Reflecting on our historical roots, we will lift up the “parents” of Unitarianism and Universalism in the United States. William Ellery Channing defined Unitarianism in a famous sermon in the early 19th century as a group of liberal Congregationalists split from their more orthodox colleagues. Hosea Ballou clarified the Universalist theology in his writings and preaching. Both of them affirmed a benevolent, loving God in contrast to the prevailing perspectives of their day.