August 5,2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens                is Sunday our Affirmation youth will share the experiences of our trip to Philadelphia.  We had many wonderful experiences, but a highlight for me was the trip to Chestnut Hill Friends (suburb of Philadelphia) Sunday evening to wach the sky change from dusk to dark.  This Meeting House was designed by James Turrell, the Quaker artist (http://jamesturrell.com/ ) that we studied during Affirmation and creates art based on Light (he has an exhibit on the top floor of our Indianapolis Museum of Art).  He donated his services in designing this Meeting House that was completed in 2013.

We entered the building as dusk was beginning to encompass our surroundings and we were instructed to lie down on the Meeting benches.  The roof opened up to a rectangular square and we entered into silence as we began to experience the changing LED lights in the roof and observe the sky through the rectangular opening. The lights within the room continued to change from white, red, pink, purple, blue and green for the next 50 minutes and as the changes occurred, the sky that we observed moved from light, dark, hues of green and blue and then intense black. 

It was amazing to view the sky that completely changed by the Light that surrounded the rectangular opening in the roof. The sky was the same, but my perception of the color of the sky was totally influenced by the colors in the room.  It was a profound experience to think about how I let Light into my life and how that Light influences my perception of a situation, relationship, job, or circumstance.  The Light determines how I react to my circumstances, my dark shadows and my joy.  I have not been able to get these images out of my mind over the last few weeks.  I continue to recognize that the amount of Inner Light that I embrace will influence and impact my response to the difficult situations that I find myself in and that you might be experiencing.  The Light is sufficient for me to view my situation with hope even when I feel hopeless. The Light guides me into a path of love.

Watch for the Light today and see how it changes the color of your situation.    

 Photos provided by Ellie Arle

Joys & Concerns

Bob Davis Memorial Service will be held at the Indy Arts Center at 3:00pm on Sunday August 23th, All are welcome to join this celebration of his life.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities   

Please join us this Sunday as our Affirmation youth will share experiences of their Philadelphia trip with us during Meeting for Worship.  Ellie Arle has also prepared a brief slide show to give a pictorial sense of our amazing trip together.  You won’t want to miss this!  

First Friends is looking for a Part Time Youth Pastor - We are very excited that our Meeting is supporting the position of a part time (average 10 hours per week) youth pastor to offer a full blown youth group this fall.  If you know of someone that might be interested, please have them contact Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org or 331-8306).

Summer Seasoned Friends lunch for anyone retired and older is Wednesday August 12th at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall. It will be a picnic theme with fried chicken, potato salad and orange jello provided.  Other salads and desserts may be donated if desired.  Please RSVP to office or Kathy Farris (Kathyfarris@hotmail.com by Sunday.

 Have you ever hated to have to throw away those colorful coffee bags that your favorite beans come in?  Now you don't have to!  Carrie Sample has plans to adopt any of your unwanted coffee bags for her handmade holiday craft projects.  Please get in touch with her at carriesample@sbcglobal.net to make pick up arrangements. 

 Susan Belton has two Twin Beds that she would like to give away, if you are interested in the beds please contact Susan at 317-490-6483                                                                  

Friday August 7th:

First Friends Community Salad Supper and Screening of

‘The Many Storeys and Last Days of Thomas Merton’

Supper served 5:30 - 7:00.  Film begins at 7:00 PM

The film will be followed by a discussion with Producer Morgan Atkinson.  Come to either or both segments of the evening.

We are expecting a large gathering and we ask that you would bring a salad for supper to share.

Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation presents Quaker Historian Thomas D. Hamm. Friday, August 14th from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. here at First Friends Meeting. Tom Hamm will speak about the history of Quaker involvement in political & social activism. A discussion period to follow Tom’s lecture. A freewill offering will be taken to support the advocacy work of IFCL.

‘Quakers and Peace: Past and Present’; Diana Hadley has worked at Franklin College since 2004 where she is executive director of the Indiana High School Press and has taught journalism classes and a liberal arts course in nonviolence. She will be leading this course from her new book, “The Peace Class”.

Time : Monday evenings 6:30 pm August 31-October 5th.

Where: Fairfield Friends Meeting 10441 E. County Rd 700 S. Camby, IN, 46113

The cost of the course is $30, with a book included. Please RSVP atllinzev@yahoo.com 

Dan Moseley Weekend- August 22nd-23rd.

When we think about living simply, we tend to focus on things we can see. We think about decluttering and donating. We celebrate clear countertops, empty book shelves, organized computer desktops, and unplugging from electronic tethers. While all of those things are important and worth celebrating, that’s just the surface of simplicity. When we free up resources, needless to be happy, and have time to consider what matters most, we simply become more loving, caring, and giving.

Come join us on Saturday, August 22 as we explore the dimensions of Simplicity with Dr. Dan Moseley in our final program for Discovering God in a Changing World: What is ahead for me? A light breakfast will be available at 8:30 a.m. with the Program running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Fellowship Hall.  Dan will also bring the message on Sunday and be available for Q&A over lunch after Meeting for Worship.  We hope you can join us!   Please contact the office if you would like to attend. office@indyfriends.org

Women’s Retreat! Join Katherine Murray, September 14-15 at Quaker Haven.  Quaker Women from across Indiana will be gathering to learn to “Choose Gratitude”.  Come join us as we explore practical, worshipful and creative ways to fill our lives and spiritual practice with gratitude.  Cost: $65, includes 3 meals and night’s lodging. Begins at 1:00 Monday (14th), and ends after lunch on Tuesday (15th). All who are interested please contact Katherine at katherine@quakerearthcare.org

Attention Men! What does it take to be a “real man” in today's world? A Christian man? A Quaker or Methodist* man? What beliefs do you have that speak to that? What are your core values? (And how do you feel about bocce ball?)  Join us for a one day, thought provoking, and fun filled retreat at First Friends on Oct. 31st as we address these things along with some of the Methodist men of Epworth Methodist *(our Eco Film Series partners). Call Ed Morris at 317-691-5542 if you have any questions.  Save the date!

Save the Date: Say "Cheese!"
Did you know that First Friends publishes a directory every 4 years that includes pictures to make it easier to get to know the names and faces of the members and attendees of our Meeting? It's also a great opportunity on a deal for a family portrait.  We will have sign up, registration information and all the details for our picture days by early September, but put the dates of November 4th-7th, 2015 at First Friends on your calendar!  Expect the new directory to be available in early 2016. More detailed information coming soon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

317-255-2485office@indyfriends.org

July 29th, 2015

  Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

This past Sunday we honored the recipients and families of the Friends Educational Fund scholarship program supporting African American students in their pursuit of college.  This is an annual event and always inspiring to hear from these young people that are attending college and learn of their future plans.  But this past Sunday had a more significant impact on me during Unprogrammed Worship and Fellowship Hour than ever before.  I had this timeless moment of thinking about John Williams, the freed slave in Indiana that established the money after his death that ended up supporting an orphanage for black children which then established this scholarship fund.  We had such a meaningful gathering during Unprogrammed Worship and fellowship after the Meeting.  All of these connections with students and families would never had occurred without John Williams.  Wow - we were all there on Sunday because of this man that was murdered 151 years ago.  

I started thinking about who this man really was.  I have checked a few websites and he does have a small listing in the Indiana Historical Society website with very little information and also a short article written in 1934 (the link is attached).  This is a man that was a successful businessman and farmer owning 160 acres in Washington County, was not well known, had no family, was not a Quaker but connected strongly with a number of Quakers.  He asked his good friend, a Quaker lawyer to handle his estate to ensure his assets would help educate black children in Indiana.  

Ruthie shared with us that his estate totaled about $6,000 in 1864 and would equate to $150,000 today.  While this is a lot of money, it is not a huge estate.  And yet look at the impact!  We met so many folk on Sunday because of John Williams.   This led to me reflecting on what am I doing with my time and money.   We heard on Sunday that we have 1,440 minutes each day.  How are we using these minutes to invest in the future and help change a small part of our world like John Williams.?  How are we using our money to make a difference?  So many of us lament about the lack of time in this busy and programmed world.  But really, we have a lot of time that we have a choice in how it is spent each day.  I encourage all of us to think about time and money in an eternal way today. Read his story here.  http://scholarworks.iu.edu/journals/index.php/imh/article/view/6753/7227

Thank you, John Williams.

Joys & Concerns

Our hearts and prayers reach out to Diane Buyer in the death of her mother, Jean Martschink Buyer, this past Sunday morning. Services will be held at 5:30 p.m., Friday, July 31, 2015, at the Miller-Roscka Funeral Home in Monticello, IN.  Visitation will follow, immediately after the service.  Please hold Diane and her husband Tim Yale, Diane’s father John, and Diane’s siblings Karen, John and Steve and families in your prayers.  Her mother’s philosophy was ‘Strangers are friends I haven’t met yet’.   http://www.miller-rosckafh.com/

Thank you, Carl Butler and Lynda Sherer - flautists, Pat Price – accompanist, and the Women’s Chorus, who sang so beautifully in Meeting for Worship this past Sunday morning.  Such a blessing!

From Two Sister Scholarship Recipients, Haseena and Shakoora Sabree of the Friends Education Fund: With God’s Name, The Merciful Benefactor, The Merciful Redeemer…

Thank you, Indianapolis First Friends, for support my sister and I financially as we pursue our educational endeavors.  We are grateful for the work you have done and continue to do within our community.  The work you do in the African American Community has not gone unnoticed, and is greatly appreciated by those touched by it, and those who wish to see my people progress.  The First Friends demonstration of love and kindness to all is not only present today, but dates back to the time of slavery in the US, providing African American slaves with a place of refuge and guiding them to a path of freedom via the underground railroad.  While that is just one example of many, the First Friends continue to give freely of that which God gave them, through schlarship opportunities with no strings attached, and other acts of generosity.  For that cholarship and your continued support, displaying Christ’s love to me and other African Americans, I sincerely thank you, the Indianapolis First Friends, for doing the work of God here on earth.

Many Thanks to the 2015 First Friends FEF Scholarship Committee: Jed Kay, Carol Donahue, Nichole Matthews, Carl Butler, Jeff Rasley, Brenda Rodeheffer, and Kristin Noble.  These folks reviewed applications and awarded the scholarships, and provided the lovely reception for the Scholars this past Sunday.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities           

Pastor Ruthie will be traveling with Jon to their son’s wedding in Seattle this weekend.  Please keep Matt and Rebecca in your prayers, as they join together in marriage.  Jim and Deb Hejl’s daughter Julia will be married this same weekend in Los Angeles!  We ask for your prayers for Julia and Dan, as well!  In Ruthie’s absence, Catherine Griffith, Clerk of the New Association of Friends and a good friend of our Meeting, will be speaking in Meeting for Worship.  Phil Thrasher and the Murat Shrine Chanters will be providing special music.

