First Parish in Cambridge and the 8th Principle

Why might we adopt the 8th Principle at First Parish Cambridge?

  • To affirm and strengthen our commitment to anti-racist and anti-oppressive actions
  • To name these actions as central to the creation of Beloved Community and thus central to the fulfillment of the existing UU Principles
  • To deepen our living into our spiritual wholeness as individuals and as a congregation
  • To commit to growing into understanding and enacting accountable anti-racist and anti-oppressive actions
  • To join with like-hearted and like-minded UU congregations in supporting the adoption of the 8th Principle by the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA)

What is the discernment process? 

Initial conversations within the Racial Equity Team (RET) began about a year ago. Several RET members have joined monthly Zoom calls led by Rev. Paula Cole Jones. Last August, RET created a worship service and follow-up discussion about Beloved Community and the 8th Principle. The February 7, 2021 worship service will also center Beloved Community and the 8th Principle. RET and Beloved Conversations alums will be organizing upcoming conversations. All congregation members are encouraged to learn about and discuss the 8th Principle including in your ministry teams.

When will the congregation vote on the 8th Principle? 

A vote on whether to adopt the 8th Principle will take place (online) at the June 13, 2021 annual Congregational meeting.

Who can I talk with at FPC about the 8th Principle?

All members of RET’s 8th Principle Working Group are pleased to speak with you. They are Rashid Shaikh, Susan Shepherd, Nina Lytton, Lois Markham, and Karin Lin. Please contact them directly at eighthprinciple@firstparishcambridge.org . There will also be open conversations on the 8th Principle on May 6 and June 3; please follow the Parish Announcements for details.

Where can I find related worship services at First Parish Cambridge?