SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11
UNCEDED GROUND
SERVICE STARTS
AT 10:30AM
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Unceded Ground
10:30am, with livestream YouTube
What does a community that wants to put down roots owe to the ground it’s rooting in? On the Sunday before Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Rev. Connie traces the story from 1492 and 1619 to the Merrimack River. Today, the consequences are still with us: tribal land and resources taken by colonial settlers and opportunists; people who came for the opportunity this country promised, now told they’re not welcome, deported, or detained; descendants of the enslaved still waiting for repair. What these communities seek is recognition, sovereignty, and dignity. Who gets to belong to a place, and who decides?
FRSUU Welcomes New Interim Minister!
Rev. Connie explains her approach to interim ministry on her website: “I’ve chosen to focus my ministry on transitional work because I genuinely love it. There’s something deeply meaningful about accompanying congregations through periods of change—helping them reflect on their history, clarify their identity, strengthen their leadership, and step intentionally into their future. Transitions are challenging, but they’re also extraordinary opportunities for growth, healing, and renewal.”
Read the full announcement HERE.
The Latest News & Events
Contemplative Service
Contemplative Service ~ Inspired by Autumn: Slow Down and Release Tuesday, October 6, Sanctuary, 7-8pm, no livestream Contemplative services are a monthly invitation to be in community while reconnecting to ourselves and to the sacred. Throughout the year we will...
SingOut
Wednesday, October 14, FRSUU Sanctuary, 6-7pm. Led by Melissa Lugo of Music in Action, this community singing event will feature three protest songs which will ground us together in civil movement, justice, and hope. Join us for the first SingOut event of the church...
Exploring Elderhood Together
Exploring Elderhood Together: Balance! Thursday, October 15, LMH Main Room, 1-2:30pm Balance changes as we age. Stable balance is important in avoiding falls, protecting independence, boosting confidence, and maintaining mobility, which improves our overall health....
Music & Poetry Service
Join us on Third Tuesdays starting October 20, from 7-8pm, in the sanctuary and on YouTube for music and poetry, organized and led by Director of Church Music Nick Place and Woman Cooper.
Join the Candlelight Chorale!
We welcome singers to join the Candlelight Chorale which will rehearse on Sundays, beginning October 25, from 1-3pm, at FRSUU in the Lower Meetinghouse. Dress rehearsal will be Saturday, December 19, 1-3pm. Our annual Candlelight Service will be held on Sunday,...
Nick at Night Trivia
The FUNraising Team and FRSUU Men’s Group Present Nick at Night Trivia Join us Friday, October 2, 6–8pm, for a spooky night of trivia and socializing with your favorite host, Nick Place! Costumes encouraged! Parish Hall Friday October 2 6–8pm
Jeanne Geiger Walk Against Domestic Violence
It's time to gear up for the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center's 35th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence on Sunday, October 4, from 9am-12pm at Newburyport's Waterfront Park. Each year, community members gather to walk a scenic 3-mile route in honor of victims and...
The 2026 FRSUU Annual Report
The Annual Report of the First Religious Society Unitarian Universalist contains reports from the Parish Board, committees, staff, and groups; the warrant for the 2026 Annual Meeting; other materials to support the Annual Meeting; and the proposed FY27 budget. To view...
Tour the FRSUU Campus and Buildings
Follow our drone footage as we fly to the top of FRSUU’s steeple featuring a glass-eyed gilded weathercock which overlooks downtown Newburyport and Merrimack River. From there, you’ll get a first-hand look at our campus grounds and the interior of our Meetinghouse and Sanctuary which dates back to 1801. Rev. Connie Simon, our Interim Minister, welcomes you and ALL who seek a place of spiritual community and faith here. Organ music provided by former Director of Church Music Justin Murphy-Mancini on our 1834 Joseph Alley organ. Piano music provided by Director of Church Music Nick Place. We close with a view of the bell from the foundry of Paul Revere and Sons bell.