First Friends is looking for a Part Time Youth Pastor - We are very excited that our Meeting is supporting the position of a part time (average 10 hours per week) youth pastor to offer a full blown youth group this fall.  The job description is attached.  If you know of someone that might be interested, please have them contact Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org or 331-8306).

Catherine Swanson will be reading from her book of poems, ‘A Map in the Wind’. On July 31 @ 7 pm at Half Price Books, Castleton, Clearwater Village Shops, 4709 E. 82nd Street. An open mic will follow the reading.

Temple Tour: Come tour the new temple in Carmel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons). It is a rare opportunity to visit a Mormon temple; there are fewer than 150 in operation worldwide, and non-Mormon guests are permitted to visit only during a brief time period prior to the temple’s consecration. The tour begins with a video presentation and concludes within an hour.

Date: Tuesday, Aug. 4

Time: Gather at First Friends by 6 p.m.; temple tour starts at 7 p.m.

Logistics: We will meet at First Friends north parking lot at 6 p.m. (Those who prefer to go directly to the temple should plan to arrive there by 6:45 p.m. Address: 11565 Temple Dr., Carmel.)

First come, first served: Our reservation is limited to 20 attendees. Wheelchair access is available, but service animals are not permitted. To reserve your spot, please email name, cell number, whether you are available to drive or need a ride (if driving, indicate how many besides yourself you can transport) to: laurawilsonindy@yahoo.com. For questions, email Laura or call at 317-775-4849. July 31st is the last day to sign up.  Temple reservation website: templeopenhouse.lds.org 

_____

Friday August 7th:

First Friends Community Salad Supper and Screening of

‘The Many Storeys and Last Days of Thomas Merton’

Supper served 5:30 - 7:00.  Film begins at 7:00 PM

The film will be followed by a discussion with Producer Morgan Atkinson.  Come to either or both segments of the evening.

Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation presents Quaker Historian Thomas D. Hamm. Friday, August 14th from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. here at First Friends Meeting Tom Hamm will speak about the history of Quaker involvement in political & social activism. A discussion period to follow Tom’s lecture. A freewill offering will be taken to support the advocacy work of IFCL.

‘Quakers and Peace: Past and Present’; Diana Hadley has worked at Franklin College since 2004 where she is executive director of the Indiana High School Press and has taught journalism classes and a liberal arts course in nonviolence. She will be leading this course from her new book, “The Peace Class”.

Time : Monday evenings 6:30 pm August 31-October 5th.

Where: Fairfield Friends Meeting 10441 E. County Rd 700 S. Camby, IN, 46113

The cost of the course is $30, with a book included. Please RSVP at  llinzev@yahoo.com 

Discovering God in a Changing World. Dr. Dan Moseley will be right here at First Friends, for Session Four – Simplicity - Aug. 22nd-23rd, 2015. De-clutter one’s life and create space to live more simply. Keeping the momentum building for growth and change. The session consist of a half-day Saturday retreat from 9am-to 1pm. Meeting for Worship at 10:15am on Sunday with a Luncheon following Worship. Q&A with Dan after lunch.  Save the Date! Please contact the office if you would like to attend.  office@indyfriends.org

Women’s Retreat! Join Katherine Murray, September 14-15 at Quaker Haven.  Quaker Women from across Indiana will be gathering to learn to “Choose Gratitude”.  Come join us as we explore practical, worshipful and creative ways to fill our lives and spiritual practice with gratitude.  Cost: $65, includes 3 meals and night’s lodging. Begins at 1:00 Monday (14th), and ends after lunch on Tuesday (15th).   

Attention Men! What does it take to be a “real man” in today's world? A Christian man? A Quaker or Methodist* man? What beliefs do you have that speak to that? What are your core values? (And how do you feel about bocce ball?)  Join us for a one day, thought provoking, and fun filled retreat at First Friends on Oct. 31st as we address these things along with some of the Methodist men of Epworth Methodist *(our Eco Film Series partners). Call Ed Morris at 317-691-5542 if you have any questions.  Save the date!

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

July 22,2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

Most Gracious Lord,

  We ask that you bless these sessions of Western Yearly Meeting.  Strengthen your servants who are carrying out your work in various fields.  As Friends of differing viewpoints meet and gather, let them feel the ties of your love and grace that transcend all divisions.

  Keep us open; to your leadings over our opinions, to your guidance over our theologies, and to your word over our wishes.

  Let us worship in Spirit and in Truth surrendering ourselves to your presence that we may be transformed and renewed as individuals and as your church, and that through your power as a transformed and renewed church we might transform creation.  In Christ’s Name, Amen.

This was the opening prayer given last Thursday by Pastor David Kinsey of Sheridan Friends. It was a blessing that fell over me, and over the entire Yearly Meeting throughout our time together.  David’s prayer acknowledged the differences between us, but also understood the grace and power God brings when, as Fox said, ‘a people to be gathered’ are brought together– not just in number, but in Spirit.  Friends were open, to learning things from one another, from our own condition, and from those asked to bring spiritual

direction and meaning to the Yearly Meeting.  Instead of looking to the past, Alan Kolp called us into the future through his Quaker Lecture.  Howard Macy drove us into the Letter to the Ephesians, and caused us to re-write it on our own hearts… God loves us beyond all understanding, calling us into a new humanity – a place where God dwells in us – living out this love as an outward, practical expression of God’s love together.  And what does this bring?  Light!  A light that is witness to the fact of God’s notorious presence in the world!

First Friends is filled with light.  It was this past Sunday morning, as many people gathered for unprogrammed worship in the Meetinghouse, and many others gathered for the programmed worship at WYM.  First Friends light shines, through our witness as individuals, and as a gathered meeting.  We are known for our concern for the needy and the hungry. We are known for our concern for the testimonies of Friends – equality, integrity…  What else do people know us for?  Are we being transformed?  Are we being renewed?  Do we realize the capacity of God’s love, and what power and grace it can bring?  Let us dare to live as the kind of people God is already creating us to be.  As Howard Macy said, “Let’s shine!”

Joys & Concerns

Thank you, Jim and Deb Hejl, for serving on Facing Bench this past Sunday morning, and leading our Meeting in unprogrammed worship. It was a blessed time together.  Two other gatherings in unprogrammed worship are offered each week:  Mondays at 12:15 pm and Wednesdays at 7:00 pm.  Join in any time!

A Yearly Meeting Thank You!  Norma Wallman led worship sharing and a workshop, Ann Panah and friends hosted a meal, Beth Henricks led a workshop with Dan Lee and Deb Hejl as Rufus Jones and Lucretia Mott, Jim and Leslie Kartholl, and Eric Baker sang… and any number of Friends from FFM attended sessions of Yearly Meeting this year.  Thank you all for your wonderful participation!

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities   

We at First Friends are proud to take part in an ecumenical Habitat for Humanity Panel Build on July 25th at Allisonville Christian Church. Allisonville Christian is located at 7701 Allisonville Road. Volunteers are needed for the build itself as well as hospitality tasks, including child care, food donations and serving a continental breakfast and lunch. Between all the congregations working on the build we need 100 volunteer shifts filled. Please find below links to both types of shift opportunities that are available.

CONSTRUCTION SIGN UP LINK:  http://vhub.at/GIDA

HOSPITALITY SIGN UP LINK: http://vols.pt/9y2fpY

If you have registered in the past with Indy Habitat Volunteer Hub you need only to sign-in. Otherwise, you will be need to create your own account and be registered to participate in this build. Please be sure to sign up for the specific shift you would like to join us for on build day.

The shifts available are: Set-up- (7:00-7:30) Nail Captain (All Day-7:15-12:15), Shift 1 (7:30-10:00), Shift 2 (9:30-12:00), Tear Down (approx. 12:00-12:30 takes place when house is completed)

  This build is the first project from an ecumenical group known as “Shalom Zone”. Shalom Zone’s mission statement is “Led by God’s Light, Ecumenically Building the Kingdom of God, One Need at a Time”.  First Friends along with several area faith groups have been working over the last several months to make Shalom Zone an important addition to our community.  For questions about Shalom Zone or the build please contact Bill Chapman at 255-4739 or drchapman@earthlink.net

Women’s Choir Fun!  Come to one or both practices!  Join Ruthie and Pat for a Sunday of Song! All women who love to sing are invited to sing in Meeting for Worship on Sunday, July 26th.  Save the date for lots of fun!  We will practice twice… Thursday, July 23 at 7:00 and Sunday, July 26 at 9:00.  Two pieces have been chosen: ‘Be Thou My

Vision’ and ‘Rise Up Singing!’  We’re going to make a joyful noise!

Friends Education Fund is a scholarship program for African American students, administered by First Friends Meeting from proceeds that originated in an estate left by a freed black slave, under the care of his Quaker friend and attorney.  We will celebrate this long-standing scholarship and honor the 24 recipient scholars this coming Sunday, July 26th.  A reception will follow after Meeting. 

This Sunday July 26th, we will be selling chocolates, coffee, tea, olive oil and fragrance free products to benefit Right Sharing of World Resources, American Friends Service Committee and our youth group.  A table will be set up in fellowship hall.

Catherine Swanson will be reading from her book of poems, A Map in the Wind, on two occasions during the last week of July.  July 28 @ 6:30 at the Lawrence Art Center, 4437 N. Franklin Road.  July 31 @ 7 pm at Half Price Books, Castleton, Clearwater Village Shops, 4709 E. 82nd Street. An open mic will follow each reading.

Temple Tour: Come tour the new temple in Carmel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons). It is a rare opportunity to visit a Mormon temple; there are fewer than 150 in operation worldwide, and non-Mormon guests are permitted to visit only during a brief time period prior to the temple’s consecration. The tour begins with a video presentation and concludes within an hour.

Date: Tuesday, Aug. 4

Time: Gather at First Friends by 6 p.m.; temple tour starts at 7 p.m.

Logistics: We will meet at First Friends north parking lot at 6 p.m. (Those who prefer to go directly to the temple should plan to arrive there by 6:45 p.m. Address: 11565 Temple Dr., Carmel.)

