Find your place in the community through our worship, music, adult programs, youth activities, and justice and inclusion gatherings. Everyone is welcome to join! Our vibrant community hosts a wide range of gatherings and activities throughout the year. Planning a church-related event? Want your event added to the calendar? Use our Event Submission & Space Request Form . Have questions about space use or scheduling? Start with our FAQ . Looking to rent space for personal use? Visit our Rental Inquiries page. Events Listing Filter by Category Select Category Clear Filter Sun 11 October 11 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “Though You’ve Broken Your Vows A Thousand Times” with Rev Martha The poet Rumi invites us to come in, whoever we are, even if we have broken our vows. As we mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day, may we remember and honor the work of repair and restoration, returning time and again to new or renewed relationships with justice, sovereignty, and Indigenous communities. Even for the thousandth time. A one-room-schoolhouse-style All Ages Children’s Chapel will be available for all children during the 11:00 AM service. Childcare will be available for our littlest ones during both services. Sun 11 October 11 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “Though You’ve Broken Your Vows A Thousand Times” with Rev Martha The poet Rumi invites us to come in, whoever you are, even if you have broken your vows. As we mark Indigenous People’s Day, may we remember and honor the repair and restoration work of coming back time and time again into new or old relationship with justice and sovereignty with indigenous community. Even for the thousandth time. One-room schoolhouse style All Ages Children’s Chapel will be available for all children during the 11am service, childcare will be available for our littlest during both services. Mon 12 October 12 · 9:00 AM · Upper Hall Belmont Serves Each October on Indigenous Peoples Day, our community comes together to serve our neighbors through food drives, public-space cleanups, and other hands-on projects. During this year’s event, the Legacy of Slavery Project will also collect gently used and new bicycle donations from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the church parking lot to support healthcare workers in Cuba. Questions? Email belmontserves@gmail.com or legacyofslaveryproject@uubelmont.org . Mon 12 October 12 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Wed 14 October 14 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 14 October 14 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Thu 15 October 15 · 7:00 PM · Parlor Partner Church Committee Open Meeting Did you know FCB has a deeply meaningful relationship with a partner church in Désfalva, Transylvania? Come learn about our relationship's history and see photos from our Summer 2025 pilgrimage. If this resonates with you, we'd love you to play a role on the partner church committee welcoming Désfalvans visiting Belmont next year! All Church Talent Show Join us for an All Church Talent Show! Sat 17 October 17 · 7:30 PM · Online 3rd Saturday Film Group 3rd Saturday Film Group invites you to join us for a discussion of having watched "The Wiz" (1978), on October 17 at 7:30 pm. Directed by Sidney Lumet, starring Diana Ross as Dorothy and Michael Jackson at Scarecrow; instead of Kansas, we're in Harlem. See this film before enjoying the FCB Children's Musical next month. Facilitated by Eva Patalas & Richard Waring. Contact: saturdayfilm@uubelmont.org for Zoom link. Sat 17 October 17 · 7:30 PM · Parlor Small Group Writing & Sharing: In Person! Joins us in person to kick off the church year, then join us on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7:30–9:00 pm on Zoom, for a small group writing and sharing circle that nurtures reflection, creativity, and connection. Sun 18 October 18 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “Aging Gracefully, As Best We Can!” Nobody hands us a manual for this getting-older business. One day we're steady on our feet, and the next we're asking our grandkids to explain our own phones. Join us for a lighthearted look at the joys and challenges of aging — the aches, the unexpected wisdom, and everything in between. Come laugh a little, hear stories we'll recognize, and leave knowing we're not doing this alone. RE Classes happening at 11am, childcare available during both services. Sun 18 October 18 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “Aging Gracefully, As Best We Can!” Nobody hands us a manual for this getting-older business. One day we're steady on our feet, and the next we're asking our grandkids to explain our own phones. Join us for a lighthearted look at the joys and challenges of aging — the aches, the unexpected wisdom, and everything in between. Come laugh a little, hear stories we'll recognize, and leave knowing we're not doing this alone. RE Classes happening during the 11am service, childcare available during both services. Sun 18 October 18 · 12:30 PM · Parlor Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer's: Poetry & Conversation Join us for a poetry reading with Belmont Poet Wendy Drexler, followed by a conversation with Wendy and Dr. Maggie Syme. For more information, contact Fran Yuan at communitycare@uubelmont.org Sun 18 October 18 · 6:30 PM · Parlor Youth Group — Halloween Party Planning The FCB Youth Group welcomes all high school students (9th-12th grades) to explore their faith, identity, and role in society in a safe, welcoming space. We meet every Sunday night from 6:30-8:30 pm For more information, email Elliott at youthprogram@uubelmont.org . Mon 19 October 19 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Wed 21 October 21 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 21 October 21 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Sat 24 October 24 · 4:00 PM · Lower Hall Youth Group — Halloween Party First Church members and friends are invited to a family-friendly Halloween party on October 24 from 4:00-6:00 pm. All kids and their families are welcome to join. Grown-up volunteers are needed! Costumes strongly encouraged. Email Elliott at youthprogram@uubelmont.org for more information. Sat 24 October 24 · 7:30 PM · Parish Hall A Second Friday special concert: STAND UP! RESIST! - Songs of Defiance and Hope with Sol y Canto & special guests Chris and Meredith Thompson Second Friday Concerts and the First Church Social Action Committee present STAND UP! RESIST! - Songs of Defiance and Hope with Sol y Canto. Feeling helpless? Discouraged? Pessimistic? We have the antidote. Just in time for the midterms, Sol y Canto will be sharing an uplifting evening of songs of protest, resistance and hope - in Spanish, English and of course, Spanglish. Rosi and Brian Amador of Sol y Canto have been spreading messages of social justice and inclusivity since their years with Flor de Caña in the 1980's. Never has their work been more relevant and necessary than now. In one of the darkest periods of our nation's ongoing experiment in democracy, we need to come together, to protest, to organize, to resist, and also to hope. To remind ourselves of the power and beauty of the values we fight for. Sun 25 October 25 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “They Will Be With Us” Our annual Day of Remembrance service in which all are invited to bring pictures or objects that remind us of our beloved dead. Together we will make an altar and remember who they were and reflect together on how they are with us still. This worship is multigenerational and children are invited to stay and participate, no RE classes, childcare will be offered during both services for children up to age 6. Sun 25 October 25 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “They Will Be With Us” Our annual Day of Remembrance service in which all are invited to bring pictures or objects that remind us of our beloved dead. Together we will make an altar and remember who they were and reflect together on how they are with us still. This worship is multigenerational and children are invited to stay and participate, no RE classes, childcare will be offered during both services for children up to age 6. Sun 25 October 25 · 12:30 PM · Parlor Journey to Belonging Interested in getting to know our community better or exploring the path to membership at First Church? Join us for a guided exploration that welcomes newcomers into Unitarian Universalism, helping them find community, understand our principles, and discover their place in a diverse, evolving, justice-oriented faith. Mon 26 October 26 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Tue 27 October 27 · 6:00 PM · Online FCB Green Monthly Meetings The FCB Green Committee exists to promote the 7th UU Principle: “respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” We implement sustainability initiatives within our church, educate parishioners to help them make informed decisions about environmental issues, promote environmental action beyond our church, and organize our Earth Day services. Please reach out to Bayard Klimasmith at FCBGreen@uubelmont.org for more information or to join our efforts! Wed 28 October 28 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 28 October 28 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Wed 28 October 28 · 7:30 PM · Online Book Group Please join the book group for a discussion each month, generally on the 4th Wednesday from 7:30- 9 PM online. Sun 1 November 1 · 10:00 AM · Sanctuary “What Would Dolly Do?” Dolly Parton’s legacy is marked by kindness and a commitment to dignity. As we look around at our world, what lessons from her life can we learn and apply for our times? RE Classes happening during the 11am service, childcare will be offered at both services. Sun 1 November 1 · 12:00 PM · Sanctuary “What Would Dolly Do?” Dolly Parton’s legacy is marked by kindness and a commitment to dignity. As we look around at our world, what lessons from her life can we learn and apply for our times? RE Classes happening during the 11am service, childcare will be offered at both services. Sun 1 November 1 · 12:30 PM · Parlor Journey to Belonging Interested in getting to know our community better or exploring the path to membership at First Church? Join us for a guided exploration that welcomes newcomers into Unitarian Universalism, helping them find community, understand our principles, and discover their place in a diverse, evolving, justice-oriented faith. Sun 1 November 1 · 6:30 PM · Parlor Youth Group — UU Mass Action Visit The FCB Youth Group welcomes all high school students (9th-12th grades) to explore their faith, identity, and role in society in a safe, welcoming space. We meet every Sunday night from 6:30-8:30 pm For more information, email Elliott at youthprogram@uubelmont.org . Mon 2 November 2 · 5:30 PM · Upper Hall Welcome Table Spaghetti Dinner for Families Join us on the first Monday of each month for a drop-in family-style spaghetti dinner! This is a time to share food and connect with others at your own pace. Games are provided for children. All are welcome, including newcomers and guests. Mon 2 November 2 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Tue 3 November 3 · 5:30 PM · Online Living With Aging & Other Health Challenges This SGM group will explore our personal physical, emotional, social, and spiritual experiences with aging and other health challenges, as well as our concerns about their impact. Meets monthly from 5:30-7 PM on Zoom from October–May on the first Tuesday of the month. For additional information and to register, please contact livingwithhealthchallenges@uubelmont.org. Tue 3 November 3 · 6:00 PM · Library Election Night Gathering Please join the Social Action Team to watch mid-term election returns together! Tue 3 November 3 · 7:30 PM · Online Small Group Writing & Sharing Join us on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7:30–9:00 pm on Zoom, for a small group writing and sharing circle that nurtures reflection, creativity, and connection. Wed 4 November 4 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 4 November 4 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Wed 4 November 4 · 7:00 PM · Library Fiber Arts Fellowship Enjoy the fun and fellowship of crafting together the first Wednesday of every month. If you knit, crochet, quilt, bead or dabble in other no- or low-mess crafts, please join us. Everyone is welcome and no commitment is necessary. Contact Eva Patalas at fiberarts@uubelmont.org to learn more. Thu 5 November 5 · 4:00 PM · Offsite FCB Garden Group This happens the first Thursday of the month at 4pm always in different locations around Belmont. Thu 5 November 5 · 7:30 PM · Online Special History Presentation: The Town Clock in FCB's Tower, with Mike Flamang All friends and members are invited to this special FCB history presentation by longtime property care co-chair Mike Flamang on the fascinating history of the Town Clock, hosted by FCB in our church building's tower since its construction in 1890. Contact John Howe at history@uubelmont.org for more information. Fri 6 November 6 · 6:00 PM · Parlor Youth Group Fall Lock-In First Church youth group overnight lock in. We will cook together, play games, watch a movie, make care packages for former Youth Group members, and work together to plan this year of Youth Group. All youth group members are welcome to be here for some or all of the event, but you are encouraged to sleep in the church! Sat 7 November 7 · 6:30 PM · Offsite Circle Dinners Enjoy fellowship over a delicious meal! Circle Dinners are informal potluck dinners held in church members’ homes. We're looking for hosts and attendees for November 7. Sign up for a fantastic evening! Sun 8 November 8 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “Good Bones” This country, in this moment is a bit of a fixer upper, but she has good bones. This service will celebrate all we have to build upon as we repair and rebuild our democracy and our nation. RE Classes happening during the 11am service, childcare will be offered at both services. Sun 8 November 8 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “Good Bones” This country, in this moment is a bit of a fixer upper, but she has good bones. This service will celebrate all we have to build upon as we repair and rebuild our democracy and our nation. RE Classes happening during the 11am service, childcare will be offered at both services. Sun 8 November 8 · 12:30 PM · Parlor Caring for Our First Church Caregivers Part 1 Mon 9 November 9 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Wed 11 November 11 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 11 November 11 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Thu 12 November 12 · 11:00 AM · Online Belmont UU Alliance Program: Carnival in Venice With Bert and Louise Halstead Please join us for the November Alliance Program on “Carnival in Venice’ with beautiful photographs presented by Bert and Louise Halstead from their 9 day trip to Venice at Carnival time. Carnival is Venice’s festival for the week or two leading up to the beginning of Lent, and Venice has some unique traditions for the Carnival season. Register here for the link or contact Kathy Lind. Fri 13 November 13 · 7:30 PM · Upper Hall Second Friday Concerts: John Gorka For over 40 years John Gorka has been the standard bearer for the singer-songwriter scene. We are beyond honored and thrilled to welcome him to our stage. Don’t miss this one. Sun 15 November 15 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary Head, Heart, and Courage Sun 15 November 15 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary Head, Heart, and Courage Sun 15 November 15 · 12:30 PM · Parlor Caring for Our First Church Caregivers Part 2 Sun 15 November 15 · 6:30 PM · Parlor Youth Group The FCB Youth Group welcomes all high school students (9th-12th grades) to explore their faith, identity, and role in society in a safe, welcoming space. We meet every Sunday night from 6:30-8:30 pm For more information, email Elliott at youthprogram@uubelmont.org . Mon 16 November 16 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Tue 17 November 17 · 7:00 PM · Online Tai Chi Qi Gong All ages (8–100+) and experience levels are welcome at Ariel’s Tai Chi Qigong class, held the third Tuesday of every month. Seated and standing options are available! Questions? Email Ariel at bonsaimu54545@gmail.com Tue 17 November 17 · 7:30 PM · Online Small Group Writing & Sharing Join us on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7:30–9:00 pm on Zoom, for a small group writing and sharing circle that nurtures reflection, creativity, and connection. Wed 18 November 18 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 18 