Hi Friends —
What I have to offer this morning is a downloadable PDF of THE ASSOCIATION OF UNITY CHURCHES INTERNATIONAL: Its Beginning, Its Evolution, and Its Vision for Worldwide Service, a 300 page book published in 2006 by The Association of Unity Churches (AUC). Like many things in Unity, it was transparent, freely given, and made available for educational purposes. It is now open to Internet search and dissemination.
Why was it written? According to the Preface, the book, "reviews the beginning of our Association, honors our past, acknowledges our evolution, and celebrates the vision for future expansion of the Association of Unity Churches International." The Foreward is more explicit: "it is a pleasure and the fulfillment of a long-held desire to bring an accurate history of our organization into publication. ... Many of us personally experienced the unfolding of our history. Thus, we recognize the deep sincerity and commitment from all participants who contributed to the growth and progression of our Association. These people “walk and talk” their ways throughout the pages of this book, which covers our 42-year history to-date, along with our plans and vision for the future."
Why was it published in 2006? The AUC felt a sequel was needed to Neal Vahle’s book, The Unity Movement: Its Evolution and Spiritual Teachings, published four years earlier in 2002. Vahle's book described the evolution of the Unity movement through the development of Unity School of Christianity. The AUC wished to balance that narrative with a description of the evolution of the Unity movement through the stories and aspirations of those who founded and led The Association of Unity Churches.
Why is it needed today? The answer is given in the opening of the first chapter: "So, the time has arrived to gather the historical and interesting facts, stories, data, and remembrances, etc. into a descriptive volume that, hopefully, will be clarifying and informative ... This information can be especially meaningful to those newer members of our Association who may not have the longevity background that provided first-hand experiences of our beginning and continuing history and growth."
Before we decide the fate of the Association in November, I believe we owe the founders and first generation leaders of the AUC an opportunity to share their story and their vision.
Many blessings,
September 28, 2025
THE ASSOCIATION OF UNITY CHURCHES INTERNATIONAL:
Its Beginning, Its Evolution, and Its Vision for Worldwide Service
Researched and Edited by:
Glenn R. Mosley & Rebekah A. Dunlap
