November 11,2015

    Friend to Friend                                  

  Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

   Before it was called Veterans Day, November 11th was celebrated as Armistice Day in commemoration of the signing of the armistice ending World War I.   Signed November 11, 1918, it signified the end of conflict between the Allied Forces and Germany.  Today, almost one hundred years later, we remember the nearly 30 million military veterans in the United States.  For Quakers, it is a day to honor veterans and their sacrifice, but we also remember the testimony of peace. 

   Quakerism was born in a time of war and conflict in England.  There was no naiveté among Friends about the peril of the sword.  Rather than preach against war, they spoke for peace…Declaration to King Charles, 1661 “We utterly deny all outward wars and strife and fightings with outward weapons, for any end or under any pretense whatsoever.  And this is our testimony to the whole world.  The spirit of Christ, by which we are guided, is not changeable, so as once to command us from a thing as evil and again to move unto it; and we do certainly know, and so testify to the world, that the spirit of Christ, which leads us into all Truth, will never move us to fight and war against any man with outward weapons, neither for the kingdom of Christ, nor for the kingdoms of this world.” 

   Did all Quakers refuse to bear “outward weapons”? No.  Did all Quakers refuse to fight?  No.  Many Friends then, and throughout history have chosen to join military service.  But not without thoughtful consideration of the cost, and the question of Christ’s leading.  And hopefully, not without reflecting on the truth of what George Fox told the Commonwealth Commissioners in 1651: “I told them I lived in the virtue of that life and power that took away the occasion of all wars…”  What an incredible world this would be if everyone would live in such a way that there would no longer be any occasion, any purpose, and any reason, for war.

   “God of Consolation, every time we mark an anniversary that recalls an act of war or violence, we struggle to make sense of our world.  As time moves on, remind us of the call to remain open-hearted.  May our memory not harden into fear and anger, but pulse with compassion and generosity.  Give us the collective voice to speak for healing and forgiveness, and bring us the peace we long for.  With hope in your steadfast love, we pray, Amen.”     

Considering the Query: “‘Come regularly to meeting for worship even when you are angry, depressed, tired or spiritually cold. In the silence ask for and accept the prayerful support of others joined with you in worship. Try to find a spiritual wholeness which encompasses suffering as well as thankfulness and joy. Prayer, springing from a deep place in the heart, may bring healing and unity as nothing else can. Let meeting for worship nourish your whole life.’From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Joys & Concerns

Catherine Swanson’s father is moving through his last days of life, and prayers are welcomed for him and his family.  His daughter Mary Ann is due to arrive from Wales this Friday.  Please lift Catherine’s family in your prayers.  Catherine’s parents live in Bloomington.  To send Catherine a card, her address is

We thank God for his mercy and blessing in the quick recovery from recent surgery for bothBrenda Rodeheffer’s father, Bob Franklin, and for Sarah Binns

Gary and Cheryl Wyne are traveling in the Holy Land, and send us greetings from the Sea of Galilee!  May God bless their journey.   

Missing Red Coat!  A ladies red coat with gold buttons is missing.  If you happen to have it, please call the Meeting Office at 255-2485.  Thank you very much!

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

Cash and Cans! Thanksgiving with Mid North Food Pantry! 

Witness & Service is sponsoring a food awareness drive at First Friends during the month of November.  This year W&S is soliciting cash contributions rather than food items from adults since Mid North is able to purchase from Gleaners Food Bank more than 10 times the amount of food that an individual is able to purchase, for the same amount of money, at a grocery store.  We think it is beneficial for the children at First Friends to continue to contribute food items.  Boxes for canned food are in the children’s classrooms.  Thermometers on the bulletin board will track the cash contributions and the amount of food collected.  We hope that everyone at First Friends will work together to share their blessings during the month of November.  Checks should be written to First Friends with a notation for Mid North.  Thanks for your help.

Eco-Film Series: ‘DamNation’, Friday, Nov 13, 7:00 pm at All Souls Unitarian Church (5605 E 56th Street) The change in our national attitude regarding big dams is explored in this documentary. It has transformed from having pride in them as engineering wonders to the growing awareness that our own future is bound to the life and health of our rivers.

YFYF is going ‘out of this world’… cosmic bowling! Saturday, November 14

Meet at Woodland Bowling at 7:00.  Pizza will be provided.  Bring your friends.  Young Friends Youth Fellowship is the place to be!

“Ish” Group Gathering: Are you looking for fellowship with Friends outside of Meeting?  Our newly formed Ish group (adult-Ish, young-Ish) is having its second gathering this Friday, November 13th at Carl & Jeff’s in Carmel beginning at 7pm.  Although most of our group is between early 30's and mid 50-s, anyone of adult age (21 and over) is welcome to join us for an evening of pizza, dessert, wine and fellowship. For location and details contact Bill Heitman at 317-670-7509 (call/text), billheitman@hotmail.com, or check out our Facebook group page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstfriendsyoungadults/   We are tentatively planning on reconvening the 2nd Friday of each month. 

First Friends is deeply grateful for the generosity of Friends in support of our ministries and extends a big ‘thank you’ to all of who have turned in pledge cards for 2016.  This indication of support for 2016 is helpful as we plan a budget for the new year.  If you haven’t had a chance to turn in your pledges, you are welcome to do so by sending it to the Meeting office.

With thanks and gratitude,

Stewardship Team 2016

Calling all Baby Boomer/Empty-Nesters.  Becki Heusel is putting out an APB to see who might be interested in some fellowship.  You can reach her by email at becki.from.indy@gmail.com

Tuesday, November 17, from 2:00 to 3:30 - Poetry Group program will be presented by Mac Greene, a psychologist and author of two chapbooks. Mac Greene is a transplanted Hoosier, since 1997, coming from Washington DC by way of Eau Claire Wisconsin.  He began writing poetry in 2006 as a solution to the Empty Nest Before the Empty Nest, those years when he became increasingly redundant even though the kids were still home.  He writes about domestic matters, children, aging, cats and dogs, but also about nature, politics, and spirituality.  In other words just about anything might inspire a poem, as he looks for the little miracles that are all around us all the time.  His mentor for his first six years or so of writing was our own Linda Lee, and he will always be thankful for her inspiration and guidance. We meet in the parlor.

Coffee and Queries for 20somethings… people in their 20’s who are curious

Next Tuesday, November 17th, 7:45 to 9:00, in the basement at First Friends

With Ruthie

Come!

Oak Leaf Ladies!  You are invited to attend our 2nd Annual Potluck Lasagna Dinner.

 Ruth Kelly has graciously offered to have our next book discussion in her home on November 17th at 7 pm.    We will be talking about The Silver Star by Jeanette Walls.  Bring a friend, a side dish and a book from home to swap.  People who haven't previously attended book discussion are MORE than welcome to come, dinner will be on us!   Please contact Ruth Kelly via email at rgkelly4@att.net  for directions.  If you would like to be on the Oak Leaf email list please contact or email Kathy Rhyne at kathyrichelle@yahoo.com.  Our next discussion will be I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai on December 29th at 7 pm in the parlor.

Food Bank Lunch: November 20thWitness & Service is sponsoring a luncheon for the volunteers at Midwest Food Bank on Friday, Nov-20.  We will meet at First Friends at 9:45 am and ride together to Midwest Food Bank.  We will serve lunch to 40-50 volunteers.  Midwest Food Bank is a “mini Gleaners” and provides food to many food pantries, including the Mid North Food Pantry.  If you would like to help with the luncheon, please see Jim Donahue for more info 

An Evening of Storytelling with Phil Gulley

 Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation presents and evening of storytelling with Quaker author Phil Gulley. Purchase & signing for Phil’s NEW book: A Lesson in Hope. Friday, November 20, from 7:00 pm-8:30 pm.  For more information, contact IFCL Clerk Bill Chapman (317) 255-4739. A freewill offering will be taken to support the advocacy work of IFCL.

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COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE – Nov. 24 at 7:00

The third annual Community Thanksgiving Service will be held on Tuesday evening, November 24th, at 7pm at First Friends Meeting.  Choir members from a variety of churches in the Shalom Zone will join in the mass choir to sing John Rutter’s For the Beauty of the Earth.  First Friends’ choir and handbell choir will also sing and play.  Refreshments will be served after the service for fellowship time.  Please mark your calendar for the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and come give thanks with our neighbors! 

*First Friends, Epworth UMC, Allisonville Christian, Cross and Crown Lutheran, St. Piux X

The Shalom Zone outreach focus for this event will be School on Wheels , an organization that provides tutoring for homeless children.  The various churches are collecting needed items prior to the service and also at the service on Nov-24.  Items requested (in addition to cash donations) are as follows:

School on Wheels' Wish List Link: http://amzn.com/w/M6L7ZEM8C05G

1)      Dickies Big Boys’ Belt Casual Belt with Stitching, Black – Sizes XS to XL needed, $9.99

2)      Dickies Boys Flat Front Pant, Khaki – Sizes XS to XL needed, $15.97

3)      French Toast School Uniforms Girls Pants, Khaki – Sizes XS to XL needed, costs vary

4)      School Uniform Unisex Short Sleeved Pique Knit Shirt by French Toast, White – XS to XL needed, $9.00

5)      Appletters Game, $9.99

6)      Bananagrams Game, $14.85

7)      Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers, Variety Pack (30 count), $14.62

8)      Welch’s Mixed Fruit Snacks (80 count), $19.49

9)      Walmart, Target, Amazon Gift Cards

Grief Gathering on Sunday November 29th after Meeting for Worship - Circle of Care is hosting a lunch and discussion facilitated by Leslie Kartholl for those who have experienced a loss of a family member or cherished friend.  This lunch and time together is a tangible way our Meeting is demonstrating our care for each other during times of sadness.  We invite anyone that is interested in gathering with others to share and reflect on the experience of loss.  Please contact the office (office@indyfriends.org)  if you plan to attend.  This event is sponsored by our Circle of Care.

From Ed Morris Clerk of Ministry and Counsel:

Pastor Evaluation: Ruthie shared the results of her evaluation. She asked for and got good advice on how to tweak her very good performance. She received praise and strong support from M&C for her ministry at FF.

Pastor's Report/Calendar: Ruthie reported on numerous activities planned and in progress. Those included: The Welcome Wagon which is what the Dan Mosley grant group are calling themselves these days; the Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service on Nov 24th at 7:00pm at FF and Christmas Season Plans to be described in detail later.

Marriage Equality: FF Meeting will continue its discussion and discernment of M&C's proposal for Process Equality for Marriage Under the Care of the Meeting at the next monthly meeting on Nov. 15th after Meeting for Worship. Child care will be available for the duration. Copies of the proposal with better formatting will be distributed. All members and attenders are invited to participate.

First Friends Parents:  Gently Used Toys (NOT new) are requested as Christmas presents for the children of MidNorth Food Pantry recipients.  If you are clearing out old toys in preparation for influx of new toys at Christmas, please keep us in mind.  They can be dropped off at the food donation station in Fellowship Hall or Kathy Farris (842-5844) will pick up. 

“Friends Of Nature Kids” ~ Postcard Designer: Cut a rectangle approximately the size of a postcard out of a piece of paper. Now hold up the paper with the rectangle cut out in front of yourself and look around outside, framing different picture postcard scenes. Which postcard scene is your favorite? What makes a postcard scene interesting? .From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis,

         317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

November 4, 2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

I recently attended a “Wine and Canvas” event at an art studio in downtown Carmel that was really a promotional event for a brand new assisted living facility. (As I review potential assisted living/memory care facilities, I am amazed at the different ways these companies try to convince one to move there.)  My friend Sally encouraged me to attend so I could hear about this place.  I hate doing art things because I am so bad at them.  My creative outlets are definitely not arts and crafts.  As my mother told me, I have “two left thumbs” so I reluctantly agreed to attend.  A very nice and professional artist had painted a beautiful fall scene in an impressionist style and he proceeded to show us how to paint this canvas.  He broke it down into simple steps and I tried to follow his instructions carefully. (While not creative I am diligent in following directions.)  There were about 20 of us in the room and we spent 90 minutes creating our version of this fall scene.  When done, I sat looking at my painting; it didn’t look like the artist’s version and it didn’t look very good at all.  I asked the artist to come over and see what he could do to help - he put a few strokes of paint on the canvas to create more definition but it still looked pretty bad.  Getting ready to leave the studio, I went to the back of the room to get my coat and looked across the room at 20 canvases just painted.  And I spotted mine among the paintings and from 30 feet away it looked good! I did a double take to be sure that was what I just painted.  From a distance it looked like a real fall scene.

