This manuscript was originally completed
in September, 2001 as a final paper for a Unitarian
Universalist History and Polity class taught by David
and Beverly Bumbaugh at Meadville Lombard Theological
School in Chicago. In the course of my research, I
became quite fascinated with the story of the Church
of the Larger Fellowship and the various strands through
time that shaped its unique place and presence in our
liberal ministry. I was aware that this small history
is the first to locate and to weave all of the strands
together in one account. Short of making it my life’s
work, I wanted do it all the justice possible. So I
returned to my research in the winter of 2002, intent
on expanding some areas. I am proud to make this contribution,
with the hope that others, particularly the membership
and leadership of the CLF, will find some inspiration
here. Questions or comments are welcome, and may be
directed to me through the Church of the Larger Fellowship
in Boston, Massachusetts. I ask that proper attribution
be given with any use of this paper, and that permission
be requested for any significant use or distribution.
I dedicate this work to the many women
and men whose foresight, creativity, and spirit of dogged
determination fueled and continues to keep this particular
flame of liberal religion alive.
THE CHURCH OF THE LARGER FELLOWSHIP
Unitarian Universalist:
A Study in Liberal Religious Prospecting