Join Us for a Service
Welcome! Sunday services with choir are currently remote, held live and interactive via Zoom at 10:30 a.m. Sunday mornings. The recorded services are available afterwards on YouTube to be watched anytime. Each service is followed by a virtual coffeehour.
How to access services: Join the live Zoom meeting using the links found in each latest weekly newsletter to the congregation (here is a guide to using Zoom). To watch prior recorded services, simply click on the YouTube and Facebook Live buttons below.
We also connect via the newsletter and the Friends of First Parish Facebook page.
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)!
How to access services: Join the live Zoom meeting using the links found in each latest weekly newsletter to the congregation (here is a guide to using Zoom). To watch prior recorded services, simply click on the YouTube and Facebook Live buttons below.
We also connect via the newsletter and the Friends of First Parish Facebook page.
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)!
Sunday, Jan 17 Free at Last **Shared service with Westminster UU Church**
This Sunday and next, we will join for worship with the Westminster Unitarian Universalist Church of Warwick, RI. One of the good things about remote worship is that it allows us to get to know other congregations outside of our geographic area. Ellen Quaadrass, minister of the Westminster church, and Pamela Barz have talked for several years about setting up a pulpit exchange; now, instead of switching, they are able to bring all of us together. This Sunday, our congregation is hosting the service, so Pam and Beth will lead it and Ellen will preach. Please join us in welcoming the Westminster congregation.
Ellen writes about her sermon: "The title of this sermon was taken from Martin Luther King’s 'I Have a Dream' speech, one of the most profound expressions of hopeful imagination ever spoken on the Washington Mall. Since then, some things have changed. But we also see evidence, again and again, of the ways we are still firmly held in racism’s grip. What might true freedom look like, for all of us?"
Sunday, Jan 24 (10:00 a.m.) A Tale of Two Towns and a Heretic
Please note the change in time for this Sunday
Our second shared service with the Westminster Unitarian Church will be hosted by their congregation and will begin at their regular service time of 10 a.m. Pamela Barz will reflect on what the thought of the 5th century theologian Pelagius and the 19th century fictional towns of Middlemarch and Highbury have to say to us today.
Please note the change in time for this Sunday
Our second shared service with the Westminster Unitarian Church will be hosted by their congregation and will begin at their regular service time of 10 a.m. Pamela Barz will reflect on what the thought of the 5th century theologian Pelagius and the 19th century fictional towns of Middlemarch and Highbury have to say to us today.
Sunday, Jan 31 Equanimity in Times of Covid-19
Guest Preacher, Paul Langston-Daley
The Rev. Mr. Paul Langston-Daley joins us today as our guest preacher. Paul writes about his service: "as we continue to be physically separated from one another, many are finding it difficult to remain balanced and grounded. Our common and daily activities have been interrupted now for almost a year and with so much disruption it's hard to set any new patterns. Today we explore ways of staying grounded and centered in difficult times."
Guest Preacher, Paul Langston-Daley
The Rev. Mr. Paul Langston-Daley joins us today as our guest preacher. Paul writes about his service: "as we continue to be physically separated from one another, many are finding it difficult to remain balanced and grounded. Our common and daily activities have been interrupted now for almost a year and with so much disruption it's hard to set any new patterns. Today we explore ways of staying grounded and centered in difficult times."
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 watching the presidential transition, 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.
'Tea with the Minister,' on Zoom, Thursdays Dec 3 and Dec 17 (drop in 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 watching the presidential transition, 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.
'Tea with the Minister,' on Zoom, Thursdays Dec 3 and Dec 17 (drop in 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
SCITUATE UNITED
January 28, 6 pm
Scituate United will be hosting a panel on living with disabilities and neuro diversity.
Join through Zoom : 865 1378 5331 / Password: 002322
Join by phone: 1- 646 -558 -8656
January 28, 6 pm
Scituate United will be hosting a panel on living with disabilities and neuro diversity.
Join through Zoom : 865 1378 5331 / Password: 002322
Join by phone: 1- 646 -558 -8656
LOVE SHOWS UP FOR JUSTICE
Ongoing Weekly Standout
in support of Black lives and the memory of George Floyd
Sundays, 1:00 - 2:00 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 as we continue 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, 1:00 - 2:00 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 as we continue 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 (7:30 - 8:30 pm on Zoom)
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 (7:30 - 8:30 pm on Zoom)
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 - check the Facebook page for news on a virtual show this winter. 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 - check the Facebook page for news on a virtual show this winter. 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!
BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Reading "Morality"
Begins Monday, Jan 4 via ZoomIn her sermon on November 15, Pamela Barz spoke about Jonathan Sacks' work in moral theology and philosophy. She invited people to join her in reading and discussing his final book Morality: Restoring the Common Good in Divided Times. This reading and discussion group will begin on Monday January 4 with a discussion over Zoom of the Chapter 1: Loneliness. The plan right now is to read and discuss one chapter a week, though that may change. If you'd like to get a taste of the book, you can read the introduction here. There is still room in the group - please let Pam know if you'd like to participate.
FPUU serves the Scituate Food Pantry
Our weather-safe drop box at the front door is currently NOT accepting donations. Please drop food donations at the donation bin at the rear door of the Masonic Temple on Country Way.
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 currently NOT accepting donations. Please drop food donations at the donation bin at the rear door of the Masonic Temple on Country Way.
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?
