Progressive Religion vs Progressive Politics: What's the Difference? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 043

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

What does it mean to be a progressive Unitarian Universalist faith? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald, and Rev. Beth Dana sit down in the Minister’s Study to explore what it really means when Unitarian Universalists call themselves a progressive religious community. They reflect on the bold ideas that shaped the earliest movements toward Unitarianism and Universalism, including the radical belief that Jesus could have been fully human and that revelation is never sealed. Together, they trace how these revolutionary beginnings have shaped a tradition that values growth, openness, and an ongoing search for truth and meaning. In this conversation, they discuss: 🔥 The progressive roots of Unitarian Universalism 🔥 How Unitarian Universalists embrace a living tradition that continues to evolve 🔥 Why progressive faith differs from progressive politics 🔥 The enduring core beliefs of Unitarian Universalism, such as the oneness of God, the inherent worth and goodness of people, and salvation through character and action Rev. Daniel, Rev. TJ, and Rev. Beth remind us that Unitarian Universalism is not static — it is a dynamic faith that grows alongside human understanding, rooted in deep commitments to love, justice, and hope. 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to the Minister’s Study 01:35 - What is progressive religion, really? 02:07 - Early radical ideas about Jesus’ humanity 02:37 - Challenging orthodoxy in Christianity 03:00 - What a living tradition means for Unitarian Universalists 03:21 - Revelation is never sealed 04:00 - Core theological commitments of Unitarian Universalism 04:28 - Progressive religion vs. progressive politics 04:58 - How theology evolves with new understanding 08:49 - Universalism and God’s love for all 11:07 - Closing thoughts: Living our faith with love and justice First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: