Friend to Friend October 27, 2021

October 27, 2021

As Way Opens

I was excited that Ed M and Mary B wanted to start a class to study early Christian writings this fall. I have been fascinated ever since I started seminary to explore how the books of the New Testament came about as our Bible. For many years of my life I accepted the books of the New Testament as the “real" books that constituted our New Testament. I thought early Christianity was united in their beliefs and that our modern Christian movement should go back to the early Christians for the example of belief, community and worship. And then there was this discovery of manuscripts in the caves of Nag Hammadi by an Arab peasant in 1945 that discovered many of the so called gnostic gospels such as the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Mary, the Gospel of Philip, the Gospel of Truth, the Gospel to the Egyptians, the Secret book of James, the Apocalypse of Paul, the Apocalypse of Peter and other writings. As scholars have studied these texts over the last 75 years, it is clear there were a lot of different opinions of theology and belief among the early Christians. So how did our canon come to being? Why were none of these books included?

I have been reading Elaine Pagels book, the Gnostic Gospels and she explores the idea that there were many Christian Gnostics that Orthodox Christians declared heretics. The Orthodox Christians felt that Peter was the disciple that Jesus christened as his successor and the 12 disciples (they added Mathias after Judas committed suicide) were the authorized individuals to declare the gospel message as they were with Jesus during his ministry. This helped create the hierarchy of the Church that we still wrestle with today. These manuscripts show us there was a movement of many early Christians to embrace a more mystical religion. This view wanted individuals to experience the living Christ now. The very definition about the idea of gnostic or knowing had one gnostic teacher write “Yet to know oneself, at the deepest level, is simultaneously to know God.” Another gnostic teacher wrote, “Abandon the search for God and the creation and other matters of a similar sort. Look for him by taking yourself as the starting point. Learn who it is within you who makes everything his own and says, My God, my mind, my thought, my soul, my body. Learn the sources of sorrow, joy, love, hate. If you carefully investigate these matters you will find him in yourself.” This seems to resonate with the description in Genesis that we are created in God’s image. How can we be depraved with original sin when we are told that since our inception we are the image of God?

This sounds very Quakerly to me. I am anxious to go deep into these Gnostic gospels and invite anyone to join us in this study. We will meet November 18th and December 16th with other dates to be determined in 2022.

The more I study the more I embrace a God that is beyond anything that we can be contained in human writings. For me, that is the mystical revelation of God - beyond our understanding and yet found within ourselves.

Beth

Joys & Concerns

Rain Drives Gardeners’ Harvest Fest Indoors; Fun and Food Win the Day

Who says Harvest Fests can’t bring fun indoors? Not First Friends! We tried having a grill and a little fire in the courtyard but the rain put them out. That didn’t stop the conversations, games, darts, door prizes, Jim Kartholl’s fall trivia questions, videos and food. We had snacks, oranges, apples, hot dogs, donuts and individually-wrapped sandwiches. People took the s’more kits home for use on drier days. We had cider, cocoa and coffee. There were bulletin boards with photos of past Fests, gardens, people and insects. Tiny pumpkins surrounded the centerpiece mums. Gourds and floating Mexican sunflowers were part of the decor. The little pumpkins were provided for children to draw on with markers. Some lucky people went home with colorful potted mums.

Dan M did a makeover on the scarecrows. Heads rolled and they ended up with Jack-o-lantern heads. Standing beside straw bales and pumpkins they became a photo backdrop.

Gardener Jennifer D showed two videos she made. They pictured scenes from past Harvest Fests; garden scenes with people, crops and flowers; and pollinators and pests. She spoke of difficult times in the garden when crops were less than beautiful but the garden still provided for pollinators like butterflies. They of course end up helping to provide food for people. Jennifer expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to have plots at First Friends. Her video had Biblical passages she chose including:

The Lord supplies to the sower and will multiply your seed for sowing. —II Corinthians 9:10

Gardener Jackie F showed a unique serrated soil knife made in Japan. It marks depth of soil and is useful in digging, scooping, pulling weeds and excavating plants. It even comes with a handy wearable sheath for the busy gardener moving from task to task. The Japanese call it a hori hori.

Many people helped to make the Fest possible. It was a joint effort by Community Gardeners, Connections, Fellowship and FF staff. Thank you to all those who gave of themselves that we could have fun and fellowship despite rain and the pandemic.

Youth Group had a blast this past weekend at Stuckey Farms! It was chilly Fall weather as we enjoyed their Harvest Festival, including a corn maze, pedal cars and more!

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

First Friends Bible Study ~ You are cordially invited to study the life of Jesus via the gospel of Matthew in a 13-week series beginning tomorrow, October 28 (please note the corrected date), with the First Friends Bible study. The group meets by Zoom at 7:30 pm on Thursdays. You can drop in any time; you can join any time. You can order the book from Barclay Press using the supplied link. The study guide also is available instantly as an eBook. To receive the Zoom link, contact the Meeting office.

Illuminate: Matthew (barclaypressbookstore.com

Restorative Yoga ~ Please join friend Kristyn G in a restorative yoga practice next Monday Nov 1st at 4:00 pm in the Parlor. It will last for an hour. This gentle practice will stretch and restore you. $10 suggested donation. Yoga will also be held on Mondays Dec 6th and Jan 3rd. Hope to see you there!

VOCE Centennial Celebration ~ VOCE, a semi-professional group that Carolyn T sings with will be performing a free concert at St. Joan of Arc Church, 4217 Central Avenue on Sunday November 7th at 3PM in celebration of their Centennial year. The concert will feature the World Premier of the “Mass for St. Joan of Art” by Joseph Burrows. We hope you will attend!

IMPORTANT: Changes in Exodus Partnership; Meeting to Determine Way Forward

Meeting to Help Decide Next Steps

Anyone wanting to work with First Friends and Exodus to help Afghan evacuees or other refugees should attend an in-person MEETING AT FIRST FRIENDS ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, AT 2 P. M. where Exodus Volunteer Coordinator, Jericho J will appear virtually and answer our questions. Those attending will make decisions about how the partnership will work. We may linger afterward, depending on time, to discuss next steps. The meeting will be recorded for those who cannot attend. To Zoom use this link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83620948786?pwd=UU9RTU5ZWFNRZ1R3R25nUi9tVFllUT09

Co-Sponsor or Welcome Team?/Afghan Evacuees or Other Refugees??

Originally we were creating a Welcome Team but Exodus’ parent company, Church World Service, has changed guidelines to better align with the unique situation of the high-need Afghan evacuees who are given the status of “parolees” by the U. S. government since they have less support and assistance than other refugees in the U. S.

Since our team is affiliated with a larger organization, First Friends Meeting, we are considered a CO-SPONSOR if we help an Afghan family and we must commit to 10 activities. If we cannot, we may take on a non-Afghan family and agree to do fewer activities. Here are the activities from which we must choose 10 if we are to take on an Afghan family.

Book Up Before Meeting

Review training video link which has some information not included in our original in-person training.
Review training PDF.
Review Exodus website at exodusrefugee.org.

To Volunteer

To work directly with volunteers

Fill out application (Applications are not available at this time due to an influx of volunteers, but we will keep everyone updated when applications reopen.)
Complete background check for a cost of approximately $25.
Fill out confidentiality form

To help out without being vetted

There are many opportunities to help evacuees and refugees by doing work where one is not in direct contact. Use links, website and PDF or attend the meeting to find out more.

A New Issue of the Stamping Newsletter Is Available! The Right Sharing of World Resources Stamping team here at First Friends has released a new issue of their newsletter, Stamping for Dollars. To view the newsletter, click here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pCBxbIGapSUdf8CgSPqRlKSSS0NzqRoj/view?usp=sharing

First Friends Financial Update: The Meeting seeks financial support. We are experiencing a considerably larger deficit than in past years, and your help is needed to close the gap. To donate online, go to: indyfriends.org/support/#givenow, or text to give at 317-768-0303.

Other means of helping are available through automatic giving, stock gifts, estate planning, and donation of IRA Required Minimum Distributions. For more information, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485.

Additionally, members and attenders are encouraged to visit the 2022 pledge webform to plan ahead for next year.

View our Bloopers! The staff has been working hard throughout the pandemic to put forth a nice, polished video service each Sunday. But did you know that it took a lot of time and tries to get things just right? We put together a short blooper reel to share! View it on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/kiQbJKtHyMs. If people like it, there may be more in the future!

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for October
Great Blue Heron: The Awkward Stranger

“She was standing, alone, in the narrow part of the parking lot beyond the last car. Was she there for First-Day Worship? To me she was a stranger, as I did not know her personally; perhaps a first-time visitor. Then I noticed her awkward appearance! She was tall with skinny legs and knobby knees. Her overly-long neck seemed to hang in a curve due to gravity. Her black cap looked like a lady’s old-fashioned Sunday hat, and sat atop a face accented by a huge beak!! I tried to put her rather unusual appearance aside, as I moved closer to welcome her to our meeting. Alas, as sometimes happens, my enthusiasm to greet a visitor was too off-putting, and she started moving away. Suddenly, literally jumping into the air, she stretched out her long wings and took flight, perhaps to go on to a different worship setting. Once again I was amazed by her appearance, but in the opposite way! Her flight was graceful, with her legs extending beyond her tail, showing great toe point. Her neck formed a perfect S curve. The elegant wing motion was like the oars in a rowboat, with wingtips gently dipping with each beat. She was not awkward at all!! I had sorely misjudged her, based on my pre-conceived notions. Beware of first impressions!!”

Great Blue Herons nest at Fort Harrison State Park, and can often be seen flying over Binford Boulevard and Allisonville Road, as they move between Geist, White River, and the many ponds in our area. This one, in early October, had stopped by our parking lot after a rainy week to look at the neighbor’s flooded backyard, hoping for a meal of a crawdad or a last-of-the-season frog. Brad J

Overman Scholarship Fund Drive ~ We are kicking off a fund for the Overman Scholarship! This fund, in memory of Jesse & Marilyn Overman and Mark Overman, awards scholarships to members of First Friends attending higher academic or vocational/Quaker institutions. If you’d like to support this worthy cause, we encourage you to donate. For the next 5 years, the Overman family will match donations up to a certain amount. Checks can be payable to “Indianapolis Monthly Meeting of Friends Trustees.” In the memo line, note "Overman Scholarship Fund.” Or you can donate securely on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support. Just choose “Overman Scholarship Fund” as the fund. Or text “Overman” to 317-768-0303.

We’d like to write a friendly reminder to everyone regarding the East door. The door is having issues latching and when someone enters or exits, often the door will not latch which means it is slightly ajar, and therefore unlocked. We’re reminding everyone to please be mindful and check that the door has latched after you enter/exit. You’ll want to either pull/push the door closed until you hear a “click.” We are working on a long-term solution for the door, but we will all have to be mindful in the meantime. Thank you.

Celebrating Shawn P ~ Please mark your calendars for Sunday, November 14th when we will gather in Fellowship Hall after Meeting for Worship to have a goodbye celebration for Shawn! We will have food and an opportunity to give Shawn a card, note or gift to thank him for his years of ministry. We hope you’ll join us!

Queries for the Week

· Where have I bought into the “cult of comfort” in my worship at First Friends?

· How am I cultivating flexibility in my spiritual life for the benefit of our worshipping community?

Comment

Friend to Friend October 20, 2021

October 20, 2021

As Way Opens

During Sue’s Fall Break last week, we took a day road trip to the Cincinnati Art Museum. It was a beautiful day to take in the beauty of this wonderful and free museum. About half-way through our visit, we came across Charles T. Webber’s 4x6 ft. 1893 oil painting, “The Underground Railroad.”

As the museum label for the painting reads,

This dramatic painting shows a group of fugitive slaves arriving at a country farm on a blustery winter morning. The farm is a stop on the Underground Railroad, the secret system by which slaves made the long journey North to freedom. On the border of the slave-owning South and a free state, Cincinnati was a major stop. The scene is from the 1850’s, before the abolition of slavery. The artist Charles T. Webber included three famous Cincinnati abolitionists in the painting: Levi Coffin, the reputed “President” of the Underground Railroad (at right on the cart), and his wife Catharine (standing at center), as well as Hannah Haydock (far at left). The site could be the Coffin farm, which was located between Avondale and Walnut Hills.

What is amazing is that Webber painted “The Underground Railroad” in 1893, only 28 years after the end of the Civil War. Over time, it has become one of the most iconic paintings in the Cincinnati Art Museum’s collection. It seems appropriate to be in Cincinnati, the home of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which our Quaker Youth Affirmation class visited a couple of years ago.

Even though Webber was known for befriending, supporting, visiting in-person, and painting portraits of Quaker abolitionists of the day, this painting would be a much bigger statement. When the 1893 World’s Columbian Exhibition was announced, the Chicago World’s Fair scheduled to celebrate Columbus’s arrival in the New World. Webber instead chose to catch the attention of critics and the media with his bold subject, “The Underground Railroad.” It would be displayed alongside works by renowned artists like Frank Duveneck, T.C. Steele, Douglas Volk, Henry Farny, and others. Even though Webber’s work stood out and was even published in a Chicago newspaper, it was never purchased, most likely due to the subject.

When the painting was finally purchased and given to the Cincinnati Art Museum, it was quickly withdrawn and put on loan at Woodward High School where it would hopefully be forgotten. Historians considered the subject of the painting not worthy of the art museum in 1930. It would be 31 years later when the painting would return to the museum, yet it still would not be displayed. Not until the 1970’s when it was rediscovered and fully restored would it finally find its historic value and recognition in the Cincinnati art community. Today, it is considered a beacon of hope in dark times.

I am grateful that Charles T. Webber was willing to make such a bold statement with his art, especially as the Jim Crow Era was making its rise in our country. As we in the United States face the dark realities of the ongoing impact of the Jim Crow Era on our black friends and neighbors, how might we, like Charles T. Webber, use our God-given talents and gifts to be a lasting Light to our world?

Grace and peace,

Bob

Joys & Concerns

Welcome to the world, baby Lana R V! Sam & Gabe are thrilled, exhausted, and amazed to welcome their new baby to their family. She came into the world on October 16, 2021 at 12:49 am weighing 6lbs 12.3 oz., and the family is all healthy and well.

FGC Clerks Introduction ~ The Gathering clerks for FGC's Gathering of 2022 introduce themselves in a YouTube video you can watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sF6j_vCzJk0

Artful Meditation, Part II participants are happy with treasures reaped from Shawn Haymaker’s Saturday workshop. They shared meditational intentions they wrote down at the beginning of the workshop and discussed their insights and compositions afterward. They shared technical discoveries and collaborated in the making of the art. They compared the process to life experiences. Shawn shared helpful tips and enlightening ideas. It was a relaxing and fun-filled morning of laughter and sharing. Some people left their creations behind so Sunday worshippers could view them after Meeting for Worship.

The workshop was encouraged through Connections. If you have ideas for activities, please share them with Clerk Jim K or Connections Program Meeting members. (Thank you to Nancy S for the photos.)

We had a great time at our first Singalong back in person last Friday! It was great to be able to join together in person again (with masks and social distancing). We had a wonderful time! Thanks to Jim and Jesse for this event! (Photos submitted by Nancy S).

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Men’s Threshing Together ~ If you are interested in gathering with other men who mull over current issues or topics, where all points of view are heard, no decisions are made, and all in a non-threatening atmosphere over a meal, then Threshing Together is for you! Join us for our next in-person meeting tomorrow, Thursday, October 21 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2021 here.

USFW Dedication Celebration ~ United Society of Friends Women (USFW) is planning to hold a dedication celebration of their new Midwest Region of USFW virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, October 26 at Sycamore Friends Meeting in Greentown, Indiana. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a program. Because the Midwest Region is comprised of women from all around Indiana, eastern Ohio, and western Illinois, part of the program will include a time of getting acquainted. They will also hear an update on the Pad Project that women have been participating in for a number of years and see the video of Katrina McConaughey handing out the completed pads to girls in Africa. The business will include approving the creation of this new group and of the officers put forth by the nominating committee. This will be followed by an installation of the officers. Even if you haven’t been active in the “old” USFW, please plan to attend and help us make the new one a vital ministry. Please RSVP to midwestregionusfw@gmail.com by tomorrow, October 21st if you can come.

Fall Festival! ~ Maple Seeds Preschool Co-Op (MSPC) will be hosting their annual Fall Festival this Saturday October 23rd from 4-6pm. It will be held here at First Friends—All MSPC and First Friends families are welcome to come and be a part of this fun evening. There will be a make-n-take art experience, a fairy dance party, and mindful kiddo exercises. There will be a food truck (RSVP via Rallyhood to order your meal), hot coffee, and goodie bags for the kids to take home. Kiddos can come in costume! Masks are mandatory. View the flyer here.

Community Gardeners’ Harvest Festival ~ Get ready for the 2021 Community Gardeners’ Harvest Festival immediately following worship on Sunday, October 24. There will be games, contests, food, door prizes and fun—pandemic style. Bring your own lawn chair. Individually packaged sandwiches and snacks will be available. S’more kits will be provided for those wanting to roast them over fire pits. Bring your own hot dogs if you want to roast them. Drinks will include coffee, cocoa and cider. Participants may engage in basketball games, badminton, and corn hole. Masks and hand sanitizer will be provided.

Connections Program Meeting is helping to put on this event. In case of rain people will move indoors and events and games will continue in a socially distanced manner. Come one, come all!

Hold Me Tight: Class for Couples ~ All are invited to a group experience that helps create lasting positive change in your relationship. The class meets weekly for 8 weeks from Tuesday, October 26 through November 30, 2021. Class is free to couples already in therapy at the Christian Theological Seminary (there is not a requirement to be enrolled in the CTS counseling program to participate). All meetings are held online through telehealth. You can view the flyer here. If interested please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.

Oak Leaf: Meeting for Reading would like you to join us from virtually anywhere in the world as we discuss The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson

The New York Times and USA Today bestseller!

In 1936, tucked deep into the woods of Troublesome Creek, KY, lives blue-skinned 19-year-old Cussy Carter, the last living female of the rare Blue People ancestry.

The lonely young Appalachian woman joins the historical Pack Horse Library Project of Kentucky and becomes a librarian, riding across slippery creek beds and up treacherous mountains on her faithful mule to deliver books and other reading material to the impoverished hill people of Eastern Kentucky.

Along her dangerous route, Cussy, known to the mountain folk as Bluet, confronts those suspicious of her damselfly-blue skin and the government's new book program. She befriends hardscrabble and complex fellow Kentuckians, and is fiercely determined to bring comfort and joy, instill literacy, and give to those who have nothing, a bookly respite, a fleeting retreat to faraway lands.

Inspired by the true and historical blue-skinned people of Kentucky and the brave and dedicated Kentucky Pack Horse library service, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek showcases a bold and unique tale of the Packhorse Librarians in literary novels—a story of fierce strength and one woman's belief that books can carry us anywhere—even back home.

We will gather at the Meeting House and via Zoom starting at 7 pm EST on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 led by Ruth K.

First Friends Bible Study ~ You are cordially invited to study the life of Jesus via the gospel of Matthew in a 13-week series beginning October 28 (please note the corrected date), with the First Friends Bible study. The group meets by Zoom at 7:30 pm on Thursdays. You can drop in any time; you can join any time. You can order the book from Barclay Press using the supplied link. The study guide also is available instantly as an ebook. To receive the Zoom link, contact the Meeting office.

Illuminate: Matthew (barclaypressbookstore.com

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for October
Great Blue Heron: The Awkward Stranger

Restorative Yoga ~ Please join friend Kristyn G in a restorative yoga practice on Mondays Nov 1st, Dec 6th and Jan 3rd at 4:00 pm and last for an hour. This gentle practice will stretch and restore you. $10 suggested donation. Hope to see you in the parlor.

We’d like to write a friendly reminder to everyone regarding the East door. The door is having issues latching and when someone enters or exits, often the door will not latch which means it is slightly ajar, and therefore unlocked. It has even gone unlocked like this overnight. We’re reminding everyone to please be mindful and check that the door has latched after you enter/exit. You’ll want to either pull/push the door closed until you hear a “click.” We are working on a long-term solution for the door, but we will all have to be mindful in the meantime. Thank you.

Overman Scholarship Fund Drive ~ We are kicking off a fund for the Overman Scholarship! This fund, in memory of Jesse & Marilyn Overman and Mark Overman, awards scholarships to members of First Friends attending higher academic or vocational/Quaker institutions. If you’d like to support this worthy cause, we encourage you to donate. For the next 5 years, the Overman family will match donations up to a certain amount. Checks can be payable to Indianapolis Monthly Meeting of Friends Trustees.” In the memo line, note "Overman Scholarship Fund.” Or you can donate securely on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support. Just choose “Overman Scholarship Fund” as the fund. Or text “Overman” to 317-768-0303.

First Friends is working with Exodus Refugee to create a Welcome Team and sponsor an Afghan family. There was a zoom training last Wednesday that Volunteer Coordinator Jericho Jones wants all volunteers to watch if they did not participate. He suggested people who attended the in-person training review it. If you missed it there is a link to the recording listed below as well as some other links for volunteers. Only people wanting direct contact with refugees need to fill out applications and have background checks.

1. Background check Link
2. Confidentiality Agreement Form
3. PDF
4. Session Recording

If you have questions contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.

Volunteer Opportunity with Easterseals! Indianapolis First Friends has partnered with Easterseals Crossroads to support community needs several times over the last few years. The support received from First Friends has impacted neighborhood lives in tangible ways. The pandemic has significantly affected the Respite program through which we offer free childcare for families who have a child with a disability or diagnosis. We are actively seeking new staff as well as volunteers for our Respite events which are held on Friday evenings four times a month from 6-9pm and twice a month on Saturdays from 10am-2pm at our main location at 52nd and Keystone. Volunteers join staff for a meal and instruction before each event. If you know of someone who would be interested in volunteering (or joining our Respite team) please have them contact Kristyn Greenawald at kgreenawald@eastersealscrossroads.org or by calling 317-409-2116 (cell). Thanks for your consideration!

Celebrating Shawn P ~ Please mark your calendars for Sunday, November 14th when we will gather in Fellowship Hall after Meeting for Worship to have a goodbye celebration for Shawn! We will have food and an opportunity to give Shawn a card, note or gift to thank him for his years of ministry. We hope you’ll join us!

Queries for the Week

· Are we like the Ninevites, ready to listen to God’s word and change our ways?

· Or are we like Jonah, demanding justice for others even as we plead for mercy for ourselves.

· What prophecy is God calling to you today?

Comment

Friend to Friend October 13, 2021

October 15, 2021

As Way Opens

I have been reading Thomas Merton’s book New Seeds of Contemplation and his thoughts and words have touched my heart. For Merton,

“Every moment and every event of every man’s life on earth plants something in his soul. For just as the wind carries thousands of winged seeds, so each moment brings with it germs of spiritual vitality that come to rest imperceptibly in the minds and wills of men. Most of these unnumbered seeds perish and are lost, because men are not prepared to receive them: for such seeds as these cannot spring up anywhere except in the soil of freedom, spontaneity and love.”

"God’s inscrutable love seeks our awakening. It is God’s love that warms me in the sun and God’s love that sends the cold rain. God breathes on me with light winds off the river and the breezes out of the woods.”

