Stories of comedy & tragedy
As we continue our year-long exploration of Story, November focuses on stories of comedy and tragedy, which invites us to explore how we navigate the brokenness and beauty of life.
The beauty of life is on full display in our narthex with a new solo exhibition, Paintings and Drawings from the Primordial Soup Series, presented by artist David Lloyd Brown. The public is welcome to attend a reception, Friday, November 14, 5–9pm or to view the work on Sunday mornings or by appointment. Inspired by timeless images, symbols, and patterns, Brown reflects on making this art in a time of environmental change, writing, “Will these paintings become an artifact of our time, when we knew we were destroying the world around us but could not stop our own destruction?”
Tragedy and loss are part of our world alongside beauty. Amidst all the brokenness in our world, the Rev. Mary Margaret
Earl, Director of the Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry in Roxbury, will explore on November 9 how we might stay grounded in turbulent times so that we do not lose sight of our work for social justice.
There are several opportunities to engage in social justice work throughout the month, including a monthly letter stuffing event for immigrants in detention on November 12, 6pm. Our GBIO (Greater Boston Interfatih Organization) team is busy planning for “House Meetings” to listen for issues of deep concern as well as for leaders who are willing and able to take action on the issues. Stay tuned for more details.
Unfortunately, social injustice and tragedy are not new issues. Rev. Stephanie revisits the classic tragedy, Antigone, in a book discussion on Thursday, November 12, 3pm, as well as in the Sunday November 16 worship service. How do questions of conflict between duties to religion, state, and family resonate in our time?
The following week turns to a focus on comedy in the Sunday, November 23 service followed at 12:30pm by a fun comedy improv session led by Intern Minister, Ebonié Smith-Cooper. No experience necessary—just bring a sense of humor and a willingness to try something new!
And the month ends with Intern Ebonié leading a reflection on self-compassion on Sunday, November 30. Following the service, people are invited to join in the 34th annual World AIDS Day Vigil. First Church Boston is proud to sponsor a section of the quilt to be carried.
Beyond the planned events on the calendar, simply belonging to a community can contribute to a sense of resilience. To learn more about the First Church Boston community, please reach out to Rev. Stephanie, our Senior Minister, and/or sign-up for our weekly e-news.