PORTLAND – First Parish Unitarian Universalist will provide spiritual support to the Portland community in the days prior to the election, offering a vespers service of contemplative music and readings on Friday, Nov. 1 at 6:30 p.m., then opening their doors from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day to create a welcoming space for reflection in the historic Meeting House at 425 Congress Street in Portland.
Rev. Norman Allen explained, “Whatever your political leanings, these are anxious days. Our doors will be open on Election Day to anyone who could use a little time to just sit quietly, take a breath, say a prayer, or light a candle.”
Vesper services are just 30 minutes and draw on monastic practices from multiple traditions, using music, meditation, and prayer to provide spiritual comforting and support. These evening services will continue monthly on first Fridays through May 2. On Election Day, First Parish congregants and staff will be onsite to quietly welcome guests into the beauty of the sanctuary, where they can sit in silence, pray, meditate, or light a candle.
A member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association, First Parish practices a liberal religion that affirms the “inherent dignity and worthiness ” of all people and advocates for a “free and responsible search for truth and meaning.” The congregation’s recent “Church for EveryBody” campaign included the installation of an elevator and other renovations that made the building more accessible. Services at First Parish are offered every Sunday at 10 a.m., with additional services for special occasions throughout the year. For more information, visit www.firstparishportland.org or call 207-773-5747.