The question we need to ask all of ourselves is if our minds and wills are ready to receive these seeds or will they be lost on us? How am I preparing the soil of my heart so these seeds will flourish? Am I doing the work of spiritual practice, empathy and openness to receive the seeds and live into God’s love and will?

Beth

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

WYM Office Manager Position Open ~ Are you a self-starter? Good with details? Flexible? Delight in working with fellow staff and the public? If so, the following job just might have your name on it. Western Yearly Meeting of the Friends Church (WYM) is looking for an Office Manager. Reporting to the General Superintendent, this position is responsible for the operations of the WYM Office in Plainfield, Indiana. This is a part-time Monday-Friday position @ $20 per hour, approximately 30 hours per week. Requires a valid Indiana Driver’s License. Find the full job description here. The Application deadline is today, October 13, 2021. To apply, send a resume and three references to westernyearlymeeting@gmail.com.

FRIDAY SINGALONG IS BACK! - Come join Jim and Jesse for a singalong in Fellowship Hall on Friday, October 15, at 7:00 pm. We will mask up (not Halloween!) and keep safe, social distance. Warm up your voices and bring your favorite percussion instrument if you wish. Hope to see you there.

Recycling Event! The Shalom Zone plans to have its yearly recycling event with Recycle Force on Saturday, October 16 from 10:00am to 2:00pm. If an item runs (or used to run) with a plug or a battery you can recycle it! This year it will be held at Epworth United Methodist Church, 6450 Allisonville Rd. A $20 donation is required for TVs and appliances containing Freon (fridges, freezers, ac units and dehumidifiers). Other monetary contributions are greatly appreciated. This is a great opportunity to clean out your basement, garage, closets, attic and responsibly recycle unwanted electronics and appliances. For more information, view the flyer here: https://bit.ly/3nC7go3.

Gnostic Gospel Group by Ed M ~ Hello Friends! Lately I have been reading the Gospels with a mind to read ALL of them. By all of them I mean the non-canonical or Gnostic Gospels as well as the common ones we usually think of. There are some very interesting facts about the so-called Gnostic writers. One is that generally they recognized the feminine aspect of the Divine much more than Catholic fathers.

We have gathered a study group together to study the Gospels with an emphasis on the Gnostic or newly discovered texts that we now have available. Would you like to join us? The dates will be Thursdays, October 21, November 18 and December 16 from 6:00-7:30pm. A light supper will be provided. If you are interested in this possibility, contact the meeting office (office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485). ~Ed Morris

Men’s Threshing Together ~ If you are interested in gathering with other men who mull over current issues or topics, where all points of view are heard, no decisions are made, and all in a non-threatening atmosphere over a meal, then Threshing Together is for you! Join us for our next in-person meeting Thursday, October 21 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2021 here.

USFW Dedication Celebration ~ United Society of Friends Women (USFW) is planning to hold a dedication celebration of their new Midwest Region of USFW in person on Tuesday, October 26 at Sycamore Friends Meeting in Greentown, Indiana. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a program, and lunch ($13). Because the Midwest Region is comprised of women from all around Indiana, eastern Ohio, and western Illinois, part of the program will include a time of getting acquainted. They will also hear an update on the Pad Project that women have been participating in for a number of years and see the video of Katrina McConaughey handing out the completed pads to girls in Africa. The business will include approving the creation of this new group and of the officers put forth by the nominating committee. This will be followed by an installation of the officers. Lunch will be catered by a group from Greentown. Even if you haven’t been active in the “old” USFW, please plan to attend and help us make the new one a vital ministry. Please RSVP to midwestregionusfw@gmail.com by October 21st if you can come.

Overman Scholarship Fund Drive ~ We are kicking off a fund for the Overman Scholarship! This fund, in memory of Jesse & Marilyn Overman and Mark Overman, awards scholarships to members of First Friends attending higher academic or vocational/Quaker institutions. If you’d like to support this worthy cause, we encourage you to donate. For the next 5 years, the Overman family will match donations up to a certain amount. Checks can be payable to Indianapolis Monthly Meeting of Friends Trustees.” In the memo line, note "Overman Scholarship Fund.” Or you can donate securely on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support. Just choose “Overman Scholarship Fund” as the fund. Or text “Overman” to 317-768-0303.

Community Gardeners’ Harvest Festival ~ Get ready for the 2021 Community Gardeners’ Harvest Festival immediately following worship on Sunday, October 24. There will be games, contests, food, door prizes and fun—pandemic style. Bring your own lawn chair. Individually packaged sandwiches and snacks will be available. S’more kits will be provided for those wanting to roast them over fire pits. Bring your own hot dogs if you want to roast them. Drinks will include coffee, cocoa and cider. Participants may engage in basketball games, badminton, and corn hole. Masks and hand sanitizer will be provided.

Connections Program Meeting and Fellowship Committee is helping to put on this event. In case of rain people will move indoors and events and games will continue in a socially distanced manner. Come one, come all!

Garden Update - Monarchs and Mexican Sunflowers are a successful match in the Community Garden. Many Monarchs are attracted to the flowers on their migration route South. Both the Community Garden and the Meditational Woods are working to attract and feed this beautiful species. The plant varieties chosen seem to be helping the Monarchs and other butterflies and pollinators survive as habitat and wetlands are more difficult for them to find. Milkweeds attract Monarchs to our First Friends grounds as well since Monarchs only lay eggs on Milkweed and their caterpillars need it to eat and thrive. It is exciting to see so many butterflies fluttering throughout our gardens.

Shawn P’s Organ Preludes ~ Last week we heard the Toccata from Boellman’s Gothic Suite. (Toccata comes from Italian toccare, literally, "to touch", with "toccata" being the action of touching)and is a virtuoso piece of music typically for a keyboard or plucked string instrument featuring fast-moving, lightly fingered or otherwise virtuosic passages or sections, generally emphasizing the dexterity of the performer's fingers.

This Sunday we will hear one of the most well-recognized toccatas by one of the organ’s greatest composers ever to have lived, J.S. Bach. Today’s selection is the Toccata from Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in d minor, an often requested song by FF listeners.

Allegretto was written by Henry Purcell, a composer of Baroque music, and he is generally considered to be one of the greatest English composers. Today this song will feature the ranks of flute stops, all the way from the high 2’ flute stop to the very deep sounding16’ flute stop.

Celebrating Shawn P~ Please mark your calendars for Sunday, November 14th when we will gather in Fellowship Hall after Meeting for Worship to have a goodbye celebration for Shawn! We will have food and an opportunity to give Shawn a card, note or gift to thank him for his years of ministry. We hope you’ll join us!

Queries for the Week

• Am I paying attention?

• Am I extending myself?

• Am I choosing to commit myself to a higher way?

•Am I aware of my attitudes, attention, and need for personal adjustments?

Comment

Friend to Friend October 6, 2021

October 7, 2021

As Way Opens

Richard Rohr, one of my favorite authors and theologians, has offered a conference for the last 10 years called “Conspire” at his retreat center in New Mexico. I have heard about this retreat for years and always wanted to attend. Richard is suffering with pancreatic cancer and I know his time is limited with us in an earthly way. This year’s conference was completely by zoom and I immediately signed up for it wishing I could go to New Mexico yet grateful for this opportunity.

The retreat lived up to my anticipation. I am still in the glow of this inspiring and life-giving spiritual gathering. There were so many beautiful nuggets of wisdom that Richard and the other presenters shared that I wrote down in my journal and now share with you.

Richard talked about the Latin definition of the word conspire. Most of us have a negative connotation of this word that we hear often in terms of conspiracy. The Latin definition of the word is to breathe together. Conspiring together is about breathing together, being in community and supporting one another. I really like this definition.

Richard is always talking about the expansive nature of God. Our human mind can’t grasp the eternal or the infinite so we pull God down to be like us. How we limit our understanding of God! How we are sometimes afraid of God. Yet the shape of God is the shape of everything.

Evil succeeds when it disguises itself as good. Evil can be disguised in religiousness! We keep darkness hidden and it lives on forever. It only becomes apparent when exposed to the light.

We are all perfectly imperfect. All of us have a dark side and it is only dangerous when we deny it. We are all wounded and yet we don’t want others to see this. Darkness is what teaches us that we are powerless. We come to God by doing it wrong. We become completely vulnerable, childlike, with a realization that we are alone together and can’t run from the aloneness, a realization that we know nothing and within the silence we understand that we are dying and that is what allows us to be born again. As Jesus’ mother Mary said, we must have a willingness to allow God to love us in our nothingness.

The best ally of God is reality - nothing is as we want it to be and we have to have a tolerance for ambiguity. Our need for contemplation is to consider that I don’t need to understand.

How are we invincibly vulnerable?

I pray that we will all consider these nuggets from Richard and others this week.

Beth

Joys & Concerns

We’re very grateful for volunteers who helped at the SAWs ramp build last Saturday! This is a great opportunity to help our neighbors in the community. Many thanks to David B, Kathy and Bill F, Derek S, Jim C, and Jim D, who all helped with the ramp build!

Linda L would like to thank everyone for their kindness after the passing of her mother. Your thoughts, prayers and cards were greatly appreciated.

Our own Breanna C attended the event First Friends hosted recently for Joe Roberts to speak about his father, Justin Roberts, who was involved in one of the biggest legal cases in Indiana history: the criminal trial of David “D.C.” Stephenson. Breanna wrote an article about this story for the Indianapolis Recorder! You can read it online here: https://indianapolisrecorder.com/the-klan-ran-indiana/. Breanna, thank you for shedding light on this story!

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Artful Meditation, Part II ~ Shawn H will lead a second Artful Meditation workshop using alcohol inks that bleed and run in surprising ways. All ages are welcome to attend at the Meetinghouse in Fellowship Hall on Saturday, Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. Non-staining watercolors will be available for children to use.

Attendees loved the first workshop. No artistic talent is required and participants will still have lovely creations to take home or give away. Don’t miss Part II!

Hooking Show with Shirley P Exhibit ~ All are invited to an Autumn Fiber Show at Revival's Fiber Arts (328 N Meridian, Greentown IN) on Saturday, October 9 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. It will be an outdoor event (weather permitting). Puckihuddlers Traditional Rug Hooking Guild will be providing demonstrations of Rug Hooking. There will be an Exhibit in Memoriam of Shirley P's Hooked Rugs and other items, in addition to exhibits of local rug hooking artists. Come for opportunities to sign up for upcoming classes as well. There will also be wool and quilt fabrics, books, tools, and more available for purchase. Open to everyone - come join us!

This Sunday’s music from Shawn:

Prelude: Gothic Suite by Leon Boellmann
IV Toccata
III Priere a Notre-Dame

My last prelude was by an English Composer, John Bull. This week, we will cross the English Channel to France, where Leon Boellmann wrote his “Suite Gothique” for organ. This work contains 4 movements, of which you will hear the 3rd and 4th movements. I will be play these in reverse order as the “Toccata” will feature almost all of the stops on the organ, a true “pull out all of the stops” piece, where the melody is in the pedal.

The third movement, “Priere a Notre-Dame” is a more meditative and contemplative work, which features the softer stops/sounds on the organ.

WYM Office Manager Position Open ~ Are you a self-starter? Good with details? Flexible? Delight in working with fellow staff and the public? If so, the following job just might have your name on it. Western Yearly Meeting of the Friends Church (WYM) is looking for an Office Manager. Reporting to the General Superintendent, this position is responsible for the operations of the WYM Office in Plainfield, Indiana. This is a part-time Monday-Friday position @ $20 per hour, approximately 30 hours per week. Requires a valid Indiana Driver’s License. Find the full job description here. The Application deadline is October 13, 2021. To apply, send a resume and three references to westernyearlymeeting@gmail.com.

