and it keeps Unitarian Christians on the outer edge of the Christian world.  

Let me state that the belief in no way would prevent me from being part of such a church if the term could be understood individually...such as along these lines:

American Heritage Dictionary

14. A man of renowned power or authority.
15. A man who has mastery in a given field or activity.

Most of the other definitions use the term in a regal setting...a relic of
the feudal era etc.

We think of Washington as one of the founding Fathers of the U.S. in a similar sense...we acknowledge his personal talents etc and are the inheritors of his efforts.

I understand others see Jesus as their mediator between their soul and God.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>The Unitarian Faith</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=892</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010 05:56:52 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=892</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Slowly the Unitarian Faith is beginning to grow.
Those who believe in One God are no longer silent.
More and more their voices are being heard.
Worship the One through love and service.

Churches no longer reflect the truths they know.
Most have declared themselves to be spiritual and not religious.
Live your faith and allow others to do the same.
Love, harmony, and peace are their goal.

Attendance at churches has dwindled.
People no longer wish to give lip service to the doctrines.
A vacuum has resulted.
People have no place to meet together to worship and learn.

Labels continue to divide those who believe.
Labels give comfort to some but exclude many others.
God does not care if you are Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, Pagan, or other.
The One God is worshiped in many different ways.

Many different teachers and messengers were sent to every corner.
Love and Serve the One and your fellowman were the instruction.
One world -- One God -- One family to unite together in love.
The Unitarian faith was to unite -- not divide.

To continue to grow we must unite together as a family.
To grow and learn we must use the best teachings available to us.
In our diversity we can come together in worship and service.
A united Unitarian Community can bring love, harmony, and peace to all.

Mine is but one voice.
Many will say they disagree.
Doctrine and denomination are too important to them.
The status quo -- they try to maintain.

Man made religions are maintained but dying.
Each year the divisions grow wider and deeper.
The church buildings grow dark and are sold.
When will we awaken to the Spirit’s light?

Knowledge and truth is available to all.
The One God waits for humanity to decide.
Continue on the path to destruction or heed his call.
One world -- One God -- One family living in love, harmony, and peace.

We can join together or watch the destruction of all faiths.
We can join together as a family or continue to live with fear, anger, and hate.
The fate of the world is in humanities hands.
We can join together as a family and community or sit back and accomplish nothing.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Slowly the Unitarian Faith is beginning to grow.
Those who believe in One God are no longer silent.
More and more their voices are being heard.
Worship the One through love and service.

Churches no longer reflect the truths they know.
Most have declared themselves to be spiritual and not religious.
Live your faith and allow others to do the same.
Love, harmony, and peace are their goal.

Attendance at churches has dwindled.
People no longer wish to give lip service to the doctrines.
A vacuum has resulted.
People have no place to meet together to worship and learn.

Labels continue to divide those who believe.
Labels give comfort to some but exclude many others.
God does not care if you are Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, Pagan, or other.
The One God is worshiped in many different ways.

Many different teachers and messengers were sent to every corner.
Love and Serve the One and your fellowman were the instruction.
One world -- One God -- One family to unite together in love.
The Unitarian faith was to unite -- not divide.

To continue to grow we must unite together as a family.
To grow and learn we must use the best teachings available to us.
In our diversity we can come together in worship and service.
A united Unitarian Community can bring love, harmony, and peace to all.

Mine is but one voice.
Many will say they disagree.
Doctrine and denomination are too important to them.
The status quo -- they try to maintain.

Man made religions are maintained but dying.
Each year the divisions grow wider and deeper.
The church buildings grow dark and are sold.
When will we awaken to the Spirit’s light?

Knowledge and truth is available to all.
The One God waits for humanity to decide.
Continue on the path to destruction or heed his call.
One world -- One God -- One family living in love, harmony, and peace.

We can join together or watch the destruction of all faiths.
We can join together as a family or continue to live with fear, anger, and hate.
The fate of the world is in humanities hands.
We can join together as a family and community or sit back and accomplish nothing.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>God sacrificing himself</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=891</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:17:39 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=891</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[The picture I am attaching is froma deist facebook group. It is so true and definately keeps to the true Unitarian and Universalist spirit.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The picture I am attaching is froma deist facebook group. It is so true and definately keeps to the true Unitarian and Universalist spirit.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Leadership</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=890</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:03:42 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=890</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Choosing leaders is an important task.
Find those who are worthy of trust.
Find those who will work for the good of all.
Our current leaders have abused their power.

