Most organizations are started by individuals with the heart and the courage to take a leap of faith and start something new! The Independent Alliance of Ministers in Unity (IAMU) was created out of an expressed crisis and a desire to support our colleagues in their calling as Unity ministers. The IAMU began with a group of ministers who cared enough about their colleagues to risk speaking up and organizing a new organization.
It was March, 2009, after many phone calls from colleagues expressing concerns about situations affecting ministers and ministries, the Reverend Joyce Kramer hosted a meeting in Virginia Beach, Virginia to discuss those concerns.
After days of discussion and prayerful consideration of options to address the concerns, it was the unanimous decision of the group that it was time for a new organization of ministers and spiritual leaders of Unity churches. A mission was established in support of these leaders along with a commitment to honor the spirit of Unity through the continuation of the foundational teachings.
Accordingly, in October, 2009, the Independent Alliance of Ministers and Leaders in Unity (IAMU) was incorporated as a nonprofit, Texas organization. Organizational Bylaws were established and a Board of Trustees elected at that meeting in Austin, Texas.
The first order of business for this new organization was to inquire about the minister review system that was creating a crisis for some of our ministers and ministries. After considerable dialogue with Unity Worldwide Ministries (UWM), a team of Unity ministers was established by the UWM to review the system. Ultimately, a determination was made to establish a new review system that included a ministerial advocate.
We consider the Unity teachings, established by the founders and carried forth from succeeding generations to the present, a sacred trust. Over the years, millions of people have shared the results of applying these Principles in their lives. While we continue to experience a rapid changing outer world, we acknowledge and affirm that Truth does not change and these teachings are especially relevant in today’s world. Accordingly, we remain committed to doing our part to helping preserve the foundational teachings for future generations. In this, we wholeheartedly support Unity World Wide Ministries in their effort to assure that the Unity teachings provide the basis for Unity ministries today.
“Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus and the power of prayer. Unity honors the universal truths in all religions and respects each individual’s right to choose a spiritual path.”
Shad Groverland, President and CEO of Unity Worldwide Ministries
When the IAMU was established in 2009, it felt appropriate to establish an organization independent of other influences. However, throughout our history, we have consistently sought to maintain a mutually supportive and harmonious working relationship with the UWM and Unity World Headquarters (UWH). As part of our commitment to our members, we endeavor to stay informed of happenings in the movement and provide relevant information regarding programs or activities that could affect our colleagues or their ministries. We are pleased that the current leadership of the UWM and UWH are open and receptive to working together.
In keeping with our current programs and relationships, the IAMU Board voted to change the name by which we operate today to more accurately reflect our organization. We are pleased to announce that we are now doing business as Unity Ministers Alliance (UMA). Our legal name—Independent Alliance of Ministers and Leaders in Unity (IAMU) – remains the same.
As an organization of spiritual leaders, i.e., Unity ministers—active and retired—and those serving as spiritual leaders of a Unity church, we invite you to join with us in supporting one another and the Unity Movement.
All that is required to become a member of the UMA is to fill out an application providing us with your contact information. You may do this on line by clicking here.