Our Lakeshore Congregation is not defined by “our beliefs” but rather by an eagerness to discuss, explore and celebrate all beliefs.  We encourage spiritual growth and enable each in his or her “free and responsible search for truth and meaning” – wherever that may lead.  We are guided by the principle of respecting the “inherent worth and dignity of every person” in our  community and in the world.

Together, we create a force more powerful than one person or one belief system. As Unitarian Universalists, we do not have to check our personal background and beliefs at the door: we join together on a journey that honours everywhere we’ve been before.

We are united in our broad and inclusive outlook, and in our values, as expressed in our 7 Principles.

Unitarian Universalist congregations affirm and promote these seven Principles, which we hold as strong values and moral guides.

As Rev. Barbara Wells ten Hove explains, “The Principles are not dogma or doctrine, but rather a guide for those of us who choose to join and participate in Unitarian Universalist religious communities.” They are:

1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
2. Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.