Minilogue - April 2005

Elevator Speech

By the Rev. Bruce Johnson

There has been a lot of talk among Unitarian Universalists lately about developing a personal “elevator speech.”

The scenario behind an elevator speech is really quite simple: imagine stepping into an elevaor wearing a nametag that identifies you as a Unitarian Universalist. A stranger points to your badge and asks you what in the world it means. The doors close, and the elevator begins its vertical journey of, let’s say, twelve stories. The challenge (should you decide to accept it) is to describe the essence of Unitarian Universalism before the elevator reaches its destination and the doors slide open again because, presumably, you’ll never encounter the inquisative stranger again.

This little thought experiment is said to be of special value to Unitarian Universalists, because our religious tradition is so difficult to pin down and define in doctrinal terms. The spirit of openness and diversity that is our denomination’s greatest strength also makes it hard to explain in simple terms to those who are not familiar with our ways. Many Unitarian Universalists struggle to find the language that clearly expresses their faith commitment to curious family members and inquiring friends. Perfecting an elevator speech can be seen as a kind of spiritual discipline, the crafting of a personal credo or mission statement which provides focus and clarity to one’s life.

Coming up with a simple and concise formula describing Unitarian Universalism can be a special challenge for those of us living in the Upper Valley, where the longest elevator ride is likely to be four or five floors in Baker Library or the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center! What would you say under such circumstances?

While I understand the desire to communicate our religious message in a way that is accessible and appealing, I would want to guard against reliance on a strategy of “sound bite theology.” An alternative approach mght look more like the “relational evangelism” practiced by rapidly growing nondenominational Christian churches. Relational evangelism focuses first on the creation of authentic, intimate, caring and committed relationships, prior to any consideration of doctrinal questions or definitions. Such an approach assumes that people are seeking genuine religious community, and responds to that need by offering real relationships first and foremost. Rather than offering a quick answer to a categorical question, relational evengelists offer to accompany seekers on their life journey over the long haul. The answers will unfold over time as the human relationships develop and deepen. To be sure, the theology underlying relational evangelism as it is usually practiced may be different from ours, but there is no reason why the basic thrust of outreach and invitation cannot be adapted and applied by UU’s.

Perhaps the next time the elevator door closes and the question comes up, I might say something like, “I’d love to talk with you about it, have you got time for a cup of coffee?” It could be the beginning of a great relationship!