Let your thoughts and views be known.
Each person’s voice should be heard.
Replace the leaders who will not listen.
Replace those who show no concern.

Times are rapidly changing.
We have let many opportunities pass by.
People want effective and honest leadership.
No longer will they silently stand by.

Send love letters to each leader you know.
The time for action has come.
Ineffective leadership ruins an organization or country.
Ask your leaders to match their words with actions.

Leadership is a demanding task.
It is not for the timid or lazy.
Being a leader demands what is best.
We must do what is best for the human family.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Choosing leaders is an important task.
Find those who are worthy of trust.
Find those who will work for the good of all.
Our current leaders have abused their power.

Let your thoughts and views be known.
Each person’s voice should be heard.
Replace the leaders who will not listen.
Replace those who show no concern.

Times are rapidly changing.
We have let many opportunities pass by.
People want effective and honest leadership.
No longer will they silently stand by.

Send love letters to each leader you know.
The time for action has come.
Ineffective leadership ruins an organization or country.
Ask your leaders to match their words with actions.

Leadership is a demanding task.
It is not for the timid or lazy.
Being a leader demands what is best.
We must do what is best for the human family.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Please read</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=889</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 03:17:14 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=889</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[There may be possibilities for relationship between Judaism and Yoga. Initially there were no religions. Jesus, Buddha, Lao Tzi never people to form religions nor they organized groups. It was simply the humans who created the religions. Regarding yoga, it was ancient practice to improve the body and prolong the health. Their aim is to attain salvation in the life time, hence they practiced yoga.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[There may be possibilities for relationship between Judaism and Yoga. Initially there were no religions. Jesus, Buddha, Lao Tzi never people to form religions nor they organized groups. It was simply the humans who created the religions. Regarding yoga, it was ancient practice to improve the body and prolong the health. Their aim is to attain salvation in the life time, hence they practiced yoga.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Spam and bot control</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=888</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:00:56 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=888</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I found this on a forum...maybe the administrator can try it or something else:   
http://forums.invisionize.com/Spam-Bot-C...ml&hl=spam

"I have seen so many people post about having spam bots registering on their websites and I have to say, for over 2 years not 1 has ever registered on my website. They try but they ALWAYS fail!!

Please keep in mind that this wasn't my idea and I don't remember where I got it from but it has worked PERFECT since day 1.

Start by creating a Custom Profile Field: ACP -> Management -> Custom Profile Fields

Use these settings:

Field Title: Spam Bot Control
Description: What is 15+8? **You can change this to whatever you want**
Field Type: Text Input
Maximum Input: 2 **change this if you change the math question and it has more/less than 2 characters in the answer.**
Expected Input Format: 23 **This is the answer you are expecing**
Include on registration page? YES
Field MUST be completed and not left empty? YES
Field can be edited by the member? NO
Make this a private profile field? YES
Make Admin and Super Moderator Editable/Viewable Only? YES

Then save it.
Now when users register they will need to answer a simple math question first.
Now I will say that it IS still possible for them to register. If the creator of the bot is wanting desparately to register at your site they will just edit that field and make the bot answer the question. But thats very slim to none that its going to happen."

Whoever built and hosts the site should have simple tools to handle this.....]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I found this on a forum...maybe the administrator can try it or something else:   
http://forums.invisionize.com/Spam-Bot-C...ml&hl=spam

"I have seen so many people post about having spam bots registering on their websites and I have to say, for over 2 years not 1 has ever registered on my website. They try but they ALWAYS fail!!

Please keep in mind that this wasn't my idea and I don't remember where I got it from but it has worked PERFECT since day 1.

