PEORIA MAGAZINE October 2023

The Rev. Jennifer Innis at the Universalist Unitarian Church at 3000 W. Richwoods Blvd. in Peoria

A sked to summarize the Unitar ian Universalist (UU) Church, the Rev. Jennifer Innis cuts right to the chase: “We are a community of fully human people work ing from a foundation of love to be part of creating a more just world.” The church’s website calls the church a place to “follow your own path to spir itual and religious truth.” Walking into the sanctuary, guests will find flags representing several major religions, from Christianity to Buddhism, with atheists and pagans included, as well. Rather than subscribing to a specific theology, the UU Church is guided by seven fundamental beliefs: • The inherent worth and dignity of every person; • Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations; • Acceptance of one another and en couragement to spiritual growth in congregations; • A free and responsible search for truth and meaning; • The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within congregations and in society at large;

COVER STORY

EVERYONE IS EQUAL BEFORE GOD

So believes the Unitarian Universalist Church, where

embracing diversity, in religious thought and everything else, is in the DNA

BY LAURIE PILLMAN PHOTOS BY RON JOHNSON

48 OCTOBER 2023 PEORIA MAGAZINE