November 18 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Thu 19 November 19 · 5:30 PM · Parish Hall Musical Performance No. 1, Cast A Opening night of The Wizard of Oz! Presented by the Children's Choirs Fri 20 November 20 · 7:00 PM · Parish Hall Musical Performance No. 2, Cast B The Wizard of Oz! Presented by the Children's Choirs Sat 21 November 21 · 7:00 PM · Parish Hall Musical Performance No. 3, Cast A The Wizard of Oz! Presented by the Children's Choirs Sat 21 November 21 · 7:30 PM · Online 3rd Saturday Film Group Discussion of "Nomadland" 3rd Saturday Film Group invites you to join us for a discussion of having watched "Nomadland" (2020), on November 21 at 7:30 pm. Directed, written, produced, and edited by Chloé Zhao, starring Frances McDormand as a widow who leaves her life in Nevada to drift around the US in her van. Facilitated by Eva Patalas & Richard Waring. Contact: saturdayfilm@uubelmont.org for Zoom link. Sun 22 November 22 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “Con Todos” Sun 22 November 22 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “Con Todos” Sun 22 November 22 · 3:00 PM · Parish Hall Musical Performance No. 4, Cast B Closing performance of The Wizard of Oz! Presented by the Children's Choirs Mon 23 November 23 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Tue 24 November 24 · 7:00 PM · Online FCB Green Monthly Meetings The FCB Green Committee exists to promote the 7th UU Principle: “respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” We implement sustainability initiatives within our church, educate parishioners to help them make informed decisions about environmental issues, promote environmental action beyond our church, and organize our Earth Day services. Please reach out to Bayard Klimasmith at FCBGreen@uubelmont.org for more information or to join our efforts! Wed 25 November 25 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 25 November 25 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Sun 29 November 29 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “Mending What Can Be” As we hurtle towards the holiday season this service will invite us to reflect on what can be mended in our family systems. How can we untangle generational trauma? Are some things too broken to put back together? And how do we learn from it all? Sun 29 November 29 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “Mending What Can Be” As we hurtle towards the holiday season this service will invite us to reflect on what can be mended in our family systems. How can we untangle generational trauma? Are some things too broken to put back together? And how do we learn from it all? Mon 30 November 30 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Tue 1 December 1 · 5:30 PM · Online Living With Aging & Other Health Challenges This SGM group will explore our personal physical, emotional, social, and spiritual experiences with aging and other health challenges, as well as our concerns about their impact. Meets monthly from 5:30-7 PM on Zoom from October–May on the first Tuesday of the month. For additional information and to register, please contact livingwithhealthchallenges@uubelmont.org. Tue 1 December 1 · 7:30 PM · Online Small Group Writing & Sharing Join us on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7:30–9:00 pm on Zoom, for a small group writing and sharing circle that nurtures reflection, creativity, and connection. Wed 2 December 2 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 2 December 2 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Wed 2 December 2 · 7:00 PM · Library Fiber Arts Fellowship Enjoy the fun and fellowship of crafting together the first Wednesday of every month. If you knit, crochet, quilt, bead or dabble in other no- or low-mess crafts, please join us. Everyone is welcome and no commitment is necessary. Contact Eva Patalas at fiberarts@uubelmont.org to learn more. Wed 2 December 2 · 7:30 PM · Online Book Group Please join the book group for a discussion each month, generally on the 4th Wednesday from 7:30- 9 PM online. Thu 3 December 3 · 4:00 PM · Offsite FCB Garden Group This happens the first Thursday of the month at 4pm always in different locations around Belmont. Sun 6 December 6 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship Sun 6 December 6 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship Sun 6 December 6 · 12:00 PM · Parish Hall Social Action Holiday Gift Fair Please join us for a not-to-be-missed holiday tradition where you can do your holiday shopping and help others at the same time. Find gifts for everyone on your list by choosing from an array of products featuring the work of both local and international artisans. All sales will benefit worthy causes near and far. The Social Action Holiday Gift Fair has become a treasured holiday tradition in the community – we hope you can join us! And tell your friends and neighbors! Sun 6 December 6 · 6:30 PM · Parlor Youth Group The FCB Youth Group welcomes all high school students (9th-12th grades) to explore their faith, identity, and role in society in a safe, welcoming space. We meet every Sunday night from 6:30-8:30 pm For more information, email Elliott at youthprogram@uubelmont.org . Mon 7 December 7 · 5:30 PM · Upper Hall Welcome Table Spaghetti Dinner for Families Join us on the first Monday of each month for a drop-in family-style spaghetti dinner! This is a time to share food and connect with others at your own pace. Games are provided for children. All are welcome, including newcomers and guests. Mon 7 December 7 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Wed 