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What difference does First Unitarian make in your life?

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My personal goal is good stewardship – accepting and preserving what past generations have provided for us, and preserving and enhancing what we received for the benefit of those who follow us.  John Mirick


I grew up in this Church, initially attending Sunday School in the house at the corner of Main Street and State Street (now the lower parking lot), having parts in the Christmas pageant, presenting plays in the Youth Group (Unity Hall then had a real stage), and going to services when I was home from college.  When Diane and I moved to Worcester with our two boys (then one and three), it was natural to reconnect with First Unitarian, and to give our sons the same opportunities.  Diane became increasingly involved with the Sunday School, and ultimately became the Director of Religious Education, while I served in a series of leadership positions and on committees, including the Search Committee that brought Rev. Barbara Merritt to Worcester, and became moderator after she accepted our Call.

Worship services provide both stimulation and time for quiet contemplation.  Some Sundays I am on the edge of my pew, caught up in a thought-provoking sermon and integrated ancient and modern readings that are reminders that while the details may change, there are timeless themes that must be confronted by every culture in every age.  Sometimes Sunday services are more self-centering as I mostly listen to our wonderful music.

I enjoy our diversity!  How dull and uninteresting it would be if everyone was in lock step on every issue.  We share our thoughts and interests and ideas and concerns, and we respect the different thoughts and interests and ideas and concerns that others have.  Diane and I have many close friends in First Unitarian – and as we work on church activities we make new friends.

As a Church, we have developed something special over the years.  First Unitarian has shaped us, and we have shaped First Unitarian.  My personal goal is good stewardship – accepting and preserving what past generations have provided for us, and preserving and enhancing what we received for the benefit of those who follow us.

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