Start by creating a Custom Profile Field: ACP -> Management -> Custom Profile Fields

Use these settings:

Field Title: Spam Bot Control
Description: What is 15+8? **You can change this to whatever you want**
Field Type: Text Input
Maximum Input: 2 **change this if you change the math question and it has more/less than 2 characters in the answer.**
Expected Input Format: 23 **This is the answer you are expecing**
Include on registration page? YES
Field MUST be completed and not left empty? YES
Field can be edited by the member? NO
Make this a private profile field? YES
Make Admin and Super Moderator Editable/Viewable Only? YES

Then save it.
Now when users register they will need to answer a simple math question first.
Now I will say that it IS still possible for them to register. If the creator of the bot is wanting desparately to register at your site they will just edit that field and make the bot answer the question. But thats very slim to none that its going to happen."

Whoever built and hosts the site should have simple tools to handle this.....]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>From the Heart</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=887</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 06:02:28 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=887</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[From the heart, our songs proceed to the One.
From the heart, our words proceed to the One.
From the heart, our prayers proceed to the One.


We picture the One as dressed in white to symbolize the splendor and purity of His energy and Spirit.
Many have used the Sun to symbolize His energy and might.
This is the One, our Father, worshiped and loved by our forefathers of ancient times.

From the Earth came the form and sustenance of man.
The ancient ones honored Her as the Mother of all.
On this point we need not remain silent but give Her due honor as deserved.

Mankind became like a twin being, born of two worlds.
With our words and deeds we have been instructed to honor our Father and Mother.
Within mankind both worlds meet and become as one.

Mankind develops great beauty, as it awakens and sees the two worlds as one.

The Spirit of the One gives us our energy and strength.
The Mother the Earth gives us a suitable form to use.
Used in harmony and love we can use our gifts to accomplish many wondrous deeds.

As mankind awakens from the dark night of ignorance great powers will be revealed.
Within the place we call our home, great treasures have been hidden.
Discover the secrets that are within and around you and you will develop as a worthy Child.

Discover the light of knowledge and wisdom.
Discern it from the darkness of ignorant and foolish ways.
All misfortune departs as you discover and walk in the Sacred Way.

Let our worship be guided by the light of knowledge and wisdom.
Let us acknowledge that the two worlds we perceive, are in fact one.
Let us be far removed from the evil of the dark ways.

Great woe has overtaken the lives of mortal men.
Each hostile act has brought disease and destruction.
Let us leave this behind and bring good to the brotherhood of man.


With Love,]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[From the heart, our songs proceed to the One.
From the heart, our words proceed to the One.
From the heart, our prayers proceed to the One.


We picture the One as dressed in white to symbolize the splendor and purity of His energy and Spirit.
Many have used the Sun to symbolize His energy and might.
This is the One, our Father, worshiped and loved by our forefathers of ancient times.

From the Earth came the form and sustenance of man.
The ancient ones honored Her as the Mother of all.
On this point we need not remain silent but give Her due honor as deserved.

Mankind became like a twin being, born of two worlds.
With our words and deeds we have been instructed to honor our Father and Mother.
Within mankind both worlds meet and become as one.

Mankind develops great beauty, as it awakens and sees the two worlds as one.

The Spirit of the One gives us our energy and strength.
The Mother the Earth gives us a suitable form to use.
Used in harmony and love we can use our gifts to accomplish many wondrous deeds.

As mankind awakens from the dark night of ignorance great powers will be revealed.
Within the place we call our home, great treasures have been hidden.
Discover the secrets that are within and around you and you will develop as a worthy Child.

Discover the light of knowledge and wisdom.
Discern it from the darkness of ignorant and foolish ways.
All misfortune departs as you discover and walk in the Sacred Way.

Let our worship be guided by the light of knowledge and wisdom.
Let us acknowledge that the two worlds we perceive, are in fact one.
Let us be far removed from the evil of the dark ways.

Great woe has overtaken the lives of mortal men.
Each hostile act has brought disease and destruction.
Let us leave this behind and bring good to the brotherhood of man.


With Love,]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Life is like a River</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=886</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 01:41:49 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=886</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hello Friends.

Life is like a River with -

Its unfound origin and destination unknown.

Found between the two extremes is the enjoyable

Every moment,  the maze of life.
 

Long is its course and winding too,

Its rolling, a never ending flow. 

