To our Muslim Brothers and Sisters who have signed “A Common Word Between Us and You”:
With respect and abiding hope, the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations gratefully receives your thoughtful correspondence. Along with you, we identify “love of God” and “love of humanity” as central characteristics of our faith.
The inspired writings of the world’s great faith traditions hold a cherished place in our faith. Islam and Christianity share a prophetic call that we be aligned with the Source of All Being and dedicated to the path of justice. In different voices, and from many traditions, this call is proclaimed week after week from our pulpits, and Unitarian Universalists strive to reflect these commitments in our individual lives.
We realize that “A Common Word Between Us and You” was primarily addressed to orthodox Christian persons and institutions. Individual Unitarian Universalists may or may not identify as part of 55% of the world that claim Islam or Christianity as their religious path. Regardless, Unitarian Universalists welcome this statement as an important step in the crucial dialogue between the two largest faith groups on the planet. We were further encouraged by the thoughtful and constructive response of almost three hundred Christian leaders that was published in the New York Times last November.
Equally important, we recognize the significance of this moment for the broader interfaith community. Yes, the fostering of greater Muslim and Christian understanding is vitally necessary if there is to be peace in our time, and we also understand that this very process can inspire religious people the world over.
As Unitarian Universalists deepen our conversations with the wider interfaith community, from neighborhood groups on up through global institutions like Religions for Peace, your efforts encourage us to explore the common historic, theological, and cultural threads that run through our traditions. We are grateful for your timely reminder that at the heart of our faiths lies a shared commitment to loving God and loving our neighbors.
In faith,
Rev. William G. Sinkford
President
Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations