Category Archives: religion

Roundup: AED Survey, Sunday Worship, Quake Donations …

Posted on August 17, 2026 | Leave a comment

Sarah Lyle is a rising junior at Staples High School. The Troop 139 member is working on her Eagle Scout project.

It may be one of the most important in Westport Scout history.

Collaborating with Westport EMS — where she is an emergency medical responder — Sarah is cataloguing the location of every Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in town.

You’ve seen them at Winslow Park, Compo Beach, schools and athletic fields. AEDs help someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, when minutes matter.

With the help of volunteers, Sarah will visit known AED locations, take photos, and add them to a digital map.

But she needs “06880” readers’ help.

If you or your business has an AED, please click here to fill out a Google form. Questions? Email sarah.s.lyle@gmail.com.

Sarah Lyle …

… and an AED at Winslow Park. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Perfect summer weather — well, at least until mid-afternoon — drew a large crowd to yesterday’s multi-church morning worship, at Compo Beach.

Pivot Ministries — the Bridgeport-based recovery program — was there. Another highlight: the baptism of a baby.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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Last week’s 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Colombia impacted millions — including a very close friend of the Westport Woman’s Club.

Tatiana Duffy’s parents live in a building that was severely damaged, in the heart of the devastation.

The local group has organized an emergency drive, with shipment scheduled for Wednesday.

The following items can be cropped off the most needed supplies:

  • Baby and adult diapers
  • Baby formula
  • Ensure nutrition shakes
  • Personal and feminine hygiene products
  • Pet food
  • Sleeping mats
  • Non-perishable food

NOTE: They are not collecting clothing, shoes or blankets.

Monetary donations are also welcome. Click here for the GoFundMe page.

Tatiana will personally manage the funds, and work with trusted friends and contacts in Colombia to purchase and distribute supplies where they are needed most.   ‘

A small part of the devastation from the Colombia earthquake.

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Westporters know how talented our neighbor Kelli O’Hara is.

But how about her daughter, Charlotte Naughton?

The 12-year-old Bedford Middle School student joined her Grammy-winning Broadway actor mother at an outdoor festival this weekend in Kingston, New York  that brought the audience to tears.

Other featured performers included Audra McDonald, Renée Elise Goldsberry and Anthony Rapp.

Click here or below, for Kelli and Charlotte’s stunning “Both Sides Now” duet.

Of course, Charlotte has great genes. Her grandfather is James Naughton, the Tony Award-winning actor. Her father Greg Naughton leads the Sweet Remains. And her brother Owen is a noted Staples High School musician. (Hat tip: Tom Prince)

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Speaking of entertainers: Grammy-nominated country/soul singer Maggie Rose’s new record, “Half Moon,” is out.

It’s got 2 Westport connections.

Staples High School Class of 1979 graduate Judd Fuller plays bass. And it was produced by Daniel Tashian. The son of Staples grads Barry and Holly Tashian (he fronted the Remains, then played with the Flying Burrito Brothers and Emmy Lou Harris; Barry and Holly later performed as a bluegrass duo).

Click here to learn more about “Half Moon.”

Judd Fuller

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The recent “06880” story about dogs on Westport athletic fields — they’re not allowed, in case you missed it — got an “06880” reader thinking about a similar prohibition on Cockenoe Island.

However, judging by the state of a sign on the town-owned isle a mile off Compo Beach, plenty of visitors may not even know.

Fortunately, other signs — warning about bird nesting areas — are in much better shape.

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The 64th annual Westport PAL Chief Samuel Luciano Golf Tournament tees off August 31, at Longshore.

A major fundraiser, proceeds fund the organization’s scholarship program. To register, or join as a sponsor, click here.

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Speaking of sports:

The Staples Boys Basketball Association’s 3rd annual Summer Slam Jam 3v3 tournament tips off this Sunday (August 23, Staples High School).

All 3rd through 8th grade boys — of all skill levels — are invited to the event. Along with games, there is a 3-point shooting contest, and raffle.

Varsity players and coaches will be on hand to organize teams, offer pointers and referee. Click here for more information (including start times for each level), and registration.

