SPIRITUAL -- I am a spiritual being, living in a spiritual universe, governed by spiritual law.
Why do we believe this way?
- If there is a physical body, there is also a spiritual body. --1 Corinthians 15:44
- Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion. -Genesis 1:26.
- Ye are Gods. --John 10:34.
How does Unity of Hagerstown demonstrate this value?
- Our community activities include prayer in order to align with our Spiritual Essence.
- Our Sunday celebrations encourage reflection to listen to the Truth within.
- We explore and discover practical tools for spiritual living.
How do I as an individual live this value?
- I give myself daily time to connect with the divine through prayer and meditation
- I participate in classes and programs that support my spiritual growth.
- I practice service with loving kindness as an expression of my inner divinity and true purpose.
JOY -- The source of joy is God and only as we enter into the consciousness of our oneness with God, can we find real joy. True joy takes hold of one’s consciousness when one awakens to the realization of one’s divine nature and to the blessings that accompany that realization.
Why do we believe this way?
- “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness.” --Galatians 5:22.
- Joy is a natural attitude that manifests as we “let go and let God.”
- Joy leads us up from an earth-consciousness to the Christ consciousness step-by-step.
- Joy is the culmination of faith, peace, and love.
How does Unity of Hagerstown demonstrate this value?
- Our Celebration Service and other activities help us keep our thoughts on God. “The free, open mind thus stayed on God is certain to bring forth joy, real satisfaction in living, and true prosperity.” --Charles Fillmore
- Our leadership trusts God as the Source for wisdom and prosperity.
How do I as an individual live this value?
- I choose joy, when I remember and trust God within.
- I let go of fear and move into the power of love.
WELCOMING -- I welcome events and people into my life with an open heart and mind.
Why do we believe this way?
- "Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." --Romans 15:7
- Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! --Psalms 133:1.
How does Unity of Hagerstown demonstrate this value?
- We greet everyone who comes to our Sunday Celebration Service warmly.
- We create a welcoming atmosphere at every event.
- Our leadership welcomes new ideas.
How do I as an individual live this value?
- I give thanks for the ‘renewing of my mind’ to entertain new ideas.
- Whatever life holds in store for me, whatever my experience, I am willing to examine it, and to grow from it.
- From God's spirit within me, I reach out to all with understanding and acceptance.
- I welcome visitors personally, seeking to help make them comfortable.
COMPASSIONATE-The whole idea of compassion is based on a keen awareness of the interdependence of all living beings. Thomas Merton
Why do we believe this way?
Understanding the presence of God is everywhere, within all creatures, within all creation, our hearts open to the suffering of the world. Compassion leads us to do something about it.
Sympathy says, “I’m sorry.” Compassion says, “I’m with you."
Sympathy says, “I would like to help.” Compassion says, “I am here to help.“
Sympathy says, “I wish I could carry your burden.” Compassion says, “Cast your burden on me.“
How does Unity of Hagerstown demonstrate this value?
- We listen from the heart
- We support our members to the best of our ability when needed
- We cultivate compassion for our self and others.
How do I as an individual live this value?
- I stay open to the prompting of Spirit within. When I hear of someone going through a challenging situation, I am willing to help and support others.
- I am compassionate with myself.
SERVICE ORIENTED - Our challenge is not only to recognize the face of the Creator in the beauty of creation, but also to serve the Divine by taking care of the land, the air, and all beings that dwell with us here. Mirabai Starr
Why do we believe this way? With service, we are looking outwardly; fully seeing the injustices, the suffering of the world and as directed by our inner guidance, moved to do something about it. We look for opportunities to serve each other, our community and the world. Being service oriented we look for ways to make a difference, according to our gifts and talents.
How do we demonstrate this value?
- We serve Mother Earth through the Adopt-a-Highway and other cleanup programs and through mindful use of resources when we gather
- We serve the greater community through participation in local soup kitchens, clothing donations and fundraising during times of disaster
- We serve each other in a multitude of ways- prayer, listening, being there, along with practical ways, a visit, a casserole, a ride…
How do I as an individual live this value?
- I make an effort to walk gently on this planet, leaving a light footprint
- I share my time and talents through service. I know I make a difference.