Keep on flowing thru’ ups and downs,

Enclosing different regions.

 
A Joyous experience it can be or perilous at times but,

 
Rolls and flows on and on forever with

Its changing seasons and passing days.

Very turbulent sometimes and sometimes calm.

Engulfing in it all culture and

Religions of the world.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hello Friends.

Life is like a River with -

Its unfound origin and destination unknown.

Found between the two extremes is the enjoyable

Every moment,  the maze of life.
 

Long is its course and winding too,

Its rolling, a never ending flow. 

Keep on flowing thru’ ups and downs,

Enclosing different regions.

 
A Joyous experience it can be or perilous at times but,

 
Rolls and flows on and on forever with

Its changing seasons and passing days.

Very turbulent sometimes and sometimes calm.

Engulfing in it all culture and

Religions of the world.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Something Bad Jesus Did</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=885</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 01:38:54 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=885</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hello Guys !

Once, I was asked if there was anything bad Jesus did in his life. I thought fora a while and the following came to my mind:

Yes, there was something Jesus did, which I wish he had not done, because it does not represent well the People he belonged to.

Once a Gentile Canaanite mother was crying after him, asking for her daughter to be cured, and Jesus would not give a damn to her. His disciples told him to do something for that woman or discard her, because she was making them go crazy with her non-stop crying.

What did Jesus say? I haven't come for Gentiles but ONLY for the House of Israel. Then, kept on going and the woman kept on crying and following him.

When he couldn't take any longer, he stopped and told her something like: Hey, listen woman, what do you want from me? To cure my daughter Master. No way! I cannot take of the food of the children and throw it unto the dogs.

He meant the Jews for the children, and the Gentiles for the dogs. But only after the woman understood and recognized her condition of dog, by saying that the dogs also feed from the crumbles that fall from the table of the children, Jesus saw that he would never get rid of that . So, he changed his mind and cured her daughter. Then, to erase a little the impression left on her for being forced to recognize her doggy condition, he mentioned something about her strong faith and left.

That was terrible, if we can imagine what that poor woman went through till she got what she wanted. The text is in Matthew 15:21-28. 
Thanks.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hello Guys !

Once, I was asked if there was anything bad Jesus did in his life. I thought fora a while and the following came to my mind:

Yes, there was something Jesus did, which I wish he had not done, because it does not represent well the People he belonged to.

Once a Gentile Canaanite mother was crying after him, asking for her daughter to be cured, and Jesus would not give a damn to her. His disciples told him to do something for that woman or discard her, because she was making them go crazy with her non-stop crying.

What did Jesus say? I haven't come for Gentiles but ONLY for the House of Israel. Then, kept on going and the woman kept on crying and following him.

When he couldn't take any longer, he stopped and told her something like: Hey, listen woman, what do you want from me? To cure my daughter Master. No way! I cannot take of the food of the children and throw it unto the dogs.

He meant the Jews for the children, and the Gentiles for the dogs. But only after the woman understood and recognized her condition of dog, by saying that the dogs also feed from the crumbles that fall from the table of the children, Jesus saw that he would never get rid of that . So, he changed his mind and cured her daughter. Then, to erase a little the impression left on her for being forced to recognize her doggy condition, he mentioned something about her strong faith and left.

That was terrible, if we can imagine what that poor woman went through till she got what she wanted. The text is in Matthew 15:21-28. 
Thanks.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Any book that feels you uncomfortable ?</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=884</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 01:37:37 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=884</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hi Guys !

Did certain parts of any book feels you uncomfortable ? If so, then why did you feel that way ? Did this lead to a new understanding or awareness of some aspect of your life you might not have thought about before ?
Thanks.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hi Guys !

Did certain parts of any book feels you uncomfortable ? If so, then why did you feel that way ? Did this lead to a new understanding or awareness of some aspect of your life you might not have thought about before ?
Thanks.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>My opinion</title>
			<link>http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=883</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 22:09:50 -0600</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.americanunitarian.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=883</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[In my opinion Just read the book Zhuan Falun.you can get the answer!]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[In my opinion Just read the book Zhuan Falun.you can get the answer!]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>