Friend to Friend December 14, 2022

December 14, 2022

Friend to Friend December 7, 2022

December 12, 2022

As Way Opens

At the start of December, one of my traditions is to take Howard Thurman’s book, The Mood of Christmas off my bookshelf and read through it again. I love what he writes in his prologue, “The mood of Christmas - what is it? It is a quickening of the presence of other human beings into whose lives a precious part of one’s own has been released. It is a memory of other days when into one’s path an angel appeared spreading a halo over an ordinary moment or a commonplace event. It is an iridescence of sheer delight that bathes one’s whole being with something more wonderful than words can ever tell. Of such is the mood of Christmas.”

This is the mood that I want to step into during this Christmas season. Our Vespers service last Sunday evening brought me into this place of Presence with the beautiful music and readings. I have attended our Vespers service for over 30 years and I am always deeply moved by all of us lighting individual candles that collectively bring light to our Meeting Room as we sing Silent Night together. I think about Thurman’s poem I will Light Candles this Christmas.

Candles of joy, despite all sadness,

Candles of hope where despair keeps watch.

Candles of courage for fears ever present,

Candles of peace for tempest-tossed days,

Candles of grace to ease heavy burdens,

Candles of love to inspire all my living,

Candles that will burn all the year long.

This is my prayer for all of us as we light our candles in our homes and our communities this season.

Beth

Joys & Concerns

This past Sunday we gathered to celebrate our annual Christmas Vespers and Dinner! What a beautiful night of worship as we officially begin our journey to Christmas. Thank you to all those who made the night simply fantastic.

Seasoned Friends had a great day in Wabash this week visiting the Eagles Theatre, the Honeywell Center and Charley Creek Inn. Thank you to Sara E for arranging this wonderful tour and lunch.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Notice: As you may be aware, a number of choir members and other attenders at worship have recently tested positive for COVID. All respiratory illnesses seem to be escalating in Indianapolis right now. The good news is, at First Friends we have the tools we need to stay healthy: vaccines, effective ventilation and air purification systems, and masks if we choose to use them. As we worship and celebrate the season together, please make the appropriate decisions for yourself as to attending Meeting and other activities at the Meetinghouse in person and/or wearing masks, remembering that there are others in our lives (very young, very old, and/or immuno-compromised) who need protection.

Whether we see you in person or online, we are blessed to share in worship and fellowship with you this Holiday Season! Thank you.

Seeking Friends: Due to the busy Holiday Season, Seeking Friends will be taking a hiatus until the New Year. We will return on Sunday, January 8 at 9am. Enjoy an extra hour before joining us for worship.

First Friends Financial Update: You are invited to spread holiday cheer by making a pledge to First Friends Meeting for 2023. Your pledge is extremely helpful in making a budget for the new year. Click to pledge online, or contact the office at office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485, for a pledge card to be mailed to you.

The Meeting also seeks support in closing out 2022, as we currently are experiencing a deficit. To donate online, visit indyfriends.org/support/#givenow, or text to give at 317-768-0303. Other means of support include automatic giving, stock gifts, estate planning, and donation of IRA Required Minimum Distributions. For assistance, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485.

Puzzle fans--a new jigsaw puzzle will be available in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, December 11. The puzzle shows used stamps from all over the world.

Puzzlers and non-puzzlers:

--Remember to bring in your own stamps, whether used or unused, to benefit Right Sharing of World Resources.

--If you'd like to help the stamp team earn money for RSWR, contact the office. It's fun and helps a good cause.

Annual Christmas Tea ~ Please join us this Sunday, December 11th immediately after worship for the annual Christmas Tea. There will be lots of cookies and punch and fellowship. If you can donate cookies, they can be dropped off on the morning of Sunday, December 12th. (Please, no cookies with peanuts or peanut products.) For more information contact Jody L. Happy holidays!

Join First Friends for Caroling! ~ EVERYONE is invited to join us for Christmas caroling this Sunday, December 11. We will meet at Marquette Manor HEALTH CENTER, 8140 Township Line Rd., no later than 3:20 p.m. At the second entrance going south on Township Line, turn right and tell the guard you will be caroling at the Health Center, which is at the back of the complex. Take the elevator to the 2nd floor and proceed to the Sun Room. We will sing at two other locations and then eat at a family friendly place afterwards. Carol Donahue will distribute details at Marquette for the remaining itinerary. Call or text Carol if you have questions.

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, December 15 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2022 here.

Babysitting Co-Op ~ We will have a babysitting co-op on Saturday, December 17th from 5:00 - 9:00 for any of our kids. This is a great opportunity for parents to drop their kids off and have an evening out. Dinner will be provided for the kids. They will be making cookies in a jar and soup in a jar to be sold after Meeting on December 18th along with chocolates and coffee to raise money for Mohammed’s family to move to Canada. We hope your kids will join us in the fun that night!

Illuminate Bible Study ~ Finding Purpose Together (with Christ as Present Teacher) is the new topic of the First Friends Bible study. You are cordially invited to join the Bible study. It meets by Zoom on Thursday nights from 7:30 to 8:30. We have begun this 13-week course from the Illuminate Series of Barclay Press called Christ as Present Teacher: Finding Purpose Together. The series was recommended by Bob Henry. The physical book is out of print, but the book is available for $5.00 either as an ePub book or as a pdf. To receive a copy, email Mareesa Fawver Moss at mfawver@barclaypress.com. To receive a Zoom link, email the First Friends office at office@indyfriends.org.

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for December

Red-winged Blackbird: Boys’ Day Out Tailgating

Although I try to feature a new species each month, this bird deserves to be brought back because of the feasting and partying I witnessed in late November here at the meetinghouse. One morning there was carrying-on happening in the courtyard patio in the sweet gum tree. In late November and early December the last flocks of Red-winged Blackbirds are passing through on their way south. As I was making my way to the building, I caught a glimpse of several black birds up in the tree. There were four MALE red-winged blackbirds eating the sweet gum balls (not to be confused with sweet gumballs). The food was not the ball itself, but something inside. I picked up a few and shook out some seeds and a sawdust-like material. So it is the seeds that they are after, and the sawdust ends up covering the courtyard. Our tree serves other species, including chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, goldfinches, house finches, and of course, house sparrows, to name just a few.

Back to the gender issue: Later that same day I was birding a park several miles away, and saw a tree filled with dozens of blackbirds…all females; not a male to be seen! I recalled that on one of my first out-of-state birding experiences, in Florida, my brother showed me a cattail marsh with hundreds of red-wing blackbirds…ALL FEMALES!! The genders winter separately!! Although this idea may be of interest to humans, the reader should keep in mind that in the spring, the males return first, and set out territories, and then the females arrive, and pick their NEW mate based on who has the best territory for nesting. This is not a behavior I recommend for humans! So celebrate the holidays with family and friends, worshipping, caroling, tailgating, cooking out, dining out, shopping, and sports watching, but remember, with us, love IS the big idea! ~Story and Photos by Brad Jackson

Creation Care Team Reorganizing!

