FCB Green Monthly Meetings October 27 · 6:00 PM · Online 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!

FCB Green Monthly Meetings November 24 · 7:00 PM · Online 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!

FCB Green Monthly Meetings September 22 · 6:00 PM · Online 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. Meetings are online. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, September 22 at 7:00 pm. Please reach out to Bayard Klimasmith at FCBGreen@uubelmont.org for more information or to join our efforts!

FCB Green Monthly Meetings December 15 · 7:00 PM · Online 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!

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.

“Ambiguous Grief” September 20 · 10:30 AM · Sanctuary So often our losses are ambiguous and we find ourselves holding big grief that is unacknowledged and goes untended. In this time of so much ambiguous loss, let’s look at how to care for ourselves and each other. Gathering Music Welcome and Announcements – Board Member Prelude - Casey Hannan, piano 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 Story - “The Survivor Tree” Anthem - If Ye Love Me, by Thomas Tallis Reading - Adrift by Mark Nepo Words of Offering - Rev. Chris Offertory - David’s Lamentation, by William Billings 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. Candles of Celebration and Concern - Prayer - Chris Hymn #1002 Comfort Me Sermon - “Ambiguous Grief” by Rev. Ali Jablonsky Closing Hymn- #6 , Just as Long as I Have Breath Extinguishing the Flame - Postlude - Casey Hannan, piano Flower Dedication

The First Church in Belmont, MA is a welcoming Unitarian Universalist congregation offering worship, music and lifelong learning opportunities. The Legacy of Slavery Project explores and is developing an understanding of the First Church in Belmont’s ties with slavery during the nineteenth century, through the substantial benefactions of the Atkins family. Funded by a grant and informed in part by the UUA Commission on Institutional Change , the ACLP researches other similarly situated organizations (e.g., churches, schools, and universities) to learn how these organizations have developed awareness of their own historical ties to slavery, as well as any formal steps they have contemplated or taken in response. The ACLP will share this understanding with the congregation to promote awareness and inclusion in any recommendations resulting from it. FCB Legacy of Slavery Project Group Members: Gina Carloni, chair Devon Beckett Kathryn Bonfiglio Karen Brennan Charles Hubbard Reverend Chris Jablonski Douglas Massidda Lanier Smythe 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 (2023-2025) 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 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 a grant from the Unitarian Universalist Association in the spring of 2025 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 $2,869 (half of the total donations collected at worship services during the month of December, 2025) were donated 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 Soledad plantation was located. Funding will provide mosquito nets for people in Pepito Tey to help combat the epidemic of mosquito-borne illnesses currently plaguing the island. 19 Helped to develop annual worship services in 2023, 2024, and 2025 that included 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 agreeing to donate half of the December 2024 worship service collections to that organization as part of the congregation’s “Share the Plate” efforts. 8 Sponsored two book group meetings in January 2025, one online and the other in-person, to discuss The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times , a non-fiction book by New York Times correspondent Anthony DePalma. 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 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 a movie presentation and discussion of Traces of the Trade: A Story From the Deep North in December 2024, 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 that November 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 The Legacy of Slavery Project Events 2026 Fri 23 January 23 · 7:00-9:00 PM · Parish Hall An Introduction to Reparations The LoSP will be partnering again with Dr. Sophia Boyer, who will be guiding the congregation through this next phase of its work, helping us to understand more about reparations and guide our church as we begin to consider how to define reparations at FCB now that we are more informed about our church’s complex history. Sun 26 January 25 · 6:30-8:30 PM · Parlor Information Session w/ the FCB Youth Group In collaboration with Reverend Martha, members of the Legacy of Slavery Project will lead an informational session and discussion with the FCB Youth Group, engaging them in conversation about the work of the LoSP and opening up opportunities for their involvement in the project. Fri 6 February 6 · 6:30-8:30 PM · Parish Hall Traces of the Trade: Film Showing and Discussion We are planning a second viewing of the film, Traces of the Trade , with a thoughtful discussion about reparations led by Dr. Sophia Boyer. We offered a similar viewing event with this film in December 2024, and it was an enormous success. We are hoping that now that more congregants are aware of and interested in this project, we’ll have even greater turnout and another opportunity for learning and growth. Sat 21 March 21 · 9:00 AM-12:30 PM · Parish Hall The Truth of Our Past: UU Reparations Summit The Legacy of Slavery Project group invites you to join us for The Truth of Our Past: UU Reparations Summit, a gathering on March 21, 2026, from 9:00AM-12:30PM here at First Church Belmont. Five area UU churches, including FCB, will present on our explorations of our legacies of slavery and efforts toward repair, followed by a workshop with Dr. Sophia Boyer. Coffee and a light breakfast will be provided. Register at https://UUreparationsSummit.eventbrite.com Sun 12 April 12 · 12:30 PM · Parlor Presentation on Enslavement in Boston and New England LoSP member and former history teacher, Karen Brennan, who presented on the Transatlantic Triangle Slave Trade last year, will give a presentation on enslavement in Boston and New England, shedding more light on how the institution of slavery enriched this area, and its lasting impact to today. Sun 10 June 5 · 12:30-2:30 PM · Parish Hall Creating a Working Definition of Reparations for First Church Dr. Sophia Boyer will lead a workshop for the congregation with the goal of helping usdevelop a working definition of reparations for First Church.