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What better way to start the “Westport … Naturally” week than with this photo of an Eastern giant swallowtail.

Our superb nature photographer — and local expert on all creatures that fly, leap, run and creep — says it is the largest butterfly species in North America.

And, Lou adds, “a beauty of a pollinator!”

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … on this date in 1969, Woodstock came to a close. Among the most memorable performances:

 

Jimi Hendrix played his iconic “Star-Spangled Banner” on the final morning, August 18.

(Woodstock is just a memory. But “06880” is here — live and in person — every day, since 2009. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, and our musical detours, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Shark! WTF …

Posted on July 28, 2026 | 8 comments

It’s not Amity Island.

But this was the scene this morning at Burying Hill Beach:

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

Seth Schachter — who made the early morning discovery — searched AI for information.

It says, “based on the shape and markings in your photo, this appears to be a juvenile smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis), which is one of the most common small sharks found in Long Island Sound.”

He notes that it’s a baby; the photo makes it look larger than it is.

Seagulls were picking at it. Seth guesses that high tide will carry it back into the water.

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Wakeman Town Farm is a place of wonder for many youngsters.

And for plenty of others, from nearby communities.

This summer, Wakeman Town Farm welcomed young campers from around the area for a week of discovery, connection and hands-on learning.

With muddy boots, curious minds and big smiles, campers harvested fresh vegetables, met friendly animals, and explored composting, planting and regenerative farming practices.

Through WTF’s Room to Grow initiative, hundreds of students from Hall Neighborhood House, the McGivney Center and Horizons embraced every opportunity to learn, explore, and grow — for free.

The Room to Grow Fund was launched at the 2025 Harvest Fest gala. Generous donors, and the Westport Woman’s Club and Town Fair Tire Foundation, provide added support.

It’s one of several Wakeman Town Farm initiatives that connect young people from neighboring communities with nature, fresh food, and the lifelong benefits of land stewardship.

Fun at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Westport resident Carl Wistreich is the son of Holocaust survivors from Poland and Germany. Pursuing a career in business and law, he achieved the financial security his grandparents had in their respective countries, before making the lifesaving decision to leave it all (including close relatives) behind.

Finally, in his 50s, Wistreich had time to read family memoirs describing miraculous stories of survival. He realized the stories his parents rarely spoke about needed to be shared.

The result — My Lethal Obsession, a novel about ruin, resilience and rebirth, of one family and the Jewish people as a whole — will be published September 1. The next day — September 2 (7 p.m), Wistreich launches his book at the Westport Library, in a conversation with Temple Israel’s Rabbi Michael Friedman. An audience Q-and-A and book signing will follow. Click here for more information.

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KEYS is a brilliant acronym.

It stands for Kids Empowered by Your Support — which is exactly what the Bridgeport non-profit does and is.

Each year they offer free music lessons, summer camps and instruments, to 600 youngsters in 21 schools.

A front lawn party this Sunday (August 2, 4 to 6 p.m., 53 Compo Beach Road) will introduce guests to the organization, including volunteer, donation and support opportunities.

Park at Compo Beach. Bring a lawn chair if you’d like. Learn more about KEYS –and enjoy their very “empowered” jazz group, who will perform live. For more information, email KanikaTaylor@hotmail.com.

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Grammy Award-winning trumpeter/composer/arranger Michael Mossman has done it all.

After apprenticing as a youngster with jazz legends Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and others, he took center stage as music director for Blue Note Records’ “boy band”, Out of the Blue. Mossman went on to be a key performer in Latin jazz, working with the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra and others.

He returns this Thursday for “Jazz at the Post” (July 30, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 6:45; VFW Post 399).

He’ll play with pianist Luis Perdomo, bassist Alex Ayala, percussionist Carly Moldonado, drummer Vince Cherico and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Westport resident Jean Schiavone died July 14.

The Newton, Massachusetts native trained as a secretary at Katherine Gibbs in Boston. She married Paul in 1052. The family moved to Westport in 1966.

