We Are All Connected

The Seventh Principle of Unitarian Universalist congregations is “respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” This principle is often seen as the basis for environmental activism among Unitarian Universalists. The interdependent web is a scientific fact, as well as a theological truth. Our actions as individuals impact the earth, and one another. For more information about how Unitarian Universalists take action to protect the environment, please visit the UU Ministry for the Earth (formerly known as the Seventh Principle Project).

The Seventh Principle has clear environmental implications, but it should be understood as a wider statement about human connection. The Seventh Principle reinforces the meaning of the preceding six principles. Each of these principles (except arguably the fourth) is about how people should treat one another. Folks often ask how Unitarian Universalists can worship and build religious community together, when we have different theological beliefs. What I have seen is that in practice, it works because we are committed to a way of treating one another. The Seven Principles provide a guide to how we can live together, caring for one another and inspiring the world.