Join us for worship this holiday season!
Sunday, December 4, 10:00 a.m.: The Economy as if Money Really Mattered with Rev. Dr. Elaine Beth Peresluha
As we enter into the most consumptive season in our nation it is important to reflect on our culture of money, the value of money, and how our gross national product is defined. How could, or should our national economy actually reflect, and measure what it is we value and hold most precious?
Sunday, December 11, 10:00 a.m.: All Music Sunday with Robert Kechley Music Director
Today Bob will conduct his final holiday music extravaganza. Come to enjoy the tradition of music and fellowship as we celebrate Bob’s final year before retirement.
Thursday, December 15, 7:00 p.m.: Blue Christmas Vespers
For many, the holidays are not merry. Joy is seen through a window that keeps some on the outside looking in. This evening we will hold a quiet reflective service in the sanctuary. For all those who still grieve the departure of Revs Joan and Peter, for those who have anniversaries of lass this time of year, or who are experience sorrow, or loss for any reason at this time of year. If you are lonely, sad, or just need a quiet retreat from the tinsel that surrounds us. Come
Sunday, December 18, 10:00 a.m.: Holiday Pageant
Your holiday bucket will be filled with this updated version of The Christmas Carol written by East Shore youth! Let our youth take you to a modern version of Scrooge as he comes to grips with how his business practices have directly impacted families. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to celebrate the talents of the youth in our community!
Wednesday, December 21, 6:30 p.m.: Winter Solstice Celebration
Please join us for this wonderful gathering to celebrate the return of the sun on the longest night of the year, with worship, ritual, music, stories, and a circle dance, followed by a soup and bread potluck. Please join and bring soup, bread, cookies, or juice to share. An East Shore tradition that is not to be missed.
Saturday, December 24, 4:00, 7:00, and 11:00 p.m.: Traditional Unitarian Universalist Candlelight Services
We will host three Christmas Eve Services. The first two will be traditional Unitarian Universalist Candlelight services. The origins of this service can be traced to the early 1900’s in New England and to much earlier antecedents in Europe. Dana Greeley former president of the UUA brought this service to First Parish in Concord during the 1970’s. Jim Robinson, Dana’s ministerial intern, brought it from Concord to First Parish in Brewster MA where our Interim Minister Rev. Elaine Beth Peresluha was Jim’s ministerial intern. She has carried the tradition to each congregation she has served since 1991.
Our chalice, “The light of the Ages”, represents divine light, The Spirit of Love, which animates all of life and the universe, is an understanding foundational to our Universalist heritage. The light of Love shone brightly in the life of Jesus, inspiring people everywhere to allow this same light to shine brightly in their lives. The understanding of Jesus as a human being who demonstrated the fullness of human potential, is at the heart of our Unitarian heritage
The light from the chalice is passed to the first candle representing the baby Jesus, traditionally lit by the youngest child in the congregation. From the Jesus candle, the light is passed to a row of candles representing his disciples and followers. Usually ministers and individuals studying for the ministry light these candles. The light is then passed to a row of candles representing teachers and parents who continue to pass the light of wisdom and compassion to succeeding generation. Volunteers and staff in the Religious Education programs traditionally light these candles.
The Light is then passed to a row of candles representing the children of the world, our hope for the future. Youth carry the Light to the four corners of the congregation where it is spread candle by candle, hand by hand, and heart by heart throughout the sanctuary. When the entire sanctuary is filled with Light, the candles are raised illuminating the sanctuary with The Light of Love
4:00 p.m.: Aisha Hauser, our Director of Lifelong Learning will lead a family friendly traditional U.U. Candle light Service
7:00 p.m.: Rev. Elaine Peresluha will lead a family friendly traditional U.U. Candlelight service
11:00 p.m.: Robert Kechley, our Music Director will lead a quiet musical candle light service
*Please note: The Sanctuary and Administration Building will be closed from December 25 through January 1, including Sundays. There will be a lay led program in Spring Hall on Sundays, December 25 and January 1 at 10:00 a.m.