Sermons from First Parish Unitarian Universalist of Arlington Massachusetts

Recorded sermons from worship at First Parish Unitarian Universalist in Arlington, Massachusetts

Healthy Boundaries equal Healthy Beings, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, February 1, 2026 02/03/2026

Grounded: Staying on Course During Turbulent Times, by Rev. Mary Margaret Earl, UU Urban Ministry, worship service Sunday, January 25, 2026 02/02/2026

Grounded: Staying on Course During Turbulent Times, by Rev. Mary Margaret Earl, UU Urban Ministry, worship service Sunday, January 25, 2026 Rev. Mary Margaret Earl, Executive Director and Senior Minister of UU Urban Ministry, preaching Worship service given January 25, 2026 Prayer by Lyn Fulton-John, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Join Guest Minister Rev. Mary Margaret Earl from UU Urban Ministry in a reflection on navigating the overwhelming noise and news without losing sight of our work for justice. Music offered by the First Parish Choir and accompanist Ken Seitz. The Rev. Mary Margaret Earl has served as Executive Director and Senior Minister of the Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry for 11 years. In this ministry, she works for racial justice and to strengthen connections between UUs and the Roxbury neighborhood where the UUUM operates. She has served on the leadership team of Moral Movement Massachusetts, the Roxbury Cultural Network, and the search committee for the Roxbury Community College president. Prior to her arrival at the UU Urban Ministry, she spent 10 years at a faith-based nonprofit in RI serving the homeless community, She is past president of the Board of the Rhode Island Coalition for the Homeless, recipient of the Heroes of Faith Award from the Rhode Island State Council of Churches for her interfaith work, and received a Courage of Conscience award from the Peace Abbey in Sherborn, Ma. She is a longtime vegan committed to standing up for nonhuman animals. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For January 2026, The Network / LA Red will share half the plate. The Network/La Red is a survivor-led, social justice organization that works to end partner abuse in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, kink, polyamorous, and queer communities. Rooted in anti-oppression principles, their work aims to create a world where all people are free from oppression. They strengthen the communities they serve through organizing, education, and the provision of support services. The Network/La Red is recognized nationwide for supporting survivors and engaging LGBT, kink, poly, and queer communities in organizing to end partner abuse and oppression. Their services are free, confidential, available in English and Spanish, and accessible by wheelchair, TTY, and public transportation. They are committed to honoring the experiences and choices of survivors in every aspect of their work. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39956355

Inescapable Web, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, January 18, 2026 02/02/2026

Inescapable Web, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, January 18, 2026 Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, preaching Worship service given January 18, 2026 Prayer by Bill Licea-Kane, Worship Associate Reading: "The Low Road," by Marge Piercy, read by Joanne Pohl, Chair, First Parish Defending Democracy Working Group Reflection by Eric Segal, Founder, ArCS Cluster First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Come join us for worship! What does it mean to live out a commitment to immigration justice as Unitarian Universalists? Come hear from congregant Eric Segal and Parish Minister Rev. Erica Richmond. Music by the First Parish Choir and accompanist Ken Seitz. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For January 2026, The Network / LA Red will share half the plate. The Network/La Red is a survivor-led, social justice organization that works to end partner abuse in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, kink, polyamorous, and queer communities. Rooted in anti-oppression principles, their work aims to create a world where all people are free from oppression. They strengthen the communities they serve through organizing, education, and the provision of support services. The Network/La Red is recognized nationwide for supporting survivors and engaging LGBT, kink, poly, and queer communities in organizing to end partner abuse and oppression. Their services are free, confidential, available in English and Spanish, and accessible by wheelchair, TTY, and public transportation. They are committed to honoring the experiences and choices of survivors in every aspect of their work. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39956120

BRAVING Trust, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, January 11, 2026 02/01/2026

BRAVING Trust, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, January 11, 2026 Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given January 11, 2026 Prayer by Loren Gomez, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 The word 'trust' has been used frequently, but it's often difficult to wrap your hand around. Brené Brown breaks it down to the BRAVING acronym. Come find out what it means to begin 2026 with plenty of marbles in the trust jar. Music by the First Parish Choir and accompanist Kenneth Seitz. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For January 2026, The Network / LA Red will share half the plate. The Network/La Red is a survivor-led, social justice organization that works to end partner abuse in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, kink, polyamorous, and queer communities. Rooted in anti-oppression principles, their work aims to create a world where all people are free from oppression. They strengthen the communities they serve through organizing, education, and the provision of support services. The Network/La Red is recognized nationwide for supporting survivors and engaging LGBT, kink, poly, and queer communities in organizing to end partner abuse and oppression. Their services are free, confidential, available in English and Spanish, and accessible by wheelchair, TTY, and public transportation. They are committed to honoring the experiences and choices of survivors in every aspect of their work. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39955960

