This also contrasts sharply with idealistic notions within strict doctrines of the Orthodox faith suggesting that faith and God are defined and not subject to interpretation. One may look into themselves to find compassion and strength, but those qualities must come from God if one views themselves as having what Chirban (1996) refers to as a "vertical relationship with God" (p. 3).

It seems agreed on "universally" among Unitarians that all are one and all human beings are interrelated with each other; whereas within the Orthodox faith all human beings are linked less by spiritual consciousness than they are by their relationship with God. Orthodox services thus focus more on worshipping and giving recognition to all that God has done and can do for humankind. This contrasts with a typical Unitarian view and Universalist service, which would encourage one to tap into their spiritual consciousness by engaging others and identifying...
[ View Full Essay]