Join Us for a Service
Sunday services are dependent on conditions. Starting Oct 4, we will meet outside; when that is not possible, services will held remotely, followed by a virtual coffeehour via Zoom.
When the time is right, we'll return to regular services held on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. (Sept-June) at 330 First Parish Road in Scituate MA. Everyone is welcome. The Rev. Pamela M. Barz is our minister. Join us—for reflection, music, and fellowship (and our thriving youth program)!
When the time is right, we'll return to regular services held on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. (Sept-June) at 330 First Parish Road in Scituate MA. Everyone is welcome. The Rev. Pamela M. Barz is our minister. Join us—for reflection, music, and fellowship (and our thriving youth program)!
Ongoing worship and community...
***UPDATE: In-person worship will be outdoors with masks required; check back here for updates on locations and conditions.***
When required to be virtual, video services will be live and interactive via Zoom at 10:30 Sunday mornings; afterwards, the recorded service will be posted on YouTube and available to watch anytime.
We also connect via the newsletter and the Friends of First Parish Facebook page.
***UPDATE: In-person worship will be outdoors with masks required; check back here for updates on locations and conditions.***
When required to be virtual, video services will be live and interactive via Zoom at 10:30 Sunday mornings; afterwards, the recorded service will be posted on YouTube and available to watch anytime.
- The Zoom meeting info is found in each latest weekly newsletter to the congregation.
Here is a guide to using Zoom. - For the recorded service, use the Facebook or YouTube buttons above.
We also connect via the newsletter and the Friends of First Parish Facebook page.
Sunday, Nov 15 Our Human Covenant
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, who died this week, was a scholar and philosopher as well as a preacher and leader of congregations. In his writings and teaching, he called all people, not just those of his own religion, to appreciate one another's search for truth and to understand ourselves as "bound by a covenant of human solidarity, what-ever our color or culture, class or creed." How might his thought help us approach our national issues? Pamela Barz preaching.
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, who died this week, was a scholar and philosopher as well as a preacher and leader of congregations. In his writings and teaching, he called all people, not just those of his own religion, to appreciate one another's search for truth and to understand ourselves as "bound by a covenant of human solidarity, what-ever our color or culture, class or creed." How might his thought help us approach our national issues? Pamela Barz preaching.
Sunday, Nov 22 Gratitude for Our Stories
On this Thanksgiving Sunday, we will look at the stories of the First Thanksgiving, our Thanksgiving celebrations this year, and the life of our church, and reflect on how we tell these stories shapes our understanding of ourselves and our world. For this service, we will join with the congregation of the Universalist Unitarian Church of Waterville, Maine. Their worship leader, Luke Shesler, is a long-time friend of Pamela Barz. The Rev. Dr. Carl Shesler, Luke's father and Pam's mentor, will also take part in the service. Music will be offered by Elizabeth Dubuisson, the First Parish bell choir, and Harry Vayo, the Waterville music director, on dulcimer. Following the service, we will have a joint coffeehour with the Waterville congregation.
On this Thanksgiving Sunday, we will look at the stories of the First Thanksgiving, our Thanksgiving celebrations this year, and the life of our church, and reflect on how we tell these stories shapes our understanding of ourselves and our world. For this service, we will join with the congregation of the Universalist Unitarian Church of Waterville, Maine. Their worship leader, Luke Shesler, is a long-time friend of Pamela Barz. The Rev. Dr. Carl Shesler, Luke's father and Pam's mentor, will also take part in the service. Music will be offered by Elizabeth Dubuisson, the First Parish bell choir, and Harry Vayo, the Waterville music director, on dulcimer. Following the service, we will have a joint coffeehour with the Waterville congregation.
Sunday, Nov 29 The Music of Hope
For many of us, Christmas is inseparable from its music. Poet Anne Porter describes this time of year: We hear and sing/The customary carols/They bring us ragged miracles.