9 December 9 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 9 December 9 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Thu 10 December 10 · 11:00 AM · Online Belmont UU Alliance: Representation in Boston Statuary Part 2 Please join us for part 2 of John Howe’s fascinating program regarding statuary in the Boston Public Garden. In this talk will focus on how the statuary has evolved in recent decades to reflect the city’s more diverse population, democratic values, and a renewed appreciation for some of the city’s older, untold stories. Register here for the link or contact Kathy Lind. Fri 11 December 11 · 7:30 PM · Upper Hall Second Friday Concerts: Jonny Kringle and the Wondaland Band It's become an annual tradition to hear Jonny Kringle and The Wondaland Band play all your favorite classic rock holiday songs -- and make some kids happy at the same time! Sat 12 December 12 · 3:00 PM · Parish Hall Children’s Holiday Party Sun 13 December 13 · 10:30 AM · Sanctuary The Star of Bethlehem- a Major Music Service The Senior Choir and Soloists will be joined by a professional orchestra to perform Joseph Rheinberger's sublimely beautiful “Der Stern von Bethlehem.” This 126th Major Music Service will celebrate expectation and hope. Sun 13 December 13 · 12:00 PM · Parish Hall ON THE ROAD TO REPAIR: Developing a Congregational Commitment to Reparative Justice—Part 2 of 4 The FCB Legacy of Slavery Project invites you to join us for part two in this 4-Part series of events, ON THE ROAD TO REPAIR: Developing a Congregational Commitment to Reparative Justice. During this second event, led by Dr. Sophia Boyer, we'll continue working as a community in the development of a proposal for a Congregational Commitment to Reparative Justice at First Church. Your thoughts and insights are essential throughout this process, so please come with ideas — and an open mind and heart — as we continue this important work. Mon 14 December 14 · 7:30 PM · Online FCB Sangha The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org Tue 15 December 15 · 7:00 PM · Online Tai Chi Qi Gong All ages (8–100+) and experience levels are welcome at Ariel’s Tai Chi Qigong class, held the third Tuesday of every month. Seated and standing options are available! Questions? Email Ariel at bonsaimu54545@gmail.com Tue 15 December 15 · 7:00 PM · Online FCB Green Monthly Meetings The FCB Green Committee exists to promote the 7th UU Principle: “respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” We implement sustainability initiatives within our church, educate parishioners to help them make informed decisions about environmental issues, promote environmental action beyond our church, and organize our Earth Day services. Please reach out to Bayard Klimasmith at FCBGreen@uubelmont.org for more information or to join our efforts! Tue 15 December 15 · 7:30 PM · Online Small Group Writing & Sharing Join us on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7:30–9:00 pm on Zoom, for a small group writing and sharing circle that nurtures reflection, creativity, and connection. Wed 16 December 16 · 11:00 AM · Library Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org. Wed 16 December 16 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall SoUUper Lunch Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required! Load More Events

SoUUper Lunch February 10 · 12:00 PM · Upper Hall Join us for lunch! SoUUper lunch is an informal gathering every Wednesday at noon. Soup, salad, bread and dessert are served and good conversation takes place. No reservations required!

The welcoming community at First Church in Belmont, UU is home to worship, music, religious exploration, and programs for all ages rooted in justice and love. We are a home for seekers, a community for justice, guided by a spirit of love—all are welcome here. top Rev. Martha Durkee-Neuman Repair Age-based RE Classes 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM The poet Rumi invites us to come in, whoever we are, even if we have broken our vows. As we mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day, may we remember and honor the work of repair and restoration, returning time and again to new or renewed relationships with justice, sovereignty, and Indigenous communities. Even for the thousandth time. A one-room-schoolhouse-style All Ages Children’s Chapel will be available for all children during the 9:00 AM service. Childcare will be available for our littlest ones during both services. 11:00 AM Livestream Worship Sunday Services Join us at 9:00 am and 11:00 am Community-led music at 9:00 am Livestream services at 11:00 am Outdoor Worship First Sunday of September, October, May & June at 10:30 am Summer Worship Sundays at 10:00 am June 21 to September 6 Parish Hall Sunday Worship Services Join us at 9:00 am and 11:00 am Livestream services at 11:00 am Outdoor Worship First Sunday September, October, May & June 10:30 am Upcoming Events Message Board Updates October 12 · 9:00 AM · Upper Hall Social Action Belmont Serves Each October on Indigenous Peoples Day, our community comes together to serve our neighbors through food drives, public-space cleanups, and… Show More October 15 · 7:00 PM · Parlor Special Events Partner Church Committee Open Meeting Did you know FCB has a deeply meaningful relationship with a partner church in Désfalva, Transylvania? Come learn about our… Show More Fellowship All Church Talent Show Join us for an All Church Talent Show! October 17 · 7:30 PM · Parlor Adult Programs Small Group Writing & Sharing: In Person! Joins us in person to kick off the church year, then join us on the first and third Tuesday of… Show More Caring for Our First Church Caregivers—A Message and a Request from the FCB Community Care Team For many of us, caring for a loved one is part of life but that doesn’t mean we have to navigate it alone. The Community Care Team is creating space for caregivers to connect, learn, share, and receive practical support. Read more to learn about upcoming gatherings and tell us what would be most helpful to you. 3 days ago What's Happening in RE this Sunday? All-Ages Children’s Chapel this Sunday, a family-friendly Halloween party, upcoming service opportunities, and more are on the calendar for RE families. Read the full update for dates, details, upcoming Sunday schedules, and ways to get involved! 