Lew Finfer will reflect on the pivotal events of Boston’s school desegregation and busing crisis (1974–1978) and their lasting impact on the city. Marking the 50th anniversary, he will discuss the Black community’s long fight for educational equity, the federal court decision that mandated busing, and the resistance it met. He will also share the role First Parish played during this time and explore how redlining and blockbusting in Dorchester and Mattapan shaped both housing and school segregation. Additionally, he will highlight the organizing efforts of the Dorchester Community Action Council, later known as Dorchester Fair Share, in addressing these issues.
Worship Leader: Lew Finfer
Worship Associate: Mary Elliff
Music Leaders: Dan Loschen & The FPD Choir
“We welcome you, whoever you are, whatever tradition, gender, race, class, sexual identity, ability, or age you represent. May you grow in the ways of respect, service, and wholeness. And through all your days may you know that you are loved.“
We are a lay-led congregation, meaning services and spiritual leadership are provided by community members rather than a designated minister. This reflects our commitment to shared ministry, where all members participate in roles such as worship leading, pastoral care, social justice work, and other community activities.
🛜 Join us at Meetinghouse Hill every Sunday at 11AM either in person in the Sanctuary or in spirit from wherever you may be using this Worship Link.
👪 Family-Friendly Services: Families, we cherish your presence. Bring your children and let them be part of our Worship Service until the Time for All Ages concludes. Following that, they can join their Sunday School teachers. Nursery care is available starting at 10:30 AM each week.
☕ Social Hour: Following the service, we invite you to join us in the Parish Hall for a cozy community coffee hour, offering a chance for fellowship and lively conversation. We hope to see you there!
🎧 Accessibility: To enhance your experience, we offer child and sensory-friendly fidgets and noise-canceling headphones.