Are you interested in learning more about caring for God’s remarkable creation that is our home? Would you like to support activities that make First Friends a witness to right relationship with the earth and its inhabitants? If you’d like to learn more about Creation Care, you can sign up for more information here. We will hold an organizational meeting in January 2023.

In the meantime, here are 3 faith-based groups that may be of interest to you.

Quaker Earthcare Witness Faith in Place Evangelical Environmental Network

Soul Sisters - beginning January 8 ~ This fall’s Women’s Retreat fostered many opportunities for the women of our meeting to find connection and reflection. In the following days and weeks, we heard loud and clear that the women of our meeting are hungry for the company, connection and support we find among one another. We would like to invite all women to join us for lunch after meeting on January 8. Food and childcare will be provided. We ask only that you bring yourself and a few ideas for the formation of our new women’s group. Specifically, we would love to know:

· what days/times may be best

· how often you want to meet

· any obstacles we may need to overcome for women to be able to participate

· any particular ideas or activities you would like to see offered

If you are interested in attending, we would appreciate an RSVP to the office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485. We look forward to celebrating this new group of Soul Sisters, and we are excited to see what we build together.

Overman Scholarship Fund Drive ~ The Overman Scholarship 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 4 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. Thank you for your support!

Help Refugees in Need: The meeting for business Oct. 16 approved a proposal to help raise money for the family of Peter K’s Syrian employee Mohammad to emigrate from Turkey to Canada. The family of 6 has lived as refugees in Turkey for several years, and now are threatened with forceful repatriation. Because of Mohammad’s involvement with Peter, the family would be in great danger if they re-enter Syria. The family has approval of the Canadian government to enter as privately sponsored refugees provided that a certain amount of money will be held in a secure account to meet the family’s living expenses for the first year. The meeting will work with Ed and Paula K to raise the money by having an account into which tax-deductible donations can be held until they are submitted to Canada. To donate, mail in a check or drop it in the Sunday offering plate with the memo line “Mohammad’s family.” Or you can donate electronically online on our secure website at https://www.indyfriends.org/support, and choose “Mohammad’s family” as the fund, or text Mohammad to 317-768-0303. The K family express their gratitude to the meeting for agreeing to help facilitate this urgent need.

This Week’s Queries

· How will I share the important message of Mary’s Magnificat this Holiday Season?

· Who needs to hear it, today?

Comment

Friend to Friend November 30, 2022

December 12, 2022

As Way Opens

With our annual Blue Christmas Meeting for Worship complete, the simple holiday decorations up around the Meetinghouse (thanks to Leslie Kartholl), and the “Wreathing of the Meeting” taking place after worship on Sunday, the Holiday Season has officially begun at First Friends! We now are ready to begin our journey to Christmas!

This year, I have already been reflecting on Christmas for several months as I have been putting together new worship experiences for us during the Holidays. Part of any preparation as Quakers is asking oneself some queries – something you will see reflected in all our holiday worship experiences this year.

Personally, I have been reflecting on the following Christmas queries, which were written to help one seek in the spirit of the season by Wellesley Friends Meeting (NEYM). I sense you might find them helpful as you begin your journey to Christmas this year.

On Simplicity:
In this time of commercialism, how do you reflect values of simplicity? In what ways do you and your family reflect on the significance of Jesus' life and his teachings regarding simplicity? Is your gift giving in line with these values? Have you been able to find rituals that enhance the experience of the Inner Light?

On Peace:
At this time of year, there is more attention given to "Peace on Earth." Is there significance in the birth of Jesus, the "Prince of Peace" that calls us to actively seek peace? What do you do to promote peace in the world? Are you able to find inner peace amid everyday busyness? Do you walk gently and peacefully on the Earth, seeking that of God in others and in nature?

On Light:
In this time of winter darkness and cold, where do you find Light in your life? As the shepherds waited for the good news, do you wait with an open heart for revelation? How do you and your family seek the Light and share it with others? Have you been able to find rituals that enhance the experience of the Inner Light?

On Preparation:
How does you or your family get ready for Christmas? What do you wish you or your family did around Christmas? At what age did you start giving presents to other people? Did someone work on them with you?

As we make our journey to Christmas, my prayer for First Friends is that we will take the time to experience all that God wants to reveal and birth in us this holiday season. I look forward to you journeying and celebrating with us as we seek the spirit of the season, together!

Grace and peace,

Bob

Joys & Concerns

MANY THANKS to Leslie K for the beautiful Christmas decorations in the Meetinghouse! She has a real eye for making the Meetinghouse look beautiful yet still exemplify Quaker simplicity. We hope you will enjoy the decorations this holiday season, and be sure to say “thanks” to Leslie!

The celebration of life for Samuel Logan S, III will take place on Saturday, January 14 at 11 a.m. at the First Friends Meetinghouse.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Whether we see you in person or online, we are blessed to share in worship and fellowship with you this Holiday Season! Thank you.

Illuminate Bible Study ~ Finding Purpose Together (with Christ as Present Teacher) is the new topic of the First Friends Bible study. You are cordially invited to join the Bible study. It meets by Zoom on Thursday nights from 7:30 to 8:30. TOMORROW, December 1, we will begin the 13-week course from the Illuminate Series of Barclay Press called Christ as Present Teacher: Finding Purpose Together. The series was recommended by Bob Henry. The physical book is out of print, but the book is available for $5.00 either as an ePub book or as a pdf. To receive a copy, email Mareesa Fawver Moss at mfawver@barclaypress.com. To receive a Zoom link, email the First Friends office at office@indyfriends.org.

Order Poinsettias Now! It’s that time of year! At this time of year, we take orders for red and white poinsettias which you can buy in memory of a passed loved one or in honor of someone special in your life. We use these poinsettias to decorate the Meetingroom during the month of December, then on Christmas Eve we invite you to take your flowers home with you after the service to enjoy at home for the holidays! If you’d like to order flowers, they are $8.00 each for a 6” potted red or white poinsettia plant. Simply email or call the office at office@indyfrineds.org or 317-255-2485 and let us know how many flowers and what color(s) you’d like to order, and if those flowers are in memory or honor of someone. Please have your orders in by Saturday, December 3rd. Payment can be mailed to the meeting, dropped in the offering plate on a Sunday with the memo “flowers” or paid online at https://www.indyfriends.org/support - under the fund, choose “flower order.” On Sunday, December 11 we will share in the bulletin who the poinsettias were provided by, and who they are in memory of. We hope you will take part in this annual First Friends holiday tradition!

