Welcome to Arlington Street Church, a vibrant and welcoming spiritual home nestled in the heart of Boston. We invite you to join our diverse community for uplifting Sunday services, enriching weekly events, and special gatherings that nourish the soul and foster connection. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, community engagement, or simply a welcoming space to explore your beliefs, Arlington Street Church offers a multitude of opportunities to connect and belong.
Sunday Service: A Heartfelt Gathering In-Person and Online
Every Sunday at 11:00 am, Arlington Street Church opens its doors and virtual space for a deeply meaningful Sunday service. We believe in creating a space where everyone feels welcome, whether you join us in our historic sanctuary at 20 Arlington Street, or from the comfort of your home via Zoom.
Our Sunday services are thoughtfully crafted to inspire and uplift. Experience the power of beautiful music that resonates within the soul, share in the joys and sorrows of our community, and listen to inspiring sermons that encourage reflection and growth. Following the service, we extend the fellowship with coffee, snacks, and engaging conversations in the Hunnewell Chapel for in-person attendees. For those joining online, our Arlington Street Zoom room remains open for virtual connection and community building.
Joining In Person:
The Great Doors of Arlington Street Church, located at 20 Arlington Street, open at 10:30 am, allowing ample time to settle in and prepare for the service. Music begins at 10:45 am, setting a contemplative and welcoming atmosphere. We encourage you to dress comfortably and warmly – come exactly as you are. All are welcome to partake in the service in our beautiful and historic sanctuary.
Joining via Zoom:
For those who prefer to participate virtually, the Arlington Street Zoom Room offers a seamless and engaging online experience. Join us via video at tinyurl.com/ASCZoom or connect by phone by dialing (929) 436-2866. The meeting ID for either option is 895 886 6876. Participating online allows you to connect with the Arlington Street Church community from anywhere in the world.
Join the Arlington Street Zoom Room to connect virtually with our Sunday service and many other Arlington Street Church events.
Enhance your Sunday service experience by downloading the Order of Service here. You can also contribute to the church’s mission through our virtual collection plate here, share your joys and sorrows by submitting candles here, and make your pledge for 2024-25 to support our ongoing work here. Explore our archive of past sermons and full services on our YouTube channel here to further enrich your spiritual journey.
February Theme: Covenant – Exploring Our Shared Commitments
This February, Arlington Street Church delves into the theme of “Covenant,” a concept deeply rooted in our faith tradition. “Love is the spirit of this congregation,” we affirm each week, a powerful statement derived from a 19th-century covenant by James Vila Blake. This covenant encapsulates our shared aspirations for living together in community.
Throughout February, as we prepare for our annual Covenant Renewal, we are exploring the historical significance, challenges, and enduring promise of covenant within our faith tradition. This exploration offers a chance to reflect on our commitments to one another and to the values that bind us together as a spiritual community at Arlington Street Church.
Celebrating the Life of Arielle Distel
We remember and celebrate the life of Arielle Distel (they/them), a cherished member of Arlington Street Church who passed away on February 5, 2025. Arielle was a part of our community for over a decade and was known to many as the beloved spouse of Doc Kinne, whom we deeply miss.
Even while facing significant health challenges in their final weeks, Arielle bravely shared their trans identity with their family, a revelation met with love and acceptance that brought them immense comfort and hope. Arlington Street Church members and ministers provided unwavering care and support to Arielle during their hospital stays, ensuring they felt loved and supported as they departed this world. We find solace in the hope that Arielle’s spirit is now reunited with Doc, perhaps among the stars.
Join us as we come together with Arielle’s family and friends on Sunday, March 9th at 2:00 pm for a special service to celebrate their life. Let us hold each other close and cherish Arielle’s memory as a blessing to our Arlington Street Church community.
Weekly Events at Arlington Street Church: Engage and Connect
Arlington Street Church offers a diverse array of weekly events designed to foster spiritual growth, community connection, and personal enrichment. All are welcome to participate in these enriching gatherings, both in person and online.