Isn’t this just like how we see people?  From a distance they look great and we wonder why we can’t be like them.  But when we get close and personal, they are flawed and have deficits just like us.  Yet God loves every single one of us just the way that we are.  We are all beloved children of God.  It is through God’s Love and Light filling our heart, soul and mind that we can work on our deficits and shadows and see changes for a life more centered, more loving and more forgiving to both ourselves and our neighbors. I rejoice in this Love today.

Considering the Query:

“In worship we enter with reverence into communion with God and respond to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Come to meeting for worship with heart and mind prepared. Yield yourself and all your outward concerns to God’s guidance so that you may find ‘the evil weakening in you and the good raised up’.”

From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Joys & Concerns

Please remember Jan Gildner in your thoughts and prayers this week.  Two persons dear to Jan - her cousin, Mary Lou Krusinski, and a dear friend, Marietta Meredith - both died this past Friday, October 30th.  Jan will be traveling this week to attend their funerals.  If you would like to send a card, Jan’s address is …. 2064 Oldfields Cir Indy 46228

Brenda Rodeheffer’s father, Bob Franklin, has had heart valve replacement surgery this week.  We rejoice that the surgery went well and that he should be feeling much better very, very soon.  Please hold Bob in your thoughts and prayers, as he recovers from this major surgery, and resumes normal life.  If you’d like to send Bob a card, his address is … 2521 E 57th St Indy 46220

One of our members, Sara Binns, is slated for thyroid surgery this Thursday.  Would you please hold her in your heart and prayers?  Sara is more concerned about her cousin Kathleen Cox, than she is about herself!  Kathleen (Kay) has just completed four months of radiation and chemotherapy treatment for stomach cancer and Sara would appreciate our prayers as Kay becomes stronger in remission.  If you’d like to send a card to Sara, her new address is 5589 Liberty Blvd Place, Indy 46220.  She recently moved to American Village.

Thank you Fellowship Committee!  What a fun ‘All [Quaker] Saints Day’ spread you treated us with this past Sunday during Fellowship Hour!  Such delightful goodies, and warm hospitality… not to mention the cider!  Hooray and thanks to Susan Rains, Kristyn Buckner, Dan Lee, Beth Kay, Debbie Goold, Kathy Farris, Ruth Kelly, Bill Farris, and Bob Goold!

Eric Baker helps open new   School of Rock in Fishers.  Eric is the Musical Director of the School of Rock in Carmel, and now in Fishers.  

Last Saturday was the grand opening of the new location at 11740 Olio Rd.  Check out the website - http://locations.schoolofrock.com/fishers 

Congratulations Eric!

Doug and Jennifer Kinser celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on October 8th. They were married at New Castle Friends by Tom Mullen.  They reside in Florida now and we sure miss them here at First Friends.  Their address is 2063 Xanadu Loop, The Villages FL  32163.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

Community Soup and a Movie!  Join us this Friday, November 6th at 5:30 for soups and cinema!  Delicious soups and breads, and wonderful company promise to make this a wonderful evening.   The movie, Gerrymandering is a 2010 documentary feature film written and directed by Jeff Reichert. The film explores the history and the ethical, moral and racial problems raised by redistricting, i.e., the drawing of boundaries of electoral districts in the United States.  Feel free to stay after the meal for the movie.

Meditational Woods Work Day: Saturday, November 7th   Everyone is welcome to help put the woods to bed for the winter!

Young Friends Youth Group (YFYG) meets this Sunday at 11:30. This upcoming Sunday is our second meeting for Youth Group! We had such great conversation and fun at the last one, we are hoping that due to scheduling, more people will be able to come to this one!! Food is provided this Sunday by Beth Henricks, so please RSVP to this event so we can know how much food to bring. Our lesson is called "Rebellion" and is about Cain and Abel. Can't wait to see everybody on Sunday!  Also, mark your calendars for Cosmic Bowling on Saturday November 14th in the evening. Contact Hayley for details (hayley.adams@indyfriends.org)                                                                                                                                                              

                                                                                                -Hayley Marie Adams

Friendly Visitors Luncheon”; Sunday, November 8th, 11:45 in the Parlor

The Visiting Ministry of First Friends has long been a valued part of our outreach.  The Circle of Care Committee wants to thank those who have been visiting folk from our Meeting who are homebound, lonely, or otherwise distanced from us.  We also hope to welcome those who might be interested in joining this ministry of visitation.  If you are interested and able to come, please RSVP to the Meeting Office at office@indyfriends.org or 255-2485.

Thanksgiving with Mid North Food Pantry Witness & Service is sponsoring a food awareness drive at First Friends during the month of November.  This year W&S is soliciting cash contributions rather than food items from adults since Mid North is able to purchase from Gleaners Food Bank more than 10 times the amount of food that an individual is able to purchase, for the same amount of money, at a grocery store.  We think it is beneficial for the children at First Friends to continue to contribute food items.  Boxes for food are in the children’s classrooms.  Thermometers on the bulletin board will track the cash contributions and the amount of food collected.  We hope that everyone at First Friends will work together to share their blessings during the month of November.  Checks should be written to First Friends with a notation for Mid North.  Thanks for your help.

 Eco-Film Series: ‘DamNation’, Friday, Nov 13, 7:00 pm at All Souls Unitarian Church (5605 E 56th Street) The change in our national attitude regarding big dams is explored in this documentary. It has transformed from having pride in them as engineering wonders to the growing awareness that our own future is bound to the life and health of our rivers

Coffee and Queries for 20somethings… people in their 20’s who are curious

Tuesday, November 17th, 7:45 to 9:00, in the basement at First Friends

With Ruthie

Come

Edward Alley, an accomplished poet and a friend of Linda Lee, will present a program entitled "Musings and Meanderings" on Tuesday, November 17 at 2:00 p.m. in the Parlor

Food Bank Lunch: November 20thWitness & Service is sponsoring a luncheon for the volunteers at Midwest Food Bank on Friday, Nov-20.  We will meet at First Friends at 9:45 am and ride together to Midwest Food Bank.  We will serve lunch to 40-50 volunteers.  Mid West Food Bank is a “mini Gleaners” and provides food to many food pantries, including the Mid North Food Pantry.  If you would like to help with the luncheon, please see Jim Donahue for more info  

Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation presents An Evening of storytelling with Quaker Author Phil Gulley – Friday, November 20, from 7:00 to 8:30pm at First Friends Meeting 3030 Kessler Boulevard East Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46220. Purchase and signing for Phil’s new book will be held after the reading. . A freewill offering will be taken to support the advocacy work of IFCL.

Tuesday Evening, November 24th at 7:00 pm at First Friends

Five pastors will share readings.  A mass choir from five different churches will be singing under the direction of Shawn Porter.  Handbells, organ, congregational singing, special music, with praise and thanksgiving to God from various congregations in our Kessler-Allisonville Road neighborhood.  Come, join us in Thanksgiving! An offering will be taken for School on Wheels, a literacy program for homeless children in Indianapolis.

First Friends, Epworth UMC, Allisonville Christian, Cross and Crown Lutheran, St. Piux X

First Friends Parents:  Gently Used Toys (NOT new) are requested as Christmas presents for the children of MidNorth Food Pantry recipients.  If you are clearing out old toys in preparation for influx of new toys at Christmas, please keep us in mind.  They can be dropped off at the food donation station in Fellowship Hall or Kathy Farris (842-5844) will pick up. 

First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Contact Sue Mills for an appt: 431-2900 Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  Finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.

“Friends Of Nature Kids” ~ Stretch and Touch:  On a clear bit of ground or on the grass, lie down, close your eyes and stretch out your arms and legs. Reach out around you and try to identify ten different things that you can touch. Open your eyes and see if you guessed all of the things correctly. .From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis,

         317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

October 28,2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

I was driving to the Meeting the other day and the color of the trees and brush was so breathtaking at that moment that I had to pull my car over and stop to take it in.  I couldn’t just keep driving and not take the time to really notice and implant this magnificent image of nature and God’s revelation in my heart and mind knowing that this beauty would soon be gone as the leaves let go to the wind and rain .  I was thinking that right here in my little corner of the universe, I can see the redemption of God through the cycle of the trees.  These leaves will soon be gone to us, trampled into the ground but transformed into the material needed for the new life to come next spring.  

Being Trees in Autumn

Steve Garnaas-Holmes

These trees in Buddhist saffron robes, renouncing everything,
becoming naked without fear,
in wind that is a part of them,
disclose a beauty in this death,
become new shapes, interior.
To live they cannot hoard;
this losing, too, is growth.
New shapes emerge, new vision clears.
Surrender strengthens in the soul another song.
This emptying is confidence in spring, but more—

a faithing in the growth that’s come before, a counting of the gifts
and then releasing one by one,
so as to give again,
knowing growth is not a season,
but is in the root of things.
This is no losing,
but a becoming.
Coveting such openness
of limb and heart and hand,
such bareness in the singing, I only now discover that I want

this wind, blowing where it will, 

Considering the Query: ‘Worship is our response to an awareness of God. We can worship alone, but when we join with others in expectant waiting we may discover a deeper sense of God’s presence. We seek a gathered stillness in our meetings for worship so that all may feel the power of God’s love drawing us together and leading us.’ From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Joys & Concerns

More than 260 people have died, mostly in Pakistan, after a magnitude-7.5 earthquake hit north-eastern Afghanistan.  The death toll is expected to rise as aid reaches outlying areas.  Let us hold this region of the world in prayer for mercy and care for survivors and families.

Nancy Pennington’s son Mark will have shoulder surgery this Thursday.  Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers, for the surgery and the therapy and recovery afterward.  Thank you.  Mark’s address is 1434 Alimingo Drive, Indianapolis, 46260.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

Set your clocks back Saturday night, October 31st.  Mark your calendar now!

Central Area Meeting, this Sunday, Nov 2nd at 2:00 p.m. Valley Mills Friends Meeting, 6737 West Thompson Road 46241; First Friends is part of Western Yearly Meeting, which divides up all its Meetings into various ‘areas’.  Worship, fellowship and service opportunities are offered through Area Meeting gatherings.  The goal is to build a network of mutual support among monthly meetings.  Decisions are made that are sent on to our Yearly Meeting.  We are part of Central Area Meeting that includes Valley Mills, First Friends, and West Newton. Please mark your calendars and join us!

Community Soup and a Movie!  Join us Friday, November 6th at 5:30 for soups and cinema!  It’s always fun to see what variety of soups show up… and what variety of people come, too!  Join us!

Meditational Woods Work Day: Saturday, November 7th Everyone is welcome to help put the woods to bed for the winter!

“Friendly Visitors Luncheon”; Sunday, November 8th, 11:45 in the Parlor

The Visiting Ministry of First Friends has long been a valued part of our outreach.  The Circle of Care Committee wants to thank those who have been visiting folk from our Meeting who are homebound, lonely, or otherwise distanced from us.  We also hope to welcome those who might be interested in joining this ministry of visitation.  If you are interested and able to come, please RSVP to the Meeting Office at office@indyfriends.org or 255-2485.

Young Friends Youth Fellowship (YFYF) - We had 13 junior and senior high kids attend youth group last Saturday evening, visiting a Haunted House and having a bonfire afterwards at First Friends.  It was a great time for all.  We are so thankful for Hayley’s leadership in getting our youth group going and setting up some fun and meaningful experiences.  We are blessed to have her in our faith community!  YFYG will meet on Sunday November 8th for their Echo series of Bible reflections and also Saturday November 14th for a fun event outside of Meeting.  Mark your calendars!

Fundraiser for Daud Abdur-Rahman’s Mosque - Nur-Allah Islamic Center will be hosting a fundraising dinner (with plans to build a new mosque) on Sunday November 8th at 4:00 p.m. at the Sterrett Center at 8950 Otis Avenue in Indianapolis.  Dr. David Carlson from Franklin College and Sis.Kalimah Azeez from Memphis, TN will be speaking.  Tickets are $40 for adults, $75 for a couple, $35 for seniors 62 and older, and $25 for college students and children under 13.  Please contact Beth Henricks (henricksbeth2@gmail.com) if you would like a ticket.  This will be a great time of inter faith dialogue as well as showing our support for Daud’s congregation.  

Thanksgiving with Mid North Food Pantry:  We hope you enjoyed the treats provided by the Witness & Service Committee (“W&S”) last Sunday.  This served as a “kick-off” to a food awareness drive at First Friends during the month of November.  On Sunday (Nov-1), W&S will begin to solicit contributions from adults and food items from children for the Mid North Food Pantry.  Let’s consider November as a month of Thanksgiving for all that has been provided to us.  This year W&S is soliciting cash contributions rather than food items from adults since Mid North is able to purchase from Gleaners Food Bank more than 10 times the amount of food that an individual is able to purchase, for the same amount of money, at a grocery store.  We think it is beneficial to the children at First Friends to continue to contribute food items.  We hope that everyone at First Friends will work together to share their blessings during the month of November.  Thanks for your help.