4 days ago Social Action Holiday Gift Fair—Save the Date! The 2026 Social Action Holiday Gift Fair is coming up on Sunday, December 6, from 12–4 PM! Save the date and make plans to shop for unique gifts while supporting socially conscious vendors and our community. Interested in volunteering or know a vendor who should join us? Click to learn more, get involved, and help spread the word! 6 days ago Bike Donations to Cuba Sought The Legacy of Slavery Project group at First Church in Belmont is seeking serviceable adult bikes for donation to healthcare workers in Cuba, to be collected and distributed by Bikes Not Bombs. Bikes will be collected on Monday, October 12—Belmont Serves Day—from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. For more information, please contact: legacyofslaveryproject@uubelmont.org. 6 days ago What Has Aging Taught You? Your Affiliate Minister, John O'Connor, Wants to Hear From You It is such a joy to be in community with you all this year, and I’m grateful for the warm welcome! For my October 18 sermon on the joys and challenges of aging, I’d love to hear about what has been hard and what has been a gift in your own aging process. Sep 30 View Complete Calendar

The First Church in Belmont, MA is a welcoming Unitarian Universalist congregation offering worship, music and lifelong learning opportunities. Check out the FCB Event Calendar for upcoming Legacy of Slavery Project events! The Legacy of Slavery Project (LoSp) is a congregational initiative created to develop an understanding of The First Church in Belmont’s ties to slavery in Cuba during the nineteenth century through the substantial benefactions of the Atkins family, and to explore how these historical findings might translate into an enduring congregational commitment that centers those who have been harmed. Informed by shared Unitarian Universalist principles, and through congregational support and denominational grant funding, the LoSP has been researching other similarly situated organizations (e.g., churches, schools, and universities) to understand how they have developed awareness of their own historical ties to slavery, as well as any formal steps they have contemplated or taken in response. As part of this ongoing work, the LoSP has also continued to offer frequent events and workshops to share what’s been learned with the congregation and to promote awareness and inclusion as The First Church in Belmont (FCB) community works toward the development of a congregational commitment to reparative justice. FCB Legacy of Slavery Project Group Members: Gina Carloni, co-chair Kathryn Bonfiglio, co-chair Meg Anderson Devon Beckett Karen Brennan Charles Hubbard Rev. Chris Jablonski Douglas Massidda Rev. John O’Connor Dánel Sánchez Tarragó Pegeen Wright Fran Yuan Background: How the Project Began In early 2023, members of The First Church in Belmont History Group organized a two-part informational series, “Confronting Our History: The Stories Behind the Tiffany Window,” to share what they had begun to learn about the church’s ties to slavery in Cuba in the 19th century. Later that spring, the Parish Board put forth a charge for the creation of an Atkins Cuba LegacyTask Force (ACLTF), whose role it would be to: further explore the church’s connection to the enslaved and indentured workers on the Atkins family’s plantation in Cienfuegos, Cuba, investigate how other similarly situated institutions are addressing their legacies ofslavery, share with the congregation what they learn through their research, and ultimately, put forth recommendations based upon those research findings. Members of the task force began their work in October 2023, and continue to meet monthly. In the spring of 2024, they presented a proposal to the Parish Board requesting to change their name to The First Church in Belmont Legacy of Slavery Project (LoSP). The new name was approved and adopted at that time. Overview of the Legacy of Slavery Project Group’s Work (2023-2026) Investigated the history of the Atkins family, whose principal sugar plantation, Soledad, used enslaved and indentured African individuals in the late 19th century, as well as looking into the extensive role that New England played in the sugar and slave trades. 1 Reached out to houses of worship, universities, and groups in the Boston area who are engaging in similar work to better understand their own connections to slavery. 4 Learned about a bell that the Atkins family gifted to the Belmont Hill School in 1927, which had originally been on the Soledad plantation and is now housed at The Robbins House Museum in Concord. Organized a presentation in the spring of 2024 by Dr. Maria Madison of The Robbins House to hear more about the bell’s history and her 2023 research trip to the Soledad plantation, and took part in a guided tour of the museum. 