On Christmas Eve, I usually take a special collection to help people in need. This year, when our immigrant and refugee family members and neighbors are the target of so much violence, and remembering that Jesus was a refugee, I would like to raise money for BIJAN. The Boston Immigration Justice Accompaniment Network (BIJAN) is … Continue reading Special Christmas Eve Collection: Beyond Bond & Legal Defense Fund

Over the last several years, we’ve seen a spike in respiratory illness after Christmas. With flu A already circulating in Boston, and mindful of our immunocompromised beloveds, we will again require masks at our Christmas Eve service this year. Masks will be available at the doors in case you forget. Thank you so much for … Continue reading Health and Safety Note: Masks Required Christmas Eve

The Growing First Church task force thanks everyone for participating in the “Building on Our Strengths” programs on Sunday, Nov 16.  We are starting the process of compiling and looking at all your responses to our 8 questions and will be sharing  our summary with you in early 2026. We were so excited to see … Continue reading Growing First Church

This fall, we will be phasing out the option to join worship via Zoom. Instead, you will be able to watch the service directly on our livestreaming page, and use a chat feature to submit prayer requests. We anticipate this will reduce the lag time between the service and the livestream, as well as address … Continue reading Online Worship: Livestream Only

At our Annual Meeting in June, the Congregation voted to welcome Adam, Nancy and Heather to the Governing Board. John will transition from the role of Treasurer to Board Member at large. We thank Sarah, Jon, and Pam for their service!

Please note the following policy, adopted by the Governing Board May 15, 2025:Firearms and other weapons are prohibited on Church grounds without prior authorization from the Board, except when carried by on-duty public law enforcement officials. This policy applies whether such weapons are concealed or carried openly. Violation of this policy should be reported to … Continue reading Weapons Policy

Starting on March 16, 2025, masks are optional in the Sanctuary, though strongly encouraged. Please stay home or wear a well-fitting mask if you are sick.

Masks are required during services for all congregants and leaders; kn95s will be available. The Board will revisit this policy regularly, and is monitoring levels of respiratory illness in Boston.

First Church is happy to announce our 2025-2026 Classical Recital Series! Join us for three wonderful afternoons of beautiful music and refreshments. The next recital will be on Saturday, February 7, at 3:00pm. February’s Performers This concert features Norumbega Harmony. We suggest a donation of $25, but all are welcome! Donations can be made at the … Continue reading First Church Recital Series

First Church has been working on our own and collaboratively with several other organizations in JP to investigate and understand the history of land theft, slavery and slavery-enabled industry and wealth in Jamaica Plain, particularly as it involved First Church founders and members. Some of our historic records are critical in documenting this history. A … Continue reading Social Justice Action Committee Update