Join Us for a Service
Services are held on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. (Sept-June) at 330 First Parish Road in Scituate MA. Everyone is welcome. The Rev. Pamela Barz is our minister. Join us—for reflection, music, and fellowship (and our thriving youth program)!
The theme for worship this fall is "Cherishing the Earth and Ourselves"
All Souls Sunday, November 3 Beauty Burns in All Beings
Our annual multigenerational celebration of All Souls Day, when we remember loved ones who have died and our Universalist good news that they are still connected to us through love. Pamela Barz will lead the service. You are invited to bring photographs and other mementos of people you are remembering to place in the sanctuary. Caroline Hine, cellist, and Beverly Reilly, flutist, will join Elizabeth Dubuisson in offering special music along with the choir who will sing Come and Find Me.
Our annual multigenerational celebration of All Souls Day, when we remember loved ones who have died and our Universalist good news that they are still connected to us through love. Pamela Barz will lead the service. You are invited to bring photographs and other mementos of people you are remembering to place in the sanctuary. Caroline Hine, cellist, and Beverly Reilly, flutist, will join Elizabeth Dubuisson in offering special music along with the choir who will sing Come and Find Me.
Sunday, November 10 No Other Gods: Are the Ten Commandments Relevant In a Secular World? (Anne Robertson, guest preacher)
Especially since Alabama Judge Roy Moore literally carved the Ten Commandments into stone and insisted on their public display, the Ten Commandments have had a prominent and divisive place in our cultural, religious, and legal debates. But does that have to be the case? Is there anything in that ancient moral code that could find resonance with those who long for a just world in the 21st century? Might that relevance extend beyond church walls? We’ll take a look.
The choir will sing Let There Be Light.
A graduate of the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, the Rev. Ms. Anne Robertson became the Executive Director of the historic Massachusetts Bible Society on April 17, 2007 after serving churches for 13 years as a United Methodist pastor. She is the author of four books, and her most recent: New Vision for an Old Story: Why the Bible Might Not Be the Book You Think It Is. She also wrote Exploring the Bible, which we have used at First Parish. Born and raised in Hope, RI, Anne is a now resident of Sandwich, MA.
Especially since Alabama Judge Roy Moore literally carved the Ten Commandments into stone and insisted on their public display, the Ten Commandments have had a prominent and divisive place in our cultural, religious, and legal debates. But does that have to be the case? Is there anything in that ancient moral code that could find resonance with those who long for a just world in the 21st century? Might that relevance extend beyond church walls? We’ll take a look.
The choir will sing Let There Be Light.
A graduate of the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, the Rev. Ms. Anne Robertson became the Executive Director of the historic Massachusetts Bible Society on April 17, 2007 after serving churches for 13 years as a United Methodist pastor. She is the author of four books, and her most recent: New Vision for an Old Story: Why the Bible Might Not Be the Book You Think It Is. She also wrote Exploring the Bible, which we have used at First Parish. Born and raised in Hope, RI, Anne is a now resident of Sandwich, MA.
Sunday, November 17 Touched by Grace
Pamela Barz will reflect on what she learned on her mini-sabbatical. The choir will sing Season of the Grateful Heart.
Pamela Barz will reflect on what she learned on her mini-sabbatical. The choir will sing Season of the Grateful Heart.
Community Events
Events are supported by First Parish - locations vary
UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUES OF OUR TIMES
Community Book Discussion
Wednesday, Oct 23 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm (Book Club Room at Scituate Public Library)
(Next date and book tbd)
Open to all. Please join us to discuss the book and how its message relates to our local and global communities. Discussions led by John Scopelleti and Pamela Barz.
In October we will be discussing There There by Tommy Orange. The book explores the themes of Native peoples living in urban spaces, and issues of ambivalence and complexity related to Natives' struggles with identity and authenticity. There There was a finalist for the 2019 Pulitzer Prize, and was awarded a Gold Medal for First Fiction by the California Book Awards.
The current focus of the group is nonfiction that challenges us to look at ourselves and others in a different way, and work towards more empathy in the world (the previous title in this series was All About Love by bell hooks). The group first met to discuss works about race and privilege, then last year delved into the books that are studied by 6-12th grade students in the Scituate school system.
Community Book Discussion
Wednesday, Oct 23 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm (Book Club Room at Scituate Public Library)
(Next date and book tbd)
Open to all. Please join us to discuss the book and how its message relates to our local and global communities. Discussions led by John Scopelleti and Pamela Barz.
In October we will be discussing There There by Tommy Orange. The book explores the themes of Native peoples living in urban spaces, and issues of ambivalence and complexity related to Natives' struggles with identity and authenticity. There There was a finalist for the 2019 Pulitzer Prize, and was awarded a Gold Medal for First Fiction by the California Book Awards.