Christmas Vespers Concert ~ Our annual Christmas Vespers on Sunday, December 4th at 5:30pm is always a wonderful tradition at First Friends. Our theme is “The Journey to Christmas” where we will prepare for the season through music, readings, and queries. Plan to experience all the First Friends choirs, some special guest musicians, and a candlelit singing of Silent Night to end the night. This will be an opportunity for you and your family to renew old traditions and make new ones this season. Following Vespers, we will join in the Fellowship Hall for a wonderful dinner hosted by the Fellowship Committee - everyone is invited. If you’d like to attend, please RSVP by contacting the office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485. We hope you will share with us in this annual tradition!

Indy Winds Flute Choir Concert ~ You’re invited to a holiday concert by the Indy Winds Flute Choir! It will be held Saturday, December 3rd at 3:00 PM at Union Chapel United Methodist Church, 2720 E 86th St. The concert will include a variety of classical and holiday music. Soloists Carl Butler and Lynda Sherer will be featured on the Corelli Christmas Concerto. We hope you will attend!

Seasoned Friends ~ Seasoned Friends will gather on Tuesday, December 6th for a field trip to Wabash. Friends are invited to carpool by meeting at First Friends at 9:30 or join us in Wabash at 11am. We will see the Eagles Theater, have lunch at the Honeywell building, and see the Charley Creek Inn. We welcome anyone that considers themselves a Seasoned Friend to join us. If you’re interested, please RSVP to the Meeting Office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485.

Creation Care Notes: As we read about the events at the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP 27, we can dismiss it as something that is happening, “way over there “.

When we love God and our neighbor, our neighbors around the globe are being affected by the weather “weirding” that is happening. Americans along both coasts have suffered from more powerful storms and heat causing billions of dollars of damage. Until the recent rains, we have been 2.5 inches below normal precipitation and we are still behind in our rain events. The rivers are low, the ground has been dry and our reservoirs are below normal levels. Two important milestones have been reached in the protracted negotiations: Provide “loss and damage” funding for vulnerable countries hit hard by climate-related disasters and recommitting to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Early warning systems for severe weather events and drought are being developed globally.

How can we help here in Indiana? How can we be mindful about how much water we use? How can we make our homes more energy efficient to reduce the carbon that we put in the air and ocean? More information about residential energy efficiency will roll out soon with the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act.

The Evangelical Environmental Network invites congregations to learn more about how houses of worship can benefit from this new program.

Join our free webinar on Wednesday, December 14 at 12:00 pm EST to learn about new rebates and grants that enable churches to be better financial and environmental stewards and apply those savings to missions and outreach. Register here!

Creation Care Team Reorganizing!

In the meantime, here are 3 faith-based groups that may be of interest to you.

Quaker Earthcare Witness Faith in Place Evangelical Environmental Network

Annual Christmas Tea ~ Please join us on December 11th immediately after worship for the annual Christmas Tea. There will be lots of cookies and punch and fellowship. If you can donate cookies, they can be dropped off on the morning of Sunday, December 12th. (Please, no cookies with peanuts or peanut products.) For more information or to schedule another dropoff time, contact the office. Happy holidays!

Join First Friends for Caroling! ~ If you’d like to join us for caroling to some of our dear Friends and neighbors, meet us on Sunday, December 11 at 3:20pm at Marquette Manor (8140 Township Line Road Indianapolis, IN 46260). Tune in later for more details!

Oak Leaf: Meeting for Reading would like you to join us from virtually anywhere in the world as we discuss The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams. In 1901, the word ‘Bondmaid’ was discovered missing from the Oxford English Dictionary. This is the story of the girl who stole it.

Esme is born into a world of words. Motherless and irrepressibly curious, she spends her childhood in the ‘Scriptorium’, a garden shed in Oxford where her father and a team of dedicated lexicographers are collecting words for the very first Oxford English Dictionary. Esme’s place is beneath the sorting table, unseen and unheard. One day a slip of paper containing the word ‘bondmaid’ flutters to the floor. Esme rescues the slip and stashes it in an old wooden case that belongs to her friend, Lizzie, a young servant in the big house. Esme begins to collect other words from the Scriptorium that are misplaced, discarded or have been neglected by the dictionary men. They help her make sense of the world.

Over time, Esme realizes that some words are considered more important than others, and that words and meanings relating to women’s experiences often go unrecorded. While she dedicates her life to the Oxford English Dictionary, secretly, she begins to collect words for another dictionary: The Dictionary of Lost Words.

Set when the women’s suffrage movement was at its height and the Great War loomed, The Dictionary of Lost Words reveals a lost narrative, hidden between the lines of a history written by men. It’s a delightful, lyrical and deeply thought-provoking celebration of words, and the power of language to shape the world and our experience of it.

We will gather in the parlor and simultaneously via Zoom starting at 7 pm EST on Tuesday, December 27th led by Kathy R. Everyone is welcome!

Mark your calendars for Oak Leaf: Meeting for Reading book club titles for 2023!

January 31 ~ The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen

February 28 ~ The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

March 28 ~ This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger

April 25 ~ Yonder by Jabari Asim

May 30 ~ Horse by Geraldine Brooks

June 27 ~ The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

July 25 ~ Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara

August 29 ~ The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict

September 26 ~ Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

October 31 ~ Freckles by Gene Stratton-Porter

November 28 ~ The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien

December 26 ~ The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway

The group meets at 7pm either on Zoom or in the Parlor. To sign up for the email list, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.

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Friend to Friend November 23, 2022

November 28, 2022

As Way Opens

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year. We don’t get bombarded with promotions for decorations, costumes or gifts months before the holiday. It is primarily focused on food (which is cause for celebration alone) and spending time with family and friends. There isn’t the pressure of Christmas searching for the perfect gifts, the perfect decorations, the perfect celebrations and having the whole month of December filled up with activities. Thanksgiving Day stands alone and provides us the opportunity to stop our normal lives and be grateful for many things. The abundance in our lives, the opportunities to serve, the bounty of family and friends to consider, and the grace we are given by God.

I was so moved by the entire service at First Friends this past Sunday focused on gratitude. My heart has been full and I am thankful for so many people and for the blessings I feel at this phase of life.

I received this message from my brother-in-law yesterday and it reminded me how Jesus lives through each one of us and how important our words and actions are in living out our spiritual transformation in gratitude.

"Tell people how good they are, highlight their acts of love, mention how they made a difference to you, let them feel appreciated, loved and special, allow them to fall in love with themselves, make their day brighter with good words, because at the end of the day we are all struggling, we are all fighting things we don't say even to ourselves, we are all running from our own demons, so be gentle, be kind, because one good word from you could change someone's mood and the opposite is true, leave a good trace in someone's heart it might be his savior."

Yasmine Lasheen

I pray that we all take these words to heart not just this week but every day throughout the year. May you have a Thanksgiving full of gratitude.