Though we can't sing them together this year, we will celebrate the music of the season in our services and the ways it sustains us. This morning we will light the Advent candle of Hope, and Pamela Barz will reflect on the hope offered to his time and our own by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day. Elizabeth Dubuisson and the First Parish Choir will offer music.
You are welcome to light your own advent candle at home as well as the chalice candle. (And if you don't have an Advent wreath, arrange four candleholders of any kind.)
For many of us, Christmas is inseparable from its music. Poet Anne Porter describes this time of year: We hear and sing/The customary carols/They bring us ragged miracles.
Though we can't sing them together this year, we will celebrate the music of the season in our services and the ways it sustains us. This morning we will light the Advent candle of Hope, and Pamela Barz will reflect on the hope offered to his time and our own by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day. Elizabeth Dubuisson and the First Parish Choir will offer music.
You are welcome to light your own advent candle at home as well as the chalice candle. (And if you don't have an Advent wreath, arrange four candleholders of any kind.)
A message from Rev. Pamela Barz:
Dear friends,
Living in uncertainty is one of the hardest things we human beings do. As the Buddhist teacher Pema Chodron wrote, “We can never know what will happen to us next. We can try to control the uncontrollable by looking for security and predictability, always hoping to be comfortable and safe. But the truth is that we can never avoid uncertainty. This not-knowing is part of the adventure. It’s also what makes us afraid."
These are anxious times. We are looking toward the election, trying to have conversations with our neighbors about white privilege and anti-racism, and all while living through a pandemic and the new evaluations it forces us to make. So let's talk.
I'll be hosting 'Let's Talk' conversations on Zoom, Mondays Oct. 19 and Nov. 2 (7:30-8:30 p.m)
We'll open with a reading, have some time for reflection, and time to talk about how we're feeling, making sense (or not), and responding to all that is going on. (Zoom links are in the newsletter)
I'm restarting 'Tea with the Minister,' on Zoom, Thursdays Oct. 22 and Nov. 4 (any time between 4:30-5:30 p.m.)
(Zoom links are in the newsletter)
And as always, I'm available if you'd like to talk privately. If you are worried about your health, your work, or your emotional state, please let me know. I am happy to connect over the phone or Skype. Please also reach out to one another. As I said in my Spring sermon on “Sanctuary”, the sanctuary is not the building – we are sanctuary to one another. That sanctuary still holds and connects us, even when we can’t be in the building together. -Pam
Dear friends,
Living in uncertainty is one of the hardest things we human beings do. As the Buddhist teacher Pema Chodron wrote, “We can never know what will happen to us next. We can try to control the uncontrollable by looking for security and predictability, always hoping to be comfortable and safe. But the truth is that we can never avoid uncertainty. This not-knowing is part of the adventure. It’s also what makes us afraid."
These are anxious times. We are looking toward the election, trying to have conversations with our neighbors about white privilege and anti-racism, and all while living through a pandemic and the new evaluations it forces us to make. So let's talk.
I'll be hosting 'Let's Talk' conversations on Zoom, Mondays Oct. 19 and Nov. 2 (7:30-8:30 p.m)
We'll open with a reading, have some time for reflection, and time to talk about how we're feeling, making sense (or not), and responding to all that is going on. (Zoom links are in the newsletter)
I'm restarting 'Tea with the Minister,' on Zoom, Thursdays Oct. 22 and Nov. 4 (any time between 4:30-5:30 p.m.)
(Zoom links are in the newsletter)
And as always, I'm available if you'd like to talk privately. If you are worried about your health, your work, or your emotional state, please let me know. I am happy to connect over the phone or Skype. Please also reach out to one another. As I said in my Spring sermon on “Sanctuary”, the sanctuary is not the building – we are sanctuary to one another. That sanctuary still holds and connects us, even when we can’t be in the building together. -Pam
Community Events
Events are supported by First Parish - locations vary
THE SNOWFLAKE FAIR
First Parish UU's annual holiday market - SAFE AND OUTDOORS!
