January 2026
In the Newsletter this Month
Book Discussion at the Library
Broad Reach Hospice- Volunteers Needed
Help Us Restore the Organ
Don’t Forget
Beginning 12/28/25 all services/activities will be held in Fellowship Hall for the winter
Epiphany Open House at the Parsonage
Pastor’s Musings
Let the Season Play On
BOOK DISCUSSION
Have you ever wondered what Christianity has in common with other faiths? Join Pastor Jon and James Kershner, as they lead a discussion of “Living Buddha, Living Christ” by Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh. This text explores the similarities and points of inflection between Christianity and Buddhism. Kershner was a student of Hanh, and will articulate the Buddhist perspective, while Pastor Jon will be discussing the Christian one. This discussion series will meet Mondays at 2pm at the Wellfleet Library, starting on January 26th. Registration is limited, and people can sign up at wellfleetchurch.org/events.
BROAD REACH HOSPICE - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Volunteer Opportunities Abound at Broad Reach Hospice in the Wellfleet/ Provincetown area. Perhaps you have the gifts of time and compassion for those who are journeying to end of life Perhaps you would be willing to share a few hours a week to provide companionship for someone under the care of Broad Reach Hospice. Perhaps you have a passion for music, art or other creative skills that might enhance the quality of life of someone with Alzheimer’s.
Broad Reach Hospice would welcome your inquiry. The Volunteer coordinator would arrange a visit with you to discuss the details of the program and the online training experience. Please ask the church office for more information. www.broadreachhealth.org
HELP US RESTORE THE ORGAN
“Bessie,” as Brad calls her, entered our church in 1873 as a brand new, custom built, Hook & Hastings tracker action organ. She loved our sanctuary and kept herself in good shape for over 100 years. In the 1990’s she began to get weary, so First Church raised $75,000 for a complete restoration. She has done well since then, and besides regular tunings she has only needed minor repairs— until now.
A number of the wooden flute pipes have suffered from winter dryness in the sanctuary, and there are multiple splits that need to be repaired. All of the oboe pipes need to be cleaned and refurbished so they can stay in tune. These pipes reside within the organ case and cannot be seen from the front of the organ; they can only be heard, and at present only a small part of the “ranks” can be used.
The repair estimate is $9,600. That work includes flute repairs plus the much needed “Swell 8’ Oboe Cleaning and Regulation (58 pipes).” A detailed estimate is available— just ask Brad for it. An Organ Fund is already established; so far donations for this effort have raised $3,800. It’s a good start, and we are grateful for your contributions. Please don’t stop now— we need your support to complete the process and bring Bessie back to her once gracious state! When you donate, all you need to do is not “Organ Fund” on your contribution. Bessie and the Music Ministry in her church will thank you, and when finished you can listen to her improvements every Sunday!
Many, many thanks for your help!