Spiritual Dial-Up, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, January 4, 2026 01/21/2026

Spiritual Dial-Up, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, January 4, 2026 Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, preaching Worship service given January 4, 2026 Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Come join us for worship as we kick off 2026. As we turn towards a new year, we are invited to take stock, maybe do a spiritual tune-up. Rev. Erica Richmond will be preaching and Accompanist and Music Director Emeritus Ken Seitz will offer music. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For January 2026, The Network / LA Red will share half the plate. The Network/La Red is a survivor-led, social justice organization that works to end partner abuse in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, kink, polyamorous, and queer communities. Rooted in anti-oppression principles, their work aims to create a world where all people are free from oppression. They strengthen the communities they serve through organizing, education, and the provision of support services. The Network/La Red is recognized nationwide for supporting survivors and engaging LGBT, kink, poly, and queer communities in organizing to end partner abuse and oppression. Their services are free, confidential, available in English and Spanish, and accessible by wheelchair, TTY, and public transportation. They are committed to honoring the experiences and choices of survivors in every aspect of their work. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39812715

Poetry Service, led by Lillian Povey, Mary Breen, and David Klingsberg, Worship Associates, worship service Sunday, December 28, 2025 01/21/2026

Poetry Service, led by Lillian Povey, Mary Breen, and David Klingsberg, Worship Associates, worship service Sunday, December 28, 2025 Led by Lillian Povey, Mary Breen, and David Klingsberg, Worship Associates Worship service given December 28, 2025 Prayer by David Klingsberg, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Join us for our annual Poetry Sunday as Worship Associates Lillian Povey, Mary Breen, and David Klingsberg create space for us to share the words that have moved us over the past year and celebrating the coming year. Bring a poem to share – one you’ve found, or one you’ve written. Online participants are invited to share poetry together after the service. Ken Seitz, pianist and Music Director Emeritus, will offer music for this special annual service. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For December 2025, The Welcome Project will share half the plate. The Welcome Project, founded in 1987 in Somerville’s Mystic Public Housing Development, now provides programming citywide that strengthens the capacity of immigrant youth, adults, and families to advocate for themselves and influence schools, government, and other institutions that shape their lives. TWP’s culturally responsive approach builds on immigrants’ existing strengths to forge connections across language and culture. The organization provides essential services to the vast and increasingly diverse immigrant community, including Brazilians, Haitians, individuals from the Northern Triangle of Central America, and so many others worldwide who strive to find success and community in their new city. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39812575

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Wednesday, December 24, 2025 01/21/2026

Multigenerational Christmas Service, led by Rev. Stevie Carmody, Minister of Religious Education, worship service Sunday, December 21, 2025 12/22/2025

Multigenerational Christmas Service, led by Rev. Stevie Carmody, Minister of Religious Education, worship service Sunday, December 21, 2025 Led by Rev. Stevie Carmody, Minister of Religious Education Worship service given December 21, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister Performance by the First Parish Carol Players Narrated by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, and Rev. Stevie Carmody https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Join Rev. Jonipher, Rev. Erica, Rev. Stevie, and our “Carol Players” of all ages for a retelling of the old Dickens’ story, A Christmas Carol. Gather together as we explore values of generosity and transformation, and close out by decorating our giant evergreen! Music from the First Parish Choir, Bell Choir, and Holiday Children’s Choir adorn the service. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For December 2025, The Welcome Project will share half the plate. The Welcome Project, founded in 1987 in Somerville’s Mystic Public Housing Development, now provides programming citywide that strengthens the capacity of immigrant youth, adults, and families to advocate for themselves and influence schools, government, and other institutions that shape their lives. TWP’s culturally responsive approach builds on immigrants’ existing strengths to forge connections across language and culture. The organization provides essential services to the vast and increasingly diverse immigrant community, including Brazilians, Haitians, individuals from the Northern Triangle of Central America, and so many others worldwide who strive to find success and community in their new city. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39703225