First come, first served: Our reservation is limited to 20 attendees. Wheelchair access is available, but service animals are not permitted. To reserve your spot, please email name, cell number, whether you are available to drive or need a ride (if driving, indicate how many besides yourself you can transport) to: laurawilsonindy@yahoo.com. For questions, email Laura or call at 317-775-4849. July 31st is the last day to sign up.  Temple reservation website: templeopenhouse.lds.org 

Friday August 7th: First Friends Community Soup & Salad Supper,

and screening of ‘The Many Storeys and Last Days of Thomas Merton’         

Supper served 5:30 - 7:00.  Film begins at 7:00 PM

The film will be followed by a discussion with Producer Morgan Atkinson.  You’re welcome to come to either or both segments of the evening.

Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation presents Quaker Historian Thomas D. Hamm. Friday, August 14th from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Here at First

Friends Meeting Tom Hamm will speak about the history of Quaker involvement in political & social activism. A discussion period to follow Tom’s lecture. A freewill offering will be taken to support the advocacy work of IFCL.

Peace and Social Justice Committee Presents, Teacher Diana Hadley - Quakers and Peace: Past and Present. Diana has worked at Franklin College since 2004 where she is executive director of the Indiana High School Press and has taught journalism classes and a liberal arts course in nonviolence. Time : Monday evenings 6:30 pm August 31-October 5th.

                      Where: Fairfield Friends Meeting 10441 E. County Rf 700 S. Camby, IN, 46113-3121

The cost of the course is $30, with a book included. Please RSVP at  llinzev@yahoo.com

Calling all ice cream lovers!  First Friends will be working at the Dairy Bar at the Indiana State Fair on Saturday August 8th all day.  This is a fundraiser for our youth program as we will receive $1100 from the Dairy Association for our work that day.  We plan to have two 6 hour shifts similar to last year. (9:30am-3:30pm or 3:30pm-9:30pm).  It is fast paced but lots of fun.  And you get to eat as much ice cream and grilled cheese sandwiches as you want.  Please let Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you can participate. We need 27 people to fill these shifts.

Attention Men! What does it take to be a “real man” in today's world? A Christian man? A Quaker or Methodist* man? What beliefs do you have that speak to that? What are your core values? (And how do you feel about bocce ball?)  Join us for a one day, thought provoking, and fun filled retreat at First Friends on Oct. 31st as we address these things along with some of the Methodist men of Epworth Methodist *(our Eco Film Series partners). Call Ed Morris at 317-691-5542 if you have any questions.  Save the date!

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

317-255-2485  office@indyfriends.org

July 15,2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

We returned from our Affirmation trip to Philadelphia last Monday evening.  It was a trip that was full of visits to U.S. and Quaker historical sites, driving, laughs, ‘CatchPhrase’, revelations and a greater and deeper connection between all of us. Ellie Arle did a wonderful job of documenting the trip with pictures on Facebook (go to 2015 First Friends Philadelphia trip) and we plan to have a time of sharing about the trip on Sunday July 26th during Meeting for Worship.   

We worshiped with Central Philadelphia Friends Meeting at 15th and Cherry St (the old Race St Meeting) on Sunday morning.  As we pulled into the parking lot, I asked everyone in the van to think about this Query as they entered into unprogrammed worship: ‘What is God saying to you on this trip?’   I have been reflecting on this question myself and realize that God was speaking to me so many times during this adventure - through our kids, through our adults, through the history of Friends.  It is one thing to study our Quaker history like we did during Affirmation this year, but it is quite another to walk into the Meeting Room where Lucretia Mott stood up for her principles in the 1800’s.  And to walk into the room at 4th and Arch St where Elias Hicks was escorted or thrown out of the building.  And to be in the room where Free Quakers believed in the Revolutionary cause and joined the military to support the revolution.   There is something sacred about being in the physical space where ordinary people heard God’s voice and stood up to take action even when the personal cost was great.  I was inspired to step into these places and absorb the spirit of these individuals.  I also sensed the difficulty that many of these Quaker faith communities had in dealing with these individuals that pushed, stretched and challenged the status quo within the Society.    

What lessons can we learn from this history as we deal with issues that push, stretch and challenge us as a faith community today?  What would William Penn, Lucretia Mott, Betsy Ross, Elias Hicks and others share with us today?   How will we be remembered and our faith communities be remembered 100 years from now?

Joys & Concerns

Bob Davis, our beloved friend, passed away very peacefully this last Thursday afternoon, July 9th having battled lung cancer for a great while.  His family will remember him in Maryland on Saturday, August 8 in a Memorial Service there.  Friends will gather locally at the Indianapolis Arts Center on Sunday, August 23 at 3:00 pm for a Memorial Service here. Please hold Joyce Sommers, and Bob’s daughters Kristen and Karen in God’s loving, healing, comforting light. http://feeney-hornak-keystone-mort.tributes.com/dignitymemorial/obituary/Robert-Madary-Davis-102660821

Thank you for your prayers for our Affirmation Trip to Philadelphia!  We had horrible weather driving over, wonderful weather driving back, and no difficulties with van/car troubles.  God was watching over us.  We felt safe and protected, and are thankful for the covering of prayer you gave.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities                        

Western Yearly Meeting Starts Tomorrow!  The theme for Yearly Meeting, “Building Together to Become God’s Dwelling”, is about building the church -- an extension of the past two years: YM 2013 was centered on identifying spiritual gifts, and YM 2014 was about being stewards or trustees of our gifts and resources.  This year's theme builds on the other two by encouraging people to use our individual and corporate resources to encourage one another and build a strong body of believers.    Howard Macy (left) will be the devotional speaker each morning, and Alan Kolp (right) will be bringing the Quaker Lecture on Thursday evening at 7:30 pm. Workshops and worship will be offered, in addition to regular business.  Here’s info about some people you know!

Peace & Christian Social Concerns—”Addressing the Problems of Building an Inclusive Community: Lucretia Mott and Rufus Jones Visit WYM”. (aka Deb Hejl and Dan Lee!) Come and watch as current Quakers role-play these early church leaders.

Outreach—”Friends World Committee on Consultation (FWCC)” Norma Bangel Wallman, one of our WYM representatives to FWCC will provide an overview about FWCC, its founding, mission, and organization. Highlights of the Quaker Youth Pilgrimage and 2015 Section of Americas Mtg in Mexico will be provided. Bring your laptop, tablet or smart phone to research the FWCC web-site.

A calendar of events is attached to Friend to Friend… find something that you’d be interested in, and consider joining in the work and witness of Western Yearly Meeting at our summer session.  

http://www.westernym.net/pdf/2015WYMSessionsAdultRegistration.pdf

Worship this Sunday July 19th… you have options!!! It has been our custom at First Friends to join with other Friends throughout our Yearly Meeting for worship on Yearly Meeting Sunday.  A full morning is promised, with the ‘Concert of Gifts and Talents’ at 9:30 and Meeting for Worship at 10:30 at the YM Meetinghouse in Plainfield [105 S. East Street, Plainfield].  Ruthie will be leading the ‘Concert’, with people across the Yearly Meeting performing, including our own Eric Baker and Jim and Leslie Kartholl.  Howard Macy will be speaking in Meeting for Worship.

Some Friends find it more worshipful to gather in our own Meetinghouse for worship that day, and we provide an Unprogrammed Meeting for Worship at FFM at our usual time, 10:15.  This year, it will be led by Jim and Deb Hejl.  Nursery will be provided, but there will be no Children’s Message or Children’s Worship.  No matter where you gather, God’s Spirit will accompany you… enjoy the experience!

Ladies of Oak Leaf Book Discussion Group:  Pat Price invites you to her home for a Mid-Summer Social for next meeting Tuesday July 21st.  We will gather at 6 pm to share a meal before we discuss Jodi Picoult's novel:  Leaving Time, led by Rhonda Carver.  Please bring one of the following dishes: pasta, vegetable, fruit or congealed salad.  We will enjoy each other's tasty dishes!  Our host Pat Price will provide table service, lemonade, iced tea and brownies. Please contact Pat Price at (317) 626-8028 for directions to her home.  

Women’s Choir Fun!  Come to one or both practices!  Join Ruthie and Pat for a Sunday of Song! All women who love to sing are invited to sing in Meeting for Worship on Sunday, July 26th.  Save the date for lots of fun!  We will practice twice… Thursday, July 23 at 7:00 and Sunday, July 26 at 9:00.  Two pieces have been chosen: ‘Be Thou My Vision’ and ‘Rise Up Singing!’  We’re going to make a joyful noise! 

We at First Friends are proud to take part in an ecumenical Habitat for Humanity Panel Build on July 25th at Allisonville Christian Church. Allisonville Christian is located at 7701 Allisonville Road. Volunteers are needed for the build itself as well as hospitality tasks, including child care, food donations and serving a continental breakfast and lunch. Between all the congregations working on the build we need 100 volunteer shifts filled. Please find below links to both types of shift opportunities that are available.

CONSTRUCTION SIGN UP LINK:  http://vhub.at/GIDA

HOSPITALITY SIGN UP LINK: http://vols.pt/9y2fpY

If you have registered in the past with Indy Habitat Volunteer Hub you need only to sign-in. Otherwise, you will be need to create your own account and be registered to participate in this build. Please be sure to sign up for the specific shift you would like to join us for on build day.

The shifts available are:

Set-up- (7:00-7:30)

Nail Captain (All Day-7:15-12:15)

Shift 1 (7:30-10:00)

Shift 2 (9:30-12:00)

Tear Down (approx. 12:00-12:30 takes place when house is completed)

This build is the first project from an ecumenical group known as “Shalom Zone”. Shalom Zone’s mission statement is “Led by God’s Light, Ecumenically Building the Kingdom of God, One Need at a Time”.  First Friends along with several area faith groups have been working over the last several months to make Shalom Zone an important addition to our community.  For questions about Shalom Zone or the build please contact Bill Chapman at 255-4739 or drchapman@earthlink.net.

Temple Tour: Come tour the new temple in Carmel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons). It is a rare opportunity to visit a Mormon temple; there are fewer than 150 in operation worldwide, and non-Mormon guests are permitted to visit only during a brief time period prior to the temple’s consecration. The tour begins with a video presentation and concludes within an hour.

Date: Tuesday, Aug. 4

Time: Gather at First Friends by 6 p.m.; temple tour starts at 7 p.m.

Logistics: We will meet at First Friends north parking lot at 6 p.m. (Those who prefer to go directly to the temple should plan to arrive there by 6:45 p.m. Address: 11565 Temple Dr., Carmel.)