Monday Mettā Meditation
Every Monday ~ 12:00 pm (Zoom)
Begin your week with peace and compassion through our Monday Mettā (lovingkindness) meditation session. Led by Philip Roberts, with assistance from Connie Scanlon and Al Ingram, this half-hour meditation focuses on cultivating lovingkindness for ourselves and extending it to the world. No prior meditation experience is necessary – simply bring an open heart. Join via video at tinyurl.com/ASCZoom or by phone at (929) 436-2866, Meeting ID: 895 886 6876.
Poems to Go On
Every Monday ~ 4:00 pm (Zoom)
Find solace and inspiration in poetry with “Poems to Go On,” led by Darrell Waters and Alan Kemp. Explore the power of verse to provide order and companionship in our lives, drawing inspiration from Vermont poet James Hayford. Whether you’re a poetry enthusiast or simply curious, all are welcome to listen or share a favorite poem and insights about its poet. Join via video at tinyurl.com/ASCZoom or by phone at (929) 436-2866, Meeting ID: 895 886 6876.
Buddha’s Belly ~ The Buddhist Book Discussion
2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month ~ 6:00 pm (Zoom)
Explore Buddhist wisdom and its relevance to modern life with the Buddha’s Belly book discussion group. Led by Sharon Gentges and the Arlington Street Sangha, this group delves into books by contemporary Buddhist teachers, discussing how these teachings can offer refuge and shape our lives amidst life’s challenges. Currently reading Pema Chodron’s Practicing Peace in Times of War. Join via video at tinyurl.com/ASCZoom or by phone at (929)436-2866, Meeting ID: 895 886 6876.
Arlington Street Meditation Center
2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month ~ 7:00 pm (Zoom)
Deepen your meditation practice with the Arlington Street Meditation Center, led by Queen Cheryl and Sharon Gentges. This gathering includes seated meditation, readings from Buddhist teachings, and open conversation. Beginners and experienced meditators from all traditions are warmly welcomed. Access the Mettā (Lovingkindness) phrases here. Join via video at tinyurl.com/ASCZoom or by phone at (929)436-2866, Meeting ID: 895 886 6876.
Tea with the Ministers
Every Wednesday ~ 5:00 pm (Zoom)
Take a relaxing midweek break with Rev. Parisa, Rev. Beth, and fellow community members during “Tea with the Ministers.” Enjoy a civilized late afternoon chat, share your thoughts on prompts like “What gets you through the New England winter?”, and connect with our ministers and community in a casual setting. Join via video at tinyurl.com/ASCZoom or by phone at (929)436-2866, Meeting ID: 895 886 6876.
Kundalini Yoga Class
Every Wednesday ~ 6:00 pm (Zoom)
Experience the transformative power of Kundalini Yoga with Jean Ko Stewart. This unique class combines exercises, poses, breathing techniques, chanting, meditation, and deep relaxation to move energy through your body, fostering positive change and growth. A $10 donation to the church is appreciated. Email [email protected] for Zoom access.
Arlington Street Writes!
Every Thursday ~ 5:00 pm (Zoom)
Unleash your creativity and explore the spiritual practice of writing with “Arlington Street Writes!,” led by Trisha Zembruski. Inspired by Zen meditation and Natalie Goldberg’s Writing Down the Bones, this session welcomes writers of all levels to explore their inner voice through pen and paper. Join via video at tinyurl.com/ASCWrites or by phone at (929) 205-6099, Meeting ID: 833 4627 6104. Note: This meeting uses a different Zoom room than other Arlington Street Church events.
Arlington Street Church Choir Rehearsal
Every Thursday ~ 7:00 pm (Arlington Street Church – 2nd Floor)
Discover the joy of communal singing and contribute to the beauty of our Sunday services by joining the Arlington Street Church Choir. Led by experienced musicians, the choir welcomes all levels, from professionals to amateurs. Create beautiful music, make new friends, and enrich your life through song. Rehearsals are held in person at Arlington Street Church.
Sanctuary Boston Worship Gathering
1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month ~ 6:30 pm (In-person & Zoom)
Experience vibrant worship and genuine connection with Sanctuary Boston, a Unitarian Universalist community where our own Mark David Buckles serves as Music Director. Sanctuary Boston offers intergenerational services twice monthly, alternating between Boston and Cambridge, and is open to seekers of all backgrounds. Learn more at thesanctuaryboston.org. Join via Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/93139922074.
