First Religious Society: Annual Events

The following is a list of events held each year at the First Religious Society. The list starts with events in September and specific dates can be found on the calendar. Prior to the events, additional information is available in the newsletter or from the church office.

Making cider at the Harvest Fair Potluck Dinner made with organic and locally grown food is an event sponsored by the Environmental Action Committee. The dinner showcases locally grown and organic ingredients available to the cooks and gardeners in Carlisle.

Harvest Fair is held in mid-October and features Silent Auction treasures, houseplants, artisan booths, local honey, homemade grape jam, pies, cakes, cookies and a luncheon cafe. The youth of FRS participate and help raise money for groups such as the Heifer Project and The Sharing Foundation.

Advent Wreath Workshop is held in Union Hall on the first Sunday afternoon of Advent. Participants assemble local greens and berries are into advent wreaths, then candles are lit and the group joins together in song.

Making Advent wreaths for the Greens Sale Greens Sale Craft Fair is held annually on the first Saturday of December. Fresh holiday greens, decorated wreaths, gingerbread house kits, Christmas crafts and goodies are among the items sold at the festive event. A delicious lunch is served and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus are available.

Winter Holidays Concert is generally held on the first Sunday evening in December with a special music program coordinated by Minister of Music Marguerite Shaw. The concert features the FRS choir, bell and youth choirs, as well as guest musicians.

Carolers exchanging gifts Christmas Caroling is an intergenerational event which takes place on a late afternoon in December. Singers stroll around Carlisle Center and serenade residents. [Caroling]

Womenspirit Retreat takes place one weekend in mid-January at the Senexet House in Connecticut. Women in the community are invited to share in meals, fellowship and a range of activities.

Socializing at the Circle Dinner Circle Dinner Extravaganza is sponsored by the Membership Committee. Following appetizers and introductory activities in Union Hall, attendees are invited to members’ homes, (in groups of 6-10) for dinner. This event is usually held in late January.

Soup and Games Night features a variety of interactive games suitable for children and adults of all ages and often includes a Jeopardy-style game led by the youth. The evening includes a light supper of delicious, homemade soups.

Woody and Trudy Widrick Memory Tea provides an opportunity for children and older members to share photos, artifacts and stories from the past. It is usually held during a coffee hour in March.

Service Auction and Dinner is held every other year on a Saturday night and is one of the biggest FRS fundraisers. Members donate both items and services. The evening includes a live and silent auction as well as a tasty dinner.

Benefit Concert for Children with AIDS is an evening of special music coordinated by Minister of Music Marguerite Shaw. All proceeds benefit a pediatric unit in Boston which serves children with AIDS.

Memorial Day Luncheon is served immediately following the Carlisle Memorial Day Parade. The Carlisle community is invited to traditional fare of ham, beans and homemade desserts.

Strawberry Festival showcases locally grown strawberries, homemade shortcake and freshly whipped cream. It is held each June in the side yard, weather permitting, and the Morris dancers provide entertainment for the community at large.