Who's Naughty or Nice, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, December 14, 2025 12/16/2025

Embracing the Darkness, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Friday, December 12, 2025 12/15/2025

Embracing the Darkness, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Friday, December 12, 2025 Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, preaching Worship service given December 12, 2025 Readings by First Parish congregants Music by Diane Taraz Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 For the 17th year at First Parish we offer a special evening worship service during the holiday season, a worship service to “Embrace the Darkness.” Parish Minister Rev. Erica Richmond will lead us in worship and Diane Taraz will offer music . This service will be an opportunity to acknowledge the darkness that surrounds the light of this festive season. This contemplative service of solace is a reminder that our sorrows matter and that we are not alone. Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza and New Years are thought to be jolly, merry and happy. And sometimes they are. We are reunited with loved ones. We sing. We pull out decorations bringing us memories of other good times flood us with delight. We linger over sumptuous meals. We give and receive gifts which remind us we are known and understood. Other times the holidays remind us of who or what isn’t at the table. We feel keenly a death or an estrangement. Love lost, health lost, job loss may feel more present than joy. We are aware of the poignancy of changes felt or soon to come: children growing older or elders who will not be long with us. This poignancy is part of “Embracing the Darkness.” Many say this worship service is their favorite of the year. All are welcome Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For December 2025, The Welcome Project will share half the plate. The Welcome Project, founded in 1987 in Somerville’s Mystic Public Housing Development, now provides programming citywide that strengthens the capacity of immigrant youth, adults, and families to advocate for themselves and influence schools, government, and other institutions that shape their lives. TWP’s culturally responsive approach builds on immigrants’ existing strengths to forge connections across language and culture. The organization provides essential services to the vast and increasingly diverse immigrant community, including Brazilians, Haitians, individuals from the Northern Triangle of Central America, and so many others worldwide who strive to find success and community in their new city. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39701770

Music Sunday, by Dr. Daniel Parsley, Music Director, worship service Sunday, December 7, 2025 12/15/2025

Music Sunday, by Dr. Daniel Parsley, Music Director, worship service Sunday, December 7, 2025 Led by Dr. Daniel Parsley, Music Director Worship service given December 7, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister Reflections by Bev Morse and Cheri Minton, Choir Members First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Join us for our annual Winter Music Service, led by First Parish Music Director Dr. Daniel Parsley and featuring the First Parish Choir, accompanist and Music Director Emeritus Kenneth Seitz, flutist Robin Baker, guest harpist Colleen Murray, alongside reflective vignettes from congregation and staff members. This year’s theme—memory—invites us to reflect on how shared remembrance shapes the holiday season and why we are drawn, year after year, to the singing of carols. The service weaves together Benjamin Britten’s iconic A Ceremony of Carols, Stephen Paulus’s A Savior on High, and beloved congregational carols and hymns from across traditions, creating a musical space where memory, meaning, and community meet. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For December 2025, The Welcome Project will share half the plate. The Welcome Project, founded in 1987 in Somerville’s Mystic Public Housing Development, now provides programming citywide that strengthens the capacity of immigrant youth, adults, and families to advocate for themselves and influence schools, government, and other institutions that shape their lives. TWP’s culturally responsive approach builds on immigrants’ existing strengths to forge connections across language and culture. The organization provides essential services to the vast and increasingly diverse immigrant community, including Brazilians, Haitians, individuals from the Northern Triangle of Central America, and so many others worldwide who strive to find success and community in their new city. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/39649145

Living on a Prayer, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, November 30, 2025 12/05/2025

Making Stone Soup, by Rev. Stevie Carmody, Minister of Religious Education, worship service Sunday, November 23, 2025 11/24/2025

History vs. Nostalgia, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, November 16, 2025 11/17/2025

Institutional Embodiment, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, November 9, 2025 11/17/2025

Finding Comfort in a State of Perpetual Perishing, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, November 2, 2025 11/17/2025

Living Our Faith, Featuring First Parish member testimonials, worship service Sunday, October 26, 2025 10/28/2025

Engagement As A Spiritual Practice, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, October 19, 2025 10/21/2025

Picking Berries, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, October 12, 2025 10/13/2025

Repent! The Beginning is Near, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, October 5, 2025 10/06/2025