WYM and FUM OUTREACH MISSION PROJECTS for 2015:  Donations can still be sent in to support WYM projects in Kenya: biosand water filters, Lindi Friends School, Lugulu Hospital; and the FUM Amari Play Center project in Ramallah, Palestine. If you’d like to contribute, checks may be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “WYM Outreach Project and/or “Amari Play Center.” Thank you.  Your support is appreciated.

First Friends Parents:  Gently Used Toys (NOT new) are requested as Christmas presents for the children of MidNorth Food Pantry recipients.  If you are clearing out old toys in preparation for influx of new toys at Christmas, please keep us in mind.  They can be dropped off at the food donation station in Fellowship Hall or Kathy Farris (842-5844) will pick up. 

First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Contact Sue Mills for an appt: 431-2900 Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  Finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.

In Quaker Silence: Reflections on QEW's Recent Week in Washington: “In Quaker silence, do I hear our humanitarian ancestors, our abolitionist ancestors, our pacifist ancestors, crying out to us to pursue full sustainability for ourselves and our children and all folks yet to come…while there is time?

Perhaps an all-for-peace Manhattan project could be organized around a Full Sustainability Commission? Perhaps nothing less can bring together the scientists and other visionaries needed to very carefully, very sensitively usher in a new age?” Read more.

http://www.quakerearthcare.org/article/quaker-silence-reflections-qews-recent-week-washington-dc

“Friends of Nature Kids” ~ Scary and Nice: Can you think of things in nature that are scary?  What makes some things in nature pretty? What makes some things boring or interesting? What are the things that you like the most?  Start a shoebox collection of little things you have found in nature that you like. From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis,

         317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

October 21,2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

Light was present in the Monthly Meeting room this past Sunday.  Amidst the tender questions, the bold statements, the fiery proclamations, the eager concerns… Light was present.  For the first time, our Meeting was asked to consider in a Meeting for Worship to Conduct Business the concern of equality for all persons, in marriage.  Our Clerk led us carefully and well.  We listened to each other, even when some things were difficult to hear.  We laughed, when our common story reminded us of our joy together. God was present with us.

In times past, the equality question that’s come before us, has usually been “Who?”  It has been framed as an “Us vs. Them” query.  Who’s in, and who’s out?  Scripture is full of these questions.  Jesus was asked this question many times.  The question that came before us this past Sunday was different.  It was “How?”  It was a “We” query.  How will we care for, love, respect, honor one another?  The first question is easy to answer.  It’s much easier to figure out how to live as “Us vs. Them”, than as “We”.  That’s why everyone loves our Meeting so much.  This is exactly why people are attracted to First Friends.  There aren’t many faith communities who have the wide diversity of opinion, of faith experience, of Biblical understanding, of Quaker heritage, or life itself, that holds them together with such passion. They, like we, are seeking to learn more of God… to know a God who loves them through people like you.

Jesus had a lot of answers for us about how to love one another.  He didn’t give us a choice.  He reminded us of God’s command; to love God first and always with everything we’ve got, and then to love everyone else as much as we love ourselves.  It takes a lot of work to do this.  If you’re anxious about how our Meeting will answer these “how” questions in the coming days, I’d ask you to remember Jesus.  He literally “hung around” to show us the answer.   

Love and Light,

Considering the Query: ‘Be aware of the spirit of God at work in the ordinary activities and experience of your daily life. Spiritual learning continues throughout life, and often in unexpected ways. There is inspiration to be found all around us, in the natural world, in the sciences and arts, in our work and friendships, in our sorrows as well as in our joys. Are you open to new light, from whatever source it may come? Do you approach new ideas with discernment? From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Joys & Concerns

Eight walkers and a dog participated in the Crop Walk for Hunger this past Sunday.  Donations of $320 were given to support the efforts to reduce hunger.  Thanks to all for their participation.  If you would like to contribute to this cause, please contact Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) as donations are still being received.

Meridian Street Preschool Co-Op! The fall festival this past Saturday was a wonderful time of fun and fellowship.  Several of our families joined families from the preschool co-op for a beautiful fall event that included chili, games, costumes and music.  We are blessed to have the preschool here at First Friends.  We have several families that attend both the preschool and First Friends.   A big thank you to our Meeting for opening our hearts and doors for this event.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

Jewish and Quaker - Finding Solidarity in our Shared Values.   Share a Middle Eastern meal and meet Brant Rosen, the American Friends Service Committee Regional Director this Thursday October 22nd from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Indiana Interchurch Center at 1100 42nd St.  Brant is a Jewish Rabbi that has written the book, Wrestling in the Daylight - A Rabbi’s Path to Palestinian Solidarity and will speak about his experiences and work.  Brant is a fascinating person in a leadership role at one of our Quaker national organizations so you won’t want to miss this.  His book will be available for purchase that evening with all proceeds supporting American Friends Service Committee.  Attached is the link to register - the cost to attend is $25.00. https://salsa3.salsalabs.com/o/50601/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=83234

YFYF Halloween Haunted House Fun! The Young Friends Youth Fellowship will be joining together to have their Halloween fun this Saturday, October 24th at 7pm. Afterwards, (if we didn't lose any kids to the Haunted House), we will be coming back to Meeting and enjoying S'mores out on the front patio. If you haven't already RSVP please do so by Thursday to Hayley Adams (Adamsh2011@gmail.com)

Speed Queries this Sunday! Speed Queries is like Speed Dating, only in a distinctly Friendly style!  Many of us have been following Ruthie’s queries on our own (http://www.indyfriends.org/ruthies-blog/), but Speed Queries will be a fun way to meet some new faces and engage more deeply with the questions in a social atmosphere.  Stick around for one hour after Fellowship time THIS Sunday, October 25 to discuss three queries with three different partners.  Who will be your partner?  It’s a surprise!  You will have to come to find out! Snacks will be provided. 

Central Area Meeting on Sunday Nov 2nd at 2:00 p.m.  First Friends is part of Western Yearly Meeting which divides up all the Meetings into various areas.  We are part of Central Area Meeting that includes Valley Mills, First Friends, and West Newton. (West Newton Meeting is not splitting as was earlier reported.)   We will meet for fellowship and business as an area on Sunday, November 2nd at 2:00 p.m. at Valley Mills.  Please mark your calendars. Everyone is welcome.

Sponsor a College Student: There are only a couple of young people left to select for this important ministry of care and love to our college students. Please

Consider selecting a student (the poster board of student information is in fellowship hall) to periodically send notes, treats or words of

Encouragement throughout the year. Our students love to hear from us and

Receive something in the mail. Please let Beth Henricks

(beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you would like to sponsor a student.  We would like to have all of our students selected by this Sunday.

First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Contact Sue Mills for an appt: 431-2900 Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  Finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.

WESTERN YEARLY MEETING 2015 OUTREACH SPECIAL PROJECT

Each year Western Yearly Meeting initiates an outreach project to help the less fortunate.  This year’s project is to raise $12,000 for health and education in East Africa.  Monies collected will be evenly divided to assist as follows: 1) Water and sanitation projects in Kenya and Uganda...Friends United Meeting partners with Friendly Water for the World to expand access to low-cost clean water technologies (biosand water filters) and information about health and sanitation; 2) Lindi Friends School...founded in 1996 for young children living in the Kibera slum, Nairbi, Kenya, which is considered one of the largest slums in the world; 3) Lugulu Hospital...$40 provides one day of inpatient are to the poorest of the poor; the hospital’s motto is “We treat, but Jesus Heals and Saves.”  Please consider helping Western Yearly Meeting reach its goal by contributing as you are able.  Checks may be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “WYM outreach Project.”  Thank you.

FUM SUMMER MISSION PROJECT –

A PLACE TO PLAY

This year’s FUM Summer Mission Project is to support the Amari Play Canter.  The Amari Play Center provides a pre-school education and a place to play for the community within the Amari Refugee Camp which is at the outskirts of the city of Ramallah, near Jerusalem.  It is a symbol of tolerance and peace for the camp’s almost entirely Muslim population.  Opportunities for education of these young children are very limited.  This project will help repair, renovate and resurface the playground and will also provide new play equipment, refurbish the kitchen and bathrooms, and complete several other minor repairs.  FUM’s goal is $25,000.  Please help as you are able.  Checks may be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “Amari Play Center.”  Your support is appreciated.

Wanted for the Homeless: The John H. Boner Center would make good use of our old coats, scarves, gloves, mittens, hats to give to the homeless people they serve. Look for a donation box in Fellowship Hall. Our contact person there, Felecia, sends her appreciation for the underwear drive. Thanks to all who contributed. Linda Lee (317 253 0053)

Those who regularly attend Sunday School may now join the choir too, in preparing for the traditional Vesper service! Vesper rehearsals have started.at 9:45 am each Sunday.  The Vesper service will take place on Sunday, December 6 at 5 pm. “All are welcome”.  Regular choir rehearsals start at the 9:00 am hour.

Set your clocks back before going to bed Saturday, October 31st. 

Mark your calendar now!

First Friends Parents:  Gently Used Toys (NOT new) are requested as Christmas presents for the children of MidNorth Food Pantry recipients.  If you are clearing out old toys in preparation for influx of new toys at Christmas, please keep us in mind.  They can be dropped off at the food donation station in Fellowship Hall or Kathy Farris (842-5844) will pick up. 

“Friends Of Nature Kids” ~ Nature by Alphabet: Gather together some leaves, twigs, rocks, and other small things. See if you can spell your name by shaping the letters with these pieces of nature on a clear piece of ground. Try writing other words and maybe even a sentence. Can you read each other’s words? You can make a nameplate by saving the pieces of nature for your name and gluing them onto a piece of wood or paper. From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis,

         317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

October 14, 2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

   Loving is one of the easiest things to do… until it gets hard.  It’s so easy to love someone we admire, we respect, we enjoy, we agree with.  But what happens when someone disappoints us, disagrees with us, hurts us, fails us?  What happens when someone causes us pain?  What happens when someone we thought we knew ends up acting, thinking, doing, being someone we don’t recognize any longer?  Love gets hard.  Love gets hard, but our hearts don’t have to.  “A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. I will put my spirit within you…”  This is God’s promise to us.  And God has kept his promise, through the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Our hearts are made pliable, supple, flexible, so they can learn and grow, expanding with every heartache, and embracing every new challenge we face. 

   The work we have ahead of us as a Meeting in considering marriage equality is one that will take hearts of flesh – supple, open, hearts that are filled with God’s Spirit.  When we began considering this, more than a year ago, I told you that I trusted your love for one another.  I have, and I still do.  More than that, I trust God’s love for us, and for our Meeting.  God’s spirit will lead us and guide us in being faithful to God, to one another, and to our understanding of Friends’ faith and practice… if we come with hearts of flesh, willing and ready to think clearly, to consider openly, to be stretched deeply, to grow greatly, and to move forward together, especially when love gets hard.

 Joys & Concerns

Considering the Query:  ‘Do you work gladly with other religious groups in the pursuit of common goals? While remaining faithful to Quaker insights, try to enter imaginatively into the life and witness of other communities of faith, creating together the bonds of friendship.’ From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Our world is a complex place, and the world of spirituality is none the less diverse. This is what makes the experience of faith so beautiful. We have so many expressions of God revealed around us, both in nature and in one another. Rather than fearing what another person has to teach us, remain grounded in what you know, and enter into a broadening experience of faith that will bring more Light and more Life into your own. Remember that others are curious about the Light within you, as well.

Friendly Visitors: What a joy to see two good friends together!  Helen Davenport and Ann Kendall were able to have a great visit last week, when this lovely picture was taken.  If you have a bit of time, and would like to visit friends in our Meeting, please let John Beede and our Circle of Care know.  We have such rich relationships within our Meeting!  jpbeede@aol.com

‘How many things by season, seasoned are to their right praise and true perfection!’ William  ShakespeareOver thirty people joined together today in a wonderful luncheon hosted by Kathy Farris for the Seasoned Friends – a group of (mostly) retired folks whose lives have been seasoned by the experiences of love, faith, family and friends.  What a wonderful time was shared together! Thank you Kathy, and many thanks to our hot dog vendors – Dan Mitchell and Bill Farris!

Newcomers Are Welcome!  Do you remember the first day you came to First Friends?  The first person you met?  The first person who spoke to you?  First impressions make a big difference, and our newcomers are quick to decide if we are a welcoming faith community, or not.  Are you heading down for coffee?  Bring someone with you!  Are you picking up your child in the Nursery?  Find out who that new parent is!  Enjoy meeting new people… and let them enjoy meeting you!

RecycleForce Recyling Day was a great success!  Thanks to all

for the incredible support, and to our Witness and Service Committee for coordinating this event with Shalom Zone – five area churches that work together to do what we can’t do alone! First Friends Meeting, St. Pius Catholic, Cross and Crown Lutheran, Epworth United Methodist, & Allisonville Christian Church. Meridian St. PreSchool Co-Op, too!

