At various times during the week, adults meet in smaller, more personal settings to deepen their spiritual life. These are highly recommended as ways to become acquainted with others and to explore the meaning of our faith. Some of these groups meet on a short-term basis. Others, which are more long-standing, are described here. Everyone is welcome to attend any Spiritual Life Group meeting.

First  Church members on retreat at "Emery House" (Society of St. John the Evangelist" in West Newbury, Massachusetts.

Sunday Morning Bible Study: An adult Bible study and discussion group meets every Sunday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. We read a chapter of the particular book we are working on, followed by conversation about the text, the author's intention, and what it means for our lives. Usually, one of the clergy is present, but all the group members participate freely in asking questions and seeking to discern what the Scriptures have to say about God's relationship to humankind.

"Jacob Group on retreat at Cape Cod"

The Jacob Group: The Jacob Group is a Bible discussion group for men and meets each Tuesday afternoon from 1 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Many bring their lunch.

Red Tent Women's Spirituality Group meets on the 4th Wednesday of every month from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. in the Upper Study.  Season-appropriate writings (essays, articles) and current events are the springboard for conversations relevant to women's lives.

The "Bees" (as they are affectionately called) made Jello desserts to
celebrate Carolyn Wyman's book on this subject.

          The "Bees" - as they are affectionately known - are a dedicated, hard-working group of women who continue a long tradition of serving the local church and the wider community in a variety of ways. They meet once a month on a Thursday morning. The meeting usually includes a work project, a "focus on faith" educational program, a lunch, and a business meeting. The "Bees" disburse monies earned from their endowment to various church-related, charitable organizations, including First Church itself, and meet at other times as well for social gatherings, service-related projects, or educational field trips.

The mission of First Church is to engage and support people in worship, learning, fellowship, and service, so that all may find in our community the Spirit of the living Christ.  We are an Open and Affirming Church: All are welcome into the full life of our community regardless of their race, age, gender, nationality, marital status, economic situation, mental or physical ability, or sexual orientation.