Beth

Joys & Concerns

Stamps are fun! Several families had fun completing this jigsaw puzzle of Love stamps. You can interact with stamps and do some good at the same time by helping trim or sort stamps for the Stamping for Dollars team. The team receives stamps, sells them, and gives the proceeds to Right Sharing of World Resources, an independent Quaker nonprofit organization. RSWR partners with women in Kenya, India, Sierra Leone, and Guatemala by granting seed money to help them start businesses that benefit the entire community. Here's their website: Home | Right Sharing of World Resources. To learn more or to help the team, contact the office at office@indyfriends.org.

Barbara Oberreich had successful knee replacement surgery and sends the following thanks:

I would like to tell everyone how grateful I am to the F/friends who supported me through the first helpless weeks after my knee surgery. I never had to ask; they just knew what would help. They are: Judy D, Taha G, Beth H, Paula K, Ed M, Amy P, Kathy R, and Damian W. When I put on my new hiking boots, I will think of you!

-Barbara O.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Order Poinsettias Now! It’s that time of year! At this time of year, we take orders for red and white poinsettias which you can buy in memory of a passed loved one or in honor of someone special in your life. We use these poinsettias to decorate the Meetingroom during the month of December, then on Christmas Eve we invite you to take your flowers home with you after the service to enjoy at home for the holidays! (Of course, you may take them home earlier if you will not be here on the 24th.) If you’d like to order flowers, they are $8.00 each for a 6” potted red or white poinsettia plant. Simply email or call the office at office@indyfrineds.org or 317-255-2485 and let us know how many flowers and what color(s) you’d like to order, and if those flowers are in memory or honor of someone. Please have your orders in by Saturday, December 3rd. Payment can be mailed to the meeting, dropped in the offering plate on a Sunday with the memo “flowers” or paid online at https://www.indyfriends.org/support - under the fund, choose “flower order.” We invite you to take part in this annual holiday First Friends tradition!

If you missed the Shalom Zone’s Ecumenical Thanksgiving service this week, you can still watch it! A recorded version is available online at https://youtu.be/TjTyC8-SWCE. It features our own Bob Henry as one of the speakers! Feel free to watch anytime and share with friends. The total offering and donations for Brightlane Learning (formerly School on Wheels) for 2022 will total almost $1,260!

College Care packages - It is time to send care packages to our college students as they prepare for their exams at school. We are asking that everyone help fill the boxes with goodies like candy, cookies, cards, and other treats. Please bring enough for all 10 of our college students. Don’t have time to shop? We will gladly accept monetary donations! Just leave your check in the offering plate on Sunday with the notation “college packages” or donate online at www.indyfriends.org/support and choose “College care packages”. Please make sure all donations are in by Monday, November 28. Thank you for your support!

Blue Christmas Service & Luncheon ~ All are invited to our special Blue Christmas service which will be held during Meeting for Worship on Sunday, November 27. We will honor loved ones who have passed. This service recognizes the struggles that many people face during this season. After meeting for worship, we’ll meet in the parlor to share a light lunch and fellowship and have a facilitated discussion about our losses and grief. If you’d like to join us for this gathering, please RSVP to the office (office@indyfriends.org) and let us know how many people you plan to bring.

Indy Winds Flute Choir Concert ~ You’re invited to a holiday concert by the Indy Winds Flute Choir! It will be held Saturday, December 3rd at 3:00 PM at Union Chapel United Methodist Church, 2720 E 86th St. The concert will include a variety of classical and holiday music. Soloists Carl B and Lynda S will be featured on the Corelli Christmas Concerto. We hope you will attend!

Christmas Vespers Concert ~ Our annual Christmas Vespers on Sunday, December 4th at 5:30pm is always a wonderful tradition at First Friends. If you have never begun your holiday season with this event, we recommend you join us this year. Our theme is “The Journey to Christmas” where we will prepare for the season through music, readings, and queries. Plan to experience all the First Friends choirs, some special guest musicians, and a candlelit singing of Silent Night to end the night. This will be an opportunity for you and your family to renew old traditions and make new ones this season. Following Vespers, we will join in the Fellowship Hall for a wonderful dinner hosted by the Fellowship Committee - everyone is invited. If you’d like to attend, please RSVP by contacting the office at office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485 or using the sign-up sheet in the meeting hallway. We hope you will share with us in this annual tradition!

Read the United Society of Friends Women Newsletter ~ The November issue of the USFW newsletter is out! You can read “Forward Together” online here. This issue includes a report from the Fall Conference, updates on local and global outreach, a Pad Project update, and more!

This Week’s Queries

1. Identify 3 things that you feel thankful for and appreciate about your life. These things can be based on the past, present, or future. No category or thing is too big or small to appreciate, however, being specific might be helpful.

2. Identify 3 things that you take for granted but are actually very thankful for. We all have things that we take for granted. This is the time to reflect and discover which of those you value the most.

3. Identify 3 things that you appreciate about yourself. Pick things that are meaningful. These can involve your personality, your qualities, your actions, or anything else directly related to yourself.

4. Identify 3 things that you feel grateful for about First Friends. What does First Friends mean to you and your spiritual journey.

5. Identify 3 people who had a significant and positive experience on your life. These can be coaches, mentors, professors, bosses, family members, or anyone else. Call those people to mind and think about how they made a difference in your life.

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Friend to Friend November 16, 2022

November 17, 2022

As Way Opens

On Saturday morning, most of us in the greater-Indianapolis area woke to the first snowfall of the season. The blinds in my bedroom were open just enough that when I opened my eyes from sleep, I could see the flakes slowly descending. They were both calming and memorizing. Arising out of bed, I went to the window to unexpectantly find our entire backyard in a blanket of white.

Since childhood, I have always loved stepping outside after the first major snowfall. There is something that engages my senses, from the fresh clean smell to the brightness all around. Yet the thing that I probably appreciate the most is the remarkable silence. The world seems to be on mute.

A few years ago, I looked up the reason for the silence. The Michigan State University Extension studied snow and snowflakes. They found that snow can absorb sound because it is porous. As well, snowflakes are six-sided crystals, which are filled with open spaces. Thus, those spaces absorb sound waves, creating a quieting effect over a blanket of snow.

It almost seemed appropriate with the noise of election week that Mother Nature would choose to end it with a covering of silent snow. I appreciate how nature can speak to our condition if we are willing to experience it.

This reminds me of the poem The Silence of Snow by Hugh Tague:

No two flakes are exactly the same,

a gift to us all, I must further explain.

The air is crisp, and cold as can be,

the snow settles gently upon the trees.

Tiny little flakes free falling from the sky,

one quickly melted on the corner of my eye.

Squirrels frolic and play on the limbs up above,

their acrobatic display is a sight to be loved.

A clump of snow falls quickly to the ground,

but nothing is heard, not the slightest of sounds.

Snow falls from the heavens as silent as can be,

so quiet and peaceful, I can hear God breathe.

I am sure that won’t be the last snow fall this year. So, next time we get a blanket of snow, put on your coat, step outside your front door, and experience the silence with me. You too, may hear God breathe.

