Neighbor News
Unitarian Universalist Society of Grafton and Upton hold a service of installation for Rev. Henry Daniel Gregoire
"Universalism with its inclusive message and sense of radical connectedness speaks to where a lot of people are on their spiritual journey."
GRAFTON, MA, April 3, 2017 — This Sunday, April 9th at 4PM, the historic New England pipe organ, originally built by Henry Erben in 1850, will ring out again in celebration of the installation of Rev. Henry Daniel Gregoire as the parish minister of The Unitarian Universalist Society of Grafton and Upton, who was unanimously voted by the congregation. “With a natural gift for storytelling and commanding presence in the pulpit, Reverend Daniel will capture your hearts and touch your spirits on Sunday mornings. He is committed to opening our doors even wider and bringing our ministry out those doors and into the world,” said Michael Quarrey, a member of the search committee and an active participant of the UUSGU social justice ministry team.
Following a 370-year old Unitarian Universalist tradition, the installation formally acknowledges the mutual bond and covenantal relationship between Rev. Daniel and this local society. The service of installation is the culmination of a three-year long search process that ultimately resulted in finding the ideal candidate to lead this congregation during a time of invigorating growth and renewal. “The church is in a part of New England that has a rich Universalist heritage and I want to be a part of a revival of that spirit, by being a minister here. Universalism with its inclusive message and sense of radical connectedness speaks to where a lot of people are on their spiritual journey…I have seen how this place transforms lives and want us to do more and be more in our community.” said Rev. Daniel Gregoire.
The installment will be attended by other Unitarian Universalist leaders and clergy of different denominations as well as political leaders. The board members, the religious education program, and the congregants, including the children, have prepared a robust and exciting service installation. Bob Nicoll and Barry Hall, UUSGU music directors, have prepared a lively musical program reflecting the variety of musical traditions that honor the eclectic and inclusive nature of this congregation. In addition to the historic pipe organ, the service will feature a string quartet, brass players and a jazz ensemble. “It is an exciting time for the UUSGU because it means that our institution finally has a leader that can see us in our desire to extend outward into our greater community. Rev. Daniel has a thirst for justice, honesty and diversity and he has a great sense of humor!” said Leslie O’Flaherty, UUSGU board president. The installation service is open to the public and it will be held this Sunday, April 9th @ 4p.m. at the UUSGU in Grafton common. Everyone is welcome to attend.