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Crop Hunger Walk this Sunday:  We need your donations - A number of walkers will gather at Christian Theological Seminary this Sunday Oct 18th at 1:45 p.m. to raise awareness of worldwide hunger and raise funds to help alleviate hunger both locally and globally.    Please consider joining the First Friends team of walkers.  Please also consider making a donation for this important cause.  There is a basket in the front hallway for checks or contributions.  Checks can be written to First Friends with a notation of Crop Walk in the memo line.

 Those who regularly attend Sunday School may now join the choir too, in preparing for the traditional Vesper service! Vesper rehearsals will start this Sunday Oct. 18 at 9:45 am.  The Vesper service will take place on Sunday, December 6 at 5 pm. “All are welcome”.  Regular choir rehearsals start at the 9:00 am hour.

Three Great Adult Sunday School Classes To Choose from at First Friends!

Join us at 9:00 a.m.!  Take a look at all these great choices:

Coffee Circle/Wired Word, led by Joyce Bowman, Kristyn Buckner and Jeff Rasley; current news events discussed in the light of scripture, and our response as Quakers to what’s happening in the world today.

Seeking Friends/Testament of Devotion, led by Jim Hejl; five compelling essays by Friend Thomas Kelly that urge us to center our lives on God's presence, to find quiet and stillness within modern life.

Mind the Light/Holy Silence by Brent Bill, led by Michael Hostetler;  For centuries, Quakers have taught that when we are silent, God grants us insights, guidance, and spiritual understanding that is different from what we might realize in our noisy, everyday lives.  A class geared toward young adults and parents of small children.

                                 Friends Disaster Service Work Week -- Oct. 15, 16, 17, 2015

Combined workers from all of Indiana’s Yearly Meetings

Our case house is in Waverly, Indiana at 9450 Huggin Hollow Rd. Martinsville, In.

We have insulated and dry walled this house, three rooms are spackled, sanded and painted.

Need to do: The rest of the house has two coats of spackle on it and will be ready to paint by the 15th. Kitchen Base cabinets need set and counter top installed. Two bedrooms of carpet strips and pad.  Stretch carpet. Anyone have a carpet “Kicker”? Install four rooms of vinyl laminate “wood look” planks. Put down all wall baseboard trim. Gutter repair and downspout drains dug in. Materials have already been paid for by Grants and other groups donations, and as normal F.D.S. will pay for workers food and travel expenses. We need a good turnout of local workers so check your calendar

 and call our Coordinator so we canschedule the work days.

 Coordinators

Eldon Studer at 812 879-4236 or cell 765 346-0587, Lane Sims at 317 774-0787 or cell 317 224-3135

Don Wimmerat 765 384-7429 or cell 765 661-0064, Catherine Griffithat 765 520-1703

Directions:

Located about one mile from the intersection of St. Rd. 144 and St. Rd. 37.

Go approximately 8 miles from Mooresville on 144 and 100 feet before the 37 intersection Light, turn right. Go ½ mile or so and the house is on the right side. The project house has tan siding with a brown porch at the front door. It is left and behind a yellow brick home with brown roof, same driveway. Look for the FDS trailer.

Fall Festival on October 17th at First Friends.  The Preschool Co-Op has invited us to join them in their annual Fall Festival on Saturday October 17th from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.  This is a great time of fellowship and includes games, crafts, door prizes, music and a chili cook-off.  We have been asked to provide desserts if we plan on attending.  This event will be held rain or shine and costumes are strongly encouraged.  We invite all of our families to join in the fun.  Please let Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you will attend and if you want to enter the chili cook-off.

Sponsor a College Student:  There are still a few students left to select for this important ministry of care and love to our college students.  Please consider selecting a student (the poster board of student information is just outside fellowship hall) to periodically send notes, treats or words of encouragement throughout the year.  Our students love to hear from us and receive something in the mail.  Please let Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you would like to sponsor a student.

Poetry Group will meet on Tuesday, October 20th, at 2:00 in the Parlor. Linda Lee will read new poems and will explain what led to the making of them.

18.25 - Grounded in God; Coffee and Queries for those 18-25   Begins Tuesday, October 20 from 7:45 – 9:00 pm in the basement at First Friends. Are you curious about God?  Are you ready for conversation?  Then join Ruthie Tippin and others like you for a cup of coffee and dialogue about things that really matter.  Anyone 18 to 25 years old is welcome.  Bring your friends, too.

Jewish and Quaker - Finding Solidarity in our Shared Values.   Share a Middle Eastern meal and meet Brant Rosen, the American Friends Service Committee Regional Director on Thursday October 22nd from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Indiana Interchurch Center at 1100 42nd St.  Brant is a Jewish Rabbi that has written the book, Wrestling in the Daylight - A Rabbi’s Path to Palestinian Solidarity and will speak about his experiences and work.  Brant is a fascinating person in a leadership role at one of our Quaker national organizations so you won’t want to miss this.  His book will be available for purchase that evening with all proceeds supporting American Friends Service Committee.  Attached is the link to register - the cost to attend is $25.00. https://salsa3.salsalabs.com/o/50601/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=83234

Men of First Friends: The one day Mini Retreat at First Friends meeting house on scheduled for Sat. Oct. 31, has been cancelled. Ed Morris (317) 691-5542 emorri@earthlink.net

Report from Ministry and Counsel Clerk, Ed Morris:

Announcements – The issue of when and how to make announcements at meeting for worship continues to be a thorny issue with opinions varying widely. For now M&C in conjunction with Pastor Ruthie have decided that announcements will come as we break the silence with handshakes. There will be a final hymn after the announcements.

Dan Mosley Grant Fund: A subcommittee consisting of Carrie Sample, Bill Heitman (MG&P), Barb Dubois (M&C), and John Beede (COC) will work with Ruthie and Dan Mosley to integrate our learning from the Dan Mosley workshops into our meeting's practices and structures.

Concerns in the Meeting: Members of M&C are urged to listen carefully to concerns that members and attenders bring to them about the meeting. We should ask them if this is something they would like to bring before M&C. In most cases this can be done anonymously.

Marriage Equality: Ministry and Counsel after much discernment, inquiry, and prayer will now present a proposal for consideration of the Monthly Meeting on Oct. 18th. This will be done in a uniquely Quaker fashion focusing on the marriage process itself. Child care will be available as well as snacks. 

Come One Come All! - Have your picture taken (at no cost, unless you want extra prints) for the First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  The finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.  If you cannot have your picture taken on the dates at First Friends, Lifetouch will allow you to go to another church that is also scheduling pictures at about the same time.  Sign-ups have started this September, and will be on-line and in person at the Meeting house.  More info will follow as we get closer to the sign-up dates.  If you need more info, please contact Sue Mills. If you are interested in helping out as a Host / Hostess during the photo sessions, please let Sue know.  Shifts are 4 hours.  Times are 2:30 – 9 on Wed. – Fri., and 10:00 – 4:30 on Sat.  If you would like to help with Sign-ups at the Meeting House after Meeting on Sept. 20 – Oct. 18, please let Sue know. Schedule your family portrait session now:  https://www.securedata-trans14.com/ap/firstfriendsmeeting/index.php?page=10

First Friends Parents:  Gently Used Toys (NOT new) are requested as Christmas presents for the children of food pantry recipients.  If you are clearing out old toys in preparation for influx of new toys at Christmas, please keep us in mind.  They can be dropped off at the food donation station in Fellowship Hall or Kathy Farris (842-5844) will pick up. 

“Friends Of Nature Kids” ~ Nature by Memory: Clear a little space on the ground or on some grass and sit down. Look around for a couple of minutes in all directions and then shut your eyes. With your eyes closed, see how many things and details you can remember. Now open your eyes and see what you forgot to include.

From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

                       Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis,

         317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

October 7,2015

    Friend to Friend                             

  Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

Friends gathered around the world this past Sunday to celebrate World Quaker Day.  Our meeting asked the question, “What are Quakers doing in the world today?”  Colin Saxton, our guest speaker, turned that question around.  Instead, Colin asked us, “What are Quakers not doing in the world today?” We are busy people.  But we are not busy just being busy.  Friends are productive people, bringing hope, life and health to people as close as our next door neighbors and as far away as the oceans spread.  Those we once thought of as outposts of Quakerism are now the largest centers of our faith community.  People groups in Africa are asking their Quaker neighbors to come and speak peace to their people.  Children in a slum in Africa, and Palestinian students under Israeli occupation in Ramallah, are being educated with Quaker values.  And that’s not all.  Ifyou consider the work of Friends – you, me,us – all around the world - there is a great deal of work being done.  Why do we do these things?  Where does the impetus for concern for others come from?  What caused the Early Friends – Lucretia Mott, George Fox, John Woolman and others – to extend their reach, far beyond themselves?  Perhaps George Fox captured it best… “Let all nations hear the word by sound or writing. Spare no place, spare not tongue nor pen, but be obedient to the Lord God and go through the world and be vailant for the Truth upon earth; tread and trample all that is contrary under… Be patterns, be examples in all countries, places, islands, nations, wherever you come, that your carriage and life may preach among all sorts of people, and to them; then you will come to walk cheerfully over the world, answering that of God in every one.”  Early Friends, and Friends today, act out of obedience to God’s voice within them, calling each one of us to speak, write, act, and be Truth – Christ’s Light - for those who have not discovered it.  It takes a valiant effort to help the world see God within themselves… the world is not a very self-reflective sort of place.  And that’s why it’s such a joy to welcome you, and so many other Friends, whose lives are spent considering that of God within us, and answering it in every one whose lives we touch, and whose Light God changes. 

 Joys & Concerns

Considering the Query: Take time to learn about other people’s experiences of the Light. Remember the importance of the Bible, the writings of Friends and all writings which reveal the ways of God. As you learn from others, can you in turn give freely from what you have gained? While respecting the experiences and opinions of others, do not be afraid to say what you have found and what you value. Appreciate that doubt and questioning can also lead to spiritual growth and to a greater awareness of the Light that is in us all.  From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

John Beede has been deployed by the American Red Cross to Columbia, SC to bring help to those affected by the recent flooding there.  Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

The Eco-Film Series this Fall will be hosted by All Souls Unitarian Church, 5605 E. 56th Street. The Second film, Switch, will be shown on Friday, Oct. 9th, at 7 pm. Switch is about changing the way we use energy, to realize the many economic and environmental benefits of efficiency. Admission is free. Subsequent film will be: Friday, Nov-13 at 7 pm. – Damnation.  This film series is sponsored by All Souls Unitarian, Cross and Crown Lutheran, First Friends Meeting, Epworth United Methodist, and Heartlands Group of the Sierra Club.  Hope you plan to attend.

Recycle Force Electronics Recycling Event – This Saturday!

October 10th      10:00am-2:00pm

A great opportunity to clean out your basement, garage, closets and attic, and safely and responsibly recycle your old electronics and appliances.

*A donation of $10.00 is requested for TVs and Monitors.

$20.00 is asked for refrigerators, freezers or air conditioners.

For more Information contact Bill Chapman 317-255-4739

This event is supported by Shalom Zone Churches, MSPSC, and our Witness and Service Committee

Computers & Laptops - Copiers & Printers - Gaming Systems - Any Small Appliance - CD VCR & DVD

Microwaves - Christmas Lights - TVs & Monitors* - Fax Machines - Answering Machines - Cell Phones

Scanners - Air Conditioners* - Dehumidifiers – Microphones - Satellite Components - Refrigerators*

Power Supplies - Car Batteries - Old Motors (No Gas) - Vacuum Cleaners

If it runs (or used to run) with a plug or a battery you can recycle it!

Women’s Gathering and Gardens!  This Saturday, October 10th at 12:30

All women are invited to a Luncheon and Excursion to the Conservatory at Garfield Park, sponsored by our Friends Women Board.   Lunch will be served at the Meetinghouse at 12:30, followed by a trip to Garfield Park where we will be met by a Master Gardener for a tour of the Conservatory. The event will end at 3:30.  The Luncheon is free – hosted by our USFW Board. A free-will offering will be taken to support USFW missions.  There is a $2.00 admission fee to the Conservatory.  If you have any questions, please contact Ann Rodino at 3happyhikers@comcast.net  Enjoy!

Adult Sunday School Classes Begin This Sunday at First Friends!

Join us at 9:00 a.m.!  Take a look at all these great choices:

Quakerism; Jim Donahue and Bill Chapman – A book study of Friends faith.

Seeking Friends; Jim Hejl – ‘Testament of Devotion’ by Thomas R Kelly; five compelling essays that urge us to center our lives on God's presence, to find quiet and stillness within modern life.

