What is Unity?
Last updated: February 25, 2026
(1) The Absolute Oneness of God and the individual. (2) A major New Thought denomination founded by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore in 1889.
Understanding Unity in New Thought
(1) The Absolute Oneness of God and the individual. (2) A major New Thought denomination founded by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore in 1889.
Unity, often referred to as the Unity Church or Unity School of Christianity, is a prominent New Thought denomination established in 1889 by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. Its mission centers on teaching the practical application of spiritual principles, emphasizing the inherent divinity within each individual and the transformative power of affirmative prayer and positive thinking. Unity has significantly influenced the New Thought movement, providing a structured organizational framework and a widely accessible interpretation of its core tenets. The organization continues to operate globally, offering educational programs, spiritual services, and publications aimed at personal and spiritual growth.
What the Teachers Say
Unity vs. Individuality
While 'Unity' emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and the divine essence within, 'Individuality' highlights the unique expression of that divine essence. Both concepts are crucial for a holistic understanding of self and spirit.
| Aspect | Unity | Individuality |
|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Interconnectedness, Oneness with God and all creation. | Unique expression, distinct identity, personal journey. |
| Spiritual Principle | All is God; God is all; we are one with God. | Each soul is a unique facet of the Divine; a distinct spark. |
| Practical Application | Cultivating compassion, recognizing shared humanity, universal love. | Embracing personal gifts, fulfilling one's unique purpose, self-discovery. |
| Potential Pitfall | Loss of self in the collective, neglecting personal needs. | Isolation, ego-centrism, feeling disconnected from the whole. |
Etymology
The name "Unity" derives from the Latin root "unus," meaning "one." This etymological origin directly reflects the organization's foundational theological principle: the absolute oneness of God and humanity. The term was chosen to encapsulate the core belief in the interconnectedness of all life and the unified nature of divine reality.
Connection to Manifestation
Understanding Unity is foundational for effective manifestation, as it posits that your consciousness is intrinsically linked to the Universal Mind, the source of all creation. To manifest, consciously align your thoughts and feelings with the desired outcome, knowing that you are not separate from the power that creates. This deep knowing of your oneness with the creative force empowers your intentions, allowing them to coalesce into physical reality with greater ease and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unity philosophy refers to the metaphysical principle of oneness between God and individual consciousness. Unity church is the specific denomination founded by the Fillmores that teaches these principles through practical Christianity and metaphysical interpretation of Biblical truths.
Unity was founded by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore in 1889 in Kansas City, Missouri. The Fillmores developed Unity teachings after Myrtle's healing experience with New Thought principles, leading to the establishment of what became a major metaphysical denomination.
Unity teaches that God is absolute good, divine ideas are humanity's true nature, and prayer and meditation connect us with divine mind. The movement emphasizes practical Christianity, affirmative prayer, and the Christ consciousness present within all individuals.
Unity interprets Biblical teachings metaphysically rather than literally, emphasizing the divinity within each person rather than separation from God. While using Christian terminology, Unity focuses on spiritual principles and practical application rather than doctrinal adherence.
Unity teaches spiritual healing through prayer, meditation, and alignment with divine truth. The movement emphasizes that physical conditions reflect mental and spiritual states, and healing occurs through changing consciousness and affirming spiritual wholeness.
In the Source Texts (12)
…cription, and give her the reason afterwards. I therefore took a suitable opportunity of asking her if she knew any such person, describing the figure to her as accurately as I could.…
No man is kept poor because opportunity has been taken away from him; because other people have monopolized the wealth, and have put a fence around it. You may be shut off from en…
…ocketh it shall be opened;" for only by patience, practice, and ceaseless importunity can a man enter the Door of the Temple of Knowledge.…
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Used by: Fillmore, Cady