Grace and peace,

Bob

Joys & Concerns

On Sunday we dedicated six children and welcomed 4 new members to First Friends. It was a joyous time of celebration and affirmation! (Thanks to Kim Heusel and Sue Henry for taking photos)

Youth group had a fun time this past Saturday. Here they are baking treats! They had a blast.

Monroe B born November 9th. Sweet Monroe was 8 lbs. 8 ounces and 211/4 inches long. Monroe is the sister of Selina, the granddaughter of Kathy and Gary R and the daughter of Taylor. We are excited to celebrate the birth of this beautiful child.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

The Shalom Zone Thanksgiving Service is on Tuesday, November 22 at 7:00 p.m. This year the host will be Allisonville Christian Church (7701 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis). Our theme this year is Giving Thanks in a Broken World. Each of the Shalom Zone pastors will be bring a brief meditation on the theme. We hope you will join us as this is such a wonderful opportunity to worship as a community and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.

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, November 17 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2022 here.

Blue Christmas Service & Luncheon ~ All are invited to our special Blue Christmas service which will be held during Meeting for Worship on Sunday, November 27. We will honor loved ones who have passed. This service recognizes the struggles that many people face during this season. After meeting for worship, we’ll meet in the parlor to share a light lunch and fellowship and have a facilitated discussion about our losses and grief. If you’d like to join us for this gathering, please RSVP to the office (office@indyfriends.org) and let us know how many people you plan to bring.

Christmas Vespers Concert ~ Our annual Christmas Vespers on Sunday, December 4th, evening at 5:30pm is always a wonderful tradition at First Friends. If you have never begun your holiday season with this event, we recommend you join us this year. Our theme is “The Journey to Christmas” where we will prepare for the season through music, readings, and queries. Plan to experience all the First Friends choirs, some special guest musicians, and a candlelit singing of Silent Night to end the night. This will be an opportunity for you and your family to renew old traditions and make new ones this season. Following Vespers, we will join in the Fellowship Hall for a wonderful dinner hosted by the Fellowship Committee - everyone is invited. If you’d like to attend, please RSVP by contacting the office at office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485 or using the sign-up sheet in the meeting hallway. We hope you will share with us in this annual tradition!

Indy Winds Flute Choir Concert ~ You’re invited to a holiday concert by the Indy Winds Flute Choir! It will be held Saturday, December 3rd at 3:00 PM at Union Chapel United Methodist Church, 2720 E 86th St. The concert will include a variety of classical and holiday music. Soloists Carl B and Lynda S will be featured on the Corelli Christmas Concerto. We hope you will attend!

Creation Care Team ~

Have you noticed?

During the worst of the pandemic, increasing ventilation in our gathering spaces was an important measure to decrease the risk of the COVID virus traveling in the air. Our Friend, Tom Wright, an engineer, has been helping the Meeting attain safer ventilation standards. During the pandemic, we kept the windows wide open and exhaust fans running. And it was cold!

Now that vaccines are available and a level of immunity is present, he is determining how much fresh air is needed with how many exhaust fans to run during Meeting for Worship.

Last Sunday, he kept 2 windows open and ran 2 attic exhaust fans. Even with the choir singing and good attendance in the meeting room, the CO2 levels remained in the “safe” zone. He will continue to monitor and find the sweet spot of good ventilation and keeping the meeting room warm.

Of course, if you are immunocompromised or have health concerns, take the precautions you need to stay protected.

Hopefully this winter, you won’t need to bundle up with coat and hat to worship on Sunday mornings!

The Shalom Zone sponsored an evening to get to know the executive director, Brian Sauder, of Faith in Place, the organization that Hoosier Interfaith Power & Light has joined. Pastor Sauder is full of energy and vision to support all of God’s creation. Faith in Place has an opportunity to hear a live report from COP 27 - Thursday, November 17; 6:00 p.m. ET

The UN Climate Change summit—COP 27—is underway in Egypt. And next week, as the summit winds down, we will be joined by special guest Elsa Barron—Faith in Place friend and former staffer—who is currently in Egypt and will give her perspective on the new climate commitments made by world leaders, as well as the work ahead of us.

See you there! Register Here Today

-The Faith in Place Team

Creation Care Team Reorganizing!

Are you interested in learning more about caring for God’s remarkable creation that is our home? Would you like to support activities that make First Friends a witness to right relationship with the earth and its inhabitants? If you’d like to learn more about Creation Care, contact the Office or Mary Blackburn. We will hold an organizational meeting in January 2023.

In the meantime, here are 3 faith-based groups that may be of interest to you.

Quaker Earthcare Witness Faith in Place Evangelical Environmental Network

This Week’s Queries

· Who are the nomads, vagrants, widows, orphans, homeless, poor, and strangers in my neighborhood?

· Who are the people who cannot repay me?

· Who are the people who are neglected by the mainstream of culture? Where do they live and spend their time? Why are they neglected?

Comment

Friend to Friend November 9, 2022

November 17, 2022

As Way Opens

Last Sunday evening we were invited over for dinner with friends that have 4 children ranging in age from 2-13. As you can imagine there was some chaos going on, but it was a joy to be with these kids and the 2 year old followed us around and talked in this sweet angelic voice all night. The kids served the food and cleaned up afterwards together with no complaints. They were so polite and I loved watching the positive interaction with both of their parents.

Monday night we took out to dinner the 7 year old son of friends of ours. Of course, every 7 year old wants to go to Olive Garden for dinner so we loaded up on carbs and breadsticks. Once again, my heart was so full of delight to engage with this child, hear his observations on his world and enjoy his gut level laughs. He also was so polite and grateful for spending time with us and taking him out to dinner.

As I sit in my office and watch a steady stream of voters coming into our building (which makes me emotional every year as I see so many folks giving of their time to ensure a fair election and observe so many folks voting), I am reminded again of the promise of our future and the hope of our next generations. We can all sometimes feel depressed at how divided we are in so many matters and it can sometimes feel like we won’t be able to move beyond these times. And then I start to think about those children (and those parents that are doing some incredible and yet difficult parenting) and I know there are so many other children like this that will take us to a different place in times to come. It was good for me to spend time with these kids to be yet again reminded of the potential of the future. I also see it every Sunday when our kids at First Friends come forward for the children’s message and bring their often astute observations about deep topics. And to see them engage with our volunteers as they learn about the expansiveness of God’s love for all and how that will form the character of these children and how they will do things differently when they are in positions to make decisions for our communities.

My heart is full of hope today and I pray that you will also come to a place of hope. God’s spirit is moving among all of us in ways that we cannot observe yet we can catch a glimpse of it in our children.

Beth

Joys & Concerns

First Friends was pleased to welcome the Earlham College Choir presenting “Spectrum in Song” on this past Saturday.

Bill K had successful surgery and is out of the hospital and in rehab. Please continue to hold him in the Light as he recovers.