First come, first served: Our reservation is limited to 20 attendees. Wheelchair access is available, but service animals are not permitted.

To reserve your spot, please email name, cell number, whether you are available to drive or need a ride (if driving, indicate how many besides yourself you can transport) to: laurawilsonindy@yahoo.com. For questions, email Laura or call at 317-775-4849.

Temple reservation website: templeopenhouse.lds.org.

Calling all ice cream lovers!  First Friends will be working at the Dairy Bar at the Indiana State Fair on Saturday August 8th all day.  This is a fundraiser for our youth program as we will receive $1100 from the Dairy Association for our work that day.  We plan to have two 6 hour shifts similar to last year. (9:30am-3:30pm or 3:30pm-9:30pm).  It is fast paced but lots of fun.  And you get to eat as much ice cream and grilled cheese sandwiches as you want.  Please let Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you can participate. We need 27 people to fill these shifts.

M&C Notes for July '15 from Ed Morris, Clerk

A desire for more unprogrammed worship time was brought forward. Various ideas were proposed, including having a set expectation of unprogrammed worship starting earlier in worship during the Sunday morning service, and adding an extra worship service on Saturday evening. Jeff Goens and Mary Blackburn will study the various possibilities and report back to M&C.

Quaker Process Classes or Clinics: We will present a three part series on Quaker Process/Discernment at two different times; one on Sunday mornings with combined Adult Sunday school classes and another on Thursday evenings. The following dates have been chosen: Thurs. Sept. 10 and Sunday Sept. 13; Thurs. Sept. 17 and Sunday Sept. 20; and Thurs. Sept. 24 and Sunday Sept. 27. Eric Tinsley and Barbara Oberreich will be the primary facilitators of the classes. Eden Grace's piece on Quaker Business Practice may be used as a short guideline and Ruthie may ask Eden to come and speak to us during this process.

Marriage Equality: M&C is working toward a statement that could get unity within the Meeting as a whole. We identified four issues within the discussion of Marriage Equality as it relates to FFM: 1. Current Faith and Practice Statement of WYM. 2. Marriage by the Pastor outside of the meeting. 3. Marriage in the Meeting House, outside of the Care of the Meeting. 4. Marriage Under the Care of the Meeting. We seem to be in agreement that we are not prepared to address all of these issues simultaneously. We had an interesting discussion of Quaker marriage and Marriage Under the Care of the Meeting in particular. The discussion was positive and helpful.

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

317-255-2485  office@indyfriends.org

July 8, 2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

Howard.  Ed. Duffy.  Our hearts are breaking.  We have loved and lost many – friends and family – in recent months and days.  Each loss brings the kingdom of heaven a little closer, as we release them to God’s presence and care.  But wait – didn’t Christ teach us that the kingdom of heaven was with us now?  Visible? Tactile? Within our reach?  The strength of Christ’s message was that you didn’t have to die to see God. God’s power, strength, love, and grace was and is with us, available to us, in us now. Wasn’t that true in Howard Taylor’s life?  In Ed Thomas’ life?  In Duffy Fankboner’s life?  Need we die in order to live with God? No.  These men, and so many others we each have known, loved, respected, treasured, have shown us God made known in the practical, actual living of life.  The ‘now’ of life.  The kingdom of heaven is at hand!  Do we see it? Do we recognize it for what it is?  Do we see God in the lives of those who surround us, who honor and follow Christ’s teachings of compassion, mercy, boldness, joy, gentleness, love?  Do we ourselves bring heaven – the presence of God with us – a bit closer in the ways we act and react with one another?  Perhaps if we pay attention to the kingdom at hand, our healing will come more quickly.

Joys & Concerns

A Memorial Service for Ed Thomas will be held this Sunday, July 12th at Marquette Manor, 8140 Township Line Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, at 4:00 pm in Foundation Hall. Pastor Stan Banker will be officiating, and Helena Riley will be playing. Friends are invited to join his family in remembering Ed and celebrating his life. A reception will follow the service.  Please keep his daughters, Kathy, Beth and Jennifer and their families in your hearts and prayers.

Bob Davis recently returned from a five weeks’ stay with his daughters, Kristen and Karen, in Maryland.  Scans were done, revealing the continued growth of cancer cells, and he has been hospitalized now for the past ten days. His prognosis is not good. Visits are too tiring, but prayers for strength and peace for Bob, his family, and for his companion, Joyce Sommers are most welcome.

A big thank you to Sarah Roth for helping out in the office during the last month.  Sarah helped prepare and send out Friend to Friend, the bulletin, Vacation Bible School materials and a variety of signs.  Ruthie and Beth are so thankful for her help.  It was also a joy to have Kincade in the office each week.  There is nothing like a baby to make one’s day better.  What a blessing to have Sarah and her family as part of our faith community.                                                                                                                                                                                                

From Duffy Fankboner’s Family:  Friends, My brother and I want to thank you for the beautiful celebration of life for our Dad, Duffy. He would have loved having so many people full of life and laughter in one room. Thank you to all those who shared such lovely things about Dad during the service and after to my brother and I. Dad's strength and absolute faith in his journey forward helped Cody and I at the end and you all helped us after to be happy and strong and joyous.                                                                                                          

Our love goes out to all of you, Kate Smith and Cody Fankboner

Phyllis Paulsen, from 2nd Friends in Indianapolis sent this message, after reading last week’s Wednesday Word about our Affirmation Students work this past year:  “Very, very nice.  It took a lot of planning, organization, volunteering, and dedication on a group to work together for this to happen.  This is what all Friends should be about!  These young people will be able to keep the faith no matter what comes along in life.  Blessings upon all of you.”

A Note from Jan Ahmed: Friends, I just wanted to thank all of the people who paid a visit to my family. We appreciate all of your thoughts and prayers, as well. The dinners were scrumptious and the gifts and cards were quite welcome and will be used. We have been blessed, not only by the outpouring of support, but by the lives of the people that were shared with us. It was truly wonderful to get to know all who stopped by. I hope to further and continue our friendships. Again, Thanks for a welcoming wonderful new start for our little Guy, Zarian Elijyah Ahmed.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities    

 Affirmation Students leave tomorrow, July 9th, for Philadelphia!  Chelsea Tinsley, Elle Arle, Kendal Tinsley, Krishan Coffman, Logan Kay, Paul McDonald, Sam Arle, Sam Miller, and Paul Lee will be traveling with adult sponsors; Beth Henricks, Jon and Ruthie Tippin, Barbara and David Blackford, and Karen McDonald.  The students will tour several Quaker historic sites including Arch St.Meeting House, Quaker Free House, Pennsbury Manor and Chestnut Hill Friends. We will also be touring several historic sites of our country. We ask for your prayers for this upcoming trip. You can follow our trip on Facebook/ 2015FirstFriends Philadelphia trip.

First Friends Representative Needed for Peace Church Coalition (Quaker/Brethren/Mennonite):  In the midst of this horrific string of attacks on historically black churches in the South, I am reminded how important it is not only that we abstain from violence ourselves and seek tranquility for our own

Families, but that we actively advocate for peace and justice for everyone. I would encourage you to bring your thoughts, your ideas, your concerns, and your prayers to our next PCC meeting, which is scheduled for this Thursday, July 9 at 7pm, at Fairfield Friends. Fairfield is located at 10441 E County Rd 700 S, Camby, IN. I was asked to inform you that we will be meeting in the older, white meeting house, not the new meeting house.                                     Brian Bither, Convener; Associate Pastor – Shalom Mennonite Church                                                                    

 Mid-North Food Pantry Update: Bill Chapman, Bill & Kathy Farris, Phil Kitchel, Jade Malott, Ed Morris, Susan Rains, Samantha Ryan and Norma Wallman served at the pantry. First Friends donated 265lbs of food. We are especially grateful to Susan Rains for her generous food donation. Thanks to all for making a difference in our community!

Greg Keesling and Recycle Force: Mark your calendars for next Sunday - July 12! That's when Greg Keesling will be here to tell us about the mission of Recycle Force which combines environmental care and social ministry. Greg is a lifelong Quaker with deep roots in Indiana. He is the president and founder of Recycle Force which is a recycling company that emphasizes the recycling of electronic materials. While Recycle Force recycles most recyclable goods, they specialize in recycling computers, TVs,  monitors, printers, cell phones and just about anything electronic. In addition to this environmental service, Recycle Force provides jobs for people who have formerly been incarcerated. Recycle Force helps former inmates break the cycle of the revolving prison door by providing jobs, training, and other support systems.

Valley Mills Friends invites you to join us for a "Quaker Jamboree" with singing and instruments on Sunday, July 12, 2015, at 1:00 pm.  They will provide refreshments.  Bring your voices and/or acoustic instruments. We will be singing from the available hymnals and song sheets that any of you might bring.  Please join us for this afternoon of visiting, fellowship, fun and music.  Dress is casual, including jeans or whatever is comfortable for you. The address is 6739 W Thompson Road, Indianapolis, IN 46241.  If anyone has any questions, they can call or text Pastor Marilee Gabriel at (317) 362-4517. 

This Sunday, July 12, Seeking Friends has scheduled a period of Unprogrammed worship from 9:00am – 10:00am in the Seeking Friends room before the regular Meeting for Worship.  ALL ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US.  To focus our worship, we will use the following statement from Faith and Practice of Western Yearly Meeting:

As we yield ourselves to divine guidance, we become active partners with God in the extension of His kingdom. It is the Light of God within that gives a burning sense of mission and inspires the ideal of universal kinship. Out of the realization of this spiritual fellowship come the rising tides of human sympathy that bear us forth to do His will. 

                                                                                                                              Deb Hejl, 317-569-8394                                                                    

Mark your calendars for an interfaith event hosted by Fairfield Friends Meeting.  On Monday, July 13th, Noor-Malika Chisti will be presenting “Stories of a resilient heart:  navigating culture and religion in the pursuit of Peace.”  Noor-Malika Chisti is a founding member of the Southern California Committee for the Parliament of World Religions and the Southern California Muslim-Jewish Forum.  The event will take place July 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Fairfield Friends Meeting, 10441 E. County Rd. 700 S.; Camby, IN 46113.

Western Yearly Meeting, July 16-19 in Plainfield; Register Now!

