What is Chalica?

Chalica is a week-long celebration observed by members of the Unitarian Universalist (UU) faith, beginning on the first Monday in December. Each day of Chalica is dedicated to one of the seven UU Principles, encouraging reflection, discussion, and action that align with these values.

The celebration offers individuals, families, and congregations an opportunity to focus deeply on their beliefs and live out their faith in a practical, meaningful way. Chalica is unique to Unitarian Universalists and serves as a spiritual and community-oriented alternative to other holidays in December.

What is Unitarian Universalism?

Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religious tradition that emerged from the merger of two historic denominations: Unitarianism and Universalism, which combined in 1961. It is not tied to any specific creed or dogma but is instead guided by seven Principles that promote justice, equity, compassion, and spiritual growth.

Unitarian Universalists believe in the free and responsible search for truth and meaning, respecting diverse religious beliefs and encouraging individual exploration of spirituality. UUs draw inspiration from various sources, including world religions, science, and personal experience, to create a faith that is inclusive, open-minded, and action-oriented.

The seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism are:

1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person.
2. Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations.
3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth.
4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning.
5. The right of conscience and the use of democratic processes.
6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all.
7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence.

Chalica was created as a way to emphasize these Principles, bringing them to life through intentional acts and reflection.

History and Origin

Chalica is a relatively new holiday, first observed in 2005. It was introduced by Daylene Marshall, a Unitarian Universalist from Vancouver, Canada, who wanted to create a holiday that reflected UU values. She envisioned Chalica as a time for individuals and communities to focus deeply on the seven Principles, dedicating one day to each Principle.

Although Chalica began as a grassroots initiative, it has gained popularity within UU congregations and households, offering a contemporary way to celebrate the faith’s core values during the holiday season.

Who Celebrates Chalica?

• Unitarian Universalist Congregations: Chalica is observed in many UU communities, where services, discussions, and social justice initiatives are organized around the seven Principles.
• Families: Parents and children light chalices at home, discuss the day’s Principle, and engage in related activities or acts of kindness.
• Individuals: UUs who prefer a personal spiritual practice use Chalica as an opportunity for reflection and growth.
• Religious Educators: Chalica is incorporated into Sunday school programs to teach children about the Principles in an interactive and meaningful way.
• Online Communities: Virtual Chalica celebrations allow UUs worldwide to share their experiences and ideas.

Themes and Slogans

Chalica’s central themes revolve around reflection, community, and action. Each day is dedicated to a Principle, encouraging participants to think deeply about its meaning and apply it to their lives. For instance:

• On the first day, which celebrates “The inherent worth and dignity of every person,” participants might focus on acts of kindness, supporting marginalized communities, or reflecting on how to treat others with respect.
• The third day, focused on “Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth,” might involve learning about different spiritual traditions or attending a meditation session.

Slogans like “Live Your Values” and “A Week to Celebrate Compassion” capture Chalica’s spirit of intentionality and action. The celebration emphasizes how living UU Principles can create a more just and compassionate world.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors:

• Red: Represents love and compassion, central to many UU Principles.
• Green: Symbolizes growth, both personal and communal.
• Blue: Reflects peace and spiritual depth, aligning with the Principles’ focus on justice and respect.

Symbols:

• Flaming Chalice: The primary symbol of Unitarian Universalism, representing light, hope, and community.
• Open Book: Signifying the search for knowledge and truth, a core UU value.
• Circle: A symbol of interconnectedness and unity, reflecting the seventh Principle.

Patterns:

• Radiating Lines: Depict the spreading of light and truth.
• Interwoven Threads: Represent the interdependent web of existence.
• Steps or Arches: Symbolize the continuous journey of personal and spiritual growth.

How to Celebrate Chalica

Chalica can be observed in a variety of ways, depending on individual preferences and community practices.

• Daily Chalice Lighting: Each evening, participants light a chalice, reflect on the day’s Principle, and discuss its significance.
• Acts of Kindness: Engage in activities that embody the Principle of the day, such as volunteering, donating to a cause, or helping a neighbor.
• Creative Expression: Create art, poetry, or music inspired by the Principles, using the week as a time for spiritual creativity.
• Discussion and Reflection: Families or small groups gather to share thoughts on how to incorporate the Principles into daily life.
• Community Service: Participate in a local initiative, such as a food drive or environmental cleanup, to bring the Principles into action.

Most Used Hashtags

• #Chalica
• #UnitarianUniversalism
• #UUPrinciples
• #LivingOurValues
• #ChalicaCelebration

Why is Chalica Important?

Chalica is a meaningful addition to the Unitarian Universalist faith tradition. It provides a dedicated time for reflection and action, allowing participants to live out the seven Principles in a focused and intentional way. The celebration fosters a deeper connection to UU values, emphasizing how these principles can guide individuals toward building a more compassionate and equitable world.

For families, Chalica offers an accessible way to teach children about UU Principles, combining spiritual education with fun and practical activities. For communities, it strengthens bonds by creating shared experiences around the faith’s core beliefs.

Chalica also holds significance as a modern, inclusive holiday that resonates with Unitarian Universalists’ commitment to justice, equity, and spiritual growth. It serves as a reminder that small, intentional actions rooted in love and respect can make a profound difference in the world.