Diversity in Tennessee UU Congregations Survey

1. Religious Diversity among Tennessee UU's

Religious Diversity among Tennessee UU's

This Survey aims to help the members and leadership of Tennessee Cluster churches understand some of the kinds of diversity which are present in their congregations. There is a section on Religious Diversity, a section on Political Diversity, and a section on Demographic Diversity. First we will delve into the religious diversity. There are three basic kinds of religious diversity; theological diversity, diversity of religious practice, and diversity of religious heritage/resources.

1. My Congregation is:

My Congregation is: Knoxville-Tennessee Valley

Knoxville-Westside

Oak Ridge

Holston Valley

Foothills

Other

2. Theological Diversity
Check the one best description of your beliefs about what is ultimate.

Theological Diversity Check the one best description of your beliefs about what is ultimate. I believe that the only reality is this physical reality we can see and touch. Human development is my “spiritual reality” (Humanism or Atheism)

I don’t think it is possible to know much about God/goddess/higher power, spirit, etc, and lean towards not believing such a thing exists. (Agnostic Humanism)

I don’t think it is possible to know much about God/goddess/higher power, but lean towards believing such a thing exists (Agnostic theism)

I believe that the “higher power” that exists is impersonal; more like a creative force or prime mover. (Deism or Process Theism)

I believe in a unifying, personal force in the universe, variously called God, Goddess, Higher Power, Spirit, etc. I believe that this power knows me, communicates with me, and influences my life. (Theism)

I think of myself as a Christian UU; the story of Jesus’ life and teachings is the center of my belief.

3. Do you have a favorite word for what is ultimate for you? (Human nature, Spirit of Life, Love, Deity, Goddess, God, etc)

Do you have a favorite word for what is ultimate for you? (Human nature, Spirit of Life, Love, Deity, Goddess, God, etc)

4. What spiritual practices are a part of your life now? (check as many as apply)

What spiritual practices are a part of your life now? (check as many as apply) Sunday Worship (UU) Worship (other) Individual Meditation Group Meditation practice Group Ritual (full moon etc.) Individual Rituals (candle lighting, etc.) Praying for others and myself Journaling with words or art Spiritual Director/mentor Keep a Sabbath	Help others/social action Live lightly on the earth Walking/getting out in nature Taking care of my body Give money Mindful living Yoga, Tai Chi, or Martial Arts Family Ritual (grace before meals etc.) Retreats Reading/Study
Other (please specify)

5. Please choose one or more of the following descriptions of religious traditions, scriptures, and heritage that are fundamental to you. You may not believe all of what these faith groups teach, but you feel connected in important ways.

Please choose one or more of the following descriptions of religious traditions, scriptures, and heritage that are fundamental to you. You may not believe all of what these faith groups teach, but you feel connected in important ways. Buddhist traditions (sitting meditation, Buddhist psychology)

Feminist Spirituality

Hindu/Yoga

Liberal Christianity (following Jesus’ teachings, spiritual themes of Christmas and Easter, etc.)

Liberal Judaism (High Holy Days, Passover, etc)

Pagan/Native American/Earth Centered traditions (moon-cycle rituals, sweat lodge, candle magic, etc.)

Tao Te Ching or I Ching/ Chinese Medicine

UU Traditions (chalice lighting, Guest At Your Table, Sunday worship)

Other (please specify)

6. Do you feel you can talk about your beliefs or spiritual practices in your church?

Do you feel you can talk about your beliefs or spiritual practices in your church? Yes

Only in some situations

I don't want to talk about my beliefs or spiritual practices in church.

I don't feel comfortable talking about my beliefs or spiritual practices anywhere.

Do you want to explain your answer?

Diversity in Tennessee UU Congregations