‘Building Together to become God’s Dwelling’ is the theme for the sessions this year. Howard Macy will be the devotional speaker each morning, and Alan Kolp will be bringing the Quaker Lecture on Thursday evening at 7:30 pm. Workshops and worship will be offered, in addition to regular business.  Consider joining in the work and witness of Western Yearly Meeting at their summer session.  http://www.westernym.net/pdf/2015WYMSessionsAdultRegistration.pdf

Worship at First Friends on July 19th. Since many of us will be worshipping at WYM, we will offer an Unprogrammed worship service at First Friends at 10:15am.

Looking for a Youth Pastor - Our Meeting has approved the hiring of a part time youth pastor starting in September.  The job description is attached.  If you know of someone that might be interested in this position, please have them contact Beth Henricks at beth.henricks@indyfriends.org.

 Women’s Choir Fun!  Join Ruthie and Pat for a Sunday of Song! All women who love to sing are invited to sing in Meeting for Worship on Sunday, July 26th.  Save the date for lots of fun!  We will practice twice… Thursday, July 23 at 7:00 and Sunday, July 26 at 9:00.  Two pieces have been chosen… warm up your warblers!  We’re going to make a joyful noise! 

  Calling all ice cream lovers!  First Friends will be working at the Dairy Bar at the Indiana State Fair on Saturday August 8th all day.  This is a fundraiser for our youth program as we will receive $1100 from the Dairy Association for our work that day.  We plan to have two 6 hour shifts similar to last year. (9:30am-3:30pm or 3:30pm-9:30pm).  It is fast paced but lots of fun.  And you get to eat as much ice cream and grilled cheese sandwiches as you want.  Please let Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you can participate. We need 27 people to fill these shifts.

We at First Friends are proud to take part in an ecumenical Habitat for Humanity Panel Build on July 25th at Allisonville Christian Church. Alllisonville Christian is located at 7701 Allisonville Road. Volunteers are needed for the build itself as well as hospitality tasks, including child care, food donations and serving a continental breakfast and lunch. Between all the congregations working on the build we need 100 volunteer shifts filled. Please find below links to both types of shift opportunities that are available.

CONSTRUCTION SIGN UP LINK:  http://vhub.at/GIDA

HOSPITALITY SIGN UP LINK: http://vols.pt/9y2fpY 

If you have registered in the past with Indy Habitat Volunteer Hub you need only to sign-in. Otherwise, you will be need to create your own account and be registered to participate in this build. Please be sure to sign up for the specific shift you would like to join us for on build day.

The shifts available are:

Set-up- (7:00-7:30)

Nail Captain (All Day-7:15-12:15)

Shift 1 (7:30-10:00)

Shift 2 (9:30-12:00)

Tear Down (approx. 12:00-12:30 takes place when house is completed)

This build is the first project from an ecumenical group known as “Shalom Zone”. Shalom Zone’s mission statement is “Led by God’s Light, Ecumenically Building the Kingdom of God, One Need at a Time”.  First Friends along with several area faith groups have been working over the last several months to make Shalom Zone an important addition to our community.  For questions about Shalom Zone or the build please contact Bill Chapman at 255-4739 or drchapman@earthlink.net.

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

317-255-2485  office@indyfriends.org

July 1, 2015

   Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens 

This past Sunday we celebrated the life of our dear friend Duffy Fankboner.  The service was a fitting tribute to a life that impacted so many people.  Folks were so anxious to share a story or memory showing the power his personality had on their own life that they had to wait in line for the microphone to be passed to them.  The friends and family that shared their special moments with Duffy represented folks that had known Duffy for 50 plus years and those who felt his touch within the last couple of years.  That is the biggest legacy that we need to breathe into our own beings.  Duffy never stopped reaching out, sharing God’s love, connecting, embracing and sharing his experience of Jesus throughout a life with its share of joys and pains, accomplishments and disappointments.  I personally learned so many things from Duffy, but the biggest impact he had on my life was his sharing in Unprogrammed worship a number of years ago.  He stood out of the silence and talked about the terrible foot pain that he had experienced the night before.  The pain was so intense that he couldn’t sleep and cried out to God to take this pain away.  As Duffy laid in bed asking for relief from the pain, he began to experience God in the midst of the pain.  All of a sudden, the pain was a conduit to God in a profound way.  God came to Duffy in the pain and he became thankful and full of joy.  Wow!  How many times have we cried out to God in the middle of the night to take away our physical or emotional pain.  And yet Duffy tells us to look for God in the pain.  Duffy’s sharing that morning changed my life.  The one certainty in our life is that we will experience pain.  And yet Duffy shows us a different way to look at pain.  I am so thankful that God brought Duffy into my life.  I am sure many of you say this same thing and we rejoice in his spirit and are challenged to live out his witness to this world.

Joys & Concerns

                 We celebrated and affirmed eleven of our young people Sunday. These young people completed  the ten month Affirmation Class and prepared a final project that reflected what they learned. Please be sure to tell these young people how much you appreciate this accomplishment.

They are, Chelsea Tinsley, Elle Arle, Kendal Tinsley, Krishan Coffman, Lena Kelly, Logan Kay,

Paul McDonald, Sam Arle, Sam Miller, Paul Lee and Scott Small.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities    

      Catinia is here!  Catinia Dycus Persaud has joined the staff at First Friends Meeting as our Office Administrator.  We are so glad to have her with us!  Catinia brings a lot of professional gifts to us; she owns her own business – Divine Designs, LLC – a hairstyling business.  She has worked for Wellfount Pharmacy Corporation as a technician, for Insight Corporation as a Direct Care Specialist, and as a Remittance Processor for National City Bank.  She and her husband Leon were married on his birthday – and it was a surprise to Catinia!  You’ll have to ask her about that story!  She is a delight, and is happy to help you in any way she can.  Welcome Catinia!                                                                                                                                         

David Beede’s photography will be on exhibit this Friday evening, July 3rd at the Harold Miller Studio, 646 Virginia Avenue in Indy.  The studio was once the Hudson car dealership, and is a unique and wonderful space to see this unique and wonderful exhibit.  Both David and Harold are a part of First Friends Meeting                                                                                                                                                                                                      

 Quaker Affirmation Class is heading to Philadelphia July 9th-15th.  Nine young people and six adults will be climbing into a van on July 9th and driving to Philadelphia. We will be touring several Quaker historic sites including Arch St.Meeting House, Quaker Free House, Pennsbury Manor and Chestnut Hill Friends. We will also be touring several historic sites of our country. We ask for your prayers for this up coming trip.

 Calling all ice cream lovers!  First Friends will be working at the Dairy Bar at the Indiana State Fair on Saturday August 8th all day.  This is a fundraiser for our youth program as we will receive $1100 from the Dairy Association for our work that day.  We plan to have two 6 hour shifts similar to last year.  It is fast paced but lots of fun.  And you get to eat as much ice cream and grilled cheese sandwiches as you want.  Please let Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you will help.

                                                                                                  .                                                                                     

Greg Keesling and Recycle Force: Mark your calendars for July 12! That's when Greg Keesling will be here to tell us about the mission of Recycle Force which combines environmental care and social ministry. Greg is a lifelong Quaker with deep roots in Indiana. He is the president and founder of Recycle Force which is a recycling company that emphasizes the recycling of electronic materials. While Recycle Force recycles most recyclable goods, they specialize in recycling computers, TVs,  monitors, printers, cell phones and just about anything electronic. In addition to this environmental service, Recycle Force provides jobs for people who have formerly been incarcerated. Recycle Force helps former inmates break the cycle of the revolving prison door by providing jobs, training, and other support systems. Plan to be here on 7/12 to hear more about this amazing man's story and mission!

Valley Mills Friends invites you to join us for a "Quaker Jamboree" with singing and instruments on Sunday, July 12, 2015, at 1:00 pm.  They will provide refreshments.  Bring your voices and/or acoustic instruments. We will be singing from the available hymnals and song sheets that any of you might bring.  Please join us for this afternoon of visiting, fellowship, fun and music.  Dress is casual, including jeans or whatever is comfortable for you. The address is 6739 W Thompson Road, Indianapolis, IN 46241.  If anyone has any questions, they can call or text Pastor Marilee Gabriel at (317) 362-4517.  How many are coming?  If you could respond by July 7, that would be great!

Mark your calendars for an interfaith event hosted by Fairfield Friends Meeting.  On Monday, July 13th, Noor-Malika Chisti will be presenting “Stories of a resilient heart:  navigating culture and religion in the pursuit of Peace.”  Noor-Malika Chisti is a founding member of the Southern California Committee for the Parliament of World Religions and the Southern California Muslim-Jewish Forum.  The event will take place July 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Fairfield Friends Meeting, 10441 E. County Rd. 700 S.; Camby, IN 46113.

Western Yearly Meeting, July 16-19 in Plainfield; Register Now!

‘Building Together to become God’s Dwelling’ is the theme for the sessions this year. Howard Macy will be the devotional speaker each morning, and Alan Kolp will be bringing the Quaker Lecture on Thursday evening at 7:30 pm. Workshops and worship will be offered, in addition to regular business.  Consider joining in the work and witness of Western Yearly Meeting at their summer session. Register by July 1 (today!) for Early Bird Rates.   http://www.westernym.net/pdf/2015WYMSessionsAdultRegistration.pdf

 Women’s Choir Fun!  Join Ruthie and Pat for a Sunday of Song!

All women who love to sing are invited to sing in Meeting for Worship on Sunday, July 26th.  Save the date for lots of fun!  We will practice twice… Thursday, July 23 at 7:00 and Sunday, July 26 at 9:00.  Two pieces have been chosen… warm up your warblers!  We’re going to make a joyful noise! 

Changing Footprints: First Friends has an ongoing collection drive for all types of footwear for distribution by Changing Footprints, a nonprofit group.  We are always grateful for shoes AND volunteers.  In Fellowship Hall, in the northwest corner, we have a bin marked for footwear donations to Changing Footprints.  If you would like more information about this organization, the website is www.changingfootprints.com.  Since I retired five years ago, I have been involved in helping distribute 10,000-17,000 pairs of shoes and other footwear per year for those in need.   Many of these shoes are given to local nonprofit organizations and schools.  Others have been distributed through medical mission teams or volunteers who travel to places such as Guatemala, Haiti, and Nepal.  If you would like more information, please contact me (cjdonahue@indy.rr.com).  Thanks for your continued support of this worthwhile cause!   Carol Donahue

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

317-255-2485  office@indyfriends.org

June 24,2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens 

They Met to Read the Bible
("Beneath the Cross of Jesus")
 
They met to read the Bible, 
they gathered for a prayer,
They worshiped God and shared with friends
and welcomed strangers there.
They went to church to speak of love,
To celebrate God’s grace.
O Lord, we tremble when we hear
what happened in that place.
 
