Over 25 adults and youth went to the Boston Common on Sunday, October 30th to worship with the Common Cathedral congregation, and to provide lunch to people experiencing homelessness. Common Cathedral is a church with no walls, where everyone is welcome. We were lucky; it was a beautiful day. We served sandwiches, hard boiled eggs, oranges, chips, cookies and birthday cake – as well as a Halloween treat prepared by our 4th and 5th grade Sunday School class. On Saturday, members of the Youth Ministry Team (Amy Clark Feldman, Karla Armenoff and Linda Lynch) led a group of youth preparing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and discussing Communion, hunger and the work of Common Cathedral. The next morning, the Youth Sunday School class, led by Kevin Johnson, Jane and Rob Purser, made ham and cheese sandwiches and finished preparations. Jane helped to make sure everything arrived at the right place at the right time. There was a large turnout this week and we served lunch to over a hundred people!
We transitioned to the church service with many sitting in chairs, other standing or sitting on the ground, with the fountain flowing in the background and general park life all around. Common Cathedral is an outdoor congregation, sharing God’s love through community, pastoral care, creative expression, and worship on Boston Common. They have been leading services on the Common for 20 years, in sun, rain, blizzard, and hurricanes. The moving worship service was officiated by Rev. Mary Eaton, who led us in music, reflection, and sharing of thoughts and prayers in the housed and un-housed community. Communion was served by members of the Union Church to all who wanted to receive it. It was a very special way for two congregations to worship together. We are grateful to all who contributed to and participated in this meaningful weekend