First Friends Afghan Welcome Team Update ~ First Friends is creating a Welcome Team and is partnering with Exodus Refugee to sponsor an Afghan family. A core group has gone through training with Exodus Volunteer Coordinator, Jericho Jones. It is difficult to know when we will be matched with one of the families that is currently residing and being processed at Camp Atterbury. The families can be released to resettlement agencies suddenly and Exodus must be prepared.

Those ALREADY INVOLVED or WANTING TO PARTICIPATE should:

Read the Exodus website, exodusrefugee.org, including their newsletter.
Complete the online Refugee 101 Training. It will be held Wednesday, October 13th at 12pm. To register, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtdeqorj0rHtC1R3DObKmIdC4Um6w6sVan Registering via the above link will be the best way to ensure that you are connected to a session and move seamlessly through the volunteer process. If you are unavailable for this session, the recording of the session will be made available to you, as this will be the final Refugee 101 session until Exodus re-evaluates their volunteer needs starting early November. Jericho asks those who completed the in-person training to REVIEW the online training (either by registering above or viewing the supplemental training presentation info here) since he believes it will be beneficial.

In addition to the above steps, ONLY those wanting to work DIRECTLY with the Afghan family must:

Fill out the volunteer application. Currently there is a freeze on volunteers since Exodus has reached their manageable number. However, First Friends volunteers are already on their radar. The Exodus newsletter will announce when online applications will be resumed. Applications must be completed and reviewed before volunteers can work with families.
Complete the background check and pay the $25 fee. https://secure.safehiringsolutions.com/app.cfm?id=2CE1B74A-9635-40F9-B312-81C730914D30
Be able to prove full vaccination status against Covid-19.

Gnostic Gospel Group by Ed M~ Hello Friends! Lately I have been reading the Gospels with a mind to read ALL of them. By all of them I mean the non-canonical or Gnostic Gospels as well as the common ones we usually think of. There are some very interesting facts about the so-called Gnostic writers. One is that generally they recognized the feminine aspect of the Divine much more than Catholic fathers.

Way of the Spirit—"What's yours to do?" ~ What helps you sort Holy guidance, your unique giftedness, and the clamor of urgent needs around us? The Quaker-based Way of the Spirit program invites prayer and learning for living Spirit-led every day. SCYMF member from North Seattle Friends Church, Jan Wood, is co-facilitating Way of the Spirit mini-courses on spiritual giftedness. She’s been exploring giftedness with Quaker communities for decades. It’s a great opportunity to learn more with a master teacher. https://goodnewsassociates.org/spirit/. Apply now for online offerings:

· Oct 13, Nov 10, etc, Monthly Reflection Group, online second Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30. Supportive, gently-guided small group processes to nurture awareness of the presence and guidance of the Spirit in your everyday life, 6-12 month commitment.

· Nov 6 & 20, Dec 4—Tending Your Spiritual Giftedness (online)
To answer, "What's yours to do?" in our fractured and hurting world, it's more important than ever to discern and tend your unique spiritual giftedness. Additional mini-courses in 2022 will explore obstacles to giftedness, creating a cultures of giftedness in meetings and churches, and passing it on to children and youth.

Overman Scholarship Fund Drive ~ We are kicking off a fund for the Overman Scholarship! This fund, in memory of Jesse & Marilyn Overman and Mark Overman, awards scholarships to members of First Friends attending higher academic or vocational/Quaker institutions. If you’d like to support this worthy cause, we encourage you to donate. For the next 5 years, the Overman family will match donations up to a certain amount. Checks can be payable to Indianapolis Monthly Meeting of Friends Trustees.” In the memo line, note "Overman Scholarship Fund.” Or you can donate securely on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support. Just choose “Overman Scholarship Fund” as the fund. Or text “Overman” to 317-768-0303.

Mark Your Calendars: 2021 Harvest Festival! ~ The 2021 Community Gardeners’ Harvest Festival will take place on Sunday, Oct. 24 immediately after Meeting for Worship. Put it on your calendar. More details to come.

Oak Leaf: Meeting for Reading would like you to join us from virtually anywhere in the world as we discuss The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson

The New York Times and USA Today bestseller!

In 1936, tucked deep into the woods of Troublesome Creek, KY, lives blue-skinned 19-year-old Cussy Carter, the last living female of the rare Blue People ancestry.

We will gather at the Meeting House and via Zoom starting at 7 pm EST on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 led by Ruth K. Contact the office for Zoom info.

First Friends Financial Update: The Meeting continues to seek financial support throughout the year, as we are experiencing a deficit. To explore ways to assist, click on indyfriends.org/support/#givenow and scroll down to the Give Now section. Additionally, First Friends is able to accept stock and planned gifts directly. For more information, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485.

Shawn P’s Last Performances ~ As we say goodbye to Shawn as our organist at the end of this calendar year, we would like to share the dates that Shawn will be playing the organ at the Meetinghouse, in case you’d like to be there for some of his last days on the bench! Look for Shawn during Meeting for Worship on Oct 10, 17; Nov 14, 21; Dec 5, 12, & 19.

Queries for the Week

· How do you understand resilience and hope? Is this different from your Quaker neighbor?

· What elements of your Quaker faith enable you to have resilience and hope?

· How does being part of an international Quaker community help provide you with strength?

Comment

Friend to Friend September 29, 2021

September 29, 2021

As Way Opens

For the past week and a half, I have been suffering from the Shingles. Yes, I am still a couple years away from being able to get the Shingles vaccine, but I know getting that vaccine will be a priority in a couple years after the last twelve days. With the constant itching, lack of sleep, and moments of intense pain, Shingles can be rather like a slow suffering. I know many who have had much worse cases, so I am grateful that my case is already starting to clear up.

The night I realized I was coming down with Shingles, my son Sam texted me to share some insights he had from his History of Buddhism class readings. Sam mentioned that his text was an excellent overview of Buddhism that was helping him make sense of his Quaker faith. As Sam explained, I sensed what he was saying was familiar, only to find out that he was reading Thich Nhat Hanh’s The Heart of Buddha’s Teaching - a book that I have read. As we continued to talk, I told Sam I was introduced to the book after coming across another of Thich Nhat Hanh’s books which had a huge impact on my life, Living Buddha, Living Christ. [Ironically, I discovered the book at the Half Price Books on 86th over ten years ago on a trip with my family to Indy].

My conversation with Sam, had me dusting off my copy of The Heart of Buddha’s Teaching and returning to its wisdom. I immediately found the subtitle speaking to my condition, Transforming Suffering into Peace, Joy, and Liberation. As I flipped through the pages, I was drawn to the first quote I had underlined:

The ocean of suffering is immense, but if you turn around, you can see the land. The seed of suffering in you may be strong, but don’t wait until you have no more suffering before allowing yourself to be happy. When one tree in the garden is sick, you have to care for it. But don’t overlook all the healthy trees. Even while you have pain in your heart, you can enjoy the many wonders of life – the beautiful sunset, the smile of a child, the many flowers and trees. To suffer is not enough. Please don’t be imprisoned by your sufferings.

There was so much wisdom in this one paragraph. Whether it is suffering through Shingles or a suffering much worse in this world, our sufferings demand our attention, care, and awareness to not become trapped by them. Numerous times this week, I have felt my Shingles were winning the battle, but then was reminded to center down and allow myself to enjoy the cooler weather, the beautiful sunsets, and embrace my need to just take a break.

Where in suffering do you need to allow yourself to be happy and enjoy the wonders of life?

Grace and peace,

Bob

Joys & Concerns

Many thanks to everyone who helped clear out the garage this past weekend! The space looks absolutely superb now! We’ve already heard it’s much easier to navigate now. Thank you to those who coordinated the cleanup and those who showed up to help!

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Quaker Studies Weekly Program ~ Western Yearly Meeting is putting on a Quaker Studies program called First Things to build connections across the yearly meeting. The program is entirely virtual and over the platform called discord. It's a spiritual discussion group meant to build relationships. The plan is to watch videos or listen to speakers for 15 minutes once per week then discuss them. The entire program will last 8 weeks starting around mid-October. The sign up is here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uAZXpEAosua6l03Ch66PmLbaegUDEq8IPq6AUWDSnUI or email David Hanson at david.keith.hanson@gmail.com.

SAWS Ramp Build ~ The Shalom Zone is planning another SAWS (Servants at Work) ramp build for the morning of Saturday, October 2. If you would like to volunteer please contact the office asap as we are trying to identify all volunteers (10 – 12 are needed) from the Shalom Zone as soon as possible. Volunteers must complete the volunteer registration form before their first build. Indicate that you are with the Shalom Zone on your registration. This form can be found on the SAWS website: sawsramps.org. If you should have any questions or need further information, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org. Thanks for your willingness to be part of the SAWS group.

WYM Office Manager Position Open ~ Are you a self-starter? Good with details? Flexible? Delight in working with fellow staff and the public? If so, the following job just might have your name on it. Western Yearly Meeting of the Friends Church (WYM) is looking for an Office Manager. Reporting to the General Superintendent, this position is responsible for the operations of the WYM Office in Plainfield, Indiana. This is a part-time Monday-Friday position @ $20 per hour, approximately 30 hours per week. Requires a valid Indiana Driver’s License. Find the full job description here. The Application deadline is October 13, 2021. To apply, send a resume and three references to westernyearlymeeting@gmail.com.

· Oct 2—10-11am Pacific Time, Information Session, free. Please RSVP here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwkdO6uqTMpH9SgZcO4SlAyMK6DVz3p_mgl

Overman Scholarship Fund Drive ~ We are kicking off a fund for the Overman Scholarship! This fund, in memory of Jesse & Marilyn Overman and Mark Overman, awards scholarships to members of First Friends attending higher academic or vocational/Quaker institutions. If you’d like to support this worthy cause, we encourage you to donate. For the next 5 years, the Overman family will match donations up to a certain amount. Checks can be payable to Indianapolis Monthly Meeting of Friends Trustees.” In the memo line, note "Overman Scholarship Fund.” Or you can donate securely on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support. Just choose “Overman Scholarship Fund” as the fund. Or text “Overman” to 317-768-0303.

First Friends Partnering with Exodus Refugee to Welcome Afghan Evacuees to Indiana and the U. S. ~ Join the sixteen Friends planning to help Afghan refugees by partnering with Exodus Refugee, a local organization under Church World Service, the same organization that holds the CROP walk to help reduce hunger. Exodus Volunteer Coordinator Jericho Jones conducted a Refugee 101 training session Tuesday in the Meeting Room.

Those wanting to volunteer should:

Visit the Exodus website at www.exodusrefugee.org.
Attend a Refugee 101 training session. A pdf is available from Exodus and First Friends has the videotape of our training.
If still interested, pay $25 and complete a background check as directed via the Exodus website. (Note that you will not have to complete this if you do. not intend to directly work with refugees.)

Volunteers can volunteer individually or in teams. To be part of the First Friends Welcome Team, one must make a minimum 90-day team commitment and someone on the team must meet with the Afghan family a minimum of once a week.

After a reasonable number of Friends have completed the training and passed their background checks, the F. F. Welcome Team will be matched with an Afghan family and overseen by Jericho Jones. Stay tuned for more information.

Many Afghans will soon be living in our midst. Whether volunteering with Exodus or not, you can help by being welcoming to refugees and by helping other Hoosiers understand the new arrivals.

Queries for the Week

What ideas or attributes of God have not been helpful in my faith journey?
How might embracing God or the Divine as Love help me both worship and respond to my world?
How will I pay compassionate attention to myself and others this week?

