First Parish of Westwood "Rings in the New Year"

First Parish of Westwood, United Church of Christ, will ring in the “new year” at Homecoming Sunday on September 8 at its 10AM worship service.   Homecoming is a "welcome back" to many who had been away on summer adventures.  It is also a word of “welcome” to those who may be looking for a church home.   The worship service will include a blessing for all the activities that being anew in September, from teachers and backpacks to coaches and cleats.

September is, for many things, the start of a “new year”.  At First Parish that includes a new year of Church School, which begins on Sept. 8th with registration at 9:45 AM in the Parish Hall.  Classes will start at 10AM.   Child care is available.  Following worship, a special fellowship “New Years” brunch will be held in the Parish Hall.

This year First Parish is offering three very exciting curriculums in our Church School! 

Students in Grades 7 & 8 will use lessons from “re:form”.  Featuring hilarious animated videos and awesome activities, “re:form” is a 2-year curriculum that prepares students for the Confirmation class in ninth grade.  This class explores the basics of living the Christian faith through very real questions: Is the Bible true? Can it be proven that God exists? Can I be Christian without going to church?

“PowerXpress” will be offered for children in Grades 1-6.  Here, children will explore the Christian faith and its great stories through the media of art, science, cooking, theatre, story-telling, games and videos. 

“Godly Play” will once again be offered for children in Pre-K and K.   Sacred stories and parables are absorbed through play in a setting that echoes the rhythms of worship, giving them context and language to begin a lifelong exploration of their relationship with God.

There is a lot happening at and with First Parish in September and beyond.  Look for them at Westwood Day on October 5th for sweet treats and more.  And bring your pet to the Blessing of the Animals on October 6th. 

It all begins on Sunday, September 8th with a kick-off of a new year with something new around every corner! The only thing that could make it any better is if YOU are there.

A Protestant Church, First Parish is rooted in the Congregational tradition and is part of the United Church of Christ.  For more information check www.firstparishwestwood.org and click on the link for The Spire or email us at parish1st@firstparishwestwood.org