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 Tue 15 September 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 September 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 September 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! Fri 18 September 18 · 12:00 PM · Offsite Sandy Island Weekend Join us for the all church Retreat on Sandy Island in Lake Winnepesaukee, New Hampshire - September 18-20, 2026 Sat 19 September 19 · 7:00 PM · Parish Hall A Presentation, Q&A Session and Reception: Understanding Cuba's Economy with Dr. Ricardo Torres-Pérez The FCB Legacy of Slavery Project invites you to join us for a presentation and Q&A session about the Cuban economy with esteemed Cuban economist, Dr. Ricardo Torres-Pérez. A reception with light refreshments will follow. The presentation will trace Cuba's economic trajectory from the 1959 Revolution to the present. It will open with a brief historical overview of the six-decade confrontation with the United States — from the nationalization of American assets and the resulting embargo to the extraterritorial reach of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act — and how that conflict has shaped the island's economy at every stage. The presentation will then turn to the transformations that followed the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1990: the crisis of the "Special Period," the legalization of self-employment and limited foreign investment during the 1990s, the gradual reforms introduced under Raúl Castro after 2008, and the 2021 currency unification and expansion of the private sector. The goal is to give the audience a clear, evidence-based understanding of how decades of internal decisions and external pressure have produced the Cuba we see today. Sun 20 September 20 · 10:30 AM · Sanctuary “Ambiguous Grief” So often our losses are ambiguous and we find ourselves holding big grief that is unacknowledged and goes untended. In this time of so much ambiguous loss, let’s look at how to care for ourselves and each other. Tue 22 September 22 · 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. Meetings are online. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, September 22 at 7:00 pm. Please reach out to Bayard Klimasmith at FCBGreen@uubelmont.org for more information or to join our efforts! Wed 23 September 23 · 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 23 September 23 · 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 23 September 23 · 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. Sat 26 September 26 · 7:30 PM · Online 3rd Saturday Film Group on 4th Saturday in September 3rd Saturday Film Group on the 4th Saturday: "Afterward" (2018). Join us to discuss having watched the film depicted Jerusalem-born trauma expert Ofra Bloch forcing herself to confront her demons in a journey that takes her to Germany, Israel, and Palestine. Contact: saturdayfilm@uubelmont.org for Zoom link. Sun 27 September 27 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “We Begin Again in Love” with Rev Martha Our kids are back in school! What can we all learn about the “new year” of September? RE Classes will launch on this day and childcare will be available for our littlest. This will be our first “Unplugged and Connected” 9am service of the season, featuring music by Elton John, R.E.M., and others. Sun 27 September 27 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “We Begin Again in Love” with Rev Martha Our kids are back in school! What can we all learn about the “new year” of September? RE Classes will launch on this day and childcare will be available for our littlest. Sun 27 September 27 · 6:30 PM · Parlor Youth Group: Pizza Party Kick-off 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 . Wed 30 September 30 · 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 30 September 30 · 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 3 October 3 · 7:00 PM · Parish Hall FCB Legacy of Slavery Project: Reparations Workshop Series with Dr. Sophia Boyer Defining Reparations at First Church: A Series of Four FCB Community Workshops with Dr. Sophia Boyer Sun 4 October 4 · 10:30 AM · Town Green “Even This Is Enough” The poet and preacher Vanessa Southern writes, “If your body won’t do what it used to, for right now let it be enough.If your mind won’t stop racing or can’t think of the word, let it be enough.If you are here utterly alone and in despair, be all that here with us.” In this service we will explore enoughness as a road to repair. RE Classes are happening on this day. Sun 4 October 4 · 12:00 PM · Parlor Information Session about Social Action at First Church Come meet the Social Action Committee members and hear about ongoing social action initiatives and how to get involved! Questions? Email socialaction@uubelmont.org Sun 4 October 4 · 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 5 October 5 · 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 5 October 5 · 5:30 PM · Online Your Next Chapter This SGM group will explore our hopes, fears, losses, gains, and struggles throughout transitions or anticipated transitions (work, relationship, etc.) that are an important part of our identity. Meets monthly from 5:30-7 PM on Zoom from October–May on the first Monday of the month. For information or to register, contact yournextchapter@uubelmont.org. Tue 6 October 6 · 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 6 October 6 · 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 7 October 7 · 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 7 October 7 · 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 8 October 8 · 11:00 AM · Online Belmont UU Alliance: The Belmont High School Miniforest—Tiny, but Mighty 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. Fri 9 October 9 · 7:30 PM · Upper Hall Second Friday Concerts: Richard Shindell Second Friday Concerts presents XXXXXX (fill in act here) Sun 11 October 11 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary “Though You’ve Broken Your Vows A Thousand Times” with Rev Martha Sun 11 October 11 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “Though You’ve Broken Your Vows A Thousand Times” with Rev Martha Mon 12 October 12 · 9:00 AM · Upper Hall Belmont Serves 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. 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. Sun 18 October 18 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship Sun 18 October 18 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship 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 — 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 . Tue 20 October 20 · 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. 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. Sat 24 October 24 · 7:30 PM · Parish Hall Protest Music Now & Then: A 2nd Friday Special Concert Featuring Sol y Canto, and Chris and Meredith Thompson Sol y Canto & TBD act presents an evening of original and classic protest music for these challenging times. 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. Sun 25 October 25 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary “They Will Be With Us” 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 in the Library on Sunday, January 24, for Journey to Belonging, 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 25 October 25 · 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 . 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 · 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. Sat 31 October 31 · 4:00 PM · Lower Hall Children’s Halloween Party Sat 31 October 31 · 5:00 PM · Lower Hall Youth Group — Halloween Party Sun 1 November 1 · 10:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship Sun 1 November 1 · 12:00 PM · Sanctuary Worship 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 Journey to Belonging, 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 2 November 2 · 5:30 PM · Online Your Next Chapter This SGM group will explore our hopes, fears, losses, gains, and struggles throughout transitions or anticipated transitions (work, relationship, etc.) that are an important part of our identity. Meets monthly from 5:30-7 PM on Zoom from October–May on the first Monday of the month. For information or to register, contact yournextchapter@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. 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. Fri 6 November 6 · 7:00 PM · Parlor Youth Group Fall Lock-In First Church youth group overnight lock in. 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. 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. Sun 8 November 8 · 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 . 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! Fri 13 November 13 · 7:30 PM · Upper Hall Second Friday Concerts Second Friday Concerts presents XXXXXX (fill in act here) Sun 15 November 15 · 9:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship Sun 15 November 15 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship 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 . 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 Worship Sun 22 November 22 · 11:00 AM · Sanctuary Worship 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 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? 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. 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 TBD 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 · 5:30 PM · Online Your Next Chapter This SGM group will explore our hopes, fears, losses, gains, and struggles throughout transitions or anticipated transitions (work, relationship, etc.) that are an important part of our identity. Meets monthly from 5:30-7 PM on Zoom from October–May on the first Monday of the month. For information or to register, contact yournextchapter@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. Load More Events

