Frequently Asked Questions About Unity...

What is Unity?

Unity is a positive, practical approach to making the teachings of Jesus applicable for us in our everyday lives.  It focuses on the teachings of Jesus.  It is a non-denominational, personal and metaphysical approach to Christianity.  It is Gnostic in nature (subjective and symbolic), focusing on the spiritual nature of humankind - which is that we are inherently good and Love. 

What is a Love Offering?

A Love Offering means giving a financial gift from a loving place, not because you are forced to.  In Unity, we deny no one and ask that your gift be in accordance with your ability to responsibly give.  During certain events, classes and counseling appointments, we utilize a Love offering basis.  This assumes that people aren't just giving the bare minimum as their counselors, teachers and presenters are not just giving their minimums.  We are able to use Love Offering approach because people are generous and kind in their giving.

Is Unity a Christian church?

Yes.  A Christian by definition is someone who believes in Jesus Christ and follows his teachings.  We concentrate on the teachings of Jesus, not a teaching of Jesus.  We are considered progressive Christians, as compared to fundamental Christians.  This is so since we encourage metaphysical bible interpretation for every person, and do not ascribe to any specific dogma.  We do uphold the five Unity principles as guideposts.  (See the "Principles" section on our home page).

What is the Christ Consciousness?

The Christ indwelling is the "I Am;" the essence of our being.  It is the divine spark of God-ness within each of us.  Jesus referred to it as "Kingdom of God with you."  The Christ-consciousness is our highest state of consciousness...the presence of God within us all.

We call this Inner Divinity.  In the West, we call it "the Christ," while in the East, it is called Buddha, Higher Self, Muhammad, Allah, and God-mind.  All are part of the "Many paths to the same God."

How does Jesus Christ fit into Unity beliefs?

Jesus is our way shower, our elder brother.  His example of living from his highest consciousness is our example.  We seek to follow his example in harnessing our ultimate spiritual potential AND living from it.  We do believe that Jesus was the Son of God.  We also affirm that we are all sons and daughters of God as well.

What is the difference between Religious Science, Science of Mind and Unity?

It lies in how much importance is given to Jesus.  Jesus is our God standard in Unity.  In Religious Science, Jesus is not given quite the same value.  Although we both agree that Jesus was a man and the Son of god, we both agree that we are all God's children as well.  Science of Mind believes in his teachings, and its textbook is based a great deal on his teachings.  Ernest Holmes and Charles Fillmore were good friends and colleagues and found more similarities than differences in their views overall.

We also differ very slightly on Unity's prayer form versus a "treatment" from Religious Science.  In the latter, a spiritual mind treatment is an affirmative prayer stated in a systematic manner or formula.  It, too, have five steps that guide the recipient and the practitioner through a logical flow of statements that reinforces our unity with God.  In Unity, we also have a five-step prayer process.  Fundamentally, our methods are the same.  Each looks beyond the appearance to the Truth of God in the person being treated or prayed for.

What exactly is "New Age"?

This term loosely covers a wide range of philosophical, theological, psychological and practical approaches to God, to the world, to life and its problems, that had its development within the last 150 years, chiefly in America, though, under one name or another, it has extended itself over much of the Western world.

A concise definition is that statement of purpose adopted by the Metaphysical Club of Boston, founded in 1895:  To promote interest in and the practice of a true philosophy of life and happiness; to show that through right thinking, one’s loftiest ideals may be brought into present realization; and to advance intelligent and systematic treatment of disease by spiritual and mental methods. [Spirits In Rebellion by Charles Braden, p. 9]

What if the name “Christ” is upsetting to me?

Different cultures and traditions refer to the god Spirit within us by different names.  Feel free to insert Buddha, God Mind, Higher Self, etc.  The word “Christ” comes from the Greek word Christos, which means anointed or enlightened one.

How do I become a Chaplain and what are the commitments involved?

New Chaplain programs are offered as church needs and candidate interests dictate.  The requirements for becoming a chaplain are five-fold.  You must:

1. Be a member
2. Complete an interview process
3. Make a one-year commitment to fulfill this important obligation
4. Undergo an extensive and mandatory training program
5. Maintain strict confidentiality

A chaplain listens, prays, holds space and keeps confidential everything that he or she hears.  To do anything else is grounds for immediate dismissal.  Prayer happens with people at church, during special worship services, over the phone (with monthly calls to congregants) and through home/hospital visits.

It is high honor to be able to pray with people during difficult times and when they reach out to depend on you.  Deciding to become a chaplain requires an investment of time, heart and willingness.  A high honor to hold!