Revisiting our Traditional Covenant

What does it mean to be a covenantal community, as distinct from a creedal community? 

The bylaws of First Church contain our statement of covenant, which reads as follows: "In the love of truth and the spirit of Jesus we unite for the worship of God and the service of man." 

This historic "Ames Covenant," first recommended by the American Unitarian Association and adopted here in Belmont at the turn of the 20th century, has fallen into disuse over time. The Parish Board has decided, as part of a broader ongoing bylaw revision, to consider updating our statement of covenant to reflect the aspirations of our more theologically diverse 21st century church community.

Join us for further discussion of this important topic led by First Church historian John Howe. 

The session will begin with a brief recap of John's presentation last October, followed by an introduction to other forms of covenant used throughout our denomination. After addressing these two pressing questions, we will engage in a more general discussion on how we might arrive at a covenantal statement fitting for this era of the church's life.  

Light refreshments and drinks will be available.