Sundays at the Society
Although activities at the New York Society for Ethical Culture are often scheduled for every day of the week, the main activities occur on Sunday. Unless otherwise noted all events are free and open to the public.
Sunday Morning Meeting
Our most important community event is the Sunday Meeting. This weekly gathering is held in the Auditorium from mid-September through June and starts at 11:15 a.m. Less formal programs are held in Ceremonial Hall during the summer at 10:15 a.m.
Our meeting usually begins with a musical prelude, followed by greetings, readings, musical interludes, and an address. The readings and address are usually given by one or more of the Society's Leaders, members, or guest speakers, who may discuss a diversity of topics that reflect our philosophy.
Meetings are intended to educate, inspire reflection and action, stimulate personal growth, and build a sense of community. While the Society appreciates contributions to cover costs, meetings are free and open to the public. Society members are available after the Meeting to greet newcomers, answer their questions and accompany them to lunch in the cafeteria.
Early Sunday Morning
In season, members meet at 10:00 on Sunday mornings for monthly programs.
- Everyday Ethics meets on the first Sunday of each month. Open to everyone, the group looks at a specific issue, discussing the ethical implications of possible actions or responses.
- Colloquy, held on the second Sunday, is a session of readings, reflections, music, and meditation to support and inspire us in our quest to create a life of meaning, joy, and responsibility. Sample colloquy topics are Faith, Trust, Courage, and Dreams.
- Poetry Readings, held on the third Sunday, are shared by members and friends who bring their own favorites or browse through the Society's collection.
- Singing Practice, held on the fourth Sunday, enables members to improve their experience of the musical portions of our Sunday meetings.
Child Care
Child care is available at no charge during Sunday Meetings.
Ethics for Children
The Ethics for Children program, our version of Sunday School, is designed for youngsters from four to 13 years of age. It's taught on Sunday morning at the same time as our Meeting. Classes raise issues of personal identity and integrity, appreciation and respect for others, and knowledge of religions, philosophies, and social concerns. Topics are explored in an age-appropriate way through discussion, storytelling, dramatization, music, art, games, and field trips. The children are regularly involved in the Society's service projects, especially in their contribution to the Society's homeless shelter. Tuition is charged.
Lunch in Social Hall
At 12:30 lunch is available in our Social Hall. A complete lunch - including soup, salad, vegetables, main dish, and dessert is available for $10 or soup and salad only for $6. Books of five tickets are available at a discount. Open seating is available at tables of eight. Members look forward to this as an opportunity to see to talk to each other. Lunch is available every Sunday except in July and August and the last two Sundays of the year.
For the months of July and August there will be bagels and coffee available in Ceremonial Hall at 11:15 a.m.
Sunday Afternoon Activities
On many Sundays after lunch, usually at 1:30 or 2:00, we have one or more afternoon activities such as discussions, workshops, dramatic or musical performances, films, or physical activities such as walks, hikes, or bicycle trips.
Activity and Speaker Schedule
You can click here to see events and speakers scheduled for upcoming Sundays at NYSEC.