Comment

Friend to Friend September 22, 2021

September 23, 2021

As Way Opens

A couple weeks ago I stopped at Half Price Books. I usually stop to peruse the new stock about every other week. As I entered, before me on the top shelf of the first bookcase was a copy of Indianapolis author, John Green’s first non-fiction book, “The Anthropocene Reviewed” (for those wondering - Anthropocene is the current geological age.) The title alone was intriguing, but as I cracked open the book, I found it was set-up almost devotionally - 46 short 4-5page essay/chapters that each could stand on their own.

At the end of his introduction, Green says that this book is his attempt to fulfill the last public words of author and illustrator Maurice Sendack, “Live your life. Live your life. Live your life.”

Closing each essay/chapter John Green gives the topic he is discussing a star rating, but it is the topics he chooses to cover that surprised me – everything from Diet Dr. Pepper to the World’s Largest Ball of Paint, right here in Indiana. One quickly realizes that Green has a way of making the ordinary become special and worthy of review.

I couldn’t help but thinking about what essay/chapters I would include in my review of the Anthropocene. I am sure I would include chapters on my love for Werther’s Candies, Artist biographies, Vinyl Records, or Pineapple Coconut Ice Cream from PF Changs (which may seem weird since I am allergic to pineapple). With Green’s help, I have been revisiting the things that make my life livable and I have found myself feeling a sense of hope in the ordinary during these unprecedented times.

Richard Rohr says that “One great idea of the biblical revelation is that God is manifest in the ordinary, in the actual, in the daily, in the now, in the concrete incarnations of life. Our experiences of ordinary life will transform us if we are willing to experience them fully.”

This week, I challenge you to take a moment to ponder the ordinary things that make life livable and bring you hope. Maybe read John Green’s book to get you started. I know I will start by having a Werther’s candy.

I give Werther’s candies 4½ stars!

Grace and peace,

Bob

Joys & Concerns

Let’s give a big THANK YOU to our Mid-North Food Pantry volunteers: Linda and Rik L; David B; Christie M; Penny P; Virginia and Derek S; Kathy and Bill F; Barbara O; Mara S; Mary and Craig H; Carol and Jim D. Over 75 families were served. Thanks to all First Friends volunteers who help the Mid North Food Pantry fulfill its mission.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

USHER TRAINING ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 after Meeting - For anyone who is interested in serving the Meeting as an Usher, Jim K and Derek S will hold a brief (15-20 minutes) training session after meeting for worship this coming Sunday. This informal training will start at the back of the meeting room, then move to fellowship hall. If you’re interested in volunteering but can’t make it on Sunday, the information can be sent to you afterward; just contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.

Oak Leaf: Meeting for Reading would like you to join us from virtually anywhere in the world as we discuss The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See.

Set on the Korean island of Jeju, The Island of Sea Women follows Mi-ja and Young-sook, two girls from very different backgrounds, as they begin working in the sea with their village’s all-female diving collective. Over many decades—through the Japanese colonialism of the 1930s and 1940s, World War II, the Korean War, and the era of cellphones and wet suits for the women divers—Mi-ja and Young-sook develop the closest of bonds. Nevertheless, their differences are impossible to ignore: Mi-ja is the daughter of a Japanese collaborator, forever marking her, and Young-sook was born into a long line of haenyeo and will inherit her mother’s position leading the divers. After hundreds of dives and years of friendship, forces outside their control will push their relationship to the breaking point.

This beautiful, thoughtful novel illuminates a unique and unforgettable culture, one where the women are in charge, engaging in dangerous physical work, and the men take care of the children. A classic Lisa See story—one of women’s friendships and the larger forces that shape them—The Island of Sea Women introduces readers to the fierce female divers of Jeju Island and the dramatic history that shaped their lives.

We will gather at Ruth K’s house outdoors and via Zoom starting at 7 pm EST on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 led by Carolyn T

Overman Scholarship Fund Drive ~ We are kicking off a fund for the Overman Scholarship! This fund, in memory of Jesse & Marilyn Overman and Mark Overman, awards scholarships to members of First Friends attending higher academic or vocational/Quaker institutions. If you’d like to support this worthy cause, we encourage you to donate. For the next 5 years, the Overman family will match donations up to a certain amount. Checks can be payable to Indianapolis Monthly Meeting of Friends Trustees.” In the memo line, note "Overman Scholarship Fund.” Or you can donate securely on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support. Just choose “Overman Scholarship Fund” as the fund. Or text “Overman” to 317-768-0303.

Words from the Woods

Garage clean up September 25 ~ Hi Friends, Fall clean up and garage organization day is coming. Have you had something in storage in the garage? Now is the time to take it home or help it find a new home elsewhere! We will be paring down to the essentials so the garage is more usable for various groups. We will be following the Quaker practice of simplicity in this exercise. Come join us on September 25th from 10 am- 12 noon.

Some ways you can love the earth:

Take care of your trees- water them during hot, dry weather. With our increasingly warmer climate, our native trees suffer when they go too long without enough water.

The US Forest Service has this really good homeowner’s manual for all sorts of tree care. https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368392.pdf

Plant the right trees in the right place and the right location. One of the biggest problem is that many landscape companies don’t know how to plant a tree properly- the most common mistakes? Planting too deeply, not removing the container, burlap or wire basket and over mulching.

Mulch a little, but not too much!

https://www.treesaregood.org/Portals/0/TreesAreGood_Proper%20Mulch%20Tech_0321.pdf

https://us18.campaign-archive.com/?u=bb41e2b384f292fab14a6eb2e&id=cc70990f82

The earth is having a plastics waste crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic added to the amount of single use plastics around the country. It’s time to wash your reusable shopping bags and consider using them again as you shop.

· Do you really need a clear plastic bag for your lettuce?

· Designate one of your cloth bags for produce and put your veggies in those.

Try to develop a new habit this week and see how it goes. If we consumers change our habits, we can move toward a trash free planet.

Mary B, Tree Steward and Creation Care Advocate

Additionally, First Friends is able to accept stock and planned gifts directly. For more information, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485.

Those wanting to volunteer should:

Visit the Exodus website at www.exodusrefugee.org.
Attend a Refugee 101 training session. A pdf is available from Exodus and First Friends has the videotape of our training.
If still interested, pay $25 and complete a background check as directed via the Exodus website.

Many Afghans will soon be living in our midst. Whether volunteering with Exodus or not, you can help by being welcoming to refugees and by helping other Hoosiers understand the new arrivals.

Health & Safety Update ~ Now that the Meetinghouse has reopened, the Reopening Committee has dissolved and health and safety policy is now agreed upon by Clerk’s Council. Here is the current policy:

· We ask folks to continue wearing masks while inside the building - if a small group is meeting and everyone is vaccinated, then folks can take off the masks. We continue to monitor the Covid numbers in Indiana.

· The kids will gather for children’s worship with masks for all.

· Fellowship hour will continue with individual snacks and coffee and water/coffee with individually poured drinks.

I would like to get a study group together to study the Gospels with an emphasis on the Gnostic or newly discovered texts that we now have available. Would you like to join me? This would not be a Sunday school class so it would meet at a time that group members can agree on. If you are interested in this possibility, contact the meeting office (office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485). ~Ed M

Men’s Book Group, led by Kent F ~ A couple of years ago, we started a men’s book group at First Friends. We meet every two weeks, usually a group of four gathering on Wednesday or Thursday evenings at seven to catch up and discuss the portion of the current book we've agreed to read. We take turns recommending books, which has led to a wide variety including history, inspirational and fiction. We've all enjoyed reading books we would not have chosen for ourselves, that have turned out to be challenging and delightful. Plus, hearing other perspectives in our discussions has been insightful and rewarding.

We are excited to grow this group with new members, and look forward to the diversity you can add to the group. If you are interested, please talk with one of us about the group and the books we read.

Save the Date: Potato Drop! ~ Mark your calendars, the Shalom Zone is having a “potato drop” at Epworth United Methodist Church on December 4th. A semi-trailer full of potatoes will be “dropped” at Epworth and folks will need to sort and fill bags of potatoes. More info will be forthcoming but for now—save the date!

Queries for the Week

What ideas or attributes of God have not been helpful in my faith journey?
How might embracing God or the Divine as Love help me both worship and respond to my world?
How will I pay compassionate attention to myself and others this week?

Comment

Friend to Friend September 15, 2021

September 15, 2021

As Way Opens

Today I am sharing a very personal message that my son Greg approved.

Two weeks ago I visited Greg for a few days in his town of Asbury Park NJ. We had a wonderful time and I was so moved by the experience that I asked him if he was comfortable in my sharing his story because it is his story. He said yes as he hopes that maybe someone needs to hear this.

Greg is an alcoholic. He has been sober for 19 months and moved to NJ to get sober. He lives in a sober house, is immersed in AA, hosts his home AA meeting, goes into rehab facilities to speak to individuals going through rehab, is enrolled in the community college to study business and has a part time job in a kosher restaurant to pay his bills. I know many of you knew he struggled for a number of years and our relationship was extremely damaged, and my life experience for a number of years was extraordinarily difficult. I prayed every day and was on my knees for years and saw nothing. Where was God? My light of hope diminished but something deep in my soul would not lose the glimmer of God’s hope.

God is at work in the shadow, the darkness, during our lowest moments, when we see nothing from God. On an intellectual level I knew God would not give up on Greg and loved Greg as he was. But that is not much to grasp during this journey of pain and tears. Yet I did not let go of God’s commitment to Greg.

AA saved Greg’s life. The more I learn about AA , talk to Greg and learn of the experiences of this community, I believe this might be the highest and most representative of God’s church we have. I met and spent time with Greg’s sponsor, his best friend who has been clean for 8 years, and his housemates. I listened to these young men, their experiences, their commitment to sobriety, the struggles, and their commitment to each other and the community. These young men go deep into their being to explore the depths of their soul. They live in the deep end of the swimming pool. They are not afraid to examine all of themselves, their strengths, their shadows, their ego. They also hold each other accountable and won’t sit quietly if they see concerns or avoidances. They are there for each other at any time of the day or night. They give themselves over to God (or a higher power in their language) knowing they alone are powerless. They work towards reducing their ego focus and embracing an understanding of the transcendence of their being in relationship to God and to the universe. They make amends to those they have harmed. I listened to story after story over these two days and I knew I was in the midst of holy ground.

This is the space of AA - it’s not about a belief system or a set of doctrines or style of worship or any of the myriad things we think about church. Yet it is a beloved community of love, acceptance, accountability and growth for those a part of it.

I pray that I can be part of a community where I offer no judgement, no shame, provide unconditional love and embrace people where they are today. It was Greg’s responsibility and work to immerse himself in recovery and AA. I could not do this work. But I have been standing outside of this work with encouragement and pride that Greg has come this far.

I think about the quote regarding the church from a favorite theologian and writer Bishop John Shelby Spong that passed away this week, “ The church is like a swimming pool. Most of the noise comes from the shallow end.” Friends, I want to swim in the deep end, I want our Meeting to swim in the deep end, having seen the power of the AA community swimming in that deep end, I know that all of the little noise things will appear unimportant and we can live out our testimonies, our faith, and the tenets of AA in the fullest way possible.

Beth

Quaker-Affiliated Organizations

IFCL -- Redistricting Hearings and Rally September 16

An update regarding events regarding redistricting this Thursday, Sept. 16 at the Statehouse. That's the date of the primary House elections committee hearing on its proposed new maps for Indiana House and congressional districts. (Indiana Senate maps will be released Sept. 21 and public testimony heard Sept. 27.) The House hearing starts at 10:00 a.m. in the House Chamber in the State Capitol. Arrive early if you want to testify, but you don't need to testify to have an impact. Just showing up, being present, and being seen will send a message to legislators. Importantly, the Indiana Citizens Redistricting Commission will be presenting the winners of its public mapping competition at the Sept. 16 hearing, so it will be exciting to witness that: what maps drawn by the people, for the people should look like, in contrast to maps drawn by politicians and D.C. consultants behind closed doors.