We send our thanks to volunteer poll workers, county clerks, administrators, and others this week as well as volunteers for the Election Protection Program run by Common Cause Indiana. These volunteers are so important for our elections and our democracy—thank you for your service!

Nancy S’s brother, Sam, was honored by Nancy and some friends by planting spice bushes in the meditational woods this past Sunday. They planted three bushes, one for each of Scott’s siblings. It was a blessed time. Thank you to all for your notes and prayers during this time.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Be careful around sweetgums! It’s that time of year. Please be careful around the East door to the Meeting. The sweetgums are falling and they can be easy to trip on. We try to keep the area clean but they are constantly falling, so please watch your step!

Shalom Zone Creation Care Meeting ~ All are invited to a Shalom Zone Creation Care meeting on Thursday, November 10th at 7 p.m. at Cross and Crown (5233 E 79th St, Indianapolis, IN 46250). Indy Green Congregations is a satellite organization of Hoosier Interfaith Power and Light which has since joined forces with a bigger group called Faith in Place which includes Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Rev. Brian Sauder, the Executive Director of Faith in Place, and David Johnson, Faith in Place Board Chairman, are visiting Indianapolis to meet with faith groups. They are coming to Indy to listen and explore how we can partner together for environmental programming and advocacy to further our efforts together. We hope to see you there!

You’re Invited to Turkey Fest! Connections Committee would like to invite you to meet at Sullivan’s Hardware on 71st and Keystone Saturday, November 12th at noon for Turkey Fest. This has been a free event in the past but waiting on final details for this year. There’s indoor and outdoor space to explore, beautiful decorations and lots of yummy food to try. Contact the office if you’d like to attend so we can look for you. We’ll meet at the entrance to Sullivan’s at noon.

Quaker Affirmation Muslim Guest Speaker ~ The Quaker Affirmation class will be hosting Dr. Salah Saharti from Alhuda Mosque in Fishers on Sunday, November 13th. He will bring several young people from the Mosque to talk about the Muslim faith. They will be in the parlor from 11:30 - 12:15 as part of our Affirmation lesson on comparative religions. We invite everyone from the Meeting to join us for this interesting discussion about the Muslim faith.

In Paradisum: 500 Years of the Requiem Vocal Concert ~ VOCE (with which First Friend’s Carolyn T sings) presents “In Paradisum: 500 Years of the Requiem” on Sunday, November 13 at 4PM at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 1402 W. Main St, Carmel IN 46032. Beautiful live choral music, accompanied by organ, piano and cello. For more information, visit www.voceindy.org.

Looking for volunteer drivers ~ The mother of the Afghan family that First Friend sponsors is in need of occasional rides. Due to religious/cultural reasons, she cannot go alone with a male driver, so the volunteer must be female. If you’re interested, please contact the office (office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485) to sign up to be on an email list to be notified when she is in need of a ride. Thank you for considering this volunteer opportunity!

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for November:

Yellow-rumped Warbler and Its Magic Food

Approximately 30 different species of warblers come through the meeting property each spring and fall. During the former, the males are brightly colored; not so much in the latter. The eBird app on my phone gives me a list of expected species for any site on any given day. Both the number of warbler species and that of individuals peak in mid-September, and from then on until the end of October the number drops. Fifteen species are listed for one week, then ten the next, then five, and by the beginning of November there remains only one: the Yellow-rumped Warbler. It may stay through December even, as long as food is available. Their diagnostic chip can be heard while they search for a meal. With live insects no longer available, and many insects and spider eggs already found and gobbled up, what sustains them during the change to colder weather? The answer is BERRIES. Yes, some examples are hackberries, wild grapes, and some berries of ornamental plants. It may surprise the reader to know that one of the favorites of Yellow-rumps (and many other late migrants) is the POISON IVY berry. The clusters of white berries can be seen during the autumn, and several times I found large numbers of migrants chattering away at a grove of trees, the branches of which are covered by orange, red, and purple poison ivy leaves and white berries. Today I was out along a fencerow with fourth graders, and was able to show them a few small clusters that still remain.

I have included two photos of yellow-rumped warblers. One shows the typical fall plumage, but the yellow rump is easily seen. It is the patch on the upper side between the back and the tail. A second view shows one of this species eating poison ivy berries.

~Text and photos by Brad Jackson

Help a family this Thanksgiving ~ We are collecting monetary donations for 3 families in need to celebrate Thanksgiving this year. We received the information from Easter Seals and we will also be sponsoring these families at Christmas time. If you would like to make a donation, you can either give your money to Jody L at Sunday service or you can give your donation to the office. If you want to write a check, please put “Thanksgiving family” in the memo line. Thank you for your donation.

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, November 17 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2022 here.

Indy Winds Flute Choir Concert ~ You’re invited to a holiday concert by the Indy Winds Flute Choir! It will be held Saturday, December 3rd at 3:00 PM at Union Chapel United Methodist Church, 2720 E 86th St. The concert will include a variety of classical and holiday music. Soloists Carl B and Lynda S will be featured on the Corelli Christmas Concerto. We hope you will attend!

This Week’s Queries

· What do I need to die to – so that I can truly live?

· What do we need to die to as a Meeting at First Friends – so we can truly live?

Comment

Friend to Friend November 2, 2022

November 3, 2022

As Way Opens

Last Saturday, our family attended the Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis. With roots going back thousands of years to Indigenous traditions in Mexico, this holiday is a time to gather to remember and celebrate friends and relatives who have passed on. We loved experiencing the community, colors, music, dancing, parades, Catrinas with elaborate skull face paint and costumes, and wonderful mercado. The stunning community-created altars, or ofrendas (Spanish for offering), left us in tears.

If you have never encountered an ofrenda, they can be quite large and elaborate, and are usually created by the family members of a person who has died. They are prepared a few days before the 1st and 2nd of November, the dates when it is believed that the dead return to visit their friends and relatives.

Ironically, while we were viewing the community ofrendas, I received a text from Friend Nancy Scott, informing me that her brother, Sam, had passed away. We happened to be at the ofrenda where participants were invited to put a photo or note in remembrance of a departed loved one. I wrote a short note on one of the goldenrod pieces of paper in honor of Sam’s passing and placed it on the altar for Nancy.

We have so much to learn from our siblings in other cultures and religions. I encourage you to take some time exploring more about Día de Muertos and the people who celebrate this festive holiday. It may even help you find ways to remember, honor, and celebrate those who have died in your family and life.

Grace and peace,

Bob

Joys & Concerns

This past Sunday we enjoyed seeing the children in their Halloween costumes as we “advocated for witches” in the Spirit of Quaker Thomas Maule! What fun! (Thank you to Kathy R for the photos.)

