The Meaning and Magic of the Holidays

Dear First Parish Family,

For some of us the holidays are a time of joyful celebration. For others, I know, this season can be a lonely and difficult time. Either way, all of us can share in the meaning and magic of the season by celebrating and serving others this month at First Parish.

a reminder that all month long we are collecting winter socks, hats and gloves for guests of our Meals Program and Y2Y Youth Shelter. Please bring these items to church and place them under the Christmas tree in the Parish Hall.

This Sunday Val Frank, Sophia Doescher and the First Parish Jazz Trio will lead a beautiful winter solstice service, a celebration of darkness and light.

On Christmas Eve, help us prepare and serve a special Christmas lunch for our Wednesday Meals guests. You can sign up here for volunteer shifts throughout the day. Thank you!

Then please join us at 4 pm on Christmas Eve for our annual Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols. The First Parish Choir is preparing some beautiful music for this service, and I will offer a Christmas homily. Invite your friends and family to join us for this special celebration! Our earlier start time allows you to return home in time for Christmas Eve meals and celebrations.

Below is a holiday calendar that describes in more detail all the events taking place this season at First Parish. I hope you’ll join us for as many of them as you can.

And if you are having a hard time this season and could use some pastoral support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Sophia, Val or I at care@firstparishcambridge.org.

I look forward to sharing this season with all of you.