Jean loved Compo Beach, and raising her children here. She was a parishioner and volunteer at St. Luke Church for over 60 years, working with the Friendly Visitor Program, Multiple Sclerosis Society, Sacred Heart St. Anthony’s School, and St. Luke Women’s Guild. She also cared for the altar linens.

Jean was predeceased by her husband and siblings Peg Davis, Dick McLellan, Ruth Vlass (Gordon) and Tom McLellan. She is survived by her children Dr, Karen Edwards (Lawrence), Joseph (Kan), Paula Bruns (Robert), Nancy Schiavone (Norman Schulman) and Barbara Pinkerton (Steven); grandchildren Katherine Bernard (Scott), Benjamin Bruns (Christina) Timothy Bruns (Eleni) Emily Schulman (David Stone), Peter Schulman, Molly Edwards, Alison Pinkerton, Michael Pinkerton, and great-grandchildren Alice Bernard, Elijah Bruns, Noah Bruns, Lucia Bruns and Anais Stone; sisters-in-law Sally McLellan and Betty McLellan; brother-in-law Gene Davis, and many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will take place at Harding Funeral Home this Thursday (July 30, 9:30 to 10;30 a.m.). A funeral mass for Paul and Jean will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Luke Church.

Donations in Jean’s memory may be made to the Matthew 25 Fund at St. Luke Church, which provides food and assistance to individuals and families in need.

Jean Schiavone

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Mourning doves build nests in many places.

Including man-made structures.

These 2 chicks — the subjects of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — look as happy as if they were just hatched in, say, a tree or bush somewhere.

Hey — none of us has any control over where we’re born.

(Photo/Rob Jackson)

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And finally … happy 36th birthday, Soulja Boy!

(“06880” is the soundtrack to your Westport life. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Obituaries, religion

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Pic Of The Day #3381

Posted on July 22, 2026 | Leave a comment

Assumption Church, from Burr Road (Photo/John Maloney)

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Remembering Rob Haroun

Posted on July 16, 2026 | 2 comments

Longtime Westport resident, noted builder, civic volunteer and philanthropist Robert “Rob” Haroun died yesterday. He battled cancer for 10 years, defying all odds despite a prognosis that gave him far less time.

He lived here for more than 30 years with his wife Julie. Together, they raised 3 children — Dan, Jessica and Annie — in Westport.

Rob Haroun

An entrepreneur at heart, Rob was a mechanical engineer, an attorney, and a real estate developer.

After graduating from New York Law School in 1989 he became a founding partner of Sofer & Haroun, an intellectual property law firm based in Manhattan.

In 1993 Rob founded SIR Development. He combined his engineering background, legal expertise and passion for real estate, developing more than 300 homes and many commercial projects throughout Fairfield County.

Rob strongly believed that success came with a responsibility to give back. Deeply committed to his community and his faith, he dedicated his time, talents, and leadership to causes that mattered to him.

He served as chair of the Building Committee for the Westport Library’s transformative renovation project, and chaired the Property Management Committee for the Westport Westport Family YMCA renovation project.

In addition to giving his time, Rob was a philanthropist who supported many local and national causes, including the Westport Rotary Club, Leukemia Fighters, the National MS Society and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Rob was also a devoted member of The Community Synagogue in Westport. His deep commitment to Judaism was reflected in many leadership and volunteer roles, over the years. He was passionate about giving back to the congregation that meant so much to him.

As a devoted father and husband, Rob never missed a Little League game or weeknight dinner.

A funeral is set for tomorrow (Friday, July 17 10:30 a.m., TCS). To join via livestream, click here. Interment will follow at the TCS Cemetery, across from 240 Reid Street in Fairfield.

The family will receive visitors at their home on Sunday (July 19, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 4 p.m until 7); Monday (July 20, 5 to 8 p.m.), Tuesday (July 21, 1 to 3 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.) and Wednesday (July 22 (2 to 6 p.m.).

Condolence notes may be sent to julieharoun@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bennett Cancer Center at Stamford Health, where Rob received his care, or to The Community Synagogue in Westport.

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Three years ago, Rob Haroun was a guest on the “06880” podcast. Click here or below oto see that interview.

