Historical dictionary of Unitarian Universalism / Mark W. Harris.

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Small though it may be, Unitarian Universalism has had a big impact not only on its members, but also on the world around it. Rejecting the constraints of other Christian denominations, it sought tolerance for itself and, surprisingly, freely granted tolerance to others. Evolving in its principles and practices over a relatively short lifetime, it shows every sign of developing further, reaching beyond Christianity to embrace what is good in other, more diverse, religions. Unitarian Universalism has also regularly been at the forefront in fighting for social causes, including abolition, temperance, women's suffrage, pacifism, educational reform, environmentalism, and others. Unitarian Universalism has also spread with time. First developed in present-day Romania and Hungary, its center shifted early to England, but its most successful story is the way it grew and flourished in the United States. This Dictionary covers numerous subjects, both historical and contemporary. There are entries on the places where the church was present, many more on significant leaders, and an impressive number on causes and issues. It thereby provides a comprehensive understanding of the multiple facets of the Unitarian Universalist faith. All the important people, events and ideas in this religion are included, not forgetting trends and issues up to the present day, so that many living people are included, as well as important, late-20th-century battles, including racism and new principles and purposes.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Harris's new edition of Historical Dictionary of Unitarian Universalism reflects the passage of 15 years in US culture as well as in Unitarian Universalism. Nearly a hundred pages longer than the first edition (CH, Jul'04, 41-6249), this second edition features a historical introduction that is twice as long as the original and 80 new entries. The character of these new entries is noteworthy: there are more entries on African Americans, living leaders in the arts and sciences, and female authors (e.g., Beatrix Potter). There is also an LGBTQ entry and greater focus on the global nature of Unitarian congregations. Harris also covers the social justice Standing on the Side of Love campaign, now called Side with Love. As a scholar and a Unitarian Universalist minister, Harris has a deep understanding of this unique and influential group and its social justice history. Those who own the first edition will want to update to this second edition, which includes 400 cross-referenced entries, a chronology, and three useful appendixes. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals; general readers. --Caren C. Stayer, Strayer University