What Else Do We Carry? by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, September 28, 2025 10/01/2025

What Else Do We Carry? by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, September 28, 2025 Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, preaching Worship service given September 28, 2025 Prayer by Bill Licea-Kane, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 As heaviness swirls around us, grief is a thing we carry. It is not something that we can get rid of or move on from, but it is something that can become one of many things we hold. Join us on Sunday for worship. It is an extra special service as we do our annual Child Dedication for the newest little ones among us. Rev. Erica Richmond is preaching. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For September, the Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) will share half the plate. Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) is the first and only organization dedicated to preventing sexual violence systemically. As a national nonprofit, they work to prevent sexual violence before it happens by addressing root causes like rape culture and systemic oppression. Their work spans policy advocacy, research, institutional reform, and community education to create lasting, structural change. SVPA partners with schools, workplaces, unions, and government agencies to implement evidence-based prevention strategies and is proudly led by marginalized survivors—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and disabled people—ensuring that their work is informed by the lived experiences of those most impacted. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/38427690

To Be Woke in a World that Prefers to Sleep In, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, September 21, 2025 09/23/2025

To Be Woke in a World that Prefers to Sleep In, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, September 21, 2025 Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given September 21, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Rosh Hashanah is the beginning of ten days of repentance in Judaism. It's meant to be a time for self-reflection and to wake up to the places we've fallen short. The word "woke," however, has been weaponized by some and perceived as an undesirable trait. How can we become more aware and compassionate in a world that prefers the opposite? Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For September, the Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) will share half the plate. Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) is the first and only organization dedicated to preventing sexual violence systemically. As a national nonprofit, they work to prevent sexual violence before it happens by addressing root causes like rape culture and systemic oppression. Their work spans policy advocacy, research, institutional reform, and community education to create lasting, structural change. SVPA partners with schools, workplaces, unions, and government agencies to implement evidence-based prevention strategies and is proudly led by marginalized survivors—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and disabled people—ensuring that their work is informed by the lived experiences of those most impacted. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/38328365

Show Me Your Birds, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, September 14, 2025 09/23/2025

Show Me Your Birds, by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, worship service Sunday, September 14, 2025 Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister, preaching Worship service given September 14, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 In a time of cacophonous news and digital distractions, how do we live with intention? Rev. Erica Richmond will be preaching on the importance of connection and presence. Come join us for worship and learn what birds have to do with it! Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For September, the Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) will share half the plate. Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) is the first and only organization dedicated to preventing sexual violence systemically. As a national nonprofit, they work to prevent sexual violence before it happens by addressing root causes like rape culture and systemic oppression. Their work spans policy advocacy, research, institutional reform, and community education to create lasting, structural change. SVPA partners with schools, workplaces, unions, and government agencies to implement evidence-based prevention strategies and is proudly led by marginalized survivors—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and disabled people—ensuring that their work is informed by the lived experiences of those most impacted. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/38327150

Welcome Aboard, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, September 7, 2025 09/15/2025

Welcome Aboard, by Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, worship service Sunday, September 7, 2025 Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given September 7, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Curious as to what the next two years will be like? Let's embark on this journey of unpacking the five interim tasks while also celebrating Ingathering Sunday and water communion. Water Ceremony: Please bring water from a place meaningful to you, whether you join us on Zoom or in the Sanctuary. During worship in the Sanctuary we join our waters together in our annual water ceremony, and we will symbolically incorporate the waters from our Zoom congregation This water will be used in child dedications and blessings through the year. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For September, the Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) will share half the plate. Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) is the first and only organization dedicated to preventing sexual violence systemically. As a national nonprofit, they work to prevent sexual violence before it happens by addressing root causes like rape culture and systemic oppression. Their work spans policy advocacy, research, institutional reform, and community education to create lasting, structural change. SVPA partners with schools, workplaces, unions, and government agencies to implement evidence-based prevention strategies and is proudly led by marginalized survivors—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and disabled people—ensuring that their work is informed by the lived experiences of those most impacted. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/38226485

Fear of Empathy, by Barbara Ives, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 31, 2025 09/09/2025