7 Project chair, Gina Carloni, chair of the project group, gave a presentation in December 2024 to update the congregation on the findings and work of The Legacy of Slavery Project. 10 Dr. Ulbe Bosma, author of The World of Sugar and the 2023 Boston Globe article about Edwin Atkins, entitled The sugar baron of Boston , gave a talk at the church in April 2025 about Edwin Atkins, his role as a sugar magnate and prominent Bostonian, and his connection to Cuba and slavery. 13 Applied for and received two grants from the Unitarian Universalist Funding Program in the spring of 2025 and 2026 to continue the project’s exploration of the history of First Church’s legacy of slavery and shepherd a process of repair, deepening, and growth for the community and the descendants of the enslaved individuals from Atkins’ sugar plantations in Cuba. 16 FCB’s “Share the Plate” donations for December, 2025 were given to Friends of Caritas Cubana, a Cambridge-based NGO that supports humanitarian and social services in Cuba, including projects in Pepito Tey, the current name of the town where the Atkins’ Soledad plantation was located. The funding provided mosquito nets for every household in Pepito Tey to help combat mosquito-borne illnesses. 19 Hosted The Truth of Our Past: UU Reparations Summit in March 2026 in FCB’s Parish Hall. The event brought together presenters from four area churches as well as FCB to discuss their legacies of slavery and efforts toward repair, and included a workshop on freedom dreaming by Dr. Sophia Boyer. 22 Helped to develop annual worship services each fall beginning in 2023, that incorporate Afro-Cuban music and reflections by project members about the work of the group. 2 Began learning more about reparations and connecting with organizations that are currently working on this. 5 Started looking into ways that FCB can forge ties and collaborate with Afro-Cuban communities and organizations in Cuba and the U.S. This included hosting a meeting with leadership of the Christian Center for Reflection and Dialogue (Cuba/Dominican Republic) in fall 2024 and donating half of the December 2024 worship service collections to that organization as part of the congregation’s “Share the Plate” efforts. 8 Co-sponsored three events with the FCB Book Group: two book group discussions in January 2025 on The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times , a non-fiction book by New York Times correspondent Anthony DePalma, and another in May 2026 on Homeland of My Body , a poetry collection by Cuban-American poet Richard Blanco. 11 Offered a documentary film series, Cuba and Race, in April, May, and June of 2025, which included the following documentaries: A Tuba to Cuba (2018), The Harvard Cubans (2017), and Black in Latin America: Cuba (2011) 14 At the Cuban music worship service in November 2025, described by some congregants as one of their most moving experiences at First Church, four Cuban members of the community read aloud the names of the 177 enslaved individuals. 17 Esteemed Cuban economist Dr. Ricardo Torres-Pérez led a presentation and Q&A session in September 2026 entitled, Understanding Cuba’s Economy , in which he traced Cuba’s economic trajectory from the 1959 Revolution to the present with the goal of providing a clear, evidence-based explanation of how decades of internal decisions and external pressure have produced the Cuba we see today. 20 In January, June, and October of 2026, educational consultant and professional facilitator Dr. Sophia Boyer led three distinctly-themed workshops on aspects of reparative justice to help inform and guide the community as FCB begins to development a proposal for a congregational commitment to reparative justice. 23 Researched about indentured Chinese laborers brought to Cuba to work in the sugar fields, including those who later worked on the Atkins family’s plantation. 3 Participated in a presentation with First Parish in Cambridge in early 2024 about both congregations’ historical ties to slavery. 6 Organized two movie presentations and discussions of Traces of the Trade: A Story From the Deep North in December 2024 and February 2026, led by Dr. Sophia Boyer, an educational consultant and professional facilitator. 9 Project member and former history teacher, Karen Brennan, gave a presentation in March 2025 about slavery and Boston’s prominent role in the triangle trade. 12 Collaborated with historians Orlando Félix García Martínez and Anabel García García in Cienfuegos, Cuba, who were able to uncover an 1881 list of 177 enslaved individuals connected to the Atkins family who worked at the Soledad plantation in Cuba. 15 Immediately following the November 2025 service, Gina Carloni, project member Kathryn Bonfiglio, and FCB parish historian, John Howe, gave a project update to the congregation. The project group then unveiled a 6-panel, photographic and informational display focused on centering the lives of Soledad’s enslaved individuals and honoring them by name. 18 Showcased photos taken in Cuba by Margaret Eagle and Gina Carloni as part of Cuba in Focus: A Photographic Journey , a Cuban photography exhibition. The opening night event in April 2026 included Cuban food and drinks, a discussion of 80 curated photographs, and an opportunity to learn more about life in Cuba through the power of images. 21

Drop-In Meditation Join us for a weekly drop-in meditation on Wednesdays from 11:00–11:50 am in the Library. Sessions include both walking and sitting meditation, led by Eleanor Hobbs. All are welcome. For questions or more information, email Eleanor at meditation@uubelmont.org.

