First Parish Malden, Unitarian Universalist, Malden, MA

First Parish Malden, Unitarian Universalist, Malden, MA

Pillars & Foundations documents an exploration of communities, as well as faith through religious institutions. My intent is to share experiences, and spread the positivity that I observe. The hope is to provide a window into these organizations allowing those who might not other wise venture in to appreciate these thoughtful, often intimate groups in our midst. Faith centers embody a drive to make a difference which they deliver upon, regardless if it is with one person looking for hope & community, or a recipient of their expansive charitable work.

Building & History

Aptly named First Parish was founded at the same time as the city it resides in, Malden, MA, in the year 1648. According to First Parish's website the church, primarily a Universalist church (Unitarians merged with Universalists in 1961), has resided in five different buildings. This building, a granite neo-gothic revival structure, was built in 1909. In addition to the sanctuary, the building contains two social halls and classrooms. 

This 1889 block is intriguing, I can't help but wonder if it was taken from one of their prior locations?

The Congregation

Consistent with the Unitarian Universalist organization, First Parish champions tolerance. On their webpage they state (hyperlinks embedded in the quotation are from First Parish's website, linking to UU resources):

"We are people of many beliefs and backgrounds: people with a religious background, people with none, people who believe in a God, people who don’t, and people who let the mystery be. We are Unitarian Universalist and Buddhist, Christian, Humanist, Jewish, Pagan, atheist and agnostic, believers in God, and more. We believe the truth is too big to be contained in any one way of thinking."

First Parish is a LGBTQ Welcoming congregation offering affirmation and making efforts of inclusivity to all.

Area of the chancel, the iron chandeliers are quite unique but complement the Anglican interior well

Beautiful clock on the choir loft/balcony reminds me of a giant pocket watch!

The Service

The Service was entitled "A Prayer For America," and it tied reflections of Veteran's Day into theme. The church bells were rung twice for Veterans and a moment of silence was also observed. 

During the Children's portion, or "Time for All Ages," as it is called, had one child pull a cape from the "wonder box," and put it on. The cape serving as a representation of the concept of being a hero. However the lesson was that everyone can be, and often is a hero, capes are totally unnecessary. An amusing "Kid President" video was played for the children before they headed away for school.

One of the readings was a portion of a blog entry by Ariel Dorfman entitled "An Open Letter to America," where the author expresses concern with the all too common divisiveness and prejudices that color peoples opinions and attitudes. Concluding it asks, "Am I wrong to believe that the country that gave the world jazz and Faulkner and Eleanor Roosevelt will be able to look at itself in the cracked mirror of history and join the rest of humanity, not as a city on a separate hill, but as one more city in the shining valleys of sorrow and uncertainty and hope where we all dwell?" 

Rev. Otto O'Connor reflected on Veteran's Day in the U.S. v. Remembrance Day, as it is called in Canada, wonder about nuanced differences in their presentation and what impact they may play in the country's attitude. He discussed why he, as a Canadian with dual citizenship has chosen to reside in America as opposed to Canada. He talked about the hope and potential that America embodies, how it may often be out of reach for some, and that he wishes to be a part of the change that allows all to experience the possibilities that the country can offer. 

Several Unitarian Universalists hymns were performed that also included the playing of the organ, and during the offertory, a talented congregant performed a contemporary pop song "Praying," by Kesha. 

You can't quite see them but these pews actually have "kneelers," which I have not seen commonly outside of Catholic or Episcopal tradition. Interestingly the cushions have been removed, however it is clear that care has been made to preserve them, despite the lack of use.

Outreach & Social Engagement

In the bulletin alone several activities are listed revealing the many ways First Parish is active and gives back to their community. Next weekend has a "Pie Sunday," where pies are brought to the coffee hour, but also non-perishables are collected to donate to the Bread of Life Food Pantry. First Parish will be having a Transgender Day of Remembrance soon to remember those who have been killed due to anti-transgender violence, there will be a service on Thursday, Nov. 20th at 7 pm. They are actively collecting clothing donations for the homeless in an association with ABCD. A social justice webpage on the parish website, details the parish's various focuses activism. The church also sponsors various small social discussion groups.

First Parish appears to be a very active organization that enriches Malden and the surrounding communities in many ways.

Text and photographs by George Parks

Sources are embedded in links

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