Community Events

The First Congregation Parish, Unitarian, in Petersham is happy to host community events that reflect our mission and love for the local community.

Remembering those lost to COVID-19 – We joined with other churches across the nation to ring the church bells at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 19th, 2021 to honor the 400,000 lost to covid-19 — the thousands and thousands of our fellow residents – mothers and fathers, grandparents, sons, daughters, doctors, laborers, teachers, scientists, veterans, students, truck drivers – all swept away by a pandemic.

Sharing Our Good Fortune with the Orange Food Pantry – As part of our 2020 Christmas Eve service on the Lawn of the Church we collected non-perishable food and monetary donations for the Orange Food Pantry.  During the week of January 11 we donated 5 boxes of non-perishable food, $171 in cash and checks, and $200.00 for produce (from Quabbin Harvest co-op) to the Orange Food Pantry. 

Showing Solidarity with the Athol Congregational Church – In response to the news of the vandalism and theft of the Welcoming Rainbow Sign from the Athol Congregational Church the Parish Committee voted to send a letter of support to the Athol Congregational Church and Rev. Ashenden as follows.  It was also sent as a letter to the editor to the Athol Daily News and published on January 8th. 

To Rev. Ashenden and the members and friends of Athol Congregational Church, UCC:We are writing in strong support of your outward expression of collective dedication to the love and inclusion of all of our North Quabbin community members. In these challenging times, when fear of society’s progress occasionally shows up as hatred, we see a clear path. That path is the strength and power of love. Your Church is, and has been, a bright light of good works done with love for all. Please continue to stay strong and giving, for all of us in our community.On the Side of Love – Petersham First Congregational Parish, Unitarian

We received a response from Rev Ashenden: Dear Miriam and others,

Thank you and your church for your wonderful letter of support.  Together, our faith communities must continue to spread love and hope in our area and beyond…and we are glad to know your parish shares our vision.Journeying together in faith,Rev. Candi Ashenden

January 7, 2020, 7 PM – Generation Zapped: The Biological Effects of Wireless Technology. Sponsored by Wide Earth Institute with a goal for local environmental and community-based health and well-being education and action.  Held in the Dining Room below the Sanctuary.