The story of Dorchester and First Parish has been organically intertwined since the English settlement in 1630. For nearly half of that time First Parish was the center of Dorchester’s religious and civic life. How the roots and branches of that relationship have evolved over four centuries can inform both our understanding of the past and what the future may bring.
Worship Leader: Bruce Shatswell
Worship Associate: Ana Sorina Popa
Music Leaders: Dan Loschen & The FPD Choir
Bruce Shatswell is fascinated by the interaction between people, institutions and place. Since moving here in 2006 he has focused his exploration on Dorchester and First Parish – to bringing to ”the table all those who built the table”. He is a member of First Parish Dorchester.
“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: https://zoom.us/j/4438056805.
👪 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.
Did you miss last week’s Service? Past recordings can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/FPDpast-services