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Posted in Library, Obituaries, religion, YMCA

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Roundup: Dylan Robbin, Compo Sunday, World Cup …

Posted on July 13, 2026 | 3 comments

Dylan Robbin is the newest member of the “06880” board of directors.

One seat on the 7-person board is reserved for a member of Inklings, Staples High School’s newspaper and website.

A rising junior, Dylan has immersed himself in many aspects of school life. Passionate about sports and journalism, he is a member of the varsity football team, director of sports media of Inklings News, and a coordinator on the WWPT-FM leadership team.

Outside of school, Dylan enjoys golfing, working out and watching movies. His favorite film is “The Departed.”

For more information on the “06880” board, click here.

Dylan Robbin

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Yesterday’s Sunday morning worship drew a large crowd to Compo Beach.

Several churches rotate leadership of the service. This one was directed by Green’s Farms Congregational Church.

Sunday morning worship, at Compo Beach. (Photo/Karen Como)

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Soon after the morning worship service — and throughout the beautiful day — the Sandbar did a booming business.

But the Compo Beach concessionaire was not the only active “sandbar.”

The one off Schlaet’s Point, on Hillspoint Road between Compo and Old Mill Beaches, was humming too.

Boats anchored in the low tide. Folks wandered out onto the sand.

Planned? Impromptu?

Who cares?! It was just another great summer Sunday in Westport.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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Meanwhile, back on land around the corner, there was this classic scene:

(Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)

Sure, the cars and homes are fancy. But it doesn’t get more Anytown USA than this.

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We don’t yet know who’ll be playing in Sunday’s World Cup final.

But we do know where you can see what’s sure to be a great match: the Westport Library.

And that’s not all. There’s a full, family-friendly soccer afternoon.

At 1:30, Westport soccer personalities including former Staples High School coaches Dan Woog and Chris O’Dell, national champion Paddy Donovan and soccer filmmaker Joe Pierce will tell stories about their lives in the Beautiful Game.

From 1 to 3 p.m., fans can exchange Panini brand stickers.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or only recently caught World Cup fever, this is a chance to spend an afternoon with soccer people — and watch what is sure to be a memorable match surrounded by many others.

And you can’t beat the admission price. It’s free!

(“Westport Meets the World Cup” is supported by the Westport Soccer Association, Mickey Kydes Soccer Enterprises and “06880.”)

(Graphic courtesy of Isabelle Sareen)

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The Val Ramos Flamenco Ensemble danced across the Levitt Pavilion stage last night.

The free show was one of dozens this year, at the open-air theater on the Saugatuck River.

This week’s schedule:

  • Tuesday, July 14: Connecticut Ballet (7:30 p.m., free)
  • Wednesday, July 15: Elena Moon Park: Children’s Series (7 p.m., free)
  • Thursday, July 16: Amani Burnham, blues/rock (7:30 p.m., free)
  • Friday, July 17: Dogs in a Pile, psychedelic/jazz/funk rock (6 p.m., paid tickets)
  • Saturday, July 18: Hollywood Nights: The Bob Seger Experience (7 p.m., paid tickets)
  • Sunday, July 19: MT Jones (7 p.m., free).

For tickets and more information, click here.

Val Ramos Flamenco Ensemble (Photo/Susan Garment)

On Saturday, Eggy returned to the Levitt, for 2 high-energy sets. (Photo/Dick Wingate)

 

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Westport’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary continued this weekend. The Westport Library hosted “A Small Standard Patriotic Flower Show.” Floral designs, horticulture and education tables — all with a red, white and blue theme — were presented by the Westport Garden Club.

From left: Joni Andrews, Kara McKenna-Wong, Kelle Ruden, Joanne Heller, Nathalie Fonteyne, Andi Turner, Anne Lester.

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Noted Westport artist Nina Bentley is participating in the current New York Historical’s “Weitzman Shoe Museum” exhibit. It includes a number of pieces from the collection of Stuart Weitzman,

Nina Bentley, with her work (bottom).