Offering of Letters 2022 - Thank you to everyone who wrote letters to Senator Braun to encourage him to support the Global Food Security Reauthorization Act. Over forty letters were written on Sunday at First Friends, joining 40 other congregations in Indiana’s Bread for the World goal of feeding all hungry people. If you are interested in reading more about hunger issues, you might find these books helpful:

The Last Hunger Season: A Year in an African Farm Community on the Brink of Change by Roger Thurow (2013)

The First 1,000 Days by Roger Thurow (2017)

Exodus from Hunger by David Beckmann (2010)

Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger by Ronald Sider (2015)

Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World by Anand Giridharadas (2018)

Bill K is in the hospital at Community North and will be having surgery on Friday. Please hold him in the Light during this time.

Please pray for Nancy S and her family as they mourn the death of Nancy’s brother, Sam S. A memorial service will be held here at First Friends on Saturday, January 14th at 11:00am.

Quaker Affiliated Organizations

IFCL -- Election Day Volunteers Needed

Common Cause Indiana, with whom IFCL frequently partners, directs the field program for the Election Protection Project in Indiana. EPP is a national effort to provide assistance to vulnerable voters to avoid disenfranchisement. The program is not affiliated with any political party. They are looking for nonpartisan volunteers in Marion County to work as voter advocates on Election Day, November 8th. Training is available, and you need not be a Marion County resident to volunteer. For additional information, check out this flyer or EPP online at https://protectthevote.net/. Every eligible voter deserves to have their vote counted! Thank you.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

The Earlham College Choir will be performing at First Friends this Saturday November 5th at 2:00 p.m. If you have attended one of their choir performances in the past, you know we are all in for a delightful time of music and song. Please also invite your family and friends to this free concert. We hope to see you this Saturday!

You’re Invited to a Singalong! Join us for a Singalong on Friday, November 4th, at 7 PM in the parlor at First Friends. Jim and Jesse will lead you in singing a variety of awesome songs!

Prayer Vigil for Detained Immigrants - On Saturday, November 5 at 10am, Shalom Mennonite Church is going to be leading a prayer vigil for immigrants who are detained in the state of Indiana. This will be held outside of the Clay County jail at 611 E Jackson St, Brazil, IN, which is where most immigrants are detained after being arrested in our state. Please consider joining us in this appeal to God for intervention, which also serves as a symbol of solidarity for those in jail and a witness to the injustices committed at that facility for the larger Indiana community. For more information, contact Pastor Brian Bither at brian@shalommennonite.com.

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for November:

Yellow-rumped Warbler and Its Magic Food

~Text and photos by Brad J

Jeff Rasley has a new book! Our own Jeff Rasley is proud to unveil his latest book, 72 Wisdoms. The book includes 72 short pieces, which cover 72 concerns all thinking people care about. The wisdoms come from sources as diverse as Old Testament proverbs, ancient Greek and Roman aphorisms, Quaker values, a Beatles song, neuroscience, astrophysics, and memorable lines from classic flicks and TV shows. The topics range from ordinary concerns to the deepest philosophical questions. If you are interested, you can check out a description of the book and review the 72 topics covered in the Table of Contents on the book’s Amazon page at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BJYGHZCM.

Quaker Affirmation Muslim Guest Speaker ~ The Quaker Affirmation class will be hosting Dr. Salah Saharti from Alhuda Mosque in Fishers on Sunday November 13th. He will bring several young people from the Mosque to talk about the Muslim faith. They will be in the parlor from 11:30 - 12:15 as part of our Affirmation lesson on comparative religions. We invite everyone from the Meeting to join us for this interesting discussion about the Muslim faith.

Shalom Zone Creation Care Meeting ~ All are invited to a Shalom Zone Creation Care meeting on Thursday, November 10th at 7 p.m. at Cross and Crown (5233 E 79th St, Indianapolis, IN 46250). Indy Green Congregations is a satellite organization of Hooiser Interfaith Power and Light which has since joined forces with a bigger group called Faith in Place which includes Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Rev. Brian Sauder, the Executive Director of Faith in Place, and David Johnson, Faith in Place Board Chairman, are visiting Indianapolis to meet with faith groups. They are coming to Indy to listen and explore how we can partner together for environmental programming and advocacy to further our efforts together. We hope to see you there!

In Paradisum: 500 Years of the Requiem Vocal Concert ~ VOCE (with which First Friend’s Carolyn T sings) presents “In Paradisum: 500 Years of the Requiem” on Sunday November 13 at 4PM at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 1402 W. Main St, Carmel IN 46032. Beautiful live choral music, accompanied by organ, piano and cello. For more information, visit www.voceindy.org.

This Week’s Queries

· Am I aware of someone of another faith community that is being mistreated, neglected, or simply not heard?

· How might I advocate for them?

· What rhetoric might I need to change or stop using altogether, so that ALL people will benefit?

Comment

Friend to Friend October 26, 2022

October 27, 2022

As Way Opens

Last week I took a couple of days to travel to Louisville to connect with friends and then traveled an hour south to Thomas Merton’s monastery, the Abbey of Gethsemani. I have always wanted to visit this place as I have heard of its beauty, its simplicity, its quiet spirituality. I have also wanted to visit this place because of Thomas Merton who is a spiritual mentor to me even though he died over 50 years ago.

The drive to Gethsemani was stunning. It was in the upper 60’s and the road to Gethsemani wandered the back roads of Kentucky, with rolling hills, astounding colors of red, orange and yellow trees that were at their peak, bright sun and blue skies. I figured that so many pilgrims have traveled to Gethsemani because of Merton over the years that there would be road signs or arrows pointing the way. There was nothing. Without my Google Maps I never would have made it. The Abbey is truly in the middle of open space and one comes upon it suddenly with a metal sign identifying it as The Abbey of Gethsemani. The address is 3642 Monks Rd, Trappist KY.

We wandered the grounds and participated in the 12:15 service with the monks. We were the only guests in the room. There was a deep sense of God’s presence in that room as these men repeated and chanted words and prayers that they say every day and have been said in that room every day since its founding in 1848. These men come together 7 times a day to worship and pray while they work on premises in the morning and afternoon when they are not worshipping, praying or eating together.

There is a comfort in the sameness of the routine. But I have been reading a book about the Abbey that described a terrible storm last century that destroyed some of the property and buildings. The author Dianne Aprille wrote, “The storm made me see that, in fact, Trappist life - like the faith in God that inspires it and grounds it - is ever-evolving, growing, developing, expanding, deepening, changing. Branches break, paths diverge, dark history repeats itself, but always there is that hidden wholeness, that mystery of redemption that Merton linked to every vestige of creation; that “meek namelessness” as he called it, whose will it is to restore the shattered peace with forgiveness and love."

Merton spent over 30 years here, participating in the life of the Abbey and wrote over 50 books and articles while he lived here. He is buried in the cemetery along with other brothers with the same white cross. Here is the description of their life from the Gethsemeni website.

The Abbey of Gethsemani is a school of the Lord’s service, a training ground for brotherly love. Following Christ under a rule and an abbot, we Trappist monks lead lives of prayer, work, and sacred reading, steeped in the heart and mystery of the Church.

