The road to spiritual growth and meaning isn’t always a straight shot. There are many twists and turns, back roads and side streets. For some, that road takes a detour when the values of the church you grew up in conflicts with the ideas and beliefs you now hold. The First Parish, Universalist, offers a welcoming sanctuary for you to continue your spiritual growth without compromising your values or beliefs.
As a liberal religious community, First Parish welcomes individuals and families from all walks of life, countries, creeds, colors, and sexual orientations. Because First Parish is a member of the Universalist Unitarian Association, our roots are deeply entrenched in the Christian tradition. Yet it’s not uncommon at all for our services, forums, Sunday school classes, and other programs to cover the other great religions of the world and issues of the day.
At First Parish, Universalist, we provide an open forum for our congregation to participate in before, during, and after the service. We encourage discussion and we want you to question and ask questions. By having an open dialogue, we create an environment for our congregation to grow spiritually as individuals and to bond together as a church community.
Unlike traditional religious communities, we’re not bound to sacraments, doctrines, or orthodox rules. As Universalist Unitarians, we recognize matters concerning religion and faith aren’t always black or white. Our mission is merely to promote religious and moral values based on common sense, respect, and loving kindness.
Different people. Different beliefs. One faith.
So, if you’re looking for a meaningful religious and spiritual experience—and a welcome respite on your journey—please join us in worship at First Parish in Malden, Universalist. Our weekly Sunday service begins at 10:30 a.m. with a coffee hour afterwards. We hold Sunday school during service for young children. Free professional childcare is provided.
Located at Elm and Pleasant Streets (Route 60) in Malden, First Parish Malden is easily accessible by public transportation (three blocks west of the Malden Center MBTA station) or automobile, with plenty of free parking.
For more information on our service, forums, and other programs, please contact Reverend David Horst at 781-322-0474 or davidmhorst@verizon.net.
NEWS & EVENTS
Welcome, Unitarian Universalists from Saugus!
We welcome the Members and Friends of the First Parish Unitarian Universalist in Saugus! The First Parishes of Malden and Saugus are uniting in worship, celebration, learning, and fellowship this year. VisitUUSaugus.orgfor more information about the Saugus congregation
First Parish endorses ‘Welcoming Massachusetts’ campaign
The First Parish endorses the ‘Welcoming Massachusetts’ campaign, a state-wide initiative to reject anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies and, instead, to recognize the contributions of immigrants, to honor immigrant traditions, and support fair immigration policies. Visit WelcomingMA.org to add your name
Global marketplace opens in Gallery at Elm Street
The First Parish in Saugus brings a global marketplace to our Gallery at Elm Street this holiday season with handmade jewelry, home décor, and gifts from Ten Thousand Villages, a fair-trade retailer that seeks to improve the lives of thousands of artisans in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. The marketplace will be open on Sunday mornings, December 7, 14, and 2; during the potluck supper on Friday evening, December 12; and Tuesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., throughout December.
Sunday, December 21, 10:30 a.m.
Christmas Celebration
Sanctuary.All-ages worship service. Featuring the First Parish adult and children’s choirs, soprano soloist Mariko Matsumura, a guest musical artist, favorite carols, the Christmas story, and pageantry! Worship leaders: Rev. David M. Horst and Rev. Jackie Clement. Childcare for infants and toddlers provided from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at no charge. Religious education for young children. Coffee and conversation at 11:30 in the Fellowship Hall;bring brunch food to share.
Wednesday, December 24, 7 p.m.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Sanctuary. Enjoy a traditional service of lessons and carols as we herald the return of the Light of the World! Worship leaders: Rev. Horst, Rev. Clement, and Ms. Matsumura.
RECENT SERMONS
The Ministry of Gifts
I wish to give each of you a gift today. Curiously, it’s something you already own, and you’ve had it for a long time. You know a lot about it, but not everything. Sometimes it gets buried under piles of other stuff, but it’s still there, waiting, fresh as the day your first received it. What is this gift I wish to give to you? Yourself....
The Pious and the Righteous
With hundreds of others, I rallied on one side of Beacon Street at the steps to the State House. Those on the other side rallied on the other side of Beacon Street in front of the Shaw Memorial. We were the equal-marriage supporters; they were those who opposed marriage between same-sex couples – mostly Catholics, conservative Christians, and a small but hateful fringe element. The noisy city traffic, chants and taunts, protest signs, political ideology, and religious belief separated us....
When Miracles Happen
I don’t believe in miracles – but I know they happen! I know miracles happen because I’ve seen them, yet I cannot believe in them.
I’ve seen someone endure illness and injury and not only heal but live with renewed purpose and vigor. A great miracle happened there.
I’ve seen someone lose their spouse after a long marriage and yet this person was able to continue to lead a life of hope and meaning. A great miracle happened there.
I’ve seen people achieve justice and equality for their lives by patiently but persistently defying the forces of bigotry and hate. A great miracle happened there....