Then after the 10:00 a.m. hearing, at about 1:00 p.m., the All IN for Democracy redistricting coalition of which IFCL is a part will be holding a rally on the Washington Street steps of the Statehouse. Some powerful speakers and Hoosiers from all walks of life will be there. Your presence there will re-enforce our call for fairness, transparency and accountability. Thanks for your continued interest in this crucial process for democracy in Indiana.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

A Prayer Service for the Season of Creation ~ St. Thomas Aquinas Church is holding a prayer service for the Season of Creation today, Wednesday, September 15 at 6:30 pm and they invite all to come. The church is located at 46th and Illinois in Indianapolis. The weather should be decent, so they plan to hold it outside in the grassy playground area just north of the church and south of 47th Street on Illinois Street. Even though it is outside, they are asking people to wear masks. Please bring folding chairs. (They will have extra masks and some chairs on hand as well.) This year's theme, "A Home for All? Renewing the oikos of God", invites us to reflect on the meaning of home.

Men’s Threshing Together ~ If you are interested in gathering with other men who mull over current issues or topics, where all points of view are heard, no decisions are made, and all in a non-threatening atmosphere over a meal, then Threshing Together is for you! Join us for our next in-person meeting tomorrow, Thursday, September 16 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2021 here.

Join MSPC in supporting Afghan refugees! ~ Maple Seeds Preschool Co-op is supporting refugees from Afghanistan at Camp Atterbury right here in Indiana. Most of these people are coming into the country with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. First Friends is joining MSPC in an effort to collect donations that will be taken directly to these refugees. Click here for a list of the most needed items. Donations are being collected in a table in the hallway of the education wing at First Friends. Act quickly—donations need to be in by this Friday, September 17! If you would like more information about this program, or would like to help in other ways aside from donations, email ResettlementSupport@teamrubiconusa.org or call Team Rubicon at 310-640-8787.

Joe Roberts to Speak on D. C. Stephenson of the KKK and the Indiana Trial that Helped Bring Down the Klan in the 1920s ~ Joe Roberts, retired attorney and Quaker from Noblesville Friends Church, will speak about the notorious D. C. Stephenson, former Indiana Grand Dragon, and the Ku Klux Klan, a notorious white supremacist hate group. He will speak this Saturday, Sept. 18 at 10 a. m. at First Friends in Indianapolis. His father, Justin Roberts, was Hamilton County Prosecutor at the time of the famous trial that convicted Stevenson of the abduction, rape and murder of a young state education official, Madge Oberholtzer. The aftermath of the trial helped rid Indiana of many corrupt politicians and aided in drastically reducing Klan membership by tens of thousands across the country. This is a fascinating personal story, told from a Quaker perspective, about local history that impacted the nation in the 1920s when Indiana was a stronghold of the KKK, a hate group which still exists today. We are asking everyone attending to wear masks. You might know Joe Roberts and his son Tom Roberts; they have played organ and piano at First Friends and duets at Western Yearly Meeting. We hope to see you this Saturday!

The upcoming preludes in this coming Sunday’s Meeting for Worship are:

1. “Rondo”, attr.to John Bull, is in honor and memory of organist emeritus Ruth Batt

2. “Meditation from ‘Thais’” is in honor of our First Friends member who requested opera pieces. Thais is an opera, premiered in 1894, by Jules Massenet. Meditation is the famous piece from its entr’acte, originally written for violin and orchestra, and arranged here by R. Thygerson.

Help Afghan Refugees with Us Through Exodus ~ Mark your calendar for Sept. 21st if you are interested in volunteering to help Afghan refugees. Many people at First Friends have expressed this desire. Some Friends have discussed working with the Exodus Refugee organization as individuals, part of a team or by simply donating.

We have invited Refugee Volunteer Coordinator Jericho Jones to speak at First Friends on Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 10 a.m. He will give an introductory talk and show slides about Exodus Refugee Immigration Inc. organization and its programs. He suggests that interested parties go to www.exodusrefugee.org before attending the talk. The introductory speech will take approximately 15 minutes and a Q & A session will follow. People interested in volunteering can stay for Refugee 101 training that will take about 45 minutes. All volunteers must go through this training session and pay $25 each for a background check. We also ask anyone coming to the talk in person to please wear a mask while inside the building.

Some Friends are already discussing becoming part of a First Friends Welcome Team for Afghan refugees through Exodus. Be sure to read the welcome team section on the Exodus website.

· The choir will sing on Sept 26th, and will have singing masks.

· The kids will gather for children’s worship with masks for all.

· Fellowship hour will continue with individual snacks and coffee and water/coffee with individually poured drinks.

First Friends Financial Update: The Meeting continues to seek financial support throughout the year. To explore ways to assist, click on indyfriends.org/support/#givenow and scroll down to the Give Now section.

Additionally, First Friends is able to accept stock and planned gifts directly. For more information, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485.

USHERS and GREETERS Needed - Interested in serving the Meeting by volunteering as an usher or greeter? We are very short-handed at this time. Contact the office if you’re interested.

There are some very interesting facts about the so-called Gnostic writers. One is that generally they recognized the feminine aspect of the Divine much more than Catholic fathers.

If you are interested in this possibility contact the meeting office (office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485). ~Ed M

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for September
Turkey Vulture: Sanitary Worker

As a child I made friends with the workers who drove trucks through our neighborhood: the milkman, who gave us ice to suck on; the garbage man, who showed me how to work the handle to compact the trash; and especially the ice cream truck driver (no explanation needed). Sometimes I felt sorry for the trash worker who rode on the back of the truck, and lifted the trash cans, even in the pouring rain or 95 degree heat. I learned that there are some unpleasant jobs, and I learned to appreciate those who do them.

This month’s bird, the Turkey Vulture, can be seen any month from March to November, but especially now, soaring over the meeting property. It especially likes to perch on the high tension towers. As it soars, seldom flapping, it is using its large nostrils to try to smell a dead animal below, and if it does, oh boy…lunch!! Notice the bare head, which resembles in a way, the head of a turkey (hence its name). This lack of head feathers enables vultures to get right down into their meal. Any “material” left on their head will dry, and can easily be scratched off. Turkey Vultures search in groups, and will share a meal.

These birds do a great job in helping clear our property of dead rabbits, opossums, raccoons, squirrels, chipmunks, birds, and any similar creature!! Last month I laid the dead owl in the meadow near the towers. Now you know why. I would not want to be a vulture, but I sure do appreciate them!! ~Brad J

SAWS Ramp Build ~ The Shalom Zone is planning another SAWS (Servants at Work) ramp build for the morning of Saturday, October 2. If you would like to volunteer please contact the office as we are trying to identify all volunteers (10 – 12 are needed) from the Shalom Zone as soon as possible. Volunteers must complete the volunteer registration form before their first build. Indicate that you are with the Shalom Zone on your registration. This form can be found on the SAWS website: sawsramps.org. If you should have any questions or need further information, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org. Thanks for your willingness to be part of the SAWS group.

Queries for the Week

What do I consider worship? What misconceptions do I have?
This week, how might I humbly let God, or the Divine teach and transform me?

Comment

Friend to Friend September 8, 2021

September 8, 2021

As Way Opens

On Labor Day, Sue, my parents, and I traveled to Chicago to spend some time in the Loop with our son, Sam. To give us his perspective, he decided to take us on a whirlwind tour of the School of the Art Institute campus and surrounding areas. If you did not know, the SAIC campus is spread out throughout the Chicago Loop and includes many tucked-away gardens and natural areas around the Art Institute.

If you have been to this area in Chicago, you probably know it for Millennium Park, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the famous “Bean” – which as an art student our son respectfully and correctly identifies as Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate. But what you may easily miss in this bustling urban jungle of tall buildings, large sculptures, dark alley ways, noisy elevated trains, honking cars, and lots and lots of people, is a sanctuary of sorts. With a quick turn from all the people and noise of the city, Sam introduced us to the Lurie Garden.

Suddenly, we found ourselves in what Chicago calls the city’s secret garden. Made of large plots of native plants, this space was intentionally created to offer rest and renewal for humans and wildlife alike. Sam shared with us that this is where he could go, take off his mask, and eat his lunch last year during the difficulties of being a college student during a threatening pandemic. The space with its holy silence is almost overwhelming for being surrounded by the city. As you stand within this space you feel as if you have been transported from the noise of the city to a private field in the middle of the country. The buzzing of the bees frolicking in the wildflowers, the breeze blowing through the leaves of the trees, and the water trickling down the inlaid fountains, all make this place both special and sacred. We devotionally paused to take it in.

This experience made me ponder how busy and chaotic the world around us seems and the way it blinds us from the beauty, peace, rest, and renewal awaiting us around the corner of our lives. I wondered how often people pass the Lurie Garden never even realizing it was just a step away from the hectic life just outside. It was clear from our experience in the garden that the people who entered, slowed their pace, observed the natural beauty, and breathed deep the peace and rest offered them.

This week, I hope you will take time to seek places like the Lurie Gardens in your life. You and I may be surprised by what the Divine has put just off the path of our lives to help us escape the chaos of our world.

Grace and peace,

Bob

Quaker-Affiliated Organizations

IFCL – Redistricting News ~ Friends, we are approaching the midnight hour for redistricting in Indiana.

On September 14, the House Republicans release their proposed new maps for Indiana House and Congressional districts. A mere two days later, the House Elections Committee will hold a single day of hearings at the Statehouse for the public to weigh in. Senate Republicans will release their proposed maps for the Indiana Senate on September 21, with Senate Elections Committee hearings for public comment on September 27.

In anticipation of these formal actions on redistricting, a group of half a dozen Indiana faith leaders, including Beth Henricks, participated in a press conference sponsored by All IN for Democracy in front of the chapel at the Statehouse. Their mission: to appeal to the conscience of members of the General Assembly as they embark on weighty redistricting decisions that will affect all Hoosiers for the next decade. What does their faith call them to do? A video of that event is here: (https://www.facebook.com/cacindiana/videos/3000412153562200)--a 32-minute listen that is well worth your time over a cup of coffee. It is our hope and prayer that elected members of our legislature will listen.

In the week ahead, several redistricting events are planned by All IN for Democracy, the redistricting coalition of which IFCL is a part, that you may feel led to attend. On September 13 at 8pm Eastern, there will be an online webinar to help equip anyone who wants to testify at the House Elections Committee hearings on September 16. The link to sign up is here: Webinar Registration - Zoom. On September 16--the date of the actual hearings--there will be a rally at noon on the Statehouse steps to call for fair maps. And a phonebanking/textbanking event to contact your elected representatives directly about fair maps is in the works (date to be determined). Please stay tuned for further details, and hold our representatives in the Light. Thank you.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

· The choir will sing on Sept 26th, and will have singing masks.

· The kids will gather for children’s worship with masks for all.

· Fellowship hour will continue with individual snacks and coffee and water/coffee with individually poured drinks.

USHERS and GREETERS Needed - Interested in serving the Meeting by volunteering as an usher or greeter? We are very short-handed at this time. Contact Jim Kartholl at jkartholl8@gmail.com or call/text 317-507-9751 if you can help out.

2021 Fall Kickoff! ~ We are excited for this year’s fall kickoff which will begin on Sunday, September 12th. Everyone is invited to wear your favorite sports team gear that day!

· Seeking Friends will meet in person and by Zoom at 9:00am. We will pick up where we left off in “Everything is Sacred” by Richard Rohr and Patrick Boland. Join us via Zoom at the meeting time by clicking this link: https://bit.ly/SeekingFriends.