Coffee Circle; Jeff Rasley, Joyce Bowman, Kristyn Buckner – ‘Wired Word’; weekly lessons that confront the news with Scripture and hope.

*Mind the Light; Michael Hostetler – ‘Holy Silence’ by Brent Bill; *This is a new class not offered before…. “Geared towards young adults and parents of small children, the class will explore the foundation of silence as a part of Quakerism and the challenge of incorporating that silence into our busy everyday lives. We will discuss the rewards and challenges of raising young children and how the foundations of Quakerism can positively influence our parenting. In addition, we will discuss the role our group plays in the overall purpose of Indianapolis First Friends.”

It's here!! Young Friends Youth Group is meeting THIS SUNDAY, October 11th after from 11:30am – 1:30pm. Join us as we learn about "Bible Storytelling" and the practical ways we see them in our lives. Each person will receive a sketch journal that goes along with each story for creative fun! Games and videos are included. Let's have a great start for the New Year!

It is time to sponsor a College Student.  This is an important ministry of care and love to our college students.   Please consider selecting a student that you will periodically send a note, treats or words of encouragement to throughout the year.  Our students love to hear from us and receive something in the mail.  Students this year include, Amelia Calley, Helen Calley, Maggie Crawford, Natalie Donahue, Emma Falkenbach, Adrian Firsich, Lori Heusel, Will Mastin, Tyler Rodino and Nick Wilson.  Please let Beth Henricks know if you would like to participate in this ministry.  

Fall Seasoned Friends Luncheon for anyone retired and older is Wednesday, October 14th at 11:30 AM in Fellowship Hall. It will be a wiener roast theme along with squash soup. Please RSVP to office or Kathy Farris (Kathyfarris@hotmail.com

Fall Festival on October 17th at First Friends.  The Preschool Co-Op has invited us to join them in their annual Fall Festival on Saturday October 17th from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.  This is a great time of fellowship and includes games, crafts, door prizes, music and a chili cook-off.  We have been asked to provide desserts if we plan on attending.  This event will be held rain or shine and costumes are strongly encouraged.  We invite all of our families to join in the fun.  Please let Beth Henricks (beth.henricks@indyfriends.org) know if you will attend and if you want to enter the chili cook-off.

CROP HUNGER WALK    Please plan to join with others of First Friends to participate in the 36th annual Greater Indianapolis CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, Oct-18 at 1:45 pm.  Walkers from First Friends will meet at 1:45 p.m. at CTS, 42nd St. and Michigan Road near the registration tent.  The walk is a scenic walk near the Butler campus and a little over 3 miles.  The purpose of the walk is to raise awareness of worldwide hunger and to raise funds to help alleviate hunger both locally and globally.  Please consider a donation for this worthwhile cause.  Checks can be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “Crop Walk” and placed in the basket in the front hallway. There will also be a sign up if you would like to join our group of walkers.

Would you like a First Friends tee-shirt?  If so, please contact the office.  The cost?  $16.00. The front of the tee says “First Friends Meeting Indianapolis”.  The back says “Quakers – Simplicity Equality Integrity Peace” It’s purple, (or periwinkle, according to Dan Mitchell!)

Poetry Group will meet on Tuesday, October 20th, at 2:00 in the Parlor. Linda Lee will read new poems and will explain what led to the making of them.

18.25 - Grounded in God; Coffee and Queries for those 18-25   Begins Tuesday, October 20 from 7:45 – 9:00 pm in the basement at First Friends. Are you curious about God?  Are you ready for conversation?  Then join Ruthie Tippin and others like you for a cup of coffee and dialogue about things that really matter.  Anyone 18 to 25 years old is welcome.  Bring your friends, too.

Jewish and Quaker - Finding Solidarity in our Shared Values.   Share a Middle Eastern meal and meet Brant Rosen, the American Friends Service Committee Regional Director on Thursday October 22nd from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Indiana Interchurch Center at 1100 42nd St.  Brant is a Jewish Rabbi that has written the book, Wrestling in the Daylight - A Rabbi’s Path to Palestinian Solidarity and will speak about his experiences and work.  Brant is a fascinating person in a leadership role at one of our Quaker national organizations so you won’t want to miss this.  His book will be available for purchase that evening with all proceeds supporting American Friends Service Committee.  Attached is the link to register - the cost to attend is $25.00. https://salsa3.salsalabs.com/o/50601/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=83234

Men of First Friends: I need to get a head count of men who are interested in the one day Mini Retreat at First Friends meeting house on Sat. Oct. 31, 9:00am to 4:00pm (or later for those who wish to linger). Please contact me at meeting, call me or email me by Sunday Oct. 11. Ed Morris (317) 691-5542 emorri@earthlink.net

Come One Come All! - Have your picture taken (at no cost, unless you want extra prints) for the First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  The finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.  If you cannot have your picture taken on the dates at First Friends, Lifetouch will allow you to go to another church that is also scheduling pictures at about the same time.  Sign-ups have started this September, and will be on-line and in person at the Meeting house.  More info will follow as we get closer to the sign-up dates.  If you need more info, please contact Sue Mills. If you are interested in helping out as a Host / Hostess during the photo sessions, please let Sue know.  Shifts are 4 hours.  Times are 2:30 – 9 on Wed. – Fri., and 10:00 – 4:30 on Sat.  If you would like to help with Sign-ups at the Meeting House after Meeting on Sept. 20 – Oct. 18, please let Sue know. Schedule your family portrait session now:  https://www.securedata-trans14.com/ap/firstfriendsmeeting/index.php?page=10

Update on the Woods: We had a small and faithful crew on Saturday, September 26th. Thanks to Tom Wright, Terry Trierweiler, David Beatty, Normal Wallman and Dan Mitchell for all their work as we pruned trees, cleaned out the fountain, removed invasive honeysuckle and generally cared for our wonderful little urban woods. We temporarily turned off the water at the fountain to manage some unexpected algae growth.  After allowing it to dry completely, scrub it clean and then turn it on again so we can enjoy its beauty through the winter.

“Friends Of Nature Kids” ~ Hide and Seek: This is played just like regular hide-and-seek except someone hides a rock or something else the group chooses. Everybody closes their eyes and counts up to thirty, while one person hides the stick or rock. After it’s hidden, everybody runs off to try to find it. If nobody finds it, the questions begin. Each person asks a yes or no question about where it is hidden, like “If I were a bird flying overhead, would I be able to see it?” After ten questions, there is a final search for the hidden object.

From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis, IN   46220

                                               317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

September 30, 2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

   I have appreciated the opportunity to participate in the discernment sessions that Eric Tinsley and our Ministry and Counsel have offered all of us over the last three weeks.  While I missed the first session, I was able to attend the last 2 gatherings and it was a rich experience of sharing about the Quaker discernment process both personally and in our faith community.  Eric did a wonderful job in talking about the different components of our discernment process, and the dialogue among us was rich and insightful.  As Eric talked about the concept of “standing aside” in our corporate discernment process, I was reminded of a powerful experience of “standing aside” I had about 19 years ago when I had only been attending First Friends for a couple of years and inexperienced in the ways of Quakers.  

At the time, First Friends had a day care called Little Friends.  This had been an important ministry of our Meeting for a number of years but enrollment had declined, finances were difficult, the Meeting was having to support Little Friends in their operating expenses and there had been conflicts between the day care and some of the Christian Education programs of the Meeting.  The Meeting was considering laying down this ministry. This was a really big decision for the Meeting and over the next year we entered into a discernment process that included a threshing session, many Monthly Meetings for Business that reflected on the various options and our Clerk listening to all the voices to try to discern the sense of the Meeting.  

I will never forget the Monthly Meeting for Business where we were coming close to discernment and a decision.  Our Friend, Rik Lineback had been a significant supporter of Little Friends and felt passionately about his support of this ministry.  He stood up during this Meeting and shared in a powerful voice that he cared deeply about Little Friends and did not want it to end, but that he sensed the Meeting was moving away from the support of this program and while he wanted to continue this ministry, he was willing to stand aside for the sense of the Meeting.  Rik had not been a person that I had ever heard speak out during Meeting for Worship, or Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business.  I was really blown away by his selfless act.  Rik could have dug in his heels and continued to insist on the continuation of this ministry.  But he understood the sense of Spirit that was moving through the gathering and felt he had to respond to the situation even though he personally could not give up Little Friends.  I felt God’s presence in that room.

It was the beginning of my understanding of how Quakers make decisions and I knew this was a place that I wanted to call my spiritual home.   As we journey together through the coming days and years, I pray that we will all open our hearts to God’s spirit even when we might have to set aside a deeply held belief or passion.  This is the amazing process that defines Quakers at their best.  

Joys & Concerns

Considering the Query: 'The Religious Society of Friends is rooted in Christianity and has always found inspiration in the life and teachings of Jesus. How do you interpret your faith in the light of this heritage? How does Jesus speak to you today? Are you following Jesus' example of love in action? Are you learning from his life the reality and cost of obedience to God? How does his relationship with God challenge and inspire you?'

From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Thank you Choir!  What a lovely time we shared together in Fellowship Hour, thanks to our Choir and their generous hosting last Sunday.  Simply delicious, and right in tune!

Great Thanks to Eric Tinsley for his leadership and teaching this past three weeks in sessions regarding Quaker decision making.  What a wonderful gift these gatherings have been for our Meeting!

Tyler Rodino has recently been diagnosed with pleurisy – a painful inflammation of the lining surrounding the lungs.  He had just recovered from pneumonia.  Tyler is a junior at Indiana University Bloomington.  Please keep him in your prayers.

Carolyn Marshall’s friend, Sheri, has just undergone surgery, and needs our prayers for a complete recovery.  Please hold her in your loving prayers for healing and strength.  To send encouragement to Carolyn for her friend… csmarshall01@gmail.com

Congratulations to Vicki Wertz! She has just begun a new job as the Executive Assistant to the CEO of Second Helpings.  We’re so proud of you, Vicki! To send Vicki a card…1510 E 77th St.

Indianapolis, IN 46240

Barbara Dubois has asked for prayers for three of her neighbors, and for her nephew’s daughter Ivy – all of whom are facing medical concerns.  Please surround Barbara and these whom she holds dear with your prayers for God’s love and healing light.  To send a card to Barbara…10310 Coral Reef Way Indianapolis, IN 46256

This last Sunday, 6 youth and 5 adults from First Friends went together to volunteer at the Mid-North Food Pantry. With the help of Bill Chapman, the youth learned about what they can do to help the hundreds of families who are hungry in Marion County. They stocked the shelves with donated foods, and worked together to help organize the next round of volunteers for the upcoming week. The youth will go again in December.

It was a joy last Sunday to have Eden Grace in Meeting for Worship here at First Friends.  While Ruthie traveled with Jon in NC, she was asked to bring the message for Deborah Seuss at Greensboro First Friends Meeting.  So many wonderful Friends Meetings!  So many wonderful Friends!

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

What Are Quakers Doing In the World Today?

 World Quaker Day - Sunday, October 4, 2015

9:00 Breakfast with Our Friends; portrayals of George Fox, John Woolman, Lucretia Mott

Join these Friends from the past, as they speak into the present day.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast during the discussion!

10:15 Meeting for Worship with Colin Saxton, General Secretary of Friends United Meeting

God continues to speak and act in the lives of Quakers around the world!

11:30 Fellowship Hour ~ World Quaker Exhibits

Enjoy hot and cold beverages, treats, and great company while viewing displays of Quaker organizations from near and far!

Invite your friends, your family, your neighbors, your acquaintances to First Friends Meeting!

October 11th is Opening Day for Adult Sunday School Classes at First Friends!

Take a look at all these great choices:

Quakerism; Jim Donahue and Bill Chapman – A book study of Friends faith.

Seeking Friends; Jim Hejl – ‘Testament of Devotion’ by Thomas R Kelly; five compelling essays that urge us to center our lives on God's presence, to find quiet and stillness within modern life.

Coffee Circle; Jeff Rasley, Joyce Bowman, Kristyn Buckner – ‘Wired Word’; weekly lessons that confront the news with Scripture and hope.

*Mind the Light; Michael Hostetler – ‘Holy Silence’ by Brent Bill; *This is a new class not offered before…. “Geared towards young adults and parents of small children, the class will explore the foundation of silence as a part of Quakerism and the challenge of incorporating that silence into our busy everyday lives. We will discuss the rewards and challenges of raising young children and how the foundations of Quakerism can positively influence our parenting. In addition, we will discuss the role our group plays in the overall purpose of Indianapolis First Friends.”

Sunday School No More! (Well, sort of). 6th-12th graders will now be meeting at 9am in the Youth Room for Donut Club. Come watch a short video, hangout, and eat donuts with your Friends. Hope to see you there next Sunday!

