Four people with taper candles light chalice framed by two rings

“On Friendship” – January 18, 2026

Jan 19, 2026

Rev. Sophia preaching with Djalai Babazadeh, Kyle Belmont, Charlyn Bethell, Guy Urban, and the FPW Choir!

In honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday we will reflect on his belief in meaningful friendship as an expression of his faith and the ideals of Beloved Community. How might we summon the courage to deepen in our relationships, and how might this help us in our fight for collective liberation? Let’s see if we can answer some of these questions together. Our choir will be singing and friends long for your presence here at First Parish–so do yourself a favor and come to church!

Reading: “Under the Night Sky,” by Kristen Moyer

Once more we form the circle
Shoulder to shoulder
Against the cold night
Breaths rising
Flames passing
Candle to candle

Hands sheltering the tender light
Against the night wind
Eyes reflecting the flame
Voices lifting…

And when my light blows out
Again
You offer yours

Reverend Sophia Lyons
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Rev. Sophia is committed to radical welcome and spreading the good news that is our bold Unitarian Universalist faith. Some of her areas of interest include interfaith partnerships, addictions ministry, spiritual direction, and working towards collective liberation for all. Rev. Sophia aspires to live her life and fulfill her ministry guided by spiritual seeking, big love, and the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism.

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