O God of love and justice,
we thank you for the nine.
They served in their communities
and made the world more kind.
They preached and sang and coached and taught,
And cared for children, too.
They blessed your church and blessed your world
With gifts they used for you.
 
   We grieve a wounded culture
   Where fear and terror thrive,
   Where some hate others for their race
   And guns are glorified.
   We grieve for sons and daughters lost,
   For grandmas who are gone.
   O God, we cry with broken hearts:
   This can’t continue on!
 
   God, may we keep on sowing
   The seeds of justice here,
   Till guns are silent, people sing,
   And hope replaces fear.
   May seeds of understanding grow
   And flourish all our days.
   May justice, love and mercy be
   The banner that we raise.
 
Tune: Frederick Charles Maker, 1881

Text: Copyright © 2015 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.

Joys & Concerns

With great sadness, we send news that Duffy Fankboner passed away this afternoon.  His rapid decline has been a surprise to us all.  Duffy saw the end of his earthly life as a beginning of his life with his Father God in heaven, and asked us to celebrate.  We hope to do just that this coming Sunday afternoon at his Memorial Service.  Please watch for announcements via email regarding times etc. To send a card to his children – Kate or Cody, the address is 12921 Dekoven Drive, Fishers, IN 46037. 

Our friend Ed Thomas passed away Saturday evening, June 20th at Marquette Manor.  He and his wife June were long time members of our Meeting, and we are sad to lose him.  Please keep his family in your prayers.  A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 12th at 4:00 at Marquette Manor in their Foundation Hall. To send a note, please contact his daughter Beth at 7316 Highbury Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46256.

Jenny Morgan’s daughter Rachel was able to find an apartment in San Diego that fits her needs perfectly!  Her concern was to find housing that would be affordable and wheelchair accessible.  God answered prayers.  What a blessing! Rachel will soon start a one year NIH post doc fellowship with a research rheumatologist at UC San Diego.

Tricia Schug’s father, Jim Schug, passed away on Father’s Day, this past Sunday after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s.  His services are to be held today at Pendleton United Methodist Church. If you’ve not yet met Tricia, she and her husband Larry Lehnerz are new attenders at First Friends.  To send a card, their address is 1505 N. Leland Avenue, Indianapolis, 46219. Please keep Tricia, her mother Marjorie, and their family in your prayers. http://www.heraldbulletin.com/obituaries/james-l-schug/article_2c10d5f3-ee47-54c1-a007-f2901e11feed.html

Carolyn Tinsley’s brother in law Joe, has been hospitalized since June 12th, following a fall down some stairs. Joe remains hospitalized and hopes that he can move to a rehab facility this Monday.  Please keep Joe, his wife and their eight children in your prayers.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

We had a wonderful time last week at Vacation Bible School.  During the week we had 33 children participate in our trek to Mt Everest and learned how God provides for us.  We are deeply grateful for all of our volunteers that were crew leaders, station leaders, providers of snacks and our photographer Kathy Rhyne who took wonderful pictures all week of the kids and volunteers.

We talked about Basa Village in the Himalayans that our own Jeff Rasley is connected with and helps organize support for.  We were sad about the devastation that has occurred there because of the earthquake and were glad that we could help the kids of Basa by donating money each evening.  We raised over $398 for the village as they will be rebuilding their homes.  The table for Basa will be in fellowship hall with the treasure box this Sunday and we welcome any additional contributions for Basa (checks should be written to Indianapolis First Friends with Basa Village in the memo line).

We appreciate folks loaning us their evergreen trees and white tablecloths and sheets - these will all be in fellowship hall this Sunday for pick up.

We delivered 265 lbs. of food to Mid North Food Pantry. Volunteers were:  Sam Ryan and her mom, Meriam; Bill and Kathy Farris; Bill Champan; Phil Kitchel; Normal Wallman; Carol and Jim Donahue.

KIB!  June 27 from 9-12.  Come be part of Keep Indy Beautiful’s first partnership with IMPD to help the residents of the Near Northwest neighborhood (near 30th & MLK) with a community cleanup. Let’s pool our energies to beautify a transitional area and support neighbors who work hard to keep their streets and alleyways clean. Please make plans to join the fun!  Meet at SW Corner of Udell and Rader Streets.  For more information, contact Mary Blackburn: mhblackburn@sbcglobal.net

Join us this Sunday, June 28th for Affirmation Sunday!  Our Middle School and High School Students will present projects they’ve been working on as an expression of their studies in the Affirmation Course taken during the past school year.  The meeting will have an opportunity to affirm their seeking and study as Friends.  Join us afterward Meeting to greet the students and see their work.  Nine of them will leave for Philadelphia on Thursday, July 9th.

Jay Marshall, Dean of Earlham School of Religion, will be meeting with us for worship this Sunday, June 28th.  He is happy to take folks out to lunch after Meeting who might be interested in or have questions about the seminary experience at ESR.

Greg Keesling and Recycle Force: Mark your calendars for July 12! That's when Greg Keesling will be here to tell us about the mission of Recycle Force which combines environmental care and social ministry. Greg is a lifelong Quaker with deep roots in Indiana. He is the president and founder of Recycle Force which is a recycling company that emphasizes the recycling of electronic materials. While Recycle Force recycles most recyclable goods, they specialize in recycling computers, TVs,  monitors, printers, cell phones and just about anything electronic. In addition to this environmental service, Recycle Force provides jobs for people who have formerly been incarcerated. Recycle Force helps former inmates break the cycle of the revolving prison door by providing jobs, training, and other support systems. Plan to be here on 7/12 to hear more about this amazing man's story and mission!

Valley Mills Friends invites you to join us for a "Quaker Jamboree" with singing and instruments on Sunday, July 12, 2015, at 1:00 pm.  They will provide refreshments.  Bring your voices and/or acoustic instruments. We will be singing from the available hymnals and song sheets that any of you might bring.  Please join us for this afternoon of visiting, fellowship, fun and music.  Dress is casual, including jeans or whatever is comfortable for you. The address is 6739 W Thompson Road, Indianapolis, IN 46241.  If anyone has any questions, they can call or text Pastor Marilee Gabriel at (317) 362-4517.  How many are coming?  If you could respond by July 7, that would be great!

Mark your calendars for an interfaith event hosted by Fairfield Friends Meeting.  On Monday, July 13th, Noor-Malika Chisti will be presenting “Stories of a resilient heart:  navigating culture and religion in the pursuit of Peace.”  Noor-Malika Chisti is a founding member of the Southern California Committee for the Parliament of World Religions and the Southern California Muslim-Jewish Forum.  The event will take place July 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Fairfield Friends Meeting, 10441 E. County Rd. 700 S.; Camby, IN 46113.

Western Yearly Meeting, July 16-19 in Plainfield; Register Now!

‘Building Together to become God’s Dwelling’ is the theme for the sessions this year. Howard Macy will be the main speaker, and Alan Kolp will be bringing the Quaker Lecture. Workshops and worship will be offered, in addition to regular business.  Consider joining in the work and witness of Western Yearly Meeting at their summer session. Register by July 1 for Early Bird Rates.   http://www.westernym.net/pdf/2015WYMSessionsAdultRegistration.pdf

 Women’s Choir Fun!  Join Ruthie and Pat for a Sunday of Song!

All women who love to sing are invited to sing in Meeting for Worship on Sunday, July 26th.  Save the date for lots of fun!  We will practice twice… Thursday, July 23 at 7:00 and Sunday, July 26 at 9:00.  Two pieces have been chosen… warm up your warblers!  We’re going to make a joyful noise! 

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

317-255-2485  office@indyfriends.org

June 17th, 2015 Friend to Friend Newsletter

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens 

The past 3 days, our Meeting has been filled with children and adult volunteers gathering together for Vacation Bible School.  Our theme this year is Mt Everest - God will provide.  Each evening we are examining the dimensions of God’s love for us and how this love has been exhibited in history and how we experience this love today.  God provides for us, God comforts us and last night we talked about God heals us.   The verse we learned was from Psalm 147:3 -   "He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds”.   Yesterday, our dear Dan Mitchell made a large white heart and took a straight edge and cut it in two.  On the one side of the heart, we identified the physical hurts that we experience; illness, broken bones, family sickness.  On the other side of the heart we identified our emotional hurts; when people make fun of us, when we are afraid, when we are lonely, when we feel sadness for what is happening in our families.  We can all make our own list of what is breaking our heart today.  We all have our own Mt Everest that we are climbing today.   We are facing things that could be big or small but they make us feel broken. 

At the end of last night, we brought the broken heart together and put beautiful pink tape down the center of the heart.   The good news of our life is that God bandages our wounds and heals our hurts.  Our heart doesn’t look like it started, but it is now full of character, memories, words, and pink tape.  Our heart is shaped and changed through our life experiences.  God’s healing of our hearts continues to make us new beings with more capacity to share that healing with others.  That is the secret we learned last night.  God heals our heart so that we can help heal other hearts. 

Joys & Concerns

Duffy Fankboner shared the news that he is suffering with terminal cancer, and asked us to remember him in prayer. He is joyful, knowing he has a loving relationship with his Father God and with Jesus Christ.  He asks that we hold him in love, and ‘take on an attitude of celebration. You’d be doing me a big favor if you would… God gave me a great adventure in this life, and now I get to go to be with Him’.  God bless him!

Many thanks to the Chair Crew! John Noble, Ed Morris, Michael Hostetler, Billie Main, Norma Wallman, Mindy Sommer, Dan Mitchell and Bill and Kathy Farris did a super job of helping unpack our new chairs!!!

Ed Thomas was recently hospitalized and is now home again at Marquette Manor, under hospice care.  Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers as he journeys forward.

Joyce Bowman has returned home after knee replacement surgery and physical therapy.  We rejoice at her great recovery, and look forward to seeing her once again at Meeting for Worship! She is thankful for your prayers, cards, and visits.  Continue to pray for Joyce as she heals and recovers.

Have you seen Mt. Everest?  Our VBS set has been lovingly prepared by Dan Mitchell and Jim and Leslie Kartholl.  Next time you need a mountain… see them!

Ellie Arle will be traveling with nine other students from Speedway High School in a cultural exchange program with Speedway’s Italian sister city, Varano de Melegari.  While in Varano, they will stay with a host family to experience family life, culture, food etc. They will visit many Italian cities  including Florence, Venice, Rome etc.  Ellie departs tomorrow and will return on July 1st.  Ellie was selected from other students to particiapte in this program. She is 16, a junior at Speedway High School, part of our Affirmation class, and the daughter of Heather and John Arle.  We wish Ellie safe travels and will keep the group in our prayers.

