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: October 4 will be our first in-person worship since March 15, and 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: October 4 will be our first in-person worship since March 15, and 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, Oct 4 Grounded in Beauty: Part of All That Is
Guided by our Health Task Force, we will gather outdoors for our first-in-person worship since March to bless and remember those who have been our companions for the past 6 months when we couldn't see one another - our pets. Please bring your pets to this service. Bring pictures of pets who have died or who are not able to come with you. Stuffed animal companions are welcome too at this service for all ages. Masks are required.
Guided by our Health Task Force, we will gather outdoors for our first-in-person worship since March to bless and remember those who have been our companions for the past 6 months when we couldn't see one another - our pets. Please bring your pets to this service. Bring pictures of pets who have died or who are not able to come with you. Stuffed animal companions are welcome too at this service for all ages. Masks are required.
Sunday, Oct 11 Vote Love, Defeat Hate
This Sunday we will join in a service put on by UU the Vote, led by UUA President Susan Frederick-Gray, the UU the Vote team, and a lineup of powerful, prophetic UU voices as we explore the intersections of faith, justice, and democracy in this collective virtual service with an inspirational sermon, stories, and congregational singing.
***Because it is not our service, we will not be posting this to YouTube or Facebook***
This Sunday we will join in a service put on by UU the Vote, led by UUA President Susan Frederick-Gray, the UU the Vote team, and a lineup of powerful, prophetic UU voices as we explore the intersections of faith, justice, and democracy in this collective virtual service with an inspirational sermon, stories, and congregational singing.
***Because it is not our service, we will not be posting this to YouTube or Facebook***
Outdoor In-Person Worship
Sunday, Oct 18 Grounded in Beauty: Creating Beauty
Our series concludes this Sunday with a celebration of the ways we create beauty and share it with the world. Because it's forecast to be a beautiful autumn day and because our outside in-person worship in October 4th was so successful, we will again gather outside and together for this multigenerational service. Pamela Barz will offer a reflection and also lead our dedication of Saylor Mae Bolster, daughter of Ben and Shadi Bolster who were married by Pam in 2017. To make visible our theme of creativity, please bring something you have created or a picture of it to pin on the clothesline. "Creativity" doesn't just mean a work of art like a painting, a song, or a poem. Your creation could be a meal, a garden, an idea, a family, a project....
Sunday, Oct 18 Grounded in Beauty: Creating Beauty
Our series concludes this Sunday with a celebration of the ways we create beauty and share it with the world. Because it's forecast to be a beautiful autumn day and because our outside in-person worship in October 4th was so successful, we will again gather outside and together for this multigenerational service. Pamela Barz will offer a reflection and also lead our dedication of Saylor Mae Bolster, daughter of Ben and Shadi Bolster who were married by Pam in 2017. To make visible our theme of creativity, please bring something you have created or a picture of it to pin on the clothesline. "Creativity" doesn't just mean a work of art like a painting, a song, or a poem. Your creation could be a meal, a garden, an idea, a family, a project....
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
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
Oct 28, Nov 18, Dec 16 (7:30 - 8:30 pm on Zoom)
In the October meeting, we will be spending time in small groups talking about social media and being a good digital citizen, for both adults and young people. See the Facebook page for recommended reading.
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
Oct 28, Nov 18, Dec 16 (7:30 - 8:30 pm on Zoom)
In the October meeting, we will be spending time in small groups talking about social media and being a good digital citizen, for both adults and young people. See the Facebook page for recommended reading.
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
Zoom info in every newsletter.
2nd and 4th Mondays, from 8:00 - 9:00 pm
Monday Night Meditation Brian and Patty Sutton will host from their home. There will be a time to check-in, a time of shared meditation, and a little instruction on meditation if that's helpful for those who gather.
Calm your spirit and connect with others
Zoom info in every newsletter.
2nd and 4th Mondays, from 8:00 - 9:00 pm
Monday Night Meditation Brian and Patty Sutton will host from their home. There will be a time to check-in, a time of shared meditation, and a little instruction on meditation if that's helpful for those who gather.
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?
