What’s Happening: The First Parish Blog
“Why We Come to Church” – May 17, 2026
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!
Join Watertown’s Welcoming Spaces Campaign!
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...
“Entering the Great Pure Ocean” – May 10, 2026
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!
“Lessons from the Wild Side” – May 3, 2026
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...
Musically Speaking – May 2026
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...
The View From Here – May 2026
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...
“It Takes a Village” – April 26, 2026
Rev. Sophia preaching, with Kyle Belmont, Charlyn Bethell, Debi King, Guy Urban, and Nick Woebcke.
As April’s theme of Awakening comes to a natural close let’s come together and ‘awaken’ to who we are as a church community. We arrive with a variety of gifts and needs, and it’s good to regularly discern what they are, what they aren’t, and how they might be speaking to us. We will also sing “Woyaya” together, which reminds us about the winding, wonderful (and sometimes weird!) spiritual path we are on as a community. Slow down and give yourself the gift of church–we sure do need one another these days. Following worship, we will enjoy refreshments provided our Parish Committee before church members convene in person and on Zoom for our Annual Meeting. See you Sunday!
How Can We Support Our Immigrant Neighbors? Find Out on May 17
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...
Friends and Members of The First Parish of Watertown are invited to the ordination of Kyle M. Belmont on Sunday, May 31, 2026 at 4 PM
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...
Annual Meeting Warrant – April 26, 2026
The First Parish of Watertown, Unitarian Universalist Warrant for 395th Annual Meeting _______ To: Kate Hanson Plass, Clerk of the First Parish of Watertown, Greetings: You are hereby requested to notify and warn the legal members of the First Parish of Watertown to...