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 Aly Jablonsky Repair Multigenerational 10:30 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 Sandy Island Family and Individuals Weekend Retreat September 18 - 20 Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire MEALS • ACTIVITIES • WATER SPORTS • FIELD GAMES • CAMPFIRES • WORSHIP • ARTS & CRAFTS • AND MORE! REGISTER NOW Upcoming Events Message Board Updates September 18 · 12:00 PM · Offsite Fellowship Sandy Island Weekend Join us for the all church Retreat on Sandy Island in Lake Winnepesaukee, New Hampshire - September 18-20, 2026 September 19 · 7:00 PM · Parish Hall Social Action A Presentation, Q&A Session and Reception: Understanding Cuba's Economy with Dr. Ricardo Torres-Pérez The FCB Legacy of Slavery Project invites you to join us for a presentation and Q&A session about the Cuban… Show More October 3 · 7:00 PM · Parish Hall Social Action FCB Legacy of Slavery Project: Reparations Workshop Series with Dr. Sophia Boyer Defining Reparations at First Church: A Series of Four FCB Community Workshops with Dr. Sophia Boyer October 4 · 12:00 PM · Parlor Social Action Information Session about Social Action at First Church Come meet the Social Action Committee members and hear about ongoing social action initiatives and how to get involved! Questions?… Show More What's Happening in RE this Sunday Upcoming potluck, Water Ingathering, and volunteer signups, among other updates! 7 days ago We're Hiring a Nursery Care Provider We are hiring a Sunday morning nursery care provider to take care of our littlest community members! We invite you to share the job announcement with people you know and trust who might be interested. Aug 31 Be Aware of Email Scams Impersonating Church Leaders We've recently seen an increase in scam emails pretending to be from church leaders. Please take a moment to learn how to recognize these messages and protect yourself. Jun 18 FY26 Annual Meeting Wrap Up Thanks to all for a successful FY26 Annual Meeting! Our FY27 budget was approved, the slate of candidates was approved, and we're well-positioned for an exciting FY27! Click through for a link to the slides presented during this year's meeting. Jun 12 Sign Up for the Religious Exploration Program! The form to register young people for next school year's Religious Exploration Program is open! Sign up today. Jun 4 View Complete Calendar

Small Group Writing & Sharing November 17 · 7:30 PM · Online 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.

Small Group Writing & Sharing November 3 · 7:30 PM · Online 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.

Drop-In Meditation December 30 · 11:00 AM · Library 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.