At the core of Clarendon Hill Presbyterian Church is a profound belief in openness and inclusion. "We are a real progressive, open and affirmative congregation," says Rev.  Karl Gustafson. "We are all about art, peace, justice, inclusiveness and wide open thinking. We have lots of space for all kinds of people."

Sunday services are followed by coffee hours and thoughtful discussions about the day's sermon. Music for services comes about in a casual manner. Gustafson says their "fabulous" pianist often writes original pieces to go along with other musical selections that are practiced directly before the service "by whomever shows up."

"I like to say we are a half a bubble off plumb here…meaning we're not quite ordinary," he says.

A limited Sunday school program is offered, and a Peace, Justice and Mission Committee organizes events to address local and global issues. The Church also provides space to The Nave Gallery, and in collaboration with ARTSomerville they sponsor exhibitions and concerts there and in the church sanctuary.

Founded in the 1920s, today the congregation is small—about 40—but its multicultural membership hails from across the globe.