· We will have two children’s worship classes (older and younger kids) who will meet during the service and will be back in our kids rooms.

· Nursery service will be available.

· At this time, there will be no Sunday school for children or youth.

· Youth Group will meet that day after Meeting for Worship with Aaron and Michelle and will have lunch and games starting at 11:30.

We hope to see everyone that day in their sports outfits! Please join us.

There are some very interesting facts about the so-called Gnostic writers. One is that generally they recognized the feminine aspect of the Divine much more than Catholic fathers.

If you are interested in this possibility email, contact the meeting office (office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485). ~Ed M

Men’s Book Group, led by Kent F~ A couple of years ago, we started a men’s book group at First Friends. We meet every two weeks, usually a group of four gathering on Wednesday or Thursday evenings at seven to catch up and discuss the portion of the current book we've agreed to read. We take turns recommending books, which has led to a wide variety including history, inspirational and fiction. We've all enjoyed reading books we would not have chosen for ourselves, that have turned out to be challenging and delightful. Plus, hearing other perspectives in our discussions has been insightful and rewarding.

We are excited to grow this group with new members, and look forward to the diversity you can add to the group. If you are interested, contact the office- office@indyfriends.org.

Men’s Threshing Together ~ If you are interested in gathering with other men who mull over current issues or topics, where all points of view are heard, no decisions are made, and all in a non-threatening atmosphere over a meal, then Threshing Together is for you! Join us for our next in-person meeting on Thursday, September 16 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2021 here.

Participate in our "Sponsor a College Student" project! Just select a college student and send them notes, cards, treats, etc throughout the school year so they feel connected. We still have five students who need sponsored: Sam A, Sam M, Eli S, Isaiah S, and Sam W. If you’d like to participate, please email the office at office@indyfriends.org or see the posterboard in the Meetinghouse. Please consider connecting with our students this year!

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for September
Turkey Vulture: Sanitary Worker

Joe Roberts to Speak on D. C. Stephenson of the KKK and the Indiana Trial that Helped Bring Down the Klan in the 1920s ~ Joe Roberts, retired attorney and Quaker from Noblesville Friends Church, will speak about the notorious D. C. Stephenson, former Indiana Grand Dragon, and the Ku Klux Klan, a notorious white supremacist hate group. He will speak on Saturday, Sept. 18 at 10 a. m. at First Friends in Indianapolis. His father, Justin Roberts, was Hamilton County Prosecutor at the time of the famous trial that convicted Stevenson of the abduction, rape and murder of a young state education official, Madge Oberholtzer. The aftermath of the trial helped rid Indiana of many corrupt politicians and aided in drastically reducing Klan membership by tens of thousands across the country. This is a fascinating personal story, told from a Quaker perspective, about local history that impacted the nation in the 1920s when Indiana was a stronghold of the KKK, a hate group which still exists today.

Oak Leaf: Meeting for Reading would like you to join us from virtually anywhere in the world as we discuss The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See.

We will gather at Ruth K’s house outdoors and via Zoom starting at 7 pm EST on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 led by Carolyn T

Queries for the Week

Are we preparing ourselves for something new to be birthed amongst us?
What new beginning might we have the opportunity to embrace if we prepare ourselves?
And how are we responding to the endings happening around us?
- Are we holding on to them?
- Are we fearing them?
- Are we glorifying them?
- Are we seeing them as a failure?
- Are we worried there will be no new beginnings?

Comment

Friend to Friend September 1, 2021

September 2, 2021

As Way Opens

Last week we had worship in the Meditational Woods. The weather was mild, sunlight dappled through the trees as a gentle breeze passed through. Bob talked to us about a way to strengthen our relationship with God through thoughtful relaxed prayer and meditation. We then spent some time individually in silent worship in The Woods. For me, the location of the Meditational Woods was a perfect place to be in connection with God as I often see God in nature.

One of the things that Linda and I had in common was our love of nature. We loved to camp, hike, go bird watching, canoeing, picnicking, fishing… just about anything that would get us outside. We even took off on a 10 month RV trip around the country in 2004 where we were able to visit many national and state parks around the country.

So when I want to feel a closeness to God, coming to The Meditational Woods is a natural for me. Since Linda’s passing, I have gone to the Woods several times to pray and meditate. One day about two weeks ago I went to the Woods to do just that. I went back by the fountain and sat on a bench there. It had just rained and everything was sparkling in the sunlight. I sat there and marveled at the beauty of the sight. I was emotionally moved and felt opened up to the Divine presence.

I slowly walked back toward the parking lot until I reached the two trees that stand at the entrance of The Woods. These trees are covered with berries on each limb and the rain had formed little round balls hanging from each one of the hundreds of berries. Each droplet appeared as a shinning crystal in the sunlight. It was spectacular! At that moment I said to myself “Linda would write a poem about this.” As I stood there contemplating this, another thought entered my mind: “This IS a poem. Sent to me from Linda through God.” I was deeply moved. It would be so much like Linda to be present in this wonderful little piece of nature that we have.

I will go back the Woods again soon seeking the presence of the living God in the living, growing and evolving life of the planet – right in our own little piece of nature. A good place to be alone, sit down, relax, observe… and communicate.

Blessings,

Ed M

Joys & Concerns

Funday Sunday 2021 was a great time of worshipping through PLAY! We enjoyed connecting with nature and having a lot of fun! (Photos submitted by Nancy S & Bob H--see more on our Facebook page!)

Friends, please see the below message from our own Shawn P:

Dear First Friends family:

It is with mixed emotions that I share with you I will be leaving First Friends at the end of this December, thus completing a very fulfilling 25 year music ministry at First Friends. First Friends has been my church home and there are so many dear, lifelong friends that I hold and will hold close to my heart as I journey into my next segment of life and ministry. It has been my joy to be able to have shared so much music, laughter and life journeys with you. Psalm 150 3-6 (KJV) states: “Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise Him with the timbre and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.”

Our mighty Casavant organ here is an incredible instrument of God to proclaim His glory and can reach so many different styles of worshippers. I am sure its voice will continue to be heard whether playing the soft flute or the majestic Trumpet stops, the soft strings or the great Mixtures.

I will be playing 2 Sundays a month through November and will be here to joyously celebrate all of the Christmas season at First Friends. I look forward to the sharing of life, music, laughter and love with you this coming Fall and Christmas season.

Shawn

Artful Meditation a Success ~ Shawn Haymaker, art therapist, is a cheerful and empathic workshop leader. He is able to create a fun, open space for those willing to take a chance on a new experience. Under his direction a happy grouping of adults and children worked with alcohol inks and watercolors last Saturday. They were not doing art therapy since therapy is a more personal and private process and this event was designed to help people in a group setting express themselves while in a meditative mode. People shared personal thoughts they wanted to meditate on and then, at the completion of the workshop, showed how their ideas materialized within their finished paintings. Satisfied workshop participants took home many colorful creations.

Alcohol ink has a mind of its own as it spreads and bleeds, so no one knows exactly how a finished piece might look. Shawn said no one needed to be an artist to take part in this experience and he readily put everyone at ease. He interacted with individuals and groups at separate tables, sharing cost-cutting tips and useful hacks and ideas he had developed. He brought a paper cutter and envelopes so participants could custom cut their own paper. He showed how people could make bookmarks or personalized envelopes by gluing design pieces onto them.

The group appreciated Shawn’s planning. It served to make the painting process easy for everyone. He devised a watercolor method similar to the alcohol ink undertaking, but it did not stain and was more appropriate for youngsters. Thank you to Shawn and wife Carrie for stocking and delivering many boxes of supplies. Connections Program Meeting sponsored Artful Meditation.

Shawn is willing to create more art workshops with other mediums and techniques. He is willing to collaborate with others wanting to lead similar projects or classes.

Saturday’s participants loved these ideas and indicated they want more such opportunities. If you are interested, please contact the office.

~Nancy on behalf of Connections Program Committee (Photos submitted by Nancy S—see more on our Facebook page!)

We had a wonderful service in celebration of the life of Dan R on August 21st. If you would like a recorded copy of Dan R’s memorial service, please contact Larry M.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Participate in our "Sponsor a College Student" project! Just select a college student and send them notes, cards, treats, etc throughout the school year so they feel connected. We still have nine students who need sponsored: Sam A, Ally H, Sam M, Eli S, Isaiah S, Chelsea T, Kendal T, and Sam W. If you’d like to participate, please email the office at office@indyfriends.org or see the posterboard in the Meetinghouse. Please consider connecting with our students this year!

No Monday Meditational Worship on Labor Day ~ Please note that on Monday, September 6th (Labor Day) there will not be Meditational Worship in the Parlor. Are you interested in receiving email reminders for unprogrammed worship? Contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.

Joe Roberts to Speak on D. C. Stephenson of the KKK and the Indiana Trial that Helped Bring Down the Klan in the 1920s ~ Joe Roberts, retired attorney and Quaker from Noblesville Friends Church, will speak about the notorious D. C. Stephenson, former Indiana Grand Dragon, and the Ku Klux Klan, a notorious white supremacist hate group. He will speak on Saturday, Sept. 18 at 10 a. m. at First Friends in Indianapolis. His father, Justin Roberts, was Hamilton County Prosecutor at the time of the famous trial that convicted Stevenson of the abduction, rape and murder of a young state education official, Madge Oberholtzer. The aftermath of the trial helped rid Indiana of many corrupt politicians and aided in drastically reducing Klan membership by tens of thousands across the country. This is a fascinating personal story, told from a Quaker perspective, about local history that impacted the nation in the 1920s when Indiana was a stronghold of the KKK, a hate group which still exists today.

Words from the Woods~ Remember that Purdue Extension is offering classes in building a raingarden.

With the more intense rains, you may have more flooding on your property. Your yard could benefit from installing a raingarden, that controls runoff and improves water quality.

Marion County – (in-person) – September 9, 6:30-7:45pm – Indianapolis, IN
- Register online at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/workshops-for-a-cleaner-waterway-rain-garden-workshop-tickets-166555416735
Hancock County – (in-person) – September 23 and 24, 9am–5:00 pm – Greenfield, IN
- Register online at: https://cvent.me/BQB4Pm or contact the Purdue Education Store at 765-494-6794.
- Registration deadline is September 9

https://extension.purdue.edu/rainscaping/

With the high heat and humidity, it’s been hard to enjoy the outdoors. Did you know that tree shade can lower temperatures by 10-20 degrees? Be sure and water your trees well once a week during these hot days.

There are a few things that we can do to lower the temperature around here: plant trees, use less electricity, drive less, walk and bike more and urge our legislators to decrease the amount of coal for power in our state. Our legislature has been supportive of coal powered electricity for various reasons and discouraging the use of solar and net metering to help private citizens contribute back to the power grid.

When I was at IKEA the other week, I was curious to know how a business has worked to reduce its electricity needs and make a positive contribution with its roof solar panels and waste reduction practices. A helpful associate showed me this (pictured left).

Leslie Webb (webb@indy.rr.com) from Carmel Green sent out this email:

“I just wanted to make sure you know the Energy Task Force is covering distributed energy resources, customer-owned solar and net metering at their next meeting on Sept 8 which can be viewed live, online.

We would hope to get recommendations for a fair net metering bill out of this process, but it won’t be easy because the co-chairs were complicit in SB309.(The bill that limited net metering) Rep. Soliday was a co-sponsor of the bill and Sen. Koch was Chair of the Utilities Committee that pushed it through the general assembly. They have a history of advancing legislation that favors utilities, and blocked all three net metering bills last session. They have both also received substantial campaign contributions from coal and utility interests.”