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Outgoing State Senator Ceci Maher is the featured guest on July 23 for “This Is Your Life”. The series — a collaboration between the Westport Center for Senior Activities and The Legacy Project USA — is a chance to learn about the lives of friends and neighbors among us, both well known and quiet.

Prior to her 2 terms as state senator, Maher served in both the public and corporate worlds. She also raised 3 children. Her daughter Katherine is CEO and president of National Public Radio.

Rozanne Gates, owner of The Legacy Project USA, is the moderator of “This Is Your Life.” The series at the Senior Center has included Mark Yurkiw, Rabbi Greg Wall, Harold Bailey, Bill Harmer, Miggs Burroughs and Carleigh Welsh.

To attend “This Is Your Life, Senator Ceci Maher,” call 203-341-5099

State Senator Ceci Maher.

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Longtime Westporter, noted publisher, former Westport Library president and Brown University trustee Joel Davis died peacefully on Saturday, after a short illness. He was 92.

The Chicago native was president of his Highland Park High School Class of 1952. His college years at Brown University made a major impact on his life.

Joel became the youngest trustee of the Brown Corporation at age 34. He served from 1968-73. He was head class agent for the Class of 1956 for 35 years.

Joel kept in touch with dozens of classmates, and knew the names of their partners, children and other important life details. At a classmate’s wedding he met Carol Barnett, his wife of 67 years. They moved to Westport in 1965.

After college Joel and his father Bernie founded Davis Publications. He was president and publisher for 40 years. At its peak they published 60 special interest magazines including Ellery Queen’s Mystery, Isaac Asimov’s Science Fiction, Income Opportunities, Sylvia Porter’s Personal Finance, Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, and Analog.

Architectural Designs was launched, with his wife Carol as editor. One of Joel’s three sons, Jonathan, was brought in 20 years later to learn the business and eventually take it over. Jon evolved AD into an e-commerce leading business, selling home plans to builders and individuals.

Joel was proud that last year his grandson, Jared Davis, became the third generation CEO of AD.

Joel’s father co-founded Ziff-Davis Publishing Company in 1928, which meant that Joel and his family have had a key role in publishing for 98 years.

Joel served on the board of the Westport Library for many years, including 2 terms as the president. He was also served a 25-year board member of the Magazine Publishers of America.

Additionally, he was a director for Mutual of New York on 3 different funds. Joel served on the Merritt Parkway Conservancy board, and was a Young Presidents Organization Fairchester Chapter chair.

Joel is survived by his wife Carol; sister Carol Davis Teten; sons Chuck (Jan), Andy (Kate) and Jon (Evelyn); grandchildren Jared (Emily), Jenna (Connor Grealy) and Jack, and two great-grandchildren. One more is on the way.

Joel’s family will host a celebration of his life this fall.

Joel Davis, at his 84th birthday.

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Many “Westport … Naturally” photos are striking, inspiring, or for many other reasons make us think, “Wow! We live in a beautiful and special place!”

This one doesn’t.

Still, it’s part of the daily rhythm of life by the shore.

(Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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And finally … in honor of Nina Bentley’s artwork, at New York Historical (item above):

(Another week — and more chances for “06880” to give you all the news, features, photos and more that you love. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Roundup: World Cup, America 250, Local Stuff Too …

Posted on July 3, 2026 | 1 comment

The Clubhouse has been Westport’s go-to spot, for many World Cup matches.

For something different for today’s Argentina-Cape Verde game (Friday, 6 p.m.), consider a watch party in Stamford — hosted by Congressman Jim Himes.

The Round of 32 event is at Third Place by Half Full Brewery. Fans of both teams — and the USA — are welcome. So are all Democrats, Republicans, independents — and everyone else.

That’s the World Cup magic!

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What do freedom, faith, hope and responsibility mean, as America celebrates its 250th anniversary?

Weston’s Norfield Congregational Church invites everyone to participate in a 4-week sermon series exploring those questions.

“A New Birth of Freedom: America at 250 — Beautiful. Broken. Beloved. Becoming” begins this Sunday (July 5, 10 a.m.). Through scripture, reflection and honest conversation, the series examines how people of faith can engage the nation’s milestone with gratitude, humility, courage and hope.

