Greetings!
You already may be aware that Faith-in-Action (FIA) has been busy during this time of separateness, meeting regularly in cyberspace to conduct FIA business and continuing the work of our various FIA initiatives. Rev. Sillari has been inspirational, encouraging, and unwavering in her support of this work which is so integral to our faith.
The UU principles may seem like words in the wind while we deal with the pandemic and the awareness of the many social injustices that it has brought to our attention. Our First Parish mission, “to nurture the spirit, grow in community and help heal the world,” is especially challenging, but also anchors our spirits and actions in the midst of the current uncertainty.
You may be deep into one or more commitments to help heal the world; however, if you are casting about for when/where/how to use your energy, talent, or voice, we want you to know FP has ongoing and emerging pathways toward justice and love.
The action teams listed below are served by the skills and passion of individuals and small groups. Some of these are official Faith-in-Action Team initiatives, the others are current or future FP activities reflecting our UU principles. We invite you to join them as you identify the path which calls to your heart. John Lewis reminded us that the work of justice must be an act of love -- find your spirit warmed by adding your love to any of these efforts.
We thank you for your support of FIA work and welcome your ideas, hopes and dreams for its continuing ministry. In this time of COVID-19 not all teams within FIA are active, but all are planning to hit the ground running as soon as it is safe to do so. Please communicate with the listed contact persons if you wish for more information or to join any teams. Watch the church e-news to see announcements on upcoming worship services or other events sponsored by FIA teams.
Carl Cappello, Chair FIA Team
Unitarian Universalism is a faith tradition rooted in justice. Our committed leaders are putting our faith into action, but they cannot do it alone. I encourage every member of our congregation to join in their efforts. Relationship and community are the key to living out the mission and vision of our church. One person, one voice, one conversation, one letter, makes a difference. And together we change the world and save lives.
Rev. Christina Sillari
Faith in Action Opportunities
For More Information,
Email the Contact Listed Below
First Parish Public Forums - Presents forums on today’s issues in light of UU Principles. Speakers are drawn from the congregation and from city and state leadership. In 2020, co-sponsored two Community Conversations with the Maine Sierra Club.
Friends of Safe Harbor – Currently engaged in a partnership with In Her Presence supporting the language acquisition of immigrant women through virtual explorations in cooking and conversation.
Me & White Supremacy - A reflection and action series based on Layla Saad’s book. A small group used the text and workbook for several weeks this winter. If you are interested in pursuing this or a similar process, Kathy would be your resource.
Monthly Neighborhood Dinners - Whenever the church is deemed safe to operate on-site services, we will explore how FP can support food programs within FP neighborhood.
MUUSAN (Maine UU State Advocacy Network) – Engaging FP congregation in advocacy for state level policies aligned with UU principles.
Preble Street Soup Kitchen - Monitoring Preble Street’s developing plans to support food programs for the homeless.
Racial Justice Team - Engages in various justice programming, workshops and other activities to promote the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism and the Covenant of First Parish. Is planning a permanent display and educational materials on the role of our church and early ministers in the decimation of Maine’s indigenous peoples; supports and actively participates in The Poor people’s Campaign and Black Lives Matter movements, both of which are endorsed by the UUA.
Rally4justice – works for social change and protection of the planet, advancing UU principles (Monthly justice-themed Bean Suppers are on hiatus until safe to resume on-site services).
Restorative Justice (Portland Center for Restorative Justice) - a process which emphasizes ways that those who have committed harm may step into accountability and be restored to their best selves. A local training is planned for the spring or summer.
Youth & Family Outreach - Committed to early childhood education and development, with a special focus on low-income families for over 33 years.
The Wabanaki Ally Team - Provides education, advocacy and action on behalf of the Wabanaki people both within First Parish and the wider Portland and Maine communities.
Activities Planned or Ongoing:
- An exhibit to shed light on the early First Parish church and the ministry of Rev. Thomas Smith, who participated in genocide and owned slaves.
- Workshops to educate the congregation on settler colonialism and its effect on indigenous people, provided by Wabanaki Reach.
- Organizing UU congregations in Maine to contact their state legislators to advocate for passage of bills restoring Wabanaki sovereignty.
- Working with Wabanaki Public Health to eliminate food insecurity within the Wabanaki Tribes.
