What about Sin

This program encourages members to explore their view of sin, both in the Unitarian Universalist tradition and in their own lives.

Member Preparation

As Unitarian Universalists, we are often either actively hostile towards the notion of sin or quite vague about it. We may have over-corrected and not believe in sin at all. Or the word sin may, for some of us, stir up uncomfortable associations with religious upbringings we abandoned, religions we experienced that put too much emphasis on guilt and our own shortcomings or inadequacies.

These questions provide ways you may want to approach this topic. Remember to focus on just one or two of the questions, if you choose to use them, as this will allow you to explore the topic in more depth.

  • What does the word "sin" imply to you?
  • What is the history of your relationship with this concept?
  • In what ways do you find the notion of sin a hindrance and a weight around your neck?
  • In what ways do you find it useful and helpful as a way to connect with the dark side of yourself and with others?
  • Where do you fall along this continuum of belief, or how do you struggle with this concept?

Further Exploration