Amanda and Lily Cordray are traveling to Washington DC this weekend for a program that is honoring veterans who died after the Vietnam War but due to chemical exposure during their tours.  Amanda’s father, Sargeant Randolph Craig Hamlyn did two tours in Vietnam and died in January 2008. Amanda will be reading his name during the ceremony and Lily, with Amanda’s sister, will place roses at the tribute site.  This day will be full of many emotions for Amanda’s family.  Please pray for their family.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

This Friday! An Evening of Storytelling and Music with Phil Gulley and Tim Grimm 

Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation (“IFCL”) has planned an evening to remember with nationally known Quaker storyteller, Phil Gulley and rural Americana and southern Indiana’s favorite musical son, Tim Grimm this Friday, June 19 at 7 pm at First Friends Meeting.  Phil’s fun and entertaining storytelling and Tim’s heartwarming music and songs will take you on a journey to small town Indiana and rural Americana that will leave you smiling, laughing, clapping hands and stomping feet in ways you had only imagined.  Tickets are $20 (advance) and $25 (at door). To obtain tickets, call 317 255 4739 (ask for Bill) or 317 730 2268 (ask for Tom). Phil’s books and Tim’s CDs will be available for sale and signing after the concert.  There are a limited number of tickets.  We encourage you to purchase them in advance.  Proceeds go to benefit IFCL.  

Mid-North Food Pantry Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Open House is being held on Tuesday June 23rd at 2:00 p.m. for the ribbon cutting and 3:00 p.m. for the open house.  Mid-North is the food pantry that we support and they have done some renovations that you are invited to see at  3333 N. Meridian.

VBS Sunday! Come, Enjoy our Everest Adventure! Join us this Sunday morning for Meeting for Worship at 10:15 as we celebrate the experiences our VBS students have had exploring the power of God… songs, stories, pictures and music will help us focus on the lessons we all can learn together. 

This Sunday June 21st, will be Monthly Meeting for Business after Meeting for Worship and all are invited to attend.  We will be reviewing and asking for input on the job description for the new Youth Pastor.  A draft of this job description is attached.  The minutes from our May Meeting for Business are also attached for your review.

American Friends Service Committee is presenting a poster exhibit titled “All of Us or None:  Responses & Resistance to Militarism” at the Indiana Interchurch Center, 1100 W. 42nd Street. The exhibit runs June 2nd through June 20th, and is open weekdays 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. or by

appointment on weekends.  Also, at 6:00 p.m. on June 17th, there will be a reception and discussion on non-violent solutions to militarism.  This discussion will feature writer and radio journalist Vince Emmanuele and Dr. Terri Jett of the Butler University Political Science Department.

The Spiritual Heart of Earthcare is a workshop led by Katherine Murray at Fairfield Meeting on Saturday, June 20, at 4:30pm. The workshop will help you connect and better understand your relationship with the earth, identify your own leadings and concerns, discern spirit-led responses, and learn a few techniques for staying spiritually grounded when you feel overwhelmed or blocked.

KIB!  June 27 from 9-12.  Come be part of Keep Indy Beautiful’s first partnership with IMPD to help the residents of the Near Northwest neighborhood (near 30th & MLK) with a community cleanup. Let’s pool our energies to beautify a transitional area and support neighbors who work hard to keep their streets and alleyways clean. Please make plans to join the fun!  Meet at SW Corner of Udell and Rader Streets.  For more information, contact Mary Blackburn: mhblackburn@sbcglobal.net

Jay Marshall, Dean of Earlham School of Religion, will be meeting with us for worship on Sunday, June 28th.  He is happy to take folks out to lunch after Meeting who might be interested in or have questions about the seminary experience at ESR.

Greg Keesling and Recycle Force: Mark your calendars for July 12! That's when Greg Keesling will be here to tell us about the mission of Recycle Force which combines environmental care and social ministry. Greg is a lifelong Quaker with deep roots in Indiana. He is the president and founder of Recycle Force which is a recycling company that emphasizes the recycling of electronic materials. While Recycle Force recycles most recyclable goods, they specialize in recycling computers, TVs,  monitors, printers, cell phones and just about anything electronic. In addition to this environmental service, Recycle Force provides jobs for people who have formerly been incarcerated. Recycle Force helps former inmates break the cycle of the revolving prison door by providing jobs, training, and other support systems. Plan to be here on 7/12 to hear more about this amazing man's story and mission!

Mark your calendars for an interfaith event hosted by Fairfield Friends Meeting.  On Monday, July 13th, Noor-Malika Chisti will be presenting “Stories of a resilient heart:  navigating culture and religion in the pursuit of Peace.”  Noor-Malika Chisti is a founding member of the Southern California Committee for the Parliament of World Religions and the Southern California Muslim-Jewish Forum.  The event will take place July 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Fairfield Friends Meeting, 10441 E. County Rd. 700 S.; Camby, IN 46113.

Western Yearly Meeting, July 16-19 in Plainfield; Register Now!

‘Building Together to become God’s Dwelling’ is the theme for the sessions this year. Howard Macy will be the main speaker, and Alan Kolp will be bringing the Quaker Lecture. Workshops and worship will be offered, in addition to regular business.  Consider joining in the work and witness of Western Yearly Meeting at their summer session. Register by July 1 for Early Bird Rates.   http://www.westernym.net/pdf/2015WYMSessionsAdultRegistration.pdf

 Women’s Choir Fun!  Join Ruthie and Pat for a Sunday of Song!

All women who love to sing are invited to sing in Meeting for Worship on Sunday, July 26th.  Save the date for lots of fun!  We will practice twice… Thursday, July 23 at 7:00 and Sunday, July 26 at 9:00.  Two pieces have been chosen… warm up your warblers!  We’re going to make a joyful noise! 

We still have folding chairs for you, if you’d like to take some before they leave for Goodwill!  You’ll find them on the stage in Fellowship Hall.  They need some TLC, but they still fold, and they still sit!

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

                                       317-255-2485  office@indyfriends.org

June 10th, 2015 Friend to Friend

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens 

A Report on the Marriage Equality Discernment Process

Greetings Friends! At the time of this report I am the Interim Clerk of Ministry and Counsel. Watch Friend to Friend for more information about changes on M&C for the coming year.

In January we completed a Communication process within the Meeting concerning Same Sex Marriage or Marriage Equality. During this process it became apparent that many people were not well informed about Quaker Process, including some of us who thought we were fairly savvy. We, Ministry and Counsel, feel that before we enter a process of discernment about Marriage Equality (or any other weighty issue for that matter) at Monthly Meeting, it is imperative that we all have a good understanding of how Quaker Process works. To that end we will be having some sermons from Ruthie and perhaps some “Coffee Conversations” about the subject. As a guideline we will be using the book Quaker Process: for Friends on the Benches by Mathilda Navias.  (Thanks to Bill Chapman for that reference during the last Monthly Meeting.) M&C will be reading the book and we encourage others to do the same. We encourage Friends to be present for Ruthie's sermons and the upcoming Coffee Conversations.

We will move forward with our discernment process once this part of the process is complete. While this may seem glacially slow to some people remember that it took Quakers almost a hundred years to sort out the slavery issue among themselves. We will not take that long!

Ed Morris

Joys & Concerns

Nancy Scott’s sister, Susan Ann Scott will be remembered this Saturday morning, with a Calling at 9:30 and a Memorial Mass at 10:30 at Christ the King.  Please remember Nancy and her family.

The Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives met at First Friends this past week, and sent us this note, with $100 in gratitude: “Thank you so much for your continued partnership with MSPC and allowing us to use the wonderful classroom and meeting space last night for our ICPC training meeting.  It was a great event!  Kind Regards, Susan Paz; MSPC President”

Dear Friends,

On behalf of the Truck Crew at the Mid-North Food Pantry, I would like to sincerely thank you for the donation of funds made by your meeting for the purchase of a hand-jack that has greatly made the movement of food from the parking lot to the downstairs pantry a much more effieicnt process.  As the pantry considers extended hours and more times per month that our guests may pick up food, certainly any added efficiency to the unloading process is going to make a huge difference moving forward.  Bill Chapman and your Wednesday volunteers are a blessing, making a true difference in the lives of many of the neighborhood residents.  May God bless you and keep you now and forever.

Ross McKenna

Truck Crew Coordinator

Member-Trinity Espiscopal Church

MidNorth Food Pantry News: Volunteers for the food pantry last week included: Kathy and Bill Farris; Bill Chapman; Ed Morris; Sam Ryan; Phil Kitchel; Ruth Kelly; Carol and Jim Donahue.  Approximately 130 families were served on Monday, June 1.  This was the largest number of families that First Friends has ever served since it has been working at Mid North. Thank you for your donations.

IPS School #43: Barbara Oberreich is a tutor at James Whitcomb Riley School, and has reached out and in to First Friends with the possibility of becoming Community Partners there. As we explore this, Daud Abdur-Rahman, Beth Henricks, Bill Heitman, Ruthie Tippin joined Barbara Monday afternoon with the students, honoring their achievements and perfect attendance. These kids are not used to being honored in such a way.  The big surprise was our gift of ice cream sandwiches for the entire student body!  Here you see Principal Bennett shaking hands with a young boy who has received his certificate of honor. 

An Iowa Invasion this Sunday! 12 youth and 4 adults will be staying Saturday night at FFM, and will join us for Meeting for Worship this Sunday.  Jenny Seylar, pastor of Lovely Lane United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids, IA (and a friend of Ruthie’s), will be bringing their youth group, journeying to the Henderson Settlement in Kentucky – a United Methodist social agency, serving the Appalachian people. 

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

VBS Lunch this Sunday!  Everyone is Welcome!  Come for Lunch and Stay for VBS!  Our Christian Education Committee is hosting a luncheon for the Meeting at the rise of worship.  And then…  Vacation Bible School will begin on Sunday from 11:45am to 1:45pm, and will continue Monday thru Thursday 6:30pm-8:30pm. All children 5th grade and under are welcome! The program we will be using is Everest: Conquering Challenges with God's Mighty Power.  Parents, please register your children with Beth Henricks at beth.henricks@indyfriends.org if they are able to attend.  We need 2 Christmas trees and white sheets for this program.  If you have some we could use, please let us know.  

