Book Review: A Chosen Faith By: Nishanth Balaji

 

Book Review: A Chosen Faith

By: Nishanth Balaji

A Chosen Faith by John A. Buehrens and Forrest Church is a cornerstone text for those exploring or practicing Unitarian Universalism (UU). The book provides a comprehensive look at the principles, beliefs, and practices of the UU faith, making it an essential read for those looking to deepen their understanding of this inclusive and evolving religious movement. In this review, I will explore the central themes of A Chosen Faith, discuss its relevance for contemporary spiritual seekers, and reflect on its impact on personal religious exploration.

The Core Principles of Unitarian Universalism

A Chosen Faith begins by outlining the foundational principles of Unitarian Universalism. Unlike more dogmatic religious traditions, UU is grounded in the idea of personal exploration and the freedom to choose one’s beliefs. Buehrens and Church emphasize that Unitarian Universalism is a “chosen” faith in the truest sense—it does not mandate specific doctrines but instead encourages individuals to draw from a variety of religious and philosophical traditions to build a faith that resonates personally.

One of the book’s key themes is the concept of a “living tradition.” Buehrens and Church explore how UU is not static but constantly evolving, incorporating new ideas and interpretations as society and culture change. This adaptability makes Unitarian Universalism particularly appealing in a modern, pluralistic world where many people seek a spiritual path that respects both personal and communal exploration.

Inclusivity and Diversity

A significant part of A Chosen Faith is dedicated to the inclusivity and diversity inherent in Unitarian Universalism. The authors discuss how UU encompasses a broad spectrum of beliefs, from theistic to humanistic and even atheistic perspectives. This openness fosters a community where individuals of different backgrounds and belief systems can come together to celebrate shared values, such as compassion, justice, and the pursuit of truth.

For readers, this inclusivity is both refreshing and challenging. It invites deep reflection on what it means to belong to a faith that does not provide concrete answers but instead offers a framework for exploration. This approach encourages individuals to take an active role in shaping their spiritual lives, fostering a sense of ownership and personal responsibility.

The Role of Personal Experience

Buehrens and Church emphasize the importance of personal experience in the development of faith. Unlike traditions that prioritize scriptural authority or rigid doctrine, UU places the individual’s experiences at the center of religious growth. The authors argue that spiritual growth is an ongoing process that requires reflection, questioning, and openness to change. This idea is encapsulated in Church’s assertion that “religion is our human response to the dual reality of being alive and having to die.”

This emphasis on personal experience resonated deeply with me. In an era where many people are disillusioned with traditional religious institutions, the UU approach offers a path that feels authentic and deeply personal. It reminded me that spirituality is not a one-size-fits-all journey; rather, it is shaped by our unique experiences, questions, and insights.

Challenges and Critiques

While A Chosen Faith is an inspiring exploration of Unitarian Universalism, it does not shy away from acknowledging the challenges that come with such an open-ended faith. One of the critiques Buehrens and Church address is the perception that UU lacks a clear identity. Without a unifying doctrine, some may feel that UU is too diffuse to offer the sense of belonging that more structured faiths provide.

The authors counter this critique by emphasizing that the strength of UU lies in its diversity and adaptability. They argue that while it may not offer the certainty of other religions, it offers something equally valuable: the freedom to question, explore, and grow. This perspective challenges readers to reconsider what they value in a faith community and whether they are comfortable with ambiguity and exploration as central tenets of their spiritual lives.

Personal Reflections

Reading A Chosen Faith was both enlightening and empowering. It challenged me to think more deeply about what I value in my own spiritual practice and how I can incorporate principles of openness and inclusivity into my life. The book’s emphasis on personal experience as a guiding force resonated with my belief that true spiritual growth comes not from adhering to external doctrines but from internal reflection and exploration.

The discussions on inclusivity and diversity also made me appreciate the importance of fostering a community that values differences and encourages dialogue. In a world where polarization often dominates, the UU approach of seeking common ground while respecting individual paths feels both timely and essential.

Conclusion

A Chosen Faith by John A. Buehrens and Forrest Church is a powerful exploration of what it means to belong to a faith that is open, inclusive, and evolving. It challenges readers to take ownership of their spiritual journeys and to embrace the complexities and uncertainties that come with seeking truth in a pluralistic world. For those exploring Unitarian Universalism or looking for a more flexible and inclusive approach to spirituality, this book is a must-read. It offers not only an introduction to UU principles but also an invitation to embark on a journey of personal and communal discovery.