Sunday Nov 29, 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Join us for another superb display of fresh Vermont trees and decorated wreaths, and the best homemade jams and preserves. To stay safe this year, these are the only goods for sale; sales will be drive-through, with no-touch payment options.
First Parish UU's annual holiday market - SAFE AND OUTDOORS!
Sunday Nov 29, 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Join us for another superb display of fresh Vermont trees and decorated wreaths, and the best homemade jams and preserves. To stay safe this year, these are the only goods for sale; sales will be drive-through, with no-touch payment options.
LOVE SHOWS UP FOR JUSTICE
Ongoing Weekly Standout
in support of Black lives and the memory of George Floyd
Sundays, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. at First Parish
We followed the lead of black clergy leaders from across Boston who asked suburban UUs (and people of all faiths and none) to hold standouts in their own towns, starting June 7. You are invited to gather on the front lawn of First Parish to bear witness for that hour. Please wear a mask and bring a sign if you would like.
*Artwork by Scituate High School students Noni Louisma and Makayla Soares
Ongoing Weekly Standout
in support of Black lives and the memory of George Floyd
Sundays, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. at First Parish
We followed the lead of black clergy leaders from across Boston who asked suburban UUs (and people of all faiths and none) to hold standouts in their own towns, starting June 7. You are invited to gather on the front lawn of First Parish to bear witness for that hour. Please wear a mask and bring a sign if you would like.
*Artwork by Scituate High School students Noni Louisma and Makayla Soares
STRIDE
Scituate Together for Representation, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity
Fourth Wednesdays
Nov 18, Dec 16 (7:30 - 8:30 pm on Zoom)
In the November meeting, we will hear from a panel of our community leaders about the most effective way constituents can advocate for action.
STRIDE continues the former Unity Council's progress, often in partnership with Hingham and Cohasset groups, shaping this volunteer organization into something that feels right for our community. They welcome volunteer time/talent for working groups focused on community action and event planning; community education; school partnerships and advocacy; outreach and communication; and organizational development.
Members of First Parish have been involved with the Unity Council since its beginning; let's continue to join with others for this important work.
Meetings are now held via Zoom. To RSVP or to be put on the mailing list, please follow this link
Scituate Together for Representation, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity
Fourth Wednesdays
Nov 18, Dec 16 (7:30 - 8:30 pm on Zoom)
In the November meeting, we will hear from a panel of our community leaders about the most effective way constituents can advocate for action.
STRIDE continues the former Unity Council's progress, often in partnership with Hingham and Cohasset groups, shaping this volunteer organization into something that feels right for our community. They welcome volunteer time/talent for working groups focused on community action and event planning; community education; school partnerships and advocacy; outreach and communication; and organizational development.
Members of First Parish have been involved with the Unity Council since its beginning; let's continue to join with others for this important work.
Meetings are now held via Zoom. To RSVP or to be put on the mailing list, please follow this link
MONDAY MEDITATIONS
Calm your spirit and connect with others
Brian and Patty Sutton's meditation sessions have ended for the winter. Please let the church know if you need help finding instruction or shared meditation elsewhere.
Calm your spirit and connect with others
Brian and Patty Sutton's meditation sessions have ended for the winter. Please let the church know if you need help finding instruction or shared meditation elsewhere.
THE BLUE BOAT COFFEEHOUSE
The Blue Boat Coffeehouse is at anchor during the pandemic, but we look forward to setting sail again across the soundwaves! We host shows about 4 times every year here at First Parish, to highlight the incredible talent of local adults and youth, while raising funds for a local non-profit organization, and providing a fun, safe evening out for the whole community. This alcohol-free, substance-free, family-friendly event is open to the public. Visit the Blue Boat Coffeehouse Facebook page for details or to ask about performing.
The Blue Boat Coffeehouse is at anchor during the pandemic, but we look forward to setting sail again across the soundwaves! We host shows about 4 times every year here at First Parish, to highlight the incredible talent of local adults and youth, while raising funds for a local non-profit organization, and providing a fun, safe evening out for the whole community. This alcohol-free, substance-free, family-friendly event is open to the public. Visit the Blue Boat Coffeehouse Facebook page for details or to ask about performing.