Senior minister Rev. Dr. Bernard Wilson says, “This is not a partisan series. It is a Gospel series. We are not gathering around a flag, but around Christ’s table. Our goal is to explore what faithful citizenship and Christian hope look like in a complex and changing world.”

The series will be complemented by special musical offerings from American composers and hymn writers. For more information, click here.

Norfield Congregational Church

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Also in the spirit of our semiquincentennial: The Westport Garden Club invites the community to a free “American Spirit 250” event.

The patriotic exhibition — a gift to the the town — showcases the talents of club members through horticulture and floral design, and educational displays.

The National Garden Club Small Standard Flower Show is set for the Westport Library on July 11 (noon to 5 p.m.) and July 12 (1 to 3 p.m.).

The Westport Garden Club began celebrating America 250 in April, placing floral displays placed town. They’ll continue the effort on patriotic dates through the rest of the year.

Westport Garden Club members Louise Demakis, Janet Wolgast and Joanne Heller.

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As always, the Parks & Recreation Department did a spectacular job — not just with last night’s fireworks, but the cleanup that followed too.

Working through the night, after 10,000 guests left, they made sure that Compo Beach was pristine for the holiday weekend.

Meanwhile, the dozens of very important port-a-potties were trucked away. They too will be cleaned, and ready for whatever comes next.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

PS: More props to Parks & Rec, for keeping the bathrooms by the lifeguard shack open. In years past, they were inexplicably closed during the biggest night of the year.

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Local artist Tammy Winser is this month’s Westport Book Shop artist exhibitor.

Her whimsical “So They Say” collection combines acrylic and collage, celebrating animals with human expressions and personalities. Winser’s thought-provoking works capture the humor and absurdity of everyday life.

An artist reception is set for July 16 (6 p.m.). The exhibit will be open during business hours throughout July, with all work available for purchase.

Meanwhile, the Book Shop’s Short Story Club meets July 22 (6 p.m.).

This month’s discussion focuses on stories by American writers, about conversations:

  • “Uncle Wiggly in Connecticut,” by J.D. Salinger
  • “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love,” by Raymond Carver
  • “What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank,” by Nathan Englander

Space is limited. To register, call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

Tammy Winser

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The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) is seeking candidates to fill the District 7 vacancy created by the death of Jack Klinge.

No political party affiliation is required. as Westport’s RTM is a nonpartisan legislative body. Interested District 7 representatives can submit a resume and brief statement of intent to town clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton (jdunkerton@westportct.gov) by July 20.

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After all the partying and noise at last night’s fireworks, let’s take it down a notch.

Sit back relax, and enjoy this serene “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Saranda Berisa)

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And finally … okay, back up a notch again:

(Hooray for the red, white and blue. And for “06880” too! Even on a holiday weekend, we work for you. If you appreciate what we do, please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Pic Of The Day #3353

Posted on June 24, 2026 | 1 comment

Saugatuck Congregational Church (Photo/Ed Simek)

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“06880” Podcast: Rabbi Yehuda Kantor

Posted on June 22, 2026 | Leave a comment

Rabbi Yehuda Kantor is the spiritual head of Chabad of Westport.

Located in the former Three Bears Inn on Newtown Turnpike at Wilton Road, Chabad blends traditional values with modern technique. It offers a home to hundreds of families, and programming for all ages.

The other day, I chatted with Rabbi Kantor about all things Chabad — and much more. Click here or below, to watch and listen.

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[OPINION] Christian Science Comments: Judgmental, Hateful — And Un-Christian

Posted on June 20, 2026 | 20 comments

Yesterday morning’s post — a straightforward story about the opening of a new reading room at the Christian Science church on Compo Road North — drew a surprisingly strong reaction.

One commenter said, “These people aren’t Christian.”

Another wrote that reading rooms “promote dangerous medical misinformation.”

A third reader — citing “4 major measles outbreaks between 1985 and 1994” — said that the Christian Scientists who did not treat children “should have been charged with murder and executed.”