Special Events and Concerts at Arlington Street Church
Arlington Street Church is a vibrant hub for cultural and artistic events, hosting a variety of concerts, performances, and special gatherings throughout the year.
Lilith Vocal Ensemble Concerts
Saturday, February 22 ~ 8 PM & Sunday, February 23rd ~ 6 PM (Hunnewell Chapel)
Experience the enchanting sounds of the Lilith Vocal Ensemble as they celebrate goddesses in their February concert. Featuring captivating works by Jocelyn Hagen, Alexandra Olsavsky, and Mari Ésabel Valverde, alongside world premieres by Lilith members, this concert promises a mystical and alluring musical journey. Artistic Director Laura Nevitt leads this exceptional ensemble. Join us in the Hunnewell Chapel at Arlington Street Church. A $20 suggested donation is appreciated.
Vegan Cooking with Jenny: African Peanut Stew
Sunday, February 23rd ~ 6:00 PM (Zoom)
Join Connie Scanlon and Jenny from Rockville, Maryland for a virtual vegan cooking session. Learn to prepare delicious and healthy African Peanut Stew in this interactive Zoom class. Jenny, a devoted vegan, shares her culinary expertise and passion for plant-based cooking, rooted in both health and spiritual principles. All recipes are vegan and gluten-free, and all cooking levels are welcome! Join via video at tinyurl.com/ASCZoom or by phone at (929)436-2866, Meeting ID: 895 886 6876.
Winter Social Potluck Lunch
Sunday, March 2nd ~ 12:30 pm (Hunnewell Chapel)
Join us for a Winter Social Potluck Lunch in the Hunnewell Chapel following our Covenant Renewal Sunday service. Bring a dish to share or simply bring yourself and enjoy fellowship and community. Sign up to contribute to the potluck here. All are warmly welcome!
New Member Classes for March 2025
Sunday, March 9th & Wednesday, March 12th (Zoom)
Are you interested in learning more about Arlington Street Church and becoming a member? Join our New Member Classes in March 2025. Meet Rev. Parisa on Sunday, March 9th at 2:00 PM Eastern Time (Boston Time) for a session focused on personal spiritual journeys and questions. On Wednesday, March 12th at 6:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada), learn about Arlington Street’s history, structure, and practices, and meet church leaders and staff. Register via Zoom: Sunday Class: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4419290135?omn=84281587812, Meeting ID: 441 929 0135. Wednesday Class: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4419290135?omn=85113060121, Meeting ID: 441 929 0135. Contact [email protected] with questions.
BoriCorridor presents: Más fuerte que nunca, a stand-up by Marian Pabón
Thursday, March 20th ~ 8:00 PM (Parish Hall @ Arlington Street Church)
Enjoy an evening of humor and resilience with actress and comedian Marian Pabón in her stand-up show, Más fuerte que nunca. In Spanish, Marian shares her experiences as a cancer patient with sensitivity and optimism, demonstrating the power of humor to overcome adversity. Presented by BoriCorridor in the Parish Hall at Arlington Street Church. This presentation will be presented in SPANISH.
Ágora Presents: The Dalí Quartet
Saturday, March 29th ~ 7:00 PM (Parish Hall @ Arlington Street Church)
Experience the award-winning Dalí Quartet, named Ensemble of the Year 2024 by Chamber Music America. Renowned for their Latin American repertoire and classical mastery, the Dalí Quartet promises an unforgettable evening of musical excellence and imagination. Presented by Ágora in the Parish Hall at Arlington Street Church.
Ágora Presents: Los Pirañas
Friday, April 4th ~ 9:30 PM (Parish Hall @ Arlington Street Church)
Get ready for an electrifying performance by Colombian powerhouse Los Pirañas. Known for their unique blend of tropical psychedelia, cumbia, champeta, and experimental punk, Los Pirañas delivers an energetic and innovative soundscape that fuses Colombian roots with modern experimentation. Presented by Ágora in the Parish Hall at Arlington Street Church.
BoriCorridor presents: Los Rivera Destino
Thursday, May 29th ~ 8:00 PM (Parish Hall @ Arlington Street Church)
Experience the unique musical style of Los Rivera Destino, blending bohemia, satire, and wit with bolero and rock rhythms. This dynamic trio from BoriCorridor offers a creative, humorous, and extraordinarily fun show in the Parish Hall at Arlington Street Church.
