This fall, we invite you into a powerful story of courage, compassion, and truth telling. 

We’ll be reading Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan, shortlisted for the Booker Prize and winner of the Orwell Prize for Political Fiction, along with its 2024 film starring Cillian Murphy. Set in 1980s Ireland, the story follows Bill Furlong as he uncovers abuse and forced labor inside a convent’s Magdalene Laundry and must choose between silence or mercy.

• October: Begin reading Small Things Like These. Print copies are available now at the Northport Library’s Adult Reference Desk (151 Laurel Avenue). 
• Saturday, November 14 at 9:30 a.m.: St. Paul’s group viewing of the film at the East Northport Library (185 Larkfield Road). The film won Best Film, Best Script and Best Lead Actor at the Irish Film and Television awards and premiered as the Opening Night selection at the Berlin International Film Festival. 
• Sunday, November 15 after the 10:30 a.m. service: Bible study and small group discussion in the chapel. We’ll connect the story with the ELCA’s 2025 Safe Church & Trauma Informed Ministry priorities and MNYS commitments to justice, care for the vulnerable, and accountability in faith communities.

All are welcome. Sign up in the narthex beginning October 11, 2026. We’d love to have you with us!

Please contact Deacon Wendy Bean Tannenbaum with questions or call the church office at 631-754-4422

Please visit our past social justice studies here.