Comment on What's next for religious freedom in 2019? Faith leaders and policymakers weigh in

Religious leaders, whose houses of worship are included in phase one of Governor Charlie Baker’s plan for reopening Massachusetts, are being tasked with determining how, when and whether or not to open their doors to the faithful, or continue to provide virtual ministrations via Zoom teleconference and YouTube videos. Guidelines proposed by the Baker administration include limiting []

Hajjar Ahmed's lofty goals this Ramadan include reading the Qur'an multiple times, joining virtual Iftar meals to break the fast, and engaging in online discussions with people from around the world. She also will volunteer with the Department of Family Services in her county. At a time of uncertainty and when many are sheltered in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, Ahmed, a project manager who lives in Northern Virginia, is choosing to be []

Submitted by FCC WinchesterFirst Congregational Church in Winchester, UCC, will host a Jazz Blessing of the Animals at 10 a.m. Oct. 20 on Winchester Town Common — to swing, celebrate and give thanks for all creatures by blessing animal companions. All pets are welcome: furry, scaly, hairy, feathery and even plush.

Submitted to the StarFor the past two decades, parishioners of First Congregational Church in Winchester have participated in Habitat for Humanity workdays with the Merrimac Valley Habitat for Humanity and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell programs. On March 30, volunteers continued their work at a new location in Andover, led by Doug Taylor, who has been involved these 20 years gutting rehabs, digging foundations, erecting staging, framing, and clearing lots.

Submitted to the StarSt. Mary’s Parish Family of Winchester will present their annual Lenten mission featuring Mother Olga Yaqob, founder of the Daughters of Mary of Nazareth, at 7 p.m. April 1-3 in the Upper Church, 158 Washington St., Winchester. The theme of Mother Olga’s presentation is “Abide in Me,” inspired by John 15:4.

A group of 45 volunteers gathered March 16 at the First Congregational Church in Winchester to assemble 12 needed beds for children, as part of A Bed for Every Child. A Bed for Every Child is a program created five years ago by the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless to provide beds for children whose families cannot afford separate beds, which can result in tired and unfocused children underperforming in school.