Governance of First Parish

As a Unitarian Universalist congregation, we are a self-governing entity. The congregation controls its own finances and property, and selects its leadership and form of governance. Our minister is called to lead us by a vote of the congregation. 

Committees are the backbone of the organizational structure of the church.  They constitute the primary way that our ministry is carried out. Committees provide a means for our parishioners to use their individual talents and energy for the benefit of First Parish and of the community we serve.

Parish Meetings

Semi-annual meetings are held in the fall and spring at which voting members of the congregation gather to elect Board members and other Parish officers, hear reports of the standing committees, approve the budget and act on any special issues, such as staffing changes. Additional Parish meetings may be held at the recommendation of the Parish Board to address concerns as they arise.

Parish Board

The governing board of the congregation, comprised of six members-at-large, elected by the entire parish in the spring, and the Chair of the Parish Council, Chair of the Finance Committee, and the Parish Clerk, elected by the parish. The Ministers and Director of Religious Education attend the Board meetings as ex-officio members. The Board sets policy, goals, and strategies at the direction of the Parish, and elects the Parish Chair and Vice-Chair.

Parish Council

Oversees the day-to-day operations of the parish, including scheduling events and facilitating coordination of work among the various committees, and works with the board to implement goals and strategies of the Parish.

Standing Committees and other Organizations

(All represented on the Parish Council)

  • The Alliance
    Open to all women of the Parish, the Alliance raises money to benefit various charities, runs the Steeple Shop, and holds monthly meetings during the church year of interest to all. They meet on the second Monday of the month at 11:15, followed by a luncheon and program.

  • Communication
    Responsible for improving and facilitating communication within First Parish and between First Parish and the surrounding community.  Efforts range from digital media to improving the oral communication between individuals. We built this website.

  • Denominational Awareness
    Fosters communication between First Parish and the Massachusetts Bay District and the Unitarian Universalist Association, represents the Parish at district and denominational meetings, promotes district and denominational issues. Conducts the Parish Poll on suggested resolutions for the denomination's annual national meeting, General Assembly.

  • Facilities
    Oversees the use and maintenance of the Parish's property and furnishings. These include the church itself, and the property around the church. Provides oversight to the custodial staff and recommends policy related to rental of church rooms to other organizations.

  • Finance
    Responsible for advising the Parish Board on the fiscal policy of the parish as well as for budgeting and financial reporting. In addition, this committee works closely with the Trustees to recommend policy relative to the Trust Funds. Plays a major role in fund raising, most notably by running the annual Pledge Canvass.

  • History
    Serves as the repository of historical information about the congregation, including sermons, historical documents, various historically significant items. Plans events to commemorate important anniversaries of the Parish. Contact: Bill Smith.

  • Lend-A-Hand
    Open to First Parishioners and others, this group meets regularly to raise funds for several charities, currently including a shelter for battered women.

  • Members and Friends
    This group focuses on welcoming visitors and new members and friends to First Parish and on helping all members to continue to feel a part of First Parish.

  • Memorial Garden
    Oversees the First Parish Memorial Garden and its upkeep and development. The committee also arranges for the installation of new memorial stones, and together with the minister plans the annual dedication service.

  • Music
    Works with the Director of Music to provide music at services and other occasions. Also is responsible for maintaining the organ, pianos, and other instruments in the church and the hymnals.

  • Nominating Committee
    Recommends Parish members to serve on the Board and as officers, and assists committees in recruiting new members.

  • Religious Growth and Learning
    Works with the Director of Religious Education to provide opportunities for life-long spiritual growth and learning. Subcommittees include: The Youth Adult Forum, which is responsible for programs for seventh grade through high school; and the Adult Programs Committee, which works with the ministers and others to provide adult programs throughout the year.

  • Social Action Committee
    Provides the Parish with information about and opportunities to participate in a variety of social outreach programs. Current activities include: Dignity Dinners, preparing and serving a meal to about 200+ guests at the Arlington St. Church in Boston; Urban Ministry projects, a variety of ways to work with inner-city children; the Vegetarian Potluck, a potluck lunch which raises funds for the UU Service Committee's programs in the Third World; and food collections for local food banks throughout the year.

  • Welcoming Congregation Committee
    Ensures that we serve as a Welcoming Congregation open and welcome to all people regardless of sexual orientation.

  • Worship
    Responsible for ushers, flowers, summer services and several services throughout the year. The committee particularly enjoys brainstorming with the ministers about sermons and services.