Parish Notices
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (grades pre-K–12)
Parents and caregivers come to Unitarian Universalist congregations for communities that help raise children to become kind, respectful, fair-minded, caring, and strong enough to side with love and fight for justice. UU religious education and participation in worship, social justice work, and multigenerational gatherings reinforce what parents teach at home. We nurture truth-seeking, spirituality, and progressive moral values that will continue to shape and support our children as they grow.
We have about 50 kids in our program, from pre-K through high school youth group. This year's classes will be held via Zoom. Learn all about our classes and activities (and register, please!) here!
Parents and caregivers come to Unitarian Universalist congregations for communities that help raise children to become kind, respectful, fair-minded, caring, and strong enough to side with love and fight for justice. UU religious education and participation in worship, social justice work, and multigenerational gatherings reinforce what parents teach at home. We nurture truth-seeking, spirituality, and progressive moral values that will continue to shape and support our children as they grow.
We have about 50 kids in our program, from pre-K through high school youth group. This year's classes will be held via Zoom. Learn all about our classes and activities (and register, please!) here!
FPUU serves the Scituate Food Pantry
Our weather-safe drop box at the front door is available 24/7 for community convenience. As of October 2020, food donations are again welcomed.
Please visit ScituateFoodPantry.org for timely info on what items they need most, or to make a monetary donation.
Thank you to Eagle Scout Barak Laciner for constructing the drop box.
Our weather-safe drop box at the front door is available 24/7 for community convenience. As of October 2020, food donations are again welcomed.
Please visit ScituateFoodPantry.org for timely info on what items they need most, or to make a monetary donation.
Thank you to Eagle Scout Barak Laciner for constructing the drop box.
Socks for the Homeless
With the help of the Frey family, First Parish is distributing clean socks for homeless men and women on an ongoing basis to Haley House and Rosie's Place. Packages of new socks can be placed in the basket in the Sloop Room.
With the help of the Frey family, First Parish is distributing clean socks for homeless men and women on an ongoing basis to Haley House and Rosie's Place. Packages of new socks can be placed in the basket in the Sloop Room.
Baskets from Zimbabwe
First Parish member Jenn Mackey has connected us with the Zienzele Foundation. The organization supports women who are caring for AIDS orphans; their handmade baskets are sold in the US to provide funding for school for the children. Baskets are availble at the new online store and at our church fairs.
First Parish member Jenn Mackey has connected us with the Zienzele Foundation. The organization supports women who are caring for AIDS orphans; their handmade baskets are sold in the US to provide funding for school for the children. Baskets are availble at the new online store and at our church fairs.
Photo credits this page: Ali Crehan, John Phelan, NPC/CA
Our Vision
WE ASPIRE TO BE
a beacon of liberal faith, strong community, and transformative service, rooted in love.
First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Scituate MA is a vibrant, inclusive community of faith. We are a non-credal church stressing love, service, and religious freedom. Grounded in our Unitarian Universalist principles and purposes, we affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and we support each individual's unique search for truth and meaning.
We welcome you, wherever you are in your search for deeper meaning, to join us in exploring “the big questions” and cultivating ways to live the answers amidst today’s modern challenges. Our congregation seeks ways to build community, guide our children, deepen spiritually, and to make a positive difference in the world. We celebrate the interconnectedness of all things. Join us for sermons, service, or celebrations!
We are a Welcoming Congregation.
Online giving can be used for one-time or recurring charges for pledges, capital campaigns, memorial donations, class registrations, and more, easily tracking your tax-deductable donations.
FUNDRAISING SWAG!
Our "Love Shows Up" design on lawn signs and t-shirts supports both First Parish and the UU Urban Ministry. Place order here.
Our "Love Shows Up" design on lawn signs and t-shirts supports both First Parish and the UU Urban Ministry. Place order here.
What's going on in our parish life?