The current focus of the group is nonfiction that challenges us to look at ourselves and others in a different way, and work towards more empathy in the world (the previous title in this series was All About Love by bell hooks). The group first met to discuss works about race and privilege, then last year delved into the books that are studied by 6-12th grade students in the Scituate school system.
MONDAY NIGHT MEDITATION
(2nd and 4th Mondays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm) - Nov dates 11/11 and 11/25
Led by Brian Sutton
Would you like to incorporate meditation into your spiritual practice?
Would you like to learn how to meditate?
Would you like to add the energy of others to your already existing practice?
All are welcome. Cushions are provided, or bring your own.
(2nd and 4th Mondays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm) - Nov dates 11/11 and 11/25
Led by Brian Sutton
Would you like to incorporate meditation into your spiritual practice?
Would you like to learn how to meditate?
Would you like to add the energy of others to your already existing practice?
All are welcome. Cushions are provided, or bring your own.
THE BLUE BOAT COFFEEHOUSE
Season 4 shows: Saturdays 6 - 9pm : Sept 28 ~ Nov 16 ~ Jan 11 ~ March 14
Here at First Parish Scituate
On Saturday Nov 16th, the Blue Boat sails again— and for this pre-Thanksgiving show, the proceeds support the Scituate Food Pantry. Please also bring a canned/boxed donation for the Pantry! Come by for great music, delicious homemade treats, and meet up with neighbors and friends for a family-friendly night out!
The Blue Boat Coffeehouse sets sail across the soundwaves about 4 times every year 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.
Season 4 shows: Saturdays 6 - 9pm : Sept 28 ~ Nov 16 ~ Jan 11 ~ March 14
Here at First Parish Scituate
On Saturday Nov 16th, the Blue Boat sails again— and for this pre-Thanksgiving show, the proceeds support the Scituate Food Pantry. Please also bring a canned/boxed donation for the Pantry! Come by for great music, delicious homemade treats, and meet up with neighbors and friends for a family-friendly night out!
The Blue Boat Coffeehouse sets sail across the soundwaves about 4 times every year 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 SNOWFLAKE FAIR
Saturday, Dec 7 (9am - 2 pm)
Saturday, Dec 7 (9am - 2 pm)
Our annual holiday fair is the best in town! Freshly cut trees from a Vermont family farm, as well as fresh and beautifully decorated wreaths; handcrafted goods for gifting; artisanal jams and preserves; and our specialty fudges and candies. Always unique and high quality.
Kids are always welcome and can shop in private for their parents or enjoy an activity while you shop. Coffee and hot lunch will help you power through your gift list!
Parish Notices
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (grades pre-K–12)
Registration is rolling. Registration form is here.
We have about 50 kids in our program. Learn ALL about our classes and activities for kids and youth here!
We welcome our new Director of Religious Ed! Bill Ketchum is a 2017 graduate of Andover Newton Theological Seminary. Retired from a career in business, he is continuing a lifelong calling for working with adults and youth as a chaplain, mentor, coach, and teacher.
Registration is rolling. Registration form is here.
We have about 50 kids in our program. Learn ALL about our classes and activities for kids and youth here!
We welcome our new Director of Religious Ed! Bill Ketchum is a 2017 graduate of Andover Newton Theological Seminary. Retired from a career in business, he is continuing a lifelong calling for working with adults and youth as a chaplain, mentor, coach, and teacher.
"DO NOT BE AFRAID": A Small Group Gathering
This past winter, two small groups gathered for a five week conversation about the work of Brene Brown, professor at the University of Houston, on fear, shame, and vulnerability. Her TED Talk The Power of Vulnerability has become one of the most-viewed talks.The groups found the conversations so powerful, they are continuing the discussions. Using Brown's book The Gifts of Imperfection, the group will continue to reflect on how we can move out of fear into more hope, peace, love, and joy.
This past winter, two small groups gathered for a five week conversation about the work of Brene Brown, professor at the University of Houston, on fear, shame, and vulnerability. Her TED Talk The Power of Vulnerability has become one of the most-viewed talks.The groups found the conversations so powerful, they are continuing the discussions. Using Brown's book The Gifts of Imperfection, the group will continue to reflect on how we can move out of fear into more hope, peace, love, and joy.
FPUU serves the Scituate Food Pantry
Our drop box at the front door is available 24/7 for community convenience. We also collect food during every church service. Please consider donating:
Our drop box at the front door is available 24/7 for community convenience. We also collect food during every church service. Please consider donating:
- Paper towels, tissues, and toilet paper
- Canned protein (salmon, tuna, meat); peanut butter
- Coffee, instant coffee, and sweeteners
- Shampoo, toothpaste, floss
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!
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.
What's going on in our parish life?
