My husband Jake and I have been part of the First Universalist Society in Franklin since the late 1980s. Originally, we sought out a congregation that would affirm our religious origins of Judaism and Christianity and would provide a place to raise our two sons. We found so much more!

Over the years, we have received many gifts from this congregation. My family was nurtured with meals and childcare when I had back surgery. This community mourned with me when my parents died within 10 months of one another. FUSF has provided an outlet for my social justice passion, and it has provided me with life-long friendships that I cherish.  

At FUSF, I was encouraged and affirmed in my new role of Religious Education director. I had the privilege of providing spiritual support to children, teens, and families. Later as I began the process of becoming a minister, I again found encouragement and support from the FUSF community. 

While ministering to other congregations, it was natural to compare them with FUSF.  Clearly there was something very special here—at the heart of this congregation—that was so very valuable and somewhat indescribable. There was an inherent sense of love and compassion in community. There was a willingness to support one another and this congregation through thick and thin. It’s because of the importance of this congregation—to our family, to so many others, to the town of Franklin and surrounding communities—that we make a financial pledge each year. We know that our pledge makes a difference. Each and every pledge helps the congregation fulfill its mission in the world and ensures FUSF will continue to thrive and be here to welcome others searching for spiritual support and community.