Those words shocked and upset one long-time reader. Asking for anonymity, due to the “nastiness” of the comments, the reader writes:

I spent my childhood in the Westport Christian Science branch church, although I no longer attend any church. I choose to stay out of all organized religion at this time in my life.

We were part of the Westport church before it became the large and beautiful building it is today. We were there when it was the old army barracks building, and I loved that building as a church. The Sunday school was beautiful. And the sanctuary cozy and loving.

Westport’s First Church of Christ, Scientist …

The members were some of the most loving, caring, successful members of the church and Westport society. We had famous artists, musicians, actors, broadcasters, Madison Avenue men, realtors, lawyers and beautiful families.  It was a wonderful atmosphere to grow up in.

To paint this broad brush of all Christian Scientists as some of the comments did? And in such a way that isn’t totally accurate, especially about most Christian Scientists?

Most people I’ve stayed in touch with received the COVID vaccine, and most are willing to vaccinate their children.  As I understand it, they desire to obey the laws of land. Most do.

And many members of the church will go to doctors if need be. I know many Christian Scientists who have had surgery and received medical care if necessary.  It is an individual choice, and many choose medical help from time to time.

… and the new reading room.

What I’m addressing mostly is the hate and nastiness of the comments on this post. Anyone is entitled to their opinion, but the cruel and nasty comments aren’t true of most Christian Scientists. It is like commenting on a whole race of people, and saying that a whole race of people are like the actions of a few.

Never paint a whole group with the actions of a few of a group. And people grow, and churches grow and learn.

My experiences with the medical world have been excellent. We have found many doctors and nurses willing to pray with their patients. I’ve seen a circle of nurses holding hands and praying with a patient.

Healing prayer and medicine aren’t as separate as depicted by some of the commenters. The gap is closing. I’m sorry if that is offensive to some. But it is what I’ve witnessed personally, as I pray every day.

I could say a lot more but I felt I had to speak to the most unkind and un-Christian comments.  I will not even debate the “not Christian: debate. I guess the Lutherans started by Martin Luther would have issues too, as their church was started by a man.

Mostly, we need to give each other some room and some grace in this world. I hope the commenters can reflect on the hatred and judgment that came across in their writing. Talking about executing people??

It’s very easy to explode behind a keyboard, and it’s not what we all need now to lift up our world.

(Our “06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Please send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog, please click here.)

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Christian Science Reading Room Returns To Westport

Posted on June 19, 2026 | 22 comments

Among Westport’s many religious institutions, the First Church of Christ, Scientist keeps a low profile.

They don’t run a nursery school, sponsor a youth group or host outside meetings. In fact, the only time their handsome South Compo Road building a few yards from the Post Road is used is on Sundays (services and Sunday school) and Wednesdays (testimony meeting).

First Church of Christ, Scientist on Compo Road South.

That may change soon.

The congregation — known as Christian Scientists — has nearly completed construction of a meeting room.

Like others run by the denomination, it’s a space where anyone can find books and publications, speak with staff members, and bring questions about their spiritual journeys.

This is not the first Christian Science reading room in Westport. For many years there was one on Post Road East, opposite what was then the post office (now Design Within Reach). A later location was further east, opposite Stop & Shop.

More recently, the Westport church operated a reading room in Stratford.

But now they’re building one as an addition to their own building.

The reading room will be on the left, next to the tower.

Project leaders — headed by Albert Jensen-Moulton, a church member whose profession is building sustainable, efficient homes — sought input from architect and developer Bill Shaffer. Early in his career he worked with Kris Barthelmess, a former Sunday School student who designed the Compo Road church in 1980, as part of his architectural thesis.

The glass-fronted reading room will face the parking lot. Flled with light, it will be “a very comfortable place to sit,” Jensen-Moulton says. It will be open 4 to 6 hours a day, 3 to 4 days a week.

Artist’s rendering of the reading room.

Also ahead: new landscaping, a permeable patio, and a garden and sitting area.

“We want to be inviting to walkers and bikers” on Compo Road, Jensen-Moulton says.

The church plans a soft launch next month, with an “official” opening in September.

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