My Experience Visiting the First Church in Roxbury, Built in 1804

by Myrna Howe

I had mixed feelings seeing the beautiful, historical, magnificent bones of a Unitarian Universalist church in such a deplorable condition. The exterior was peeling and the interior sanctuary, that probably holds up to 1,000, was cold and damp even in the summer. The nicest feeling was the diversity and the warmth of the people. People come from various churches in Roxbury and as far away as Duxbury; suburban towns as well as Boston.

Over time, money was collected from 25 UU parishes who support the UU Urban Ministry that is held in the Roxbury Church.  Yes, First Parish in Framingham donated too, through our Share The Plate collection.

This summer the peeling paint was removed and a historical cream color took its place. The many black shutters were recently put back on. It came together one damp day and they had heat in the sanctuary. The church has changed the community. You can feel the uplifted spirit of the people that come here. And the UU Urban Ministry has been honored with a stewardship award by the Boston Preservation Alliance.

The Reverend Mary Margaret Earl loves celebrations and celebrated with humus, fruit, juices, nuts and salad. With all these celebrations we have formed new friendships and learned new names. Much more to follow in upcoming newsletters about First Parish Framingham delegates’ experiences with the UU Urban Ministry.

Delegates:   Valerie Waldman, Carol Lawton and Myrna Howe