Mark your calendars!! First Friends Youth Group will be meeting every second Sunday starting October 11th. Join us as we learn about “Bible Storytelling” and the practical ways we see capture them in our lives. Each person will receive a sketch journal that goes along with each story for creative fun! Youth Group will go from 11:30am-1:30pm with lunch included. Parents, look for an upcoming email about a sign-up sheet about volunteering for meals.

The Eco-Film Series this Fall will be hosted by All Souls Unitarian Church, 5605 E. 56th Street. The Second film, Switch, will be shown on Friday, Oct. 9th, at 7 pm. Switch is about changing the way we use energy, to realize the many economic and environmental benefits of efficiency. Admission is free. Subsequent film will be: Friday, Nov-13 at 7 pm. – Damnation.  This film series is sponsored by All Souls Unitarian, Cross and Crown Lutheran, First Friends Meeting, Epworth United Methodist, and Heartlands Group of the Sierra Club.  Hope you plan to attend.

Women’s Gathering and Gardens!  Saturday, October 10th at 12:30 All women are invited to a Luncheon and Excursion to the Conservatory at Garfield Park, sponsored by our Friends Women Board.   Lunch will be served at the Meetinghouse at 12:30, followed by a trip to Garfield Park where we will be met by a Master Gardener for a tour of the Conservatory. The event will end at 3:30.  There is a $2.00 admission fee to the Conservatory.  If you have any questions, please contact Ann Rodino at 3happyhikers@comcast.net Enjoy!

Time To Recycle – Clean out your Garage!  Sort out those Closets!

On behalf of the Shalom Zone, First Friends is to host a recycling event on Saturday, Oct. 10, at First Friends from 10 am – 2 pm.  Electronic items of all types are welcome.  Simply stop by on Oct. 10 and drop off the items you would like to recycle.  If you are not able to make it on Oct-10, you can arrange to drop off your items ahead of time.  Please call Bill Chapman (317 255-4739) or the office to arrange the drop off.

Fall Seasoned Friends Luncheon for anyone retired and older is Wednesday October14th at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall. It will be a wiener roast theme along with squash soup. Please RSVP to office or Kathy Farris (Kathyfarris@hotmail.com

CROP HUNGER WALK    Please plan to join with others of First Friends to participate in the 36th annual Greater Indianapolis CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, Oct-18 at 1:45 pm.  Walkers from First Friends will meet at 1:45 p.m. at CTS, 42nd St. and Michigan Road near the registration tent.  The walk is a scenic walk near the Butler campus and a little over 3 miles.  The purpose of the walk is to raise awareness of worldwide hunger and to raise funds to help alleviate hunger both locally and globally.  Please consider a donation for this worthwhile cause.  Checks can be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “Crop Walk” and placed in the basket in the front hallway. There will also be a sign up if you would like to join our group of walkers.

Would you like a First Friends tee-shirt?  If so, please contact the office.  The cost?  $16.00. The front of the tee says “First Friends Meeting Indianapolis”.  The back says “Quakers – Simplicity Equality Integrity Peace” It’s purple, (or periwinkle, according to Dan Mitchell!)

Attention Men! Save the date - Men’s Retreat - October 31st at FFMtg! 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?  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.

Come One Come All! - To have your picture taken (at no cost, unless you want extra prints) for the First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  The finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.  If you cannot have your picture taken on the dates at First Friends, Lifetouch will allow you to go to another church that is also scheduling pictures at about the same time.  Sign-ups have started this September, and will be on-line and in person at the Meeting house.  More info will follow as we get closer to the sign-up dates.  If you need more info, please contact Sue Mills. If you are interested in helping out as a Host / Hostess during the photo sessions, please let Sue know.  Shifts are 4 hours.  Times are 2:30 – 9 on Wed. – Fri., and 10:00 – 4:30 on Sat.  If you would like to help with Sign-ups at the Meeting House after Meeting on Sept. 20 – Oct. 18, please let Sue know. Schedule your family portrait session now:  https://www.securedata-trans14.com/ap/firstfriendsmeeting/index.php?page=10

“Friends Of Nature Kids” ~ One to Ten: Although nature can look messy, it actually has its own quiet order. Patterns of numbers appear over and over again in nature. Certain leaves always have three points, snowflakes always have six points, and birds always have two wings. Starting with the number one, make up your own list of things that have the same number of parts, going up to ten or as high as you can go.

From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis, IN   46220

                                               317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

September 23, 2015

  Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

Pope Francis has arrived in the United States.  A few days ago he set foot in Holguin, Cuba.  What a blessed journey he is taking, bringing compassion, hope and joy to all Christians, and especially to Cubans, as he stopped on the ‘crocodile’ island.  (Have you ever noticed its shape?)  I landed in Holguin four years ago with a group of women from Iowa, there to celebrate with Quakers who have long been a part of the life of Cuba. Quakers in Cuba?  In 1895, Zenas Martin had traveled to Jamaica to help develop a mission there. After two years there, traveling home aboard ship, she spoke to his friend, Captain Lorenzo Baker. As they passed Cuba, Baker invited Zenas to begin a Friends mission/ministry in Cuba.  His United Fruit Company would be opening up a plantation there, and he urged Zenas to bring the Friends message there.  Was this God’s leading, or Lorenzo’s?  Zenas took the idea back to Iowa, where he spoke and prayed about this with many other Friends.  At Iowa Yearly Meeting that year, it became clear that God was indeed calling them to begin a Friends ministry in Cuba.  But they had no idea how to finance it.  They asked God what they should do.  The answer was given… ask other Friends around the US to help them.  Several Yearly Meetings were asked, and prayerfully responded, sending funds.  The mission was started in 1900.  And Zenas made a choice… he would not open the mission at the site of the fruit company in Banes.  He wrote his wife that he did not want the mission to become a department of “the great souls corporation”.  Instead, the mission was begun at Gibara.  It is centered there to this day.  Despite all the hardships, Friends in Cuba flourish!  One conversation can turn into a great work for God.  You may think you’re journeying home, only to find out you’re at the beginning of a new adventure.  When it seems that obstacles make the future impossible, you discover a way God has prepared, and the resources you will need when you need them. God bless the Pope in his continuing conversations with the world. And may God bless us in ours! May we listen with compassion, hope and joy, and may we act on what we hear.                                                                                                                                       

Joys & Concerns

Considering the Query: ‘Do you try to set aside times of quiet for openness to the Holy Spirit?  All of us need to find a way into silence which allows us to deepen our awareness of the divine and to find the inward source of our strength.  Seek to know an inward stillness, even amid the activities of daily life.  Do you encourage in yourself and in others a habit of dependence on God’s guidance for each day?  Hold yourself and others in the Light, knowing that ll are cherished by God.’

From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

Eden Grace will speak this Sunday in Meeting for Worship at 10:15.  Eden serves on staff for Friends United Meeting, is a member of Baltimore Yearly Meeting, and is a great friend of Friends.  She will be here to speak to the work of Quaker discernment/decision making.  Eden once wrote “An Introduction to Quaker Business Practices”, where she describes the theological basis, spirituality, and best practices of Quaker decision-making, and we look forward to hearing her thoughts.  To read her paper, go to www.edengrace.org

September 24&27 – This Thursday and Sunday! Adult Sunday School Class Forum

Session Three: Thursday, September 24 at 7:00; repeated Sunday, September 27 at 9:00

What is our responsibility as a part of a group in making decisions, as Friends?

This is the last of three sessions, and we hope you will come!

All adult Sunday School Classes will be brought together as we open discussion around Quaker decision making, discernment and process.  If you can’t make it on Sunday, come this Thursday night!!!  We invite everyone to join Eric Tinsley with Ministry and Counsel, as we learn together. This is especially important to our Meeting, as we consider decisions regarding marriage equality. 

Meditational Woods Work Day – This Saturday - Sept. 26th 9:00-12:00 noon

Bring your work gloves, trowels, and clippers plus a good set of strong hands and backs. Hope to see you there. Contact Mindy Sommer and Mary Blackburn for questions. Melinda Sommer, mcs16zoom@gmail.com, Mary Blackburn mhblackburn@sbcglobal.net

Calling all 6th through 12th graders! Join us this Saturday, from 5:00-7:00, September 26th, for our Youth Group kick-off “Minute to Win It” in Fellowship Hall. Games, food, and prizes will be supplied. Bring your friends for more fun! RSVP to Hayley Adams (adamsh2011@gmail.com)

To keep the fun going join us on Sunday morning at 9am in the youth room, to continue our journey with Rob Bell’s Nooma video series. Doughnuts will be providedJ.

The youth will also be working at the Mid North Food Pantry this Sunday from noon to 2:30.  If anyone would like to join us, please contact Beth.  

Last Call for Undies!  Sunday’s the Last Day for Underneath it All:

First Friends Eighth Annual Underwear Drive ~ August 26th through September 27th

Socks, T Shirts, Bras, too! Babies, Children, Preteens, High School Students— all need underwear and socks. Please place underwear donations in the labeled box in Fellowship Hall. Cash, or checks written to First Friends - designate for ‘Underneath it All’.  Thank you for your support.  

What Are Quakers Doing In the World Today? - World Quaker Day - Sunday, October 4, 2015

Join Friends all around the world for a joint day of worship and celebration. As the sun rises in each area of the world we want to remember that Quakers are worshiping through every time zone, celebrating our deep connections across cultures and Quaker traditions. We are united in love and can accompany each other on this special day. As we worship, let us hold each other in prayer and thanksgiving, and let our hymns of praise resound across the world.

9:00 Breakfast with Our Friends; portrayals of George Fox, John Woolman, Lucretia Mott

Join these Friends from the past, as they speak into the present day.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast during the discussion!

10:15 Meeting for Worship with Colin Saxton, General Secretary of Friends United Meeting

God continues to speak and act in the lives of Quakers around the world!

11:30 Fellowship Hour ~ World Quaker Exhibits

Enjoy hot and cold beverages, treats, and great company while viewing displays of Quaker organizations from near and far!

Invite your friends, your family, your neighbors, your acquaintances to First Friends Meeting!

The Eco-Film Series this Fall will be hosted by All Souls Unitarian Church, 5605 E. 56th Street. The Second film, Switch, will be shown on Friday, Oct. 9th, at 7 pm. Switch is about changing the way we use energy, to realize the many economic and environmental benefits of efficiency. Admission is free. Subsequent film will be: Friday, Nov-13 at 7 pm. – Damnation.  This film series is sponsored by All Souls Unitarian, Cross and Crown Lutheran, First Friends Meeting, Epworth United Methodist, and Heartlands Group of the Sierra Club.  Hope you plan to attend.

Women’s Gathering and Gardens!  Saturday, October 10th at 12:30 All women are invited to a Luncheon and Excursion to the Conservatory at Garfield Park, sponsored by our Friends Women Board.   Lunch will be served at the Meetinghouse at 12:30, followed by a trip to Garfield Park where we will be met by a Master Gardener for a tour of the Conservatory. The event will end at 3:30.  There is a $2.00 admission fee to the Conservatory.  If you have any questions, please contact Ann Rodino at 3happyhikers@comcast.net Enjoy!

Time To Recycle – Clean out your Garage!  Sort out those Closets!

On behalf of the Shalom Zone, First Friends is to host a recycling event on Saturday, Oct. 10, at First Friends from 10 am – 2 pm.  Electronic items of all types are welcome.  Simply stop by on Oct. 10 and drop off the items you would like to recycle.  If you are not able to make it on Oct-10, you can arrange to drop off your items ahead of time.  Please call Bill Chapman (317 255-4739) or the office to arrange the drop off.

Fall Seasoned Friends Luncheon for anyone retired and older is Wednesday October14th at 11:30 AM in the fellowship hall. It will be a wiener roast theme along with squash soup. Please RSVP to office or Kathy Farris (Kathyfarris@hotmail.com

CROP HUNGER WALK    Please plan to join with others of First Friends to participate in the 36th annual Greater Indianapolis CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, Oct-18 at 1:45 pm.  Walkers from First Friends will meet at 1:45 p.m. at CTS, 42nd St. and Michigan Road near the registration tent.  The walk is a scenic walk near the Butler campus and a little over 3 miles.  The purpose of the walk is to raise awareness of worldwide hunger and to raise funds to help alleviate hunger both locally and globally.  Please consider a donation for this worthwhile cause.  Checks can be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “Crop Walk” and placed in the basket in the front hallway. There will also be a sign up if you would like to join our group of walkers.

