Dear First Parishers,

The Standing Committee has voted to raise a Black Lives Matter banner in solidarity with the movement on Friday, June 19, 2020

As an article of faith we feel called to show support for the movement: Our first principle does, after all, declare "We affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every person." Also we are the oldest congregation in town. Being prominently located in the center of town, on the Common, makes our church a good place for a visible reflection of the commitment so many people in the town showed at the moving vigil held here. Finally, we believe it's important to show the children of this community, especially the children of color, that black lives DO matter to us.

June 19 seemed a fitting date to raise the banner, because it is also Juneteenth, African American Emancipation Day. First observed in Galveston, Texas in 1865 Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when a Union Army general and his troops arrived in Galveston taking over the state and enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation. It is now observed in 46 states (all except Hawaii, the Dakotas, and Montana) and the District of Columbia.

Since we are in the Historic District, the banner will come down after a month. It will reappear as events and our own faith call for it.

In keeping with the commitment in our First Parish covenant to care and be present to one another in our joys and sorrows, Rev. Ellen and the Pastoral Care Team offer this grief and loss group on the second and fourth Mondays of the month for virtual check-ins via Zoom to nurture and hold a sacred space to share stories, experiences, and emotions around love, loss and grief in a spirit of mutual care and deep listening. This is an ongoing group that folks in our First Parish community can join during the year, while maintaining it as a confidential and supportive space. The Zoom session will last only as long as needed for people to check in and get support if needed.
If you are interested on joining, please contact Rev. Ellen