When we moved from Boston, we assumed we would have to visit several churches to find a home. First Parish was our first stop and we have been there ever since.
Rev. Kelly Weisman Asproooth-Jackson is young, intellectually probing, socially minded, and deeply caring. He is also a wonderful writer and speaker; your favorite college professor times two. The music is very good with a fine choir and a highly accomplished organist and choir director, Robert Littlefield. Children are encouraged to participate and often included in the musical programming. The RE Director, Deb Sweet, has all the kids come down front each week for an interactive story before heading off to Sunday school. The services are very inclusive. The youth programs are excellent.
There are many ways to actively serve the community such as the Tuesday night suppers for the hungry and Family Promise for those in need of temporary housing while looking for work.
The congregations is welcoming and there are lots of children--always a sign of a healthy congregation. The spiritual focus is open-minded and questioning rather than dogmatic: Unitarianism at its finest. Lots of "formers": Catholics, Jews, Congregationalists--lots of people seem to find a home here. Standing on the Side of Love is not just a slogan here; it's a way of life. All in all a great place to become a member of a community. read more