Come One Come All! - To have your picture taken (at no cost, unless you want extra prints) for the First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  The finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.  If you cannot have your picture taken on the dates at First Friends, Lifetouch will allow you to go to another church that is also scheduling pictures at about the same time.  Sign-ups have started this September, and will be on-line and in person at the Meeting house.  More info will follow as we get closer to the sign-up dates.  If you need more info, please contact Sue Mills. If you are interested in helping out as a Host / Hostess during the photo sessions, please let Sue know.  Shifts are 4 hours.  Times are 2:30 – 9 on Wed. – Fri., and 10:00 – 4:30 on Sat.  If you would like to help with Sign-ups at the Meeting House after Meeting on Sept. 20 – Oct. 18, please let Sue know. Schedule your family portrait session now:  https://www.securedata-trans14.com/ap/firstfriendsmeeting/index.php?page=10

Attention Men! Save the date - Men’s Retreat - October 31st at FFMtg! 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?  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. 

“Friends Of Nature” ~ Under a Rock: Find a big rock that’s easy enough for you to move.  Gently turn it over and look underneath.  What’s going on under there?  Look carefully to add if anything is moving.  Is anything growing under the rock? What are all the different things that live under the rock? Can you think of other animals or plants that live in darkness? Carefully turn the rock back over and then find other rocks to peek underneath.  Take care not to disturb the creatures living under the rocks. 

From ‘52 Nature Activities for Kids’ by Lynn Gordon

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis, IN   46220

                                               317-255-2485          office@indyfriends.org

September 16, 2015

    Friend to Friend                                                                  

  Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

 What a beautiful fall day we had on Sunday for the start of Sunday School for our kids. A big thank you to the Christian Education and Fellowship Committees for providing a delicious breakfast for us.  I led Sunday School for our 3rd - 5th graders.  I forgot what a fun age this is with a lot of interesting insight and reflection.  We asked each other some big and little questions about ourselves: our favorite food, a place we would like to visit, what annoys us etc.  We came to the question of what would we like to ask God.  Lucy Kay wrote down that she would like to ask God what the future holds?  Wow - I thought about that question all day.  At first blush I totally agree that I would like God to reveal the future to me.  Maybe it has something to do with walking through the fire and wanting to know when difficulties will end and a vision of the future.  But the more I thought about it I am not sure that I want to know the future.  I might miss opportunities for God’s presence today because I know what tomorrow holds.  I might skip a lot of things or do a lot of things differently if I knew the future.  Maybe I would make better decisions if I knew the future, but it could also destroy me and give up hope.  No longer would I need to have faith and trust in God.

As most of you know, my husband suffers from Alzheimer’s.  I have become involved in the dementia community here and co-facilitate a support group for a special type of dementia called FTD.  This type of dementia has a strong genetic link and we have had genetic counselors present to us the options of testing for this gene in our children.  Do we want to know if we have the gene for FTD and will develop this in our life?  Most of our children say they do not want to know because this knowledge will be a weight they carry every day and will diminish their joy of life.  Knowing the future is a tricky proposition.  I am thankful to God for today and for all of you in my life that give me hope for tomorrow.

Joys & Concerns

Considering the Query: ‘Bring the whole of your life under the ordering of the spirit of Christ.  Are you open to the healing power of God’s love? Cherish that of God within you, so that this love may grow in you and guide you.  Let your worship and your daily life enrich each other.  Treasure your experience of God, however it comes to you.  Remember that Christianity is not a notion but a way.’

From Advices and queries; Britain Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice, 5th edition, @ 1995-2015

Harold Miller's father, Harold L. Miller Sr., died 9/14 of pancreatic cancer after an 83-year journey that took him from Arkansas to all over the world, most recently in the Washington DC metro area.

He was a loving husband to Virginia, excellent dad to Harold Jr. and his three sisters, embracing father-in-law to Ellen and attentive grandfather to Grace and Sam. They are grateful for his life and love and for the fact that they were all able to bid him farewell in person.

Burial will eventually be in Arlington Ceremony and a memorial service is being planned to take place in Arkansas.  Please hold the Miller family in your hearts and prayers. Cards and notes to the family are appreciated. Please send to 4430 Cranbrook Drive, 46260

Thank you to the Fellowship Committee and Christian Education Committee for a wonderful early morning breakfast this past Sunday to welcome everyone back to Sunday School.  We hope to continue to see you each Sunday at 9:00 a.m.

Peace Fest was held this past Sunday with about 75 people in attendance.  There were six from First Friends and all enjoyed the food, fellowship, music and an activity led by the Peace Ambassadors.

Have you checked out our newly decorated nursery?  A huge thank you to Leslie Kartholl for her creative ideas and hard work to transform our nursery into a bright and welcoming space.  Leslie is so generous in using her many talents to support our Meeting.  We offer a deep appreciation to her and Jim!

Mindy Sommer would appreciate prayer for a staff member at her workplace, Clay Educare.  Please hold Erin Wilding in your prayers for God’s loving comfort.  Her husband was killed Tuesday evening in a head on collision where a car crossed the median and struck him, as he drove home from work.  He leaves a wife and two sons – one in high school and another in college.  God bless this family, and the staff of Clay Educare. 

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

Calling all 6th through 12th graders! Join us on September 26th, for our Youth Group kick-off “Minute to Win It” in Fellowship Hall. Games, food, and prizes will be supplied. Bring your friends for more fun! RSVP to Hayley Adams (Adamsh2011@gmail.com)

To keep the fun going join us on Sunday morning at 9am in the youth room, to continue our journey with Rob Bell’s Nooma video series. Doughnuts will be providedJ.

September 17&20, and 24&27: All adult Sunday School Classes will be brought together for two more weeks in September, as we open discussion around Quaker decision making, discernment and process.  If you can’t make it on Sunday, come on Thursday night!!!  We invite everyone to join Eric Tinsley and members of Ministry and Counsel, as we learn together. This is especially important to our Meeting, as we consider decisions regarding marriage equality. 

Session Two: Thursday, September 17 at 7:00; repeated Sunday, September 20 at 9:00

            What is our individual responsibility toward the process of Quaker decision making? 

Session Three: Thursday, September 24 at 7:00; repeated Sunday, September 27 at 9:00

            What is our responsibility as a part of a group in making decisions, as Friends?

This Friday!  Scott Russell Sanders is coming to First Friends, September 18th, 7:00-8:30 p.m...Scott Russell Sanders is the author of twenty books of fiction and nonfiction, including Hunting for Hope and A Conservationist Manifesto. His most recent books are Earth Works: Selected Essays (2012) and Divine Animal: A novel (2014). A collection of stories titled “Dancing in Dreamtime” will be published in 2016, along with a new edition of his documentary narrative, Stone Country. Among his honors are the Lannan Literary Award, the John Burroughs Essay Award, the Mark Twain Award, and the Cecil Woods Award for Nonfiction, the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Award, and fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts. In 2012 he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He is a distinguished Professor Emeritus of English at Indiana University. He and his wife, Ruth, a biochemist, have reared two children in their hometown of Bloomington, in the hardwood hill country of Indiana’s White River Valley.  Environmental author Scott Russell Sanders will be here for a conversation on the future of earthcare in Indiana. This event is a fundraiser for the Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation. A reception and book signing will immediately follow the event. Please join us! 

‘Considering the Queries’ has begun!  Have you found someone to prayerfully visit with about the queries?  Watch for these on our website www.indyfriends.org under ‘Ruthie’s Blog – Thoughts from our Pastor’, and share your comments.  They will now be printed in Friend to Friend each week, too!

Leading Voice for Israeli-Palestinian Peace to Visit Indianapolis

On September 20, 2015, the Rev. Elias Chacour, a former Archbishop of the Melkite Catholic Church in Israel, will explain how peace is still possible between Israelis and Palestinians. His address, “A Life of Peacemaking in the Holy Land,” is scheduled for 2:30 PM at Indianapolis’ North United Methodist Church, located at 38th Street and Meridian.  Named a “Peacemaker in Action” by the Tanenbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding, Chacour is founder of the Mar Elias schools, which have educated tens of thousands of Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Druze children in the Galilee region of Israel. Born 1939, Elias Chacour grew up in the Palestinian village of Biram. In 1947, his childhood home was confiscated by the nascent Israeli state. Though dispossessed, Chacour became an advocate for non-violence and peaceful reconciliation between Jews and Arabs. Chacour describes himself as a “Palestinian-Arab-Christian-Israeli.” Chacour is author of two best-selling books, including We Belong to the Land and Blood Brothers, which has been translated into twenty languages. He is the recipient of several peace awards and honorary degrees, including a doctorate from the University of Indianapolis. “This may be Hoosiers’ last chance to hear from one of the world’s most powerful voices for peace,” said Rev. Dotti Gerner, leader of Christians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East, the event’s sponsor. The event is free and open to the public. Further information is available from Charlie McDonald, charlie@mcdiii.com. 

Underneath it All: First Friends Eighth Annual Underwear Drive

August 26th through September 27th Toddler to Adult Sizes!

Socks, T Shirts, Bras, too! Babies, Children, Preteens, High School Students— all need underwear and socks. Please Donate New Underwear

Cash or checks to First Friends - designate for ‘Underneath it All’

Contact Linda Lee with questions.  parapluie@ameritech.net

Please place underwear donations in the labeled box in Fellowship Hall.  

You may have to fly fast at first, but then you can let out your wings and soar!

If you’d like to help organize and maintain some order in our Fellowship Hall kitchen it would be a great gift to the Meeting.  Male or Female Angels Accepted!  No ‘fly by nights’ need apply!  Contact Ruthie or the Office if this fits into your Flight Plan!

Poetry Group will resume on September 22 at 2:00 in the Parlor of the Meetinghouse. Tom and Ursula Roberts will present poems from Mary Oliver’s book Dog Stories and some other poems. We hope that attenders will bring favorite poems about pets or animals to share. For questions please contact Ursula Roberts robertsursula90@gmail.com

Meditational Woods Work Day - Sept. 26th 9:00-12:00

Bring your work gloves, trowels, and clippers plus a good set of strong hands and backs. Hope to see you there. Contact Mindy Sommer and Mary Blackburn for questions. Melinda Sommer, mcs16zoom@gmail.com, Mary Blackburn mhblackburn@sbcglobal.net

What Are Quakers Doing In the World Today?

World Quaker Day - Sunday, October 4, 2015

9:00 Breakfast with Our Friends; portrayals of George Fox, John Woolman, Lucretia Mott

Join these Friends from the past, as they speak into the present day.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast during the discussion!

10:15 Meeting for Worship with Colin Saxton, General Secretary of Friends United Meeting

God continues to speak and act in the lives of Quakers around the world!

11:30 Fellowship Hour ~ World Quaker Exhibits

Enjoy hot and cold beverages, treats, and great company while viewing displays of Quaker organizations from near and far!

Time To Recycle

On behalf of the Shalom Zone, First Friends is to host a recycling event on Saturday, Oct. 10, at First Friends from 10 am – 2 pm.  Electronic items of all types are welcome.  Simply stop by on Oct. 10 and drop off the items you would like to recycle.  If you are not able to make it on Oct-10, you can arrange to drop off your items ahead of time.  Please call Bill Chapman (317 255-4739) or the office to arrange the drop off. 

CROP HUNGER WALK    Please plan to join with others of First Friends to participate in the 36th annual Greater Indianapolis CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, Oct-18 at 1:45 pm.  Walkers from First Friends will meet at 1:45 p.m. at CTS, 42nd St. and Michigan Road near the registration tent.  The walk is a scenic walk near the Butler campus and a little over 3 miles.  The purpose of the walk is to raise awareness of worldwide hunger and to raise funds to help alleviate hunger both locally and globally.  Please consider a donation for this worthwhile cause.  Checks can be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “Crop Walk” and placed in the basket in the front hallway. There will also be a sign up if you would like to join our group of walkers.

Attention Men! Save the date - Men’s Retreat - October 31st at FFMtg! 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?   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. 

Come One Come All! - To have your picture taken (at no cost, unless you want extra prints) for the First Friends Pictorial Directory!  Pictures will be taken by Lifetouch Directories at the Meeting House on Wed., Nov. 4 – Sat., Nov. 7.  The finished pictures will arrive in time for Christmas cards.  This is a great chance to have a professional picture taken of you and/or your family.  Having everyone participate enables the directory to be as useful as possible to facilitate our knowing one another, and in putting names and faces together.  We only do this every 4 years, so hopefully everyone will be able to participate.  If you cannot have your picture taken on the dates at First Friends, Lifetouch will allow you to go to another church that is also scheduling pictures at about the same time.  Sign-ups will start in September, and will be on-line and in person at the Meeting house.  More info will follow as we get closer to the sign-up dates.  If you need more info, please contact Sue Mills. If you are interested in helping out as a Host / Hostess during the photo sessions, please let Sue know.  Shifts are 4 hours.  Times are 2:30 – 9 on Wed. – Fri., and 10:00 – 4:30 on Sat.  If you would like to help with Sign-ups at the Meeting House after Meeting on Sept. 20 – Oct. 18, please let Sue know. Schedule your family portrait session now:  https://www.securedata-trans14.com/ap/firstfriendsmeeting/index.php?page=10

Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

Compassionate v Christian v Quaker

3030 Kessler Blvd. E. Dr.              Indianapolis, IN   46220                

317-255-2485               office@indyfriends.org

September 9, 2015

    Friend to Friend

  Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Concerns, Announcements and Devotional Thought

A Weekly Ministry of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting

As Way Opens

This past Sunday was a glorious delight!  For those of you who are at a distance from Meeting, we shared together in our Labor Day custom… ‘Worship in the Woods’.  We gathered under the spread of trees, with birdsong and the splash of the nearby fountain.  Eric Baker led us in some wonderful songs and hymns, members told us the story of creation, and we reveled in God showing us Godself in how the world was made.  The children had all kinds of answers as to how many days it took God to make the world, and James Weldon Johnson’s poem of creation rounded out the morning, after a deep silence and sharing with his ‘I’ll make me a world.” 