Fear of Empathy, by Barbara Ives, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 31, 2025 Barbara Ives, Lay Worship Leader Worship service given August 31, 2025 Prayer by Barbara Ives, Lay Worship Leader https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Empathy has been a big topic in recent social media spaces. Now, a new movement among Christian nationalists says that empathy is a sin. Barbara discusses this great tool for relating to one another, despite our differences. During the summer our Zoom-only worship is led each week by a member of our congregation. Barbara Ives is a lifelong Unitarian Universalist. She just started attending Arlington this last January. However, she grew up in the Wayland Church and then attended the Watertown church for many years. From 1997 to 2003 she attended Harvard Divinity school in hopes of pursuing UU ministry. Life took a different path and she did not get ordained. After many years being away from the church, coming back to Arlington feels like coming home. She is glad for this opportunity to exercise her ministerial muscles. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For September, the Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) will share half the plate. Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA) is the first and only organization dedicated to preventing sexual violence systemically. As a national nonprofit, they work to prevent sexual violence before it happens by addressing root causes like rape culture and systemic oppression. Their work spans policy advocacy, research, institutional reform, and community education to create lasting, structural change. SVPA partners with schools, workplaces, unions, and government agencies to implement evidence-based prevention strategies and is proudly led by marginalized survivors—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and disabled people—ensuring that their work is informed by the lived experiences of those most impacted. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/38145830

Finding the Extra in the Ordinary, by Bill Licea-Kane, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 24, 2025 08/29/2025

Finding the Extra in the Ordinary, by Bill Licea-Kane, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 24, 2025 Bill Licea-Kane, Lay Worship Leader Worship service given August 24, 2025 Prayer by David Whitford, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Life is full of awe-full moments. There’s a long tradition of going on pilgrimages to find these moments. On Sunday, we’ll be exploring the moments that come to us. During the summer our Zoom-only worship is led each week by a member of our congregation. Bill Licea-Kane (they/them) and their spouse Erica have been members of First Parish since 1998. They came for their then young son Marsden, but quickly found their own home here too. Bill is currently retired, volunteering at First Parish as a Worship Associate and Youth Group Adult Advisor. Bill is influenced by the writings of humanists, rationalists, and mystical transcendentalists, but also finds deep meaning in the writings of deists and theists. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For June, July, and August 2025, The Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY) will share half of the plate. For nearly 50 years, BAGLY has been a youth-led, adult-supported social support organization, committed to social justice and creating, sustaining, and advocating for programs, policies, and services for the LGBTQ+ youth community in Massachusetts. After serving over 200,000+ youth since 1980, BAGLY is recognized nationally for its pioneering role in creating, sustaining, and advocating for social support, leadership development, and health promotion programs for LGBTQ+ youth. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/38020620

My Hindu Conversion, by Rick Eastwick, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 17, 2025 08/22/2025

My Hindu Conversion, by Rick Eastwick, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 17, 2025 Rick Eastwick, Lay Worship Leader Worship service given August 17, 2025 Prayer by Rick Eastwick, Lay Worship Leader https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Lay leader Rick Eastwick will tell the story of his life changing conversion to Hinduism starting when he was a college junior at Tufts University in 1970. During the summer our Zoom-only worship is led each week by a member of our congregation. Rick Eastwick grew up in New England and graduated from Tufts University in 1971 with a degree in Applied Physics. He worked in industry for 42 years mostly in technical staffing for high tech companies in the Boston area. He was married twice, the second time to Marie Raduazzo, who succumbed to ovarian cancer in October of 2020. He has a son from his first marriage, who lives in California. He was raised Congregationalist but converted to Unitarian-Universalism in college partially because of its tolerance for Eastern religious ideas. He and Marie began attending First Parish in 1983. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For June, July, and August 2025, The Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY) will share half of the plate. For nearly 50 years, BAGLY has been a youth-led, adult-supported social support organization, committed to social justice and creating, sustaining, and advocating for programs, policies, and services for the LGBTQ+ youth community in Massachusetts. After serving over 200,000+ youth since 1980, BAGLY is recognized nationally for its pioneering role in creating, sustaining, and advocating for social support, leadership development, and health promotion programs for LGBTQ+ youth. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/37924200

Peace Love and Understanding, by Julie Garry, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 10, 2025 08/14/2025

