First Universalist Parish

What We Believe

We believe that enjoyment and satisfaction are enhanced by working in harmony with others toward goals based on shared ideals. Our goals help to create a more just and equitable society, deepen our understanding, and expand our vision. The ideals we share are the Unitarian Universalist seven principles.

Who We Are

Our congregation is a cross section of the peoples of Northern Vermont and Southern Quebec. We come from all walks of life. We are of various ages, religious and ethnic backgrounds. We are religious liberals, searching together to find our own truths. We offer no rigid dogma or creed. Instead are guided by a set of beautifully simple principles. We believe so strongly in the first of these principles, "the inherent worth and dignity of every person", that we have completed the formal process of becoming a Unitarian Universalist Welcoming Congregation.
Many of us had become cynical about organized religion before finding our spiritual home in this community. Perhaps you feel this way too and are searching as well. If you're thinking about a new spiritual home, here's what you and your family can expect on your first visit and here's some information about our past that may help you decide to to come see for yourselves.

JANUARY Services

January 1, 2012 NO SERVICE

January 8, 2012 WWJD

Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Mary Michelli and Lisa Erwin, Musicians
On January 4, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed his “Great Society” during his State of the Union address. Two main goals of these social reforms were the elimination of poverty and racial injustice. There were also new major spending programs addressing education, medical care, urban problems, and transportation. The year 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of that proclamation. Susan-Lynn examines how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go in light of the 2012 elections. Where is Jesus in all of this and what would he do in the voting booth?
Greeters: Jim Torrisi and Nancy Engels
Social Hour Hosts: Tonie & George Weller

January 15, 2012 The Peace of the Labyrinth

Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship leader
Chris Nicotera, Musician
Following a brief service explaining the labyrinth and its benefits, our replica of the labyrinth of the great Chartres Cathedral will be available for walking to the beautiful harp music of Chris Nicotera.
Greeters: Lynn & Douglas Flint
Social Hour Hosts: Board of Trustees

January 22, 2012 The Power of Prayer

Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship leader
Lynn Leimer Flint, Musician
The act of prayer is attested in written sources as early as 5000 years ago. Over the ages it has taken many different forms for many diverse purposes. Susan-Lynn will explore some of the similarities and differences between prayer and meditation and the place for either or both in our spiritual lives.
Greeters: Kathy Ketchum and Julia Meagher
Social Hour Hosts: POTLUCK

January 29, 2012 A Sufi Perspective

Pat Wright, Guest Speaker
Lisa Erwin, Musician, and others TBA
The act of prayer is attested in written sources as early as 5000 years ago. Over the ages it has taken many different forms for many diverse purposes. Susan-Lynn will explore some of the similarities and differences between prayer and meditation and the place for either or both in our spiritual lives.
Greeters: Mary Michelli and Susan-Lynn Johns
Social Hour Hosts: Sue Brassett and Susan-Lynn Johns