How We Learn to be Brave: The Bravery to Be You

In summer worship (June 22-August 31, 10am in Willett Hall), we hear from one another about “how we learn to be brave,” (based on a book by the same name here). Bravery is something we begin learning when we’re young and continue strengthening throughout our lifetimes, figuring out how to stand up for what is right, what is good, what is worth defending.  This Sunday, we welcome Peter R, to share his brave story of helping a stranger in need, and hear his reflections on how we can help young people find the courage to be who they are. Peter writes,… Read More

Welcome Back Sunday – September 7

9am – Children’s Choir resumes with an “Open Sing” in the Choir Room. All kids interested are invited to come check it out! 9:45am – Church School Orientation: Children and caregivers gather on the front lawn (rain location: Room 204) for a greeting, then kids head to their classrooms with their teachers. 9:45am – Chancel Choir Rehearsal. If you’re interested in joining the adult choir, come to an “Open Sing” rehearsal on Thursday, September 4 at 7pm in the Choir Room to check it out! 11am – Worship returns to the Sanctuary 12pm – Please join us for a potluck… Read More

How We Learn to be Brave: the Bravery to be Whole

In summer worship (June 22-August 31, 10am in Willett Hall), we hear from one another about “how we learn to be brave,” (based on a book by the same name here). Bravery is something we begin learning when we’re young and continue strengthening throughout our lifetimes, figuring out how to stand up for what is right, what is good, what is worth defending.  This Sunday, we welcome Nathan J-D., to share his story of learning the bravery to be whole, in the aftermath of traumatic events. Nathan writes, “Leonard Cohen’s oft quoted line from the song “Anthem” says that “there is… Read More

Autumn Covenant Groups

Are you looking for a way to ground yourself spiritually? Do you need some spiritual workout buddies to help you grow? Would you like to try a new spiritual experiment at United Parish? This autumn we will launch Covenant Groups (support groups): weekly gatherings of three or more members to help strengthen our faith, our connection to God and to one another. We will have a required introductory session offered twice in person, and on Zoom upon demand: Sunday, September 28 or Sunday, October 5 from 12:30-1:30pm in the Parlor. Sign up HERE. Groups will begin meeting regularly in October…. Read More

How We Learn to be Brave: Resilient Bravery, Being Muslim

In summer worship (June 22-August 31, 10am in Willett Hall), we hear from one another about “how we learn to be brave,” (based on a book by the same name here). Bravery is something we begin learning when we’re young and continue strengthening throughout our lifetimes, figuring out how to stand up for what is right, what is good, what is worth defending.  One of the great things about Brookline is that in a town of 60,000 or so, we boast 69 nationalities and 44 languages. I love walking through Coolidge Corner and hearing an array of languages and seeing… Read More

Sign Up to Attend a Picnic for 8

It’s time to sign up for a favorite United Parish tradition, Picnics/Dinners for 8! These dinners are a chance for us to gather and deepen our connections to one another in small groups of around 8 people. The meals are scheduled for August 15, 16, and 17. All are welcome to join — newcomers, long-time members, and friends of all ages! If you would like to sign up to attend a meal, please click HERE to indicate your availability and other important information. Last day for signups will be August 8. Contact gathering@upbrookline.org with any questions and we look forward to seeing you… Read More

How We Learn To Be Brave: Facing Dementia

In summer worship (June 22-August 31, 10am in Willett Hall), we hear from one another about “how we learn to be brave,” (based on a book by the same name here). Bravery is something we begin learning when we’re young and continue strengthening throughout our lifetimes, figuring out how to stand up for what is right, what is good, what is worth defending.  There’s a season for everything     and a time for every matter under the heavens. Ecclesiastes 3:1 Dementia is something that has probably touched all of our lives by now. Much like cancer. And like cancer 30+ years ago,… Read More

How We Learn to be Brave: Helping Immigrants

In summer worship (June 22-August 31, 10am in Willett Hall), we hear from one another about “how we learn to be brave,” (based on a book by the same name here). Bravery is something we begin learning when we’re young and continue strengthening throughout our lifetimes, figuring out how to stand up for what is right, what is good, what is worth defending.  A lot of us are disturbed or freaking out about how our current government is harassing, terrorizing and detaining immigrants. At United Parish, many of us will easily affirm that we are “a nation of immigrants,” and… Read More

How We Learn To Be Brave: Defending Others

In summer worship (June 22-August 31, 10am in Willett Hall), we hear from one another about “how we learn to be brave,” (based on a book by the same name here). Bravery is something we begin learning when we’re young and continue strengthening throughout our lifetimes, figuring out how to stand up for what is right, what is good, what is worth defending.  Some of my favorite people in this world are criminal defense attorneys. I’ve known two very closely and have been continually inspired by their strength and integrity, their clear sense of wrong and right, their ability to… Read More

Sign up to host a Picnic for 8!

It’s time for the return of a favorite United Parish tradition – Picnics/Dinners for 8! These meals are a chance for us to gather and deepen our connections to one another in small groups of around 8 people. The meals are scheduled for Friday, August 15, Saturday August 16, and Sunday August 17. If you can serve as a HOST for a Dinner for 8, please sign up HERE. Please sign up no later than July 25. If you have any questions, please contact Kate H. or send an email to gathering@upbrookline.org…. Read More

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