Peace Love and Understanding, by Julie Garry, Lay Worship Leader, worship service Sunday, August 10, 2025 Julie Garry, Lay Worship Leader Worship service given August 10, 2025 Prayer by Mary Breen, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Lay leader Julie Garry will talk about the ways in which Peace, Love & Understanding are foundational to our UU principles. She has been captivated by both the simplicity and challenge of these fundamental skills. Julie has been attending First Parish for 13 years and is grateful to be a part of this community. Her interests include: cooking, gardening, camping, art, and spending time with pup Ruby, who gives their entire family boundless love and joy, asking for just a good belly rub and occasional bite of roast beef in return. Along with her wife Jenny they are the proud parents to Fae Kramer. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For June, July, and August 2025, The Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY) will share half of the plate. For nearly 50 years, BAGLY has been a youth-led, adult-supported social support organization, committed to social justice and creating, sustaining, and advocating for programs, policies, and services for the LGBTQ+ youth community in Massachusetts. After serving over 200,000+ youth since 1980, BAGLY is recognized nationally for its pioneering role in creating, sustaining, and advocating for social support, leadership development, and health promotion programs for LGBTQ+ youth. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/37817330

Finding Stability in a Time of Chaos, by Anna Callahan, Lay Worship Leader, worship service, Sunday, August 3, 2025 08/04/2025

Finding Stability in a Time of Chaos, by Anna Callahan, Lay Worship Leader, worship service, Sunday, August 3, 2025 Worship service given July 27, 2025 Prayer by David Dreyfus, Worship Leader https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 In this time of chaotic national politics, how can we find stability for ourselves and others? Lay Worship Leader Anna Callahan will talk about the power of providing for others as a way to stabilize yourself. During the summer our Zoom-only worship is led each week by a member of our congregation. Anna Callahan is a city councilor in Medford, a mom of 10 year old Leif Aune, and a student of democracy. She has spent years training people around the country to get better democratic representation at the local level. She enjoys just about any creative project done with others, from playing music to making films to building cardboard boats. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For June, July, and August 2025, The Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY) will share half of the plate. For nearly 50 years, BAGLY has been a youth-led, adult-supported social support organization, committed to social justice and creating, sustaining, and advocating for programs, policies, and services for the LGBTQ+ youth community in Massachusetts. After serving over 200,000+ youth since 1980, BAGLY is recognized nationally for its pioneering role in creating, sustaining, and advocating for social support, leadership development, and health promotion programs for LGBTQ+ youth. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/37667730

What Does AI Tell Us About Being Human? by David Dreyfus, Lay Worship Leader, worship service, Sunday, July 27, 2025 08/04/2025

What Does AI Tell Us About Being Human? by David Dreyfus, Lay Worship Leader, worship service, Sunday, July 27, 2025 Worship service given July 27, 2025 Prayer by David Dreyfus, Worship Leader https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 In the era of AI, the rise of large language models (LLMs) offers a unique opportunity to reflect on what it truly means to be human. These models, capable of generating text that mimics human writing and reasoning, challenge our understanding of intelligence and creativity. But as we integrate them into various aspects of life, we can ask: What does their development tell us about ourselves? Throughout history, each major technological leap has reshaped how we view our own abilities. From the advent of agriculture to the digital revolution, tools and machines have progressively augmented or replaced human labor. For years we have extolled the virtues of what machines ultimately do better than us. LLMs represent the latest frontier, capable of tasks once thought to be exclusively human, such as writing or problem-solving. But rather than suggesting that machines have surpassed us, these advancements compel us to rethink what it is about being human that technology cannot replicate. During the summer our Zoom-only worship is led each week by a member of our congregation. David Dreyfus has been attending First Parish for about 12 years and participates in many aspects of community life here. He has chaired the finance committee, participates on property, helps in the kitchen, facilitates a men’s group, engages in discussion groups, and actively participates in Lectio Divina as part of a very active spiritual journey. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For June, July, and August 2025, The Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY) will share half of the plate. For nearly 50 years, BAGLY has been a youth-led, adult-supported social support organization, committed to social justice and creating, sustaining, and advocating for programs, policies, and services for the LGBTQ+ youth community in Massachusetts. After serving over 200,000+ youth since 1980, BAGLY is recognized nationally for its pioneering role in creating, sustaining, and advocating for social support, leadership development, and health promotion programs for LGBTQ+ youth. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text “fpuu” to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive. /episode/index/show/fpuuarl/id/37665890

Sermons from First Parish Unitarian Universalist of Arlington Massachusetts

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