The various ministries and programs of First Parish are as wide as the imagination, energy, and dedication of staff and lay leaders since Unitarian Universalism is grounded in a vision of shared ministry. Thus, our ministries and programs can change and evolve over the years – and they are focused both inwardly through congregational life and outwardly through our social justice programming (see separate button on social justice).
We welcome new energy, programs, and ministries all the time. If you have something you are excited to offer that fits into who we are as Unitarian Universalists in our values and principles, please reach out to the minister for a conversation!
Examples of current offerings include:
During the congregational year, we routinely offer a potluck lunch on the first Sundays of the month after the service, as well as what we call “Lunch with Friends” on the third Thursdays of the month from Noon-1PM. Bring something for yourself and something for others and plan to enjoy conversation and relationship building with each other.
Covenant groups are led by experienced lay facilitators and meet monthly to share on particular topics, with a covenant (“promise”) of confidentiality and emotional support. There are no more than 6-8 members in any particular covenant group, and it is one way to deepen relationships with a smaller group of people within the congregation. A women’s only group is available as well as a group open to all genders. Groups primarily meet on zoom, though in person meetings also happen on occasion.
(Open to the public for drop in, with no charge for these programs)
Thursday weekly in person Zen Buddhist Meditation Sangha, 1-2PM, in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh alternating sitting, walking, and mindful eating meditation, with a brief reading and conversation.
First Sundays, October thru May, “Unitarian Universalist Traditions as History,” 12:30-1:30PM, led by the Rev. Dr. Clyde Grubbs, Affiliate Community Minister
Fourth Tuesday Evening Poetry Group, facilitated by Florence Noonan Zoom, 7-8PM
Second Sundays, October thru May, “Let’s Laugh Today,” 12:15-1PM, led by Bill andLinda Hamaker, certified laughter yoga masters (see their website here https://www.letslaughtoday.com). Save The Date for the first Sunday in May as "World Laughter Day"!
Third Sundays, “Exploring Your Spirituality,” 12:15-1:15PM, a theme-based curriculum known as “Soul Matters” that is filled with questions, music, spiritual exercises, videos, podcasts, etc. through which each person can explore their own understandings of spiritualities and in conversation with a small group.
Occasional offerings of “Body Groove” dance and fun, as well as movies for spiritual insights and education.
Summer Chalice Sparkles are our fun offerings over the summer for spiritual renewal instead of formal worship! Examples have included some of the above regular calendar year offerings along with special field trips to the Blue Hills Trailside Museum, the Elephant Migration wooden statues in Boston, and ax throwing (!!) together for energy release and laughter. They’ve also included activities with our Five Points Cluster sibling congregation friends for musical singalongs/events and hiking.