God has blessed our Meeting.  It’s a good thing to rest in the protection and shade of of such a healthy place as this, and see the relationships between us.  We’re not perfect, but we don’t profess to be.  We don’t have all the answers, but we live in the mystery of the questions, and thrive on learning from each other.  We each have our own understanding and experience of God, and instead of holding tightly to them, we eagerly share them with one another, growing stronger and broader as we do.  We love each other fiercely, sad at our losses and gleeful at our gains.  We love to learn, and we remember the lessons we’re taught, workingvery hard to forgive the injustices we may have suffered.  We look to Christ as our example, and give thanks that his teaching lives on in the world through the power of the Holy Spirit – not in some strange mystical way alone, but in practical, everyday actions that we are privileged to take part in. We know what it means to say that Christ speaks to each person directly, and we know what a struggle it is to listen as Christ speaks to us as a group.  But we love to practice, and practice, and practice.  Just like we did this past Sunday, as we gathered together in Meeting for Worship under the spead of the shade trees, and listened for God’s voice.                  

Joys & Concerns

Blessings to Carrie Sample in the death of her father, Jon Phillip Appleby on Wednesday, September 2nd.  His services were held this past Saturday in Lebanon, OH.  Jon was born on April Fool’s Day in 1945, and it just happened to be Easter Sunday.  Carrie said he was a man who loved God and loved a good joke.”  Please hold Carrie and her boys, Elijah and Isaiah, in your prayers.  To send a card their address is: 5046 Evanston Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46205.

We are excited to introduce our new youth pastor Hayley Adams.  Hayley is a recent graduate from Butler University, originally from Deerfield, Illinois. This past spring she received her B.A. in History and Literature with a minor in Religious Studies. During her time at Butler, Hayley worked with several religious organizations around Indianapolis for her Honors Thesis, which ultimately led her to Indianapolis Friends. Hayley has been the intern for Christian Education at her home church two times, and has a passion for working and learning with youth. In her free time she loves playing tennis with her father, playing the piano, or watching her beloved Green Bay Packers.  Hayley will be working part time to help create a vibrant youth program this year.  You will get a chance to meet and welcome Hayley into our faith community this Sunday.  She will be meeting with our youth and parents after Meeting for Worship.

Beth Henrick’s brother, Keith Euler, underwent triple bypass surgery last Thursday, September 3.  He is doing well, and thankful for such a great outcome.  Please continue to hold him in your prayers.

Congratulations to Brad Jackson, who has just been named Hamilton Southeast School District’s ‘Teacher of the Year’.  Brad and his wife Naomi attended our meeting some years ago.  This is a wonderful honor!

‘Considering the Queries’ has begun!  Have you found someone to prayerfully visit with about the first query?  Have you considered this first one in your own way?  Watch for these on our website www.indyfriends.org under ‘Ruthie’s Blog – Thoughts from our Pastor’. 

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities  

Last Week’s Food Pantry Volunteers!  Bill Chapman, Ed Morris, Phil Kitchel, Liz Main, Jade Malott, Connie Rigsbee, Jim Sherer, Carol and Jim Donahue, Beth and Emerson Small.

Are there any Angels out there?  Kitchen Angel Needed! Do you like to organize things?  Do you have a bit of extra time when you’re at the Meetinghouse already?  Would you be willing to help make certain that things are in good order for our Meeting kitchens?  It would be a great help to have a Kitchen Coordinator, as many different people/groups use our Parlor and Fellowship Hall kitchens Contact Ruthie, Beth or the Office if you can serve!

Underneath it All: First Friends Eighth Annual Underwear Drive

August 26th through September 27th Toddler to Adult Sizes!

Socks, T Shirts, Bras, too! Babies, Children, Preteens, High School Students— all need underwear and socks. Please Donate New Underwear

Cash or checks to First Friends - designate for ‘Underneath it All’

Contact Linda Lee with questions.  parapluie@ameritech.net

Please place underwear donations in the labeled box in Fellowship Hall.  

The Eco-Film Series this Fall will be hosted by All Souls Unitarian Church, 5605 E. 56th Street. 

The first film, A Fierce Green Fire: The Battle for a Living Planet, will be shown on Friday, Sept. 11, at 7 pm.  This film chronicles the largest movement of the 20th century and one of the keys to the 21st.  It brings together all the major parts of environmentalism and connects them.  It focuses on activism, people fighting to save their homes, their lives, and the future – and succeeding against all odds.  Admission is free.  Subsequent films are: Friday, Oct-9 at 7 pm – Switch; and Friday, Nov-13 at 7 pm. – Damnation.  This film series is sponsored by All Souls Unitarian, Cross and Crown Lutheran, First Friends Meeting, Epworth United Methodist, and Heartlands Group of the Sierra Club.  Hope you plan to attend.

Shari Wagner’s poetry delighted the First Friends poetry group when she read twice from her recent books. She sent the following invitation.  The Mennonite Writers Group is presenting Saturday,  September 12th at 7:00 pm, at Shalom Mennonite Church (on the East side of the city). My dad and I will be reading from our new book: ‘Making the Rounds: Memoirs of a Small-Town Doctor’.  You’re welcome to come! 

This Sunday September 13th is our kick off to Fall and the return of our Children and Youth Sunday School classes.  Breakfast for everyone will be provided at 8:30 in Fellowship Hall and Sunday School will start at 9:00.  We encourage everyone to wear their pajamas that day.  Kathy Rhyne and Kathy Farris will co-lead the PreK - 2nd grade class, Carrie Sample and Ann Rodino will co-lead the 3rd - 5th grade class and Jed Kay and Dan Lee will co-lead the 6th - 12th grade class.    Please mark your calendars and plan to join us that day.

September 13, 21, and 27: All regular adult Sunday School Classes will be brought together for three weeks in September, as we open discussion around Quaker decision making, discernment and process.  We invite everyone to join Eric Tinsley and members of Ministry and Counsel, whether you’ve been a part of Sunday School in the past, or not, as we learn together. This is especially important to our Meeting, as we consider decisions regarding marriage equality. What process do Quakers use that stands out from other faith communities?  Why do we do things the way we do?  What is our individual responsibility toward the process?  How is that different from our responsibility as a group? 

            Session One:  Thursday, September 10 at 7:00; repeated Sunday, September 13 at 9:00

Session Two: Thursday, September 17 at 7:00; repeated Sunday, September 20 at 9:00

Session Three: Thursday, September 24 at 7:00; repeated Sunday, September 27 at 9:00

PEACEFEST: Sunday, September 13th

 Join with our fellow historic peace churches, MENNONITES, CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN, and QUAKERS in our annual PeaceFest gathering.  This year PeaceFest will be held at Northview Church of the Brethren, 5555 E. 46th St., Indianapolis, 46226, on Sunday, Sept.13, from 12:30 – 2:15 pm.  There will be a pitch-in lunch.  Please bring a salad, side dish and/or dessert to share.

Scott Russell Sanders is coming to First Friends, September 18th, 7:00-8:30 p.m...Scott Russell Sanders is the author of twenty books of fiction and nonfiction, including Hunting for Hope and A Conservationist Manifesto. His most recent books are Earth Works: Selected Essays (2012) and Divine Animal: A novel (2014). A collection of stories titled “Dancing in Dreamtime” will be published in 2016, along with a new edition of his documentary narrative, Stone Country. Among his honors are the Lannan Literary Award, the John Burroughs Essay Award, the Mark Twain Award, and the Cecil Woods Award for Nonfiction, the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Award, and fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts. In 2012 he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He is a distinguished Professor Emeritus of English at Indiana University. He and his wife, Ruth, a biochemist, have reared two children in their hometown of Bloomington, in the hardwood hill country of Indiana’s White River Valley.  Environmental author Scott Russell Sanders will be here for a conversation on the future of earthcare in Indiana. This event is a fundraiser for the Indiana Friends Committee on Legislation. A reception and book signing will immediately follow the event. Please join us! 

Leading Voice for Israeli-Palestinian Peace to Visit Indianapolis

On September 20, 2015, the Rev. Elias Chacour, a former Archbishop of the Melkite Catholic Church in Israel, will explain how peace is still possible between Israelis and Palestinians. His address, “A Life of Peacemaking in the Holy Land,” is scheduled for 2:30 PM at Indianapolis’ North United Methodist Church, located at 38th Street and Meridian.  

Named a “Peacemaker in Action” by the Tanenbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding, Chacour is founder of the Mar Elias schools, which have educated tens of thousands of Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Druze children in the Galilee region of Israel. Born 1939, Elias Chacour grew up in the Palestinian village of Biram. In 1947, his childhood home was confiscated by the nascent Israeli state. Though dispossessed, Chacour became an advocate for non-violence and peaceful reconciliation between Jews and Arabs. Chacour describes himself as a “Palestinian-Arab-Christian-Israeli.” Chacour is author of two best-selling books, including We Belong to the Land and Blood Brothers, which has been translated into twenty languages. He is the recipient of several peace awards and honorary degrees, including a doctorate from the University of Indianapolis. “This may be Hoosiers’ last chance to hear from one of the world’s most powerful voices for peace,” said Rev. Dotti Gerner, leader of Christians for Peace and Justice in the Middle East, the event’s sponsor. The event is free and open to the public. Further information is available from Charlie McDonald, charlie@mcdiii.com. 

Poetry Group will resume on September 22 at 2:00 in the Parlor of the Meetinghouse.  More details coming soon!  ~ Ursula Roberts

Religion, Race and Culture: The first of four public seminars to be held this year regarding this important concern is set for Tuesday, September 29, 7:00-9:00 pm at Schrott Center – Butler Univ. “Religion and Race in the African-American Experience”: ‘The tragic events of Ferguson, MO in 2014 sparked a national conversation about race. Join us as we hear reflections on religion and racial justice from two noted religious scholars and activists: Rev. Pamela Lightsey - Boston Univ School of Theology, and Rev. Starsky D. Wilson – Pastor of St. John’s Church St. Louis, Co-Chair Ferguson Commission, advancing policies to strengthen the region following the death of Michael Brown Jr, and the subsequent community uprising.

What Are Quakers Doing In the World Today?

                                      World Quaker Day

First Friends Meeting Indianapolis

Sunday, October 4, 2015

9:00 Breakfast with Our Friends; portrayals of

George Fox, John Woolman, Lucretia Mott

Join these Friends from the past, as they speak into the present day.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast during the discussion!

                      10:15 Meeting for Worship with Colin Saxton

General Secretary of Friends United Meeting

God continues to speak and act in the lives of Quakers around the world!

                     11:30 Fellowship Hour ~ World Quaker Exhibits

Enjoy hot and cold beverages, treats, and great company while viewing displays of Quaker organizations from near and far!

Time To Recycle

On behalf of the Shalom Zone, First Friends is to host a recycling event on Saturday, Oct. 10, at First Friends from 10 am – 2 pm.  Electronic items of all types are welcome.  Simply stop by on Oct. 10 and drop off the items you would like to recycle.  If you are not able to make it on Oct-10, you can arrange to drop off your items ahead of time.  Please call Bill Chapman (317 255-4739) or the office to arrange the drop off. 

CROP HUNGER WALK

 Please plan to join with others of First Friends to participate in the 36th annual Greater Indianapolis CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, Oct-18 at 1:45 pm. 

Walkers from First Friends will meet at 1:45 p.m. at CTS, 42nd St. and Michigan Road near the registration tent.  The walk is a scenic walk near the Butler campus and a little over 3 miles.  The purpose of the walk is to raise awareness of worldwide hunger and to raise funds to help alleviate hunger both locally and globally.  Please consider a donation for this worthwhile cause.  Checks can be written to “First Friends” with a notation of “Crop Walk” and placed in the basket in the front hallway. There will also be a sign up if you would like to join our group of walkers.    Thanks for your consideration

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                

317-255-2485               office@indyfriends.org