If we want to keep our earth from further warming, consider what actions you and your family can take.

https://quakerearthcare.org

https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-priorities/

~Mary B

2021 Fall Kickoff! ~ We are excited for this year’s fall kickoff which will begin on Sunday, September 12th. Everyone is invited to wear your favorite sports team gear that day!

Seeking Friends will meet in person and by Zoom at 9:00am. We will pick up where we left off in “Everything is Sacred” by Richard Rohr and Patrick Boland. If you would like the Zoom link, and/or to request a book on scholarship, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.
We will have two children’s worship classes (older and younger kids) who will meet during the service and will be back in our kids rooms.
At this time, there will be no Sunday school for children or youth.
Youth Group will meet that day after Meeting for Worship with Aaron and Michelle and will have lunch and games starting at 11:30.

We hope to see everyone that day in their sports outfits! Please join us.

IndyGo Hosts Free Pop-Up Vaccination Clinic ~ Get a COVID-19 vaccine, receive free access to IndyGo for an entire month. It’s an exciting incentive provided by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield available to everyone who takes advantage of the upcoming vaccination clinic Friday, Sept. 3, from 8 a.m. – noon and 2 – 6 p.m. at the Julia M. Carson Transit Center (CTC), located at 201 E. Washington St. This is the second time for the event. The first pop-up clinic in July was so successful vaccinating more than 60 people in just four hours, the decision was made to expand the hours of operation. All participants will receive a free 31-day IndyGo paper pass at the clinic immediately following their vaccination. The Moderna vaccine will be offered and is available to anyone 18 years of age and older.

Additionally, the health department will host pop-up vaccination clinics at the CTC every Wednesday in September – Sept. 8-29, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. All three vaccines will be available, including the Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines for anyone 18 years and older, and the Pfizer vaccine for anyone 16 years and older.

Unprogrammed Worship~ We are happy to now offer email reminders for unprogrammed worship services each Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday morning! Zoom links will be included if applicable. If you’d like to sign up for these reminders, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.

Queries for the Week

Six Suggestions to Deepen My Connection with God

1. Make a commitment

2. Create time alone

3. Find a good place

4. Sit down

5. Relax and Observe

6. Communicate

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Friend to Friend August 25, 2021

August 26, 2021

As Way Opens

As I have been thinking about the importance of sharing our stories and listening to one another, I returned to one of my favorite Quaker books, Spirit Rising: Young Quaker Voices put out by Quaker Press in 2010 (which is also available in our library!). A couple of my good F/friends were editors, compilers, and writers for this compilation of stories, poems, and prayers from teenage and young adult Quakers from around the world.

One of the main editors was Sue and my close friend, Sarah Hoggett. Sarah currently serves as one of the co-superintendents for the new Sierra Cascades Yearly Meeting in the Northwest. Also, Sarah is an accomplished poet. A few years ago, Sue and I were asked to be readers and editors for one of her poetry books which was an absolute delight.

As I was perusing Spirit Rising again, I came across Sarah’s poem, The Journey Worth Taking. I have found this poem speaking to my condition on multiple occasions. Often, I have shared it at new member gatherings or even as part of worship, but it has always held a special place in my life.

As I came across it once again, I was struck at how it speaks so well to what I have been sharing in my sermons during the month of August. I share this beautiful poem as both a reminder and a challenge to us that the journey together is worth taking!

The Journey Worth Taking

By Sarah Katreen Hoggett

We come from far-off lands,

cultures apart, struggling to

understand a foreign tongue,

another viewpoint, another way to live,

to see, to hear God in different words.

We listen, opening to new sights, perspectives,

ways to love as we discover

we are unique parts of a greater circle,

distinctive expressions of the Divine Life.

Yet our voices together lift up the mountains.

Our chorus pulses the river down the outward

flow into a world needing to hear the rushing tide.

We are on a journey and it may not even

matter so much where we end up,

but that we rise up to take the voyage.

We speak the truth of our lives,

hear each other and are changed.

We can love without complete understanding,

walking the light together when miles apart.

If in the tension we can find

the one light we are birthed from,

the thread through our stories,

we may discover we are brothers, sisters all

of one skin, one laughter, music, lilting, free,

if we can just find the courage to come together

and take the journey.

May this be so.

Grace and peace,

Bob

Quaker-Affiliated Organizations

IFCL -- Press Conference on Redistricting -- "Fair Maps: We Want to Have Faith in Our Legislature"

The All IN for Democracy redistricting coalition of which IFCL is a member is sponsoring an inter-faith press conference, "Fair Maps: We Want to Have Faith in Our Legislature."

The aim of this event is to portray redistricting not simply as a political issue, but a moral issue. The message to legislators: "This is a profound moment of choice for members of the Indiana General Assembly. A moral moment. Legislators, with the new district maps you enact, you'll be voting either for perpetuation of democracy in our state, or for erosion of democracy. Where do you stand?"

The press conference will be held at noon on Wednesday, September 1, at the Statehouse, outside Room 432 (which is the chapel on the fourth floor). Our own Beth Henricks will be among the six speakers from the Indiana faith community at the event. Please join us.

In addition, All IN for Democracy's contest for citizen-drawn legislative maps kicks off today. If you are interested in trying your hand at drawing district maps for possible consideration by the Indiana General Assembly, check this out for details. https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/press-release/all-in-for-democracy-launches-states-first-community-mapping-competition/

Contact the office with questions - office@indyfriends.org.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Artful Meditation ~ The Connections Program Meeting is offering a workshop guided by ART THERAPIST Shawn Haymaker. It will take place on Saturday, August 28th from 10-11:30am at First Friends in Fellowship Hall. Participants of all ages are invited to join in and experience. Shawn will introduce alcohol ink processes to adults and youth and conduct watercolor exercises for young children. No experience is necessary. (Please note: this is art meditation, not art therapy.)

SUNDAY FUNDAY IS COMING AUGUST 29TH! Sunday Funday is an opportunity for everyone at First Friends to come together and worship through PLAY! We will gather this Sunday, August 29th at our normal Meeting for Worship time (10:15am) in the meditational woods. Please bring lawn chairs if you are able. Also be sure to bring the kids and the swimsuits, because after worship there will be a bouncy house, a giant slip n’ slide, and volleyball. In fellowship hall we will provide board games and puzzles for those wanting to stay out of the sun (feel free to bring your own games as well)! We will provide a lunch of individually wrapped Jimmy John’s sandwiches, sides, and beverages. Mark your calendar and plan to come and enjoy worshipping through PLAY!

GLEANING Shalom Zone Event! ~ What is Gleaning? Gleaning is the act of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been commercially harvested or on fields where it is not economically profitable to harvest. Come learn about GLEANING, its benefits, and gleaning opportunities here in Indiana. Guest Speaker Dawn Barnes of the Society of St. Andrew will present and take any questions. All are invited to this free event, sponsored by the Shalom Zone, which will be held Tuesday, August 31st at 7 pm at Allisonville Christian Church and on their Facebook page. Join us in person at the church at 7701 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46250 or on Facebook for a livestream at https://www.facebook.com/allisonville. Dawn Barnes of the Society of St. Andrew plans to speak. The program will include time for questions. We hope to see you there!

Participate in our "Sponsor a College Student" project! Just select a college student and send them notes, cards, treats, etc throughout the school year so they feel connected. Our college students this year are Sam A, Savannah B, Lena B, Ally H, Sam H, Sam M, Eli S, Isaiah S, Chelsea T, Kendal T, and Sam W. If you’d like to participate, please email the office at office@indyfriends.org or see the poster board in the Meetinghouse. Please consider connecting with our students this year!

Words from the Woods: Did you know that in June 2022, our Meditational Woods will be 20 years old? If you haven’t read the brief history of the Meditational Woods on the First Friends website, check it out and look how much it has grown up and changed (along with how some of us look a bit changed!).

Do you have a boggy area in your yard? Or an area that frequently floods with heavy rains? Your yard could benefit from installing a raingarden, that controls runoff and improves water quality.

Purdue extension has scheduled two Rainscaping Education Workshops for Fall 2021.

Harrison County (in-person) – Sept 2, 9, 16, 23, & 25, 5:30–7:30 pm– Corydon, IN
- Register online at: https://cvent.me/vwBBKL or contact the Purdue Education Store at 765-494-6794.
- Registration deadline is August 27.

Hancock County (in-person) – September 23 and 24, 9am–5pm– Greenfield, IN
- Register online at: https://cvent.me/BQB4Pm or contact the Purdue Education Store at 765-494-6794.
- Registration deadline is September 9.

https://extension.purdue.edu/rainscaping/

As Beth shared in last week’s Friend to Friend, we were in Colorado for our daughter Sarah’s wedding. Sarah now lives in the Denver area and one of the reasons she moved there was for the beautiful mountains and clean air. However, climate change, drought and extreme temperatures are altering that view. Most of the time, the skies were filled with haze and smoke from the California and Oregon wildfires and some days air quality was considered to be unhealthy while outdoors. We had physical evidence of a warming climate. When we returned home, I saw this guest opinion essay by Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, a climate scientist and Dr. Frederike Otto. I love Dr. Hayhoe because she is a scientist and an evangelical Christian who is helping people understand why we need to work together to make changes to slow & stop carbon emissions. Find the article here: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/17/opinion/extreme-weather-climate-change.html

Joe Roberts to Speak on D. C. Stephenson of the KKK and the Indiana Trial that Helped Bring Down the Klan in the 1920s ~ Joe Roberts, retired attorney and Quaker from Noblesville Friends Church, will speak about the notorious D. C. Stephenson, former Indiana Grand Dragon, and the Ku Klux Klan, a notorious white supremacist hate group. He will speak on Saturday, Sept. 18 at 10 a. m. at First Friends in Indianapolis. His father, Justin Roberts, was Hamilton County Prosecutor at the time of the famous trial that convicted Stevenson of the abduction, rape and murder of a young state education official, Madge Oberholtzer. The aftermath of the trial helped rid Indiana of many corrupt politicians and aided in drastically reducing Klan membership by tens of thousands across the country. This is a fascinating personal story, told from a Quaker perspective, about local history that impacted the nation in the 1920s when Indiana was a stronghold of the KKK, a hate group which still exists today.

Looking for WYM Volunteers! Friends, we are looking for volunteers to fill two roles for Central Area representation for Western Yearly Meeting. See below for information on the roles. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact the office at 317-255-2485 or office@indyfriends.org!

Quaker Men Representative - meets twice a year, once during the annual sessions and again in the spring. Objectives include bearing witness to Christ’s way of life in fellowship, business dealings, and social actions, and engaging in Christian service projects.

Peace & Christian Social Concern Board Member (term 2021-2023) CORRECTED– Please note the following corrected description: Responsibilities include the carrying out of activities in the areas of peace and Christian social thought and action. The committee strives to awaken or sensitize the consciences of members of the yearly meeting in these areas.

For more information or to volunteer for either of these positions, please contact the office at 317-255-2485 or office@indyfriends.org. Thank you for your consideration.

Western Yearly Meeting Mission Project ~ The 2021 annual mission project for Western Yearly Meeting is to provide technology (e.g. laptops, desktop computers, internet services) to several Quaker groups. The Kisumu Kenya Office (which is the hub of all Quaker activities in Africa), Friends Theological College, and Belize Friends School will all benefit from the funds raised during this campaign. The WYM goal is $15,000. This fundraiser is soon coming to a close! Thank you to those of you who have already donated. We encourage everyone to examine your hearts and give as you are led. Please Checks should be made to First Friends with a notation “WYM Mission Project”. Or you can donate securely on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support. Just choose “WYM Project” as the fund. Or text “WYMProject” to 317-768-0303.

Queries for the Week

Where are we afraid of scarcity in our lives?
What does it mean to me to live in a spirit of generosity?
Where is God calling me to expand my giving of time and talents?

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