The living tradition which we share draws from
many sources:
Direct experience of that transcending mystery and
wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the
spirit and an openness to the forces which create and uphold life;
Words and deeds of prophetic women and men which
challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice,
compassion, and the transforming power of love;
Wisdom from the world's religions which inspires
us in our ethical and spiritual life;
Jewish and Christian teachings which call us to
respond to God's love by loving our neighbors as ourselves;
Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the
guidance of reason and the results of science, and warn us against
idolatries of the mind and spirit.
Spiritual teachings of earth-centered traditions
which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in
harmony with the rhythms of nature.
Grateful for the religious pluralism which
enriches and ennobles our faith, we are inspired to deepen our
understanding and expand our vision. As free congregations we enter into
this covenant, promising to one another our mutual trust and support.