This Sunday
This House of Mercy – Water Ingathering
September 13, 2026
Rev. Lauren Smith
The Angel of the Waters fountain in New York City features a beautiful representation of the Angel of Bethesda. Her name comes from the Hebrew, beit hesda, meaning “house of mercy.” As we come together this fall, as we mingle our waters, we celebrate our own house of mercy and its power to heal and restore.
Water Ingathering is a beloved tradition in many Unitarian Universalist congregations. All are invited to bring water from a special place as we begin the new church year.
Sunday Services
From September through early June, Sunday services are held at 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary of our Meetinghouse. The services are also available via Zoom. You can sign up for our e-blasts and newsletter to receive the Zoom link in your inbox each week, or see Online Services below. You can view past services on our YouTube channel or from our sermon archive page. Services are led by a minister with participation from lay ministers and other community members, including children and youth. The hour-long service includes music, readings, meditations, and a sermon. For individuals who care to, there is an opportunity to briefly share personal matters of joy or concern. After the Sunday Service, we gather for light refreshments and conversation, and online in break-out groups. This is a great way to meet other members of the community and to learn more about Unitarian Universalism.
We also offer programming for children during the Sunday service and invite children to be part of the service by lighting our chalice, the symbol of Unitarian Universalism. Each service also includes a story led by Kate Holland, our Director of Engagement and Exploration, another staff member, or a congregant.
During the summer months, from mid-June through late August, we offer more informal summer gatherings led by volunteer or guest religious professionals and lay persons. See our summer schedule for more information.
The most up-to-date information about Sunday services, guest speakers, and topics, is posted on the front page of our site. For information about other activities and events at First Parish, please visit our parish calendar.
We are located in Wayland’s Town Center District, at the intersection of Routes 20 and 27/126 across from the Wayland Safety Building. Directions to 50 Cochituate Road, Wayland, MA 01778
Online Worship Services
VIA COMPUTER:
CLICK HERE to join the Sunday Service on Zoom.
VIA PHONE:
Dial 646-931-3860, enter meeting code 972 4243 1414. When prompted, enter password 01778
OFFERINGS:
To make an offering, please CLICK HERE for online giving.
Summer Offerings
All offerings collected at Summer Consortium services will go to support Metrowest Worker Center (CASA).
We thank you for your support of this important organization.