About UULMNJ

"Every religious tradition on which we draw has a reverence for life. We are a part of an intricate web of life. Every tradition on which we draw teaches that the ultimate expression of our spirituality is our action. Deep spirituality leads to action in the world. A deep reverence for life, love of nature's complex beauty and sense of intimate connection with the cosmos leads inevitably to a commitment to work for environmental and social justice."
-Rev. Peter Morales, President, UUA

The mission of the Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry of New Jersey is to provide the comprehensive structure for New Jersey Unitarian Universalists’ non-partisan activism. We work for a socially just public policy in collaboration with like- minded organizations through Education, Research, Advocacy, Witness, and Service.

Charitable activity has traditionally been important in UU congregations. However, when poverty, environmental degradation, inequitable access to health care, and deficiencies in education are part of the structures of society rather than unforeseen exceptions, charity is not enough. Our faith calls us to challenge and change policies and structures that inhibit human development, harm the environment, and destroy communities. The research, education and structuring of our efforts will complement and expand the deeds of social justice service we already do within our local communities. An important component of the activities of UULMNJ, a statewide network of the 21 New Jersey Unitarian Universalist congregations, will be to strengthen social justice programs at the congregational level, facilitate communication among congregations and serve as a source of information.

To quote from the California UU Legislative Ministry, the UULMNJ:

Is anchored in our UU faith, and informed by its history and principles,
Shares information and policy expertise, particularly from member UUs, and Legislative Ministries,
Can inspire and mobilize coordinated action through a network of mutual support and accountability,
Trains new leadership, with special attention to involvement of youth and young adults,
Is celebratory, sustainable, and fun,
Raises the visibility of Unitarian Universalism and its values to policymakers and the larger community,
Collaborates with other faith ministries and groups on like-minded issues

Representatives from the UULMNJ are available to visit your congregation. Is there a particular issue that the UULMNJ is addressing that your congregation wants to find out more about? Do you want information about affiliation? Perhaps you are looking for a way to energize your social justice committee? This is also a great opportunity for nearby congregations to come together and host a joint meeting or special worship service. If your congregation would like to invite a UULMNJ representative to come to your area, please contact a member of our Board, or send us an e-mail at .