Who are we in relation to our separate histories, and our 45 years of life together in the Unitarian Universalist Association? The author argues that we are challenged by the radical right in America, in addition to a weakness of spiritual focus and vision. This book opposes insular retreat in favor of a world embrace as a multifaith denomination. From Emerson and the Transcendentalists forward, Richardson traces a grounding in liberal traditions which prepares Unitarian Universalism for raising global consciousness and extending our ministry.

Exploring Unitarian Universalist Identity was prepared as Minns Lectures, "The Boston Religion: Special Themes", in celebration of the 375th anniversary of the First Church in Boston.