Chicago Oak Brook Marriott, April 28-30

In spite of our small numbers in the national religious scene, Unitarian Universalists have been at the forefront of every significant social change in our nation's history. Now, more than ever, we need to work with partners to have an impact in our cities, states and country.

Our Keynote Speaker on Saturday morning was Rev. Dr. Lee Barker, President and Professor of Ministry at Meadville-Lombard Theological School! Rev. Dr. Barker's topic is:

To Multi-faith: A Verb

Unitarian Universalism is perfectly situated to promote constructive multi-faith engagement for increased understanding and enhanced harmony. Success will depend on a new understanding of what it means to “be engaged.”

  pdf KEYNOTE SLIDE PRESENTATION (PDF) (326 KB)

We asked Lee, “Why are you passionate about the subject of multi-faith partnerships – what excites you about it?”

Being more deeply engaged in authentic multifaith partnerships and alliances allows for growth in ways we cannot even imagine. And by growth I don’t mean only the expansion of inclusiveness and justice—as true and important as that is. I mean growth in one’s theological, philosophical and ethical life. I have experienced it myself and I have seen it among my students, many of whom have long multifaith “credentials.” They find that when they get even deeper, they can’t ignore core differences. When they confront that reality, they have arrived at a new place of possibility and hope.

As our congregations are experiencing greater attendance and members’ activism in our communities, it is more important than ever before that we work with other faith communities to bring our values to the forefront. When we partner, our impact grows exponentially.