“They Will Be With Us” October 25 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary Our annual Day of Remembrance service in which all are invited to bring pictures or objects that remind us of our beloved dead. Together we will make an altar and remember who they were and reflect together on how they are with us still. This worship is multigenerational and children are invited to stay and participate, no RE classes, childcare will be offered during both services for children up to age 6. Gathering Music Across the Great Divide by Kate Wolf (Trailmix) Welcome and Announcements Board Member Prelude "I Remember Everything" by John Prine and Pat McLaughlin (Trailmix) Chalice Lighting Life is a gift, for which we are grateful. We gather in community to celebrate The glories and the mysteries of this great gift. Gathering Hymn #15 , “The Lone Wild Bird” Opening Words and Story - Rev. Chris Sharing - Jane Minassian Anthem - "Skating Across Time" by Bayard Klimasmith (Trailmix) Sharing - Matt Mayerchak Words of Offering Rev. Chris Offertory - In My Life by the Beatles (Trailmix) Doxology – From all that dwell below the skies; Let words of love and peace arise; Let joyful songs of praise be sung; Through every land by every tongue. Amen. Creating the Altar - #1002 , “Comfort Me” Prayer - Rev. Chris Hymn - #96 , I Cannot Think of Them as Dead Homily “They Will Be With Us” Rev. Chris Closing Hymn "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" by the Carter Family VERSE 1 I was standing by my window On a cold and cloudy day When I saw the hearse come rolling For to carry my mother away. CHORUS Will the circle be unbroken By and by Lord, by and by There's a better home awaiting In the sky Lord, in the sky. VERSE 2 Lord, I told that undertaker undertaker please drive slow For that body you are haulin' Lord, I hate to see her go. VERSE 3 Lord I followed close behind her Tried to hold up and be brave But I could not hide my sorrow When they laid her in the grave VERSE 4 Well, I went back home, my home was lonely For my mother she was gone All my brothers, sisters cryin' What a home, so sad and alone Extinguishing the Flame Rev. Chris Postlude "If We Were Vampires" by Jason Isbell (Trailmix) Flower Dedication

Second Friday Concerts: Richard Shindell October 9 · 7:30 PM · Upper Hall Richard Shindell is an acclaimed singer-songwriter known for vivid storytelling, thoughtful lyrics, and beautifully crafted songs. With a career spanning more than three decades, he brings a rich catalog of original music and a reputation as one of folk music’s most compelling songwriters to the stage.

Special History Presentation: The Town Clock in FCB's Tower, with Mike Flamang November 5 · 7:30 PM · Online All friends and members are invited to this special FCB history presentation by longtime property care co-chair Mike Flamang on the fascinating history of the Town Clock, hosted by FCB in our church building's tower since its construction in 1890. Contact John Howe at history@uubelmont.org for more information. First Church in Belmont is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: History Presentation-Town Clock with Mike Flamang Time: Nov 5, 2026 07:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81278574205?pwd=QdmSY6oEvEr4WAOUAr4gZu6ijSmyYx.1 Meeting ID: 812 7857 4205 Passcode: fcb2026

Social Action Holiday Gift Fair December 6 · 12:00 PM · Parish Hall Please join us for a not-to-be-missed holiday tradition where you can do your holiday shopping and help others at the same time. Find gifts for everyone on your list by choosing from an array of products featuring the work of both local and international artisans. All sales will benefit worthy causes near and far. The Social Action Holiday Gift Fair has become a treasured holiday tradition in the community – we hope you can join us! And tell your friends and neighbors!

FCB Sangha February 8 · 7:30 PM · Online The FCB Sangha meets weekly throughout the year on Mondays 7:30 PM lasting one hour. It features a democratically run organization where participants can sign up to either offer the opening candle, or a 20 minute reading, followed by 30 minutes of sacred silence and a closing. Questions? Email James Hencke at sangha@uubelmont.org

Belmont UU Alliance: The Belmont High School Miniforest—Tiny, but Mighty October 8 · 11:00 AM · Online October Belmont Alliance Program: The Belmont High School Miniforest, What is it? How did it get here, and why is it important. Jess Hausman will answer our questions! Please join us on Thursday, October 8 at 11:00 on Zoom. R egister here for the link or contact Kathy Lind.

Caring for Our First Church Caregivers Part 2 November 15 · 12:30 PM · Parlor