Dear friends,

Rev. Paul and your Parish Committee have determined that the best way to protect all of us in our community is to begin practicing “social distancing.”  Our decision puts us in line with most other congregations, schools, sports teams – and almost every aspect of our lives that we do in large groups. 

Hence, First Parish will NOT have “in person” worship this Sunday – but we will worship together!”  We will also not have “First Parish Night Out” this Sunday night, and most of our meetings will be conducted via videoconferencing and by phone.

Keeping in “touch” is vital to our well-being, so we are going to do the best we can in a difficult and unprecedented time. These days we really can keep in touch through the phone or online web. 

What we are going to do is offer a couple of ways for us to stay together. We will all have to be a little forgiving with each other, because it’s not as easy as gathering in our beautiful sanctuary, but we’re hoping it’s enough to give us much needed comfort.

This Sunday, we’ll be offering a shorter service. We’re going to have it shown through video using a tool called ZOOM. This will also allow those who have a computer with a video camera and microphone to join in a Virtual First Parish. If you have just a phone, that also works. You’ll be able to hear the service and share your joys and sorrows too.

See if you can make this work yourself.  If you have difficulty, you could get together with a friend to participate as well.

On your computer, your smartphone, iPad or other electronic device, follow these steps – 

1.     Join the First Parish Zoom Meeting by clicking HERE

2.     If you’ve never used ZOOM on your device before, you will be prompted to install the ZOOM app.  Follow the directions on your screen to install.

3.     You’ll see a box asking if you want to open zoom? – select “Open Zoom”

4.     If you have a web camera on your computer, you will probably be asked if you want to join with video. It is more fun if you do!

5.     Sound – 

a.     If you have a built-in microphone, you’re all set. 

b.    If you don’t have a microphone and want to speak, you’ll need to call using your phone.

                i.        call 1 646 876 9923

                ii.       enter this meeting id: 524 750 5733

If you have any trouble, call Laurie,  Rev. Paul, or Jan Thompson OR email any of us – we want to make this “virtual” gathering possible for everyone.

Please know that you are not alone during this strange and scary time. We all need each other and will figure this all out together.

In love and friendship,

Rev. Paul & your Parish Committee