Fourth Universalist Society began in 1838 in downtown Manhattan, inspired by the cause of liberal religion. Our founders were Universalists who believed in a loving God when that idea was often believed heretical. In 1898, we built our current building on the Upper West Side, seeking to attract progressive people of faith from all across New York City.

We are a congregation that takes its history seriously while living out a vibrant present. We believe in an open-minded, common sense, love-centered religion. We try to make a difference in the world, and organize around causes such as LGBTQ rights to Black Lives Matter to climate change. We are interested in life’s deepest questions and feel a longing to connect with others who feel the same way.

Fourth Universalist is non-creedal, which means you are welcome no matter what you believe, so long as it is bounded by justice and love. We see wisdom in the world religions as well as in each unique person. We want to be the friendliest congregation in town, warm and inclusive, while taking seriously the many challenges we face as individuals and as a society. We want to make a difference in the world, spreading hope, joy and love.

Our congregation is a member of the Unitarian Universalist Association, a national union of over 1,000 congregations.