Covenant Renewal: A Personal Reflection
A Personal Reflection from John O’Connor offered on Sunday morning, February 11th, 2024
“For the past 34 years, Arlington Street has been my spiritual home. In stormy times, it has been a place of shelter. I remember in 1990, standing at this very podium, offering my very first candle. I was shaking with rage. A group of us had just attended an AIDS fundraiser in the South End when we were attacked by a gang, wielding broken bottles and bats, screaming anti-gay slurs. Several ended up in the hospital with serious injuries. And so I, a young lawyer, ended up as a witness in a Federal Hate Crimes trial. And Arlington Street was my support.
Arlington Street has also been a community of joy and celebration. I never expected I’d be a bride in a traditional church wedding . . . well, sort of traditional!
And Arlington Street has been a community of learning, where I have been challenged to become the best possible version of myself. Whoever would have thought that the angry young lawyer who came up to this pulpit 34 years ago would later decide to go to Divinity School to study for the ministry?
For those of you new to Arlington Street, stick around . . . There’s magic in this place.” – John O’Connor
Get Involved with Arlington Street Church
Flowers on the High Pulpit
Enhance the beauty of our sanctuary by gifting flowers for a Sunday morning service. Dedicate your floral gift in memory, in honor, or in celebration of someone or something special. You can deliver flowers or bring your own (minimum two dozen recommended). Contact our congregational administrator, Jeff Fogleman ([email protected]), to reserve your date.
Support Arlington Street Church
Your generous donations support the vital work of Arlington Street Church in the world. Make a secure online donation here. Thank you for your support!
Discover More About Arlington Street Church
It’s Sunday Morning at 11 – Do You Know Where Your Spiritual Community Is?
Arlington Street Church is a Welcoming Congregation, embracing diversity and inclusivity. We are dedicated to creating a spiritual home for all who seek connection, meaning, and community.
Candles of Sorrow & Joy
Share your joys and sorrows with our community through the weekly Candles of Sorrow & Joy ritual during Sunday morning worship. Submit your candles online here.
Sermon Archives
Explore our extensive archive of past sermons and services. Read and watch sermons online:
- Give and Take: Read Watch [March 5, 2023]
- The Light’s Bounty on Familiar Things: Read Watch [December 11, 2022]
- Enlightenment to Follow: Read Watch [December 4, 2022]
Enjoy recordings of past services and sermons on our podcast, YouTube channel, and Worship Archives.
ASC Sermon Podcast
Listen to our sermons on the ASC Sermon Podcast, available on iTunes. These podcasts are made possible by the generous support of the Arlington Street Church congregation.
AmazonSmile
Support Arlington Street Church while you shop on Amazon! Visit smile.amazon.com, select “Arlington Street Church” as your charity, and Amazon will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases.
Welcome to Arlington Street Church
Welcome to Arlington Street Church, a community gathered in love and service for justice and peace. As a Unitarian Universalist congregation, we believe in personal experience, conscience, and reason as guides in religion. We embrace diverse perspectives and honor the many paths to spiritual understanding. All are welcome to join us!
Newcomers Welcome
Explore Arlington Street Church further:
- Virtual Tour: Take a 360° virtual tour of our sanctuary and chapel.
- Weddings & Events: Discover our beautiful settings for weddings and commitment ceremonies and meeting and event spaces.
- Facebook Page: Visit our Facebook page.
- Get Involved: Learn how to participate in our vibrant community.
- Directions: Find directions to Arlington Street Church.
- Snapshot E-Newsletter: Sign up for our free bi-weekly e-newsletter to stay informed about activities at Arlington Street Church.
Covenant of Right Relations
Learn about our Covenant of Right Relations, inspired by First Parish in Cambridge (Unitarian Universalist), guiding our community in building respectful and just relationships. Click here to read. Share your insights by emailing [email protected].
Join Our Community at Arlington Street Church
Arlington Street Church is more than just a church; it’s a welcoming community, a spiritual sanctuary, and a hub for engaging events and meaningful connections in Boston. We invite you to explore our website, attend a Sunday service or event, and discover the warmth and vibrancy of Arlington Street Church for yourself. All are welcome here.
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