American Friends Service Committee is presenting a poster exhibit titled “All of Us or None:  Responses & Resistance to Militarism” at the Indiana Interchurch Center, 1100 W. 42nd Street. The exhibit runs June 2nd through June 20th, and is open weekdays 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. or by appointment on weekends.  Also, at 6:00 p.m. on June 17th, there will be a reception and discussion on non-violent solutions to militarism.  This discussion will feature writer and radio journalist Vince Emmanuele and Dr. Terri Jett of the Butler University Political Science Department.

An Evening of Storytelling and Music with Phil Gulley and Tim Grimm. Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation (“IFCL”) has planned an evening to remember with nationally known Quaker storyteller, Phil Gulley and rural Americana and southern Indiana’s favorite musical son, Tim Grimm on Friday, June 19 at 7 pm at First Friends Meeting, Indianapolis.  Phil’s fun and entertaining storytelling and Tim’s heartwarming music and songs will take you on a journey to small town Indiana and rural Americana that will leave you smiling, laughing, clapping hands and stomping feet in ways you had only imagined.  Tickets are $20 (advance) and $25 (at door).  To obtain tickets, call 317 255 4739 (ask for Bill) or 317 730 2268 (ask for Tom).  Phil’s books and Tim’s CDs will be available for sale and signing after the concert.  There are a limited number of tickets.  We encourage you to purchase them in advance.  Proceeds go to benefit IFCL.  

The Spiritual Heart of Earthcare is a workshop led by Katherine Murray at Fairfield Meeting on Saturday, June 20, at 4:30pm. The workshop will help you connect and better understand your relationship with the earth, identify your own leadings and concerns, discern spirit-led responses, and learn a few techniques for staying spiritually grounded when you feel overwhelmed or blocked.

Jay Marshall, Dean of Earlham School of Religion, will be meeting with us for worship on Sunday, June 28th.  He is happy to take folks out to lunch after Meeting, who might be interested in or have questions about the seminary experience at ESR.

Greg Keesling and Recycle Force: Mark your calendars for July 12! That's when Greg Keesling will be here to tell us about the mission of Recycle Force which combines environmental care and social ministry. Greg is a lifelong Quaker with deep roots in Indiana. He is the president and founder of Recycle Force which is a recycling company that emphasizes the recycling of electronic materials. While Recycle Force recycles most recyclable goods, they specialize in recycling computers, TVs,  monitors, printers, cell phones and just about anything electronic. In addition to this environmental service, Recycle Force provides jobs for people who have formerly been incarcerated. Recycle Force helps former inmates break the cycle of the revolving prison door by providing jobs, training, and other support systems. Plan to be here on 7/12 to hear more about this amazing man's story and mission!

KIB!  June 27 from 9-12.  Come be part of Keep Indy Beautiful’s first partnership with IMPD to help the residents of the Near Northwest neighborhood (near 30th & MLK) with a community cleanup. Let’s pool our energies to beautify a transitional area and support neighbors who work hard to keep their streets and alleyways clean. Please make plans to join the fun!  Meet at SW Corner of Udell and Rader Streets.  For more information, contact Mary Blackburn: mhblackburn@sbcglobal.net

Mark your calendars for an interfaith event hosted by Fairfield Friends Meeting.  On Monday, July 13th, Noor-Malika Chisti will be presenting “Stories of a resilient heart:  navigating culture and religion in the pursuit of Peace.”  Noor-Malika Chisti is a founding member of the Southern California Committee for the Parliament of World Religions and the Southern California Muslim-Jewish Forum.  The event will take place July 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Fairfield Friends Meeting, 10441 E. County Rd. 700 S.; Camby, IN 46113.

Western Yearly Meeting, July 16-19 in Plainfield; Register Now!

‘Building Together to become God’s Dwelling’ is the theme for the sessions this year. Howard Macy will be the main speaker, and Alan Kolp will be bringing the Quaker Lecture. Workshops and worship will be offered, in addition to regular business.  Consider joining in the work and witness of Western Yearly Meeting at their summer session. Register by July 1 for Early Bird Rates.   http://www.westernym.net/pdf/2015WYMSessionsAdultRegistration.pdf

Take a Seat!  Trustees have replaced our folding chairs, and would like to offer our old ones to those who’d like to have them. They need some tender loving care. If you could use some seating, please feel free to take the chairs you need. You will find them on the stage in Fellowship Hall – behind Mount Everest! Those not taken will be sent to Goodwill Industries.

The Indy Pride Parade will be held this Saturday, June 13th.  If you’d like to participate, please contact Janis Crawford at jcrawfor@butler.edu

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.

Indianapolis, IN   46220

Friend to Friend June 3, 2015

As Way Opens 

I had a wonderful experience last week attending a seminar called The Art of Bible Storying by Michael Novelli.  This was presented by the Center for Congregations and I joined about 50 other children/youth workers and pastors to step into the rich experience of reading the Bible through story.  Michael told us that “Story is our brightest hope.  Story is the heart of our language capacity… story heals, reminds and guides us.  Story is the most powerful tool ever granted ordinary people. Stories are verbal acts of hospitality.  Story carries us into another world in an associative capacity relating the characters and details to our own experiences.  Story is power. ”   

We practiced this together as we read in “story” version the Creation story.  We listened for about 10 minutes to the beautiful story of creation and then were asked to reflect on the words that really stuck out for us in the story.  What touched me most was the way God created order from chaos and the idea of seeds being in all things to reproduce themselves.    Maybe because I am feeling a bit chaotic in my life right now,  but it brings me peace to know that God will create order out of chaos.  That it is in God’s character to do this even though I can’t always see it from my perspective.   I also like the idea of seeds being in all things.  For me, that seed is the Inner Seed or Inner Light that is present in everything.  Seeds represent growth and change   - the promise of something great and wonderful that will lie ahead.  And seeds keep reproducing themselves.  Each seed will be a part of a future seed.

What a wonderful way to read and understand the Bible.  I am hopeful that we might have our young people and others embark on a study of the Bible through story next year.

Joys & Concerns

Dr. David Hadley passed away last Friday, May 29th.  He doctored in Kenya for Friends United Meeting, and has traveled the world for Friends World Committee on Consultation.  He has been active in Plainfield Friends Meeting and Western Yearly Meeting and was known for his wisdom.  After retiring, he continued until he was physically unable to practice at local free clinics.  Please hold Ruth, their children and family in your prayers.

Jerry Henrick’s sister, Teresa King passed away last Sunday after a brief illness.  She was 63 years old and the third youngest in a family of nine children.  Services are being held at Singleton Mortuary and Funeral Home at 7602 Madison Ave on Friday June 5th with viewing from 4:00 p.m.—7:00 p.m. and a memorial service at 7:00. Let us hold Jerry, Beth and their family in the love and light of God in this time of loss.  

What a Picnic!  Many thanks for our Fellowship Committee for hosting such a fabulous picnic this past Sunday.  Red checkered tablecloths, fun decorations, and wonderful food!  Thanks to you all for the great side dishes and desserts.  It was a great time of gathering and sharing together.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Please join us for Community Soup this Friday, June 5th, anytime between 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.  Now that it’s getting warmer we are switching from soups to salads. Enjoy salads, bread, and dessert in a relaxed atmosphere.  No cooking, no dishwashing, and no charge.

 “Beliefs divide us, Values unite us.”  On Sunday, June 7th at 6:00 p.m., Friends are invited to attend an event at the Indiana Center for Inquiry, featuring Jeff Rasley.  Jeff will be introducing his newest book, “GODLESS—Living a Valuable Life Beyond Beliefs” and will lead an open discussion about values, beliefs, religion and politics.  The Center for Inquiry is located at 350 Canal Walk, Suite A, and free parking is available on Senate Avenue and Indiana Avenue.

American Friends Service Committee is presenting a poster exhibit titled “All of Us or None:  Responses & Resistance to Militarism” at the Indiana Interchurch Center, 1100 W. 42nd Street. The exhibit runs June 2nd through June 20th, and is open weekdays 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. or by appointment on weekends.  Also, at 6:00 p.m. on June 17th, there will be a reception and discussion on non-violent solutions to militarism.  This discussion will feature writer and radio journalist Vince Emmanuele and Dr. Terri Jett of the Butler University Political Science Department.

Mark your calendars for June 14th-June 18th - Vacation Bible School will begin on Sunday from 11:45am to 1:45pm, and will continue Monday thru Thursday 6:30pm-8:30pm. All children 5th grade and under are welcome! The program we will be using is Everest: Conquering Challenges with God's Mighty Power.  Parents, please register your children with Beth Henricks at beth.henricks@indyfriends.org if they are able to attend.  We need 2 Christmas trees and white sheets for this program.  If you have some we could use, please let us know.  

An Evening of Storytelling and Music with Phil Gulley and Tim Grimm. Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation (“IFCL”) has planned an evening to remember with nationally known Quaker storyteller, Phil Gulley and rural Americana and southern Indiana’s favorite musical son, Tim Grimm on Friday, June 19 at 7 pm at First Friends Meeting, Indianapolis.  Phil’s fun and entertaining storytelling and Tim’s heartwarming music and songs will take you on a journey to small town Indiana and rural Americana that will leave you smiling, laughing, clapping hands and stomping feet in ways you had only imagined.  Tickets are $20 (advance) and $25 (at door).  To obtain tickets, call 317 255 4739 (ask for Bill) or 317 730 2268 (ask for Tom).  Phil’s books and Tim’s CDs will be available for sale and signing after the concert.  There are a limited number of tickets.  We encourage you to purchase them in advance.  Proceeds go to benefit IFCL.  

Mark your calendars for an interfaith event hosted by Fairfield Friends Meeting.  On Monday, July 13th, Noor-Malika Chisti will be presenting “Stories of a resilient heart:  navigating culture and religion in the pursuit of Peace.”  Noor-Malika Chisti is a founding member of the Southern California Committee for the Parliament of World Religions and the Southern California Muslim-Jewish Forum.  The event will take place July 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Fairfield Friends Meeting, 10441 E. County Rd. 700 S.; Camby, IN 46113.

Western Yearly Meeting, July 16-19 in Plainfield; Register Now! Howard Macy will be the main speaker, and Alan Kolp will be bringing the Quaker Lecture. Workshops and worship will be offered, in addition to regular business.  Consider joining in the work and witness of Western Yearly Meeting at their summer session.
  http://www.westernym.net/pdf/2015WYMSessionsAdultRegistration.pdf