Somerville writers and musicians in Boston Sunday service.

Somerville writers & musicians in Boston Sunday service.

First Church in Boston was founded in 1630, led by Governor Winthrop. Sunday, July 25, the service will be led by Lucy Holstedt and Kirk Etherton.

“We could have done a pretty good job by ourselves,” says Etherton, “but including some of our incredibly talented fellow Somerville residents is going to make this a great event.” The theme of the service will be “Creating Peace.” Bert Stern will read poetry from his highly acclaimed Steerage (Ibbetson Street Press); Gloria Mindock will talk about her experience working with people who have experienced war.

Somerville musician/singer Yani Batteau will perform two songs, including one co-written by the multi-talented, (former) Somerville artist C.D. Collins. At the request of Kirk and Lucy, Ibbetson founder Doug Holder will be a featured guest—and bring some publications for sale after the service.

Poet Richard Hoffman (who lives in Cambridge and authored the multi-award-winning Gold Star Road) will also give a reading.

First Church Boston has been a Unitarian congregation for several decades. It’s located 66 Marlborough Street, a couple of blocks from the Public Garden and across from the French Library. “Summer services are held in the air-conditioned chapel upstairs,” says Etherton. “It only holds about 70 people, so it’s good to get there early.”

The service runs from 11:00 a.m ‘til noon, and will be broadcast on 88.9 FM, the radio station of Emerson College. The church’s website is firstchurchboston.org