Rev. Sophia preaching, with Charlyn Bethell, Jean Gauthier, Debi King, Dani Nordin, Missy Shay, and Guy Urban.
This Sunday we will hear about the ways that some indigenous cultures ritualize community healing and conflict resolution when hurt or misunderstanding descend. Let’s consider how wisdom teachings such as these might speak to our own treasured Unitarian Universalist beliefs and values! Our sacred circle is made stronger because of you–come to church and take your place in it. See you Sunday!
Rev. Sophia preaching, with Kyle Belmont, Charlyn Bethell, and Guy Urban.
As we continue to work with May’s theme of ‘ritual’ we will consider the many rituals we engage in as Unitarian Universalists, and as friends and members of First Parish. We might ask ourselves: what’s the story beneath some of our treasured rituals? and why do we do them? If you are seeking for renewal, meaning, and the genuine love of a community, then slow down and worship with us this Sunday!
Dear First Parish members and friends, We’re excited to invite you to be part of Watertown Welcomes All—a community-driven Safe Space Project led by World In Watertown and the Watertown Human Rights Commission. Together, we’re working to build a network of local businesses that proudly stand for inclusion, safety, and respect for all people. Here’s where you come in. We’re looking for volunteers to visit their favorite neighborhood shops, cafes, and businesses to introduce the Safe Space...
Sensei Morris Sullivan and Rev. Sophia Lyons leading worship, with Kyle Belmont, Charlyn Bethell, and Guy Urban!
As Unitarian Universalists we believe that there are a myriad ways to touch fingers with the Divine. This Sunday let’s look to the Buddhist tradition as we come together to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday, otherwise known as Vesak! We will reflect on Buddhist teachings that will help to open our hearts and fill us with spiritual peace, as well as partake in a beautiful communal ritual together. You are not going to want to miss this special worship service!
Rev. Shayna Appel preaching, with Kyle Belmont, Charlyn Bethell, Lynn Bratley, Missy Shay, Guy Urban, and the FPW Choir! You have heard it said, “If you’re not outraged, you’re not paying attention.” And while this may be true, it also begs the question, “Is this outrage serving us?” Living in these times which demand so much of our activism, what are the lessons we might learn from nature and how can those lessons help ground us in our Unitarian Universalist values? We are thrilled to...
This past Sunday in Faith Exploration we assembled 26 meal kits as part of our month-long project that so many of you donated ingredients to. This amount was so voluminous that the Community Fridge did not have enough space for them, but thankfully Sue Twombly volunteered to return later in the day to drop off the rest. So much thanks to everyone who helped make this project happen. Our Faith Exploration classes are picking new recipes for May and I’ll share the needed ingredients in next...
This month, our theme is Rituals. Music has such a profound role in rituals at a church service. Before I mention that, my mind goes to the music used in movies or TV shows. Without music, shows might be devoid of feeling, definitely rendering them incomplete. As part of a show, I can see someone walking down a darkly-lit path at night. With benign music, why should we even watch? Yet in that same scene, imagine that drums are beating a heartbeat tempo, getting louder, then violins or string...
Something I love about congregational life is the sweet rhythm of a church year. May and June invite us to reflect on all that we have done to put our faith into action this past year–caring for so many souls within and beyond our walls; to look ahead and consider what is calling our names for our return to one another in the fall; and, especially, to slow down and prepare our bodies and spirits for the needed quieting that late spring/summer offers. Because we are a church, we work to...
Please mark your calendars! On Sunday, May 17, beginning at 12:15 pm (right after social hour), we will have a special opportunity to learn about the work of the Watertown Rapid Response Network (WRRN), as well as how we can be involved in supporting our immigrant neighbors as they struggle with fear and uncertainty. The WRRN is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to assisting those who have been harmed by the administration’s harsh and unjust immigration policies and practices. Janet Penn...
Please RSVP The ordination of Kyle M. Belmont is co-hosted by the First Church in Belmont and the First Parish of Watertown with the ordination service taking place at the First Church in Belmont. Location The First Church in Belmont is located at 404 Concord Avenue in Belmont, MA. Parking/Transportation Parking is available in a few locations. The First Church in Belmont has a small lot next to its church building. There is on street parking on Concord Avenue on either side of the street. And...
From Mass Turnpike (I - 90): Take exit 17, (Newton -Watertown).
Follow signs for Watertown. On Galen Street, go east towards Watertown. Just before you cross the Charles River, you will join Rte. 16. After you cross the Charles, move to one of the two left hand turn lanes in Watertown Square, and then turn left on Rte. 20 (Main St.). This is heading towards Waltham.
Take your second right onto Church Street (the Armenian Library and Museum is on the corner of Main and Church Sts.). The First Parish is one block upon your right. Turn right at Summer Street to reach the parking lot.
Public Transportation
From Harvard Square take #71 bus down Mt. Auburn Street. Get off at Dunkin Donuts approaching Watertown Square. Summer St. is on the right, follow for two blocks until you see church on your left.
Parking
There is a parking lot adjacent to the church. It is available for event parking in the evening after 4:00 p.m. and on weekends after 1:00 p.m., but NOT at other times.