May we all lead lives of prayer, work, and sacred reading that is buried in the heart and mystery of our faith community today.

Beth

Quaker Affiliated Organizations

IFCL -- Election Day Volunteers Needed

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Help a family this Thanksgiving ~ We are collecting monetary donations for 3 families in need to celebrate Thanksgiving this year. We received the information from Easter Seals and we will also be sponsoring these families at Christmas time. If you would like to make a donation, you can either give your money to Jody Long at Sunday service or you can give your donation to the office. If you want to write a check, please put “Thanksgiving family” in the memo line. Thank you for your donation.

Looking for volunteer drivers ~ The mother of the Afghan family that First Friend sponsors is in need of occasional rides. Due to religious/cultural reasons, she cannot go alone with a male driver, so the volunteer must be female. If you’re interested, please contact the office to sign up to be on an email list to be notified when she is in need of a ride. Thank you for considering this volunteer opportunity!

Election Day is approaching, and we need your vote to help secure a healthy planet for all! Can’t make it out to the polls this year? Eligible Indiana voters can still apply for Absentee Ballots through tomorrow, October 27! The deadline to return Absentee Ballots is November 8 by 6:00 pm. Visit this site for information on how to hand-deliver an Absentee Ballot. For more resources and information on how to vote, click here.

Bread for the World Offering of Letters ~ During this time just prior to our mid-term elections, we are often encouraged to “vote - so that your voice will be heard.” Electing people who will work for legislation that ultimately shapes our lives in many ways is the purpose of elections. But often times once elected, those politicians may not always be aware of, or attentive to, how their constituents really feel about certain issues. Letters are a great way to communicate with elected officials. It takes effort to hand-write and mail a letter and when a large group of letters on a specific topic, such as hunger, arrive at a senator’s office, those letters make an impact. There are 40 Indiana churches, congregations, and now our meeting, that will be writing to Senator Braun to encourage him to support the reauthorization of the Global Food Security Act. Please come to Fellowship Hall after meeting this Sunday, October 30, to partake in a simple lunch and find out specifics about this legislation and to participate in this Offering of Letters.

You’re Invited to a Singalong! Join us for a Singalong on Friday, November 4th, at 7 PM in the parlor at First Friends. Jim and Jesse will lead you in singing a variety of awesome songs!

Prayer Vigil for Detained Immigrants - On Saturday, November 5 at 10am, Shalom Mennonite Church is going to be leading a prayer vigil for immigrants who are detained in the state of Indiana. This will be held outside of the Clay County jail at 611 E Jackson St, Brazil, IN, which is where most immigrants are detained after being arrested in our state. Please consider joining us in this appeal to God for intervention, which also serves as a symbol of solidarity for those in jail and a witness to the injustices committed at that facility for the larger Indiana community. For more information, contact Pastor Brian Bither at brian@shalommennonite.com.

The Earlham College Choir will be performing at First Friends on Saturday November 5th at 2:00 p.m. If you have attended one of their choir performances in the past, you know we are all in for a delightful time of music and song. Please mark your calendars and invite family and friends to this free concert.

In Paradisum: 500 Years of the Requiem Vocal Concert ~ VOCE (with which First Friend’s Carolyn T sings) presents “In Paradisum: 500 Years of the Requiem” on Sunday November 13 at 4PM at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 1402 W. Main St, Carmel IN 46032. Beautiful live choral music, accompanied by organ, piano and cello. For more information, visit www.voceindy.org.

Seasoned Friends ~ Seasoned Friends will gather on Tuesday, December 6th for a field trip to Wabash. Friends are invited to carpool by meeting at First Friends at 9:30 or join us in Wabash at 11am. We will see the Eagles Theater, have lunch at the Honeywell building, and see the Charley Creek Inn. We welcome anyone that considers themselves a Seasoned Friend to join us. If you’re interested, please RSVP to the Meeting Office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485.

Comment

Friend to Friend October 19, 2022

October 20, 2022

As Way Opens

My son, Sam, was recently given a book titled, “Hope Matters: Why Changing the Way We Think Is Critical to Solving the Environmental Crisis.” He passed it on to me because he found it speaking to many of our Quaker distinctives. As I said during my recent sermon series on empathy, many of the books I have been reading have a chapter dedicated to empathy. Sure enough, when I opened to the contents of this book there was a chapter titled, “The Strength of Empathy, Kindness, and Compassion.” I quickly turned to the chapter to see what the author Elin Kelsey had to say. Yet, before arriving at her definition of empathy, I was taken by another word at the beginning of the chapter – hopepunk.

Kelsey explains that “’hopepunk’ emerged within pop culture in a Tumblr post by Alexandra Rowland, a Massachusetts writer, in July 2017. She positioned it as an antidote to ‘grimdark,’ which includes the apocalyptic genres we know so well from films and video games.”

As I read on, I could see hopepunk being utilized as a Quaker term for a new generation. Just listen to Kelsey’s definition:

“When you stand up for other people and other species, you are adding your voice and actions to a vast movement focused on making change for the better. Hopepunk is a narrative of positive resistance.”

As she began to give examples of it in real life, it was hard not to see First Friends being included in hopepunk:

· Hopepunk is found in communities that welcome and support refugees.

· Hopepunk fuels protest, lobbying, and action against climate change, racism, inequality, and human-rights injustices.

· Hopepunk shines through in the rising tide of people who volunteer, and those who help friends and neighbors.

· Hopepunk situates heroism as a collective response. It’s about committing to what you believe in and acting as a force for good.

So, the next time you want to spark a conversation with someone about Quakers or even First Friends, I would encourage you to describe us as hopepunk!

Grace and peace,

Bob

Quaker Affiliated Organizations

IFCL -- Election Day Volunteers Needed

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

First Friends Financial Update: Members and attenders are reminded that the Meeting seeks and welcomes financial support, as we currently are experiencing a dip in donations. To donate online, visit indyfriends.org/support/#givenow, or text to give at 317-768-0303. Other means of support include automatic giving, stock gifts, estate planning, and donation of IRA Required Minimum Distributions. For assistance in donating, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org, 317-255-2485.

“Hijacking History” IPJC Event RESCHEDULED for TONIGHT! ~ The Indianapolis Peace and Justice Center is delighted to invite you to their Speakers Event. This event had to be rescheduled from last month and is happening TONIGHT, October 19 at 7:00pm on Zoom! The topic will be Hijacking History: How the Christian Right Teaches History and Why it Matters. Dr. Kathleen A. Wellman, Altshuler Distinguished Teaching Professor at Southern Methodist University will draw on material from her book by the same title recently published by Oxford University Press, and will also address recent proposed legislation in the state of Indiana and debates about Critical Race Theory. There will be time for questions and discussion following her remarks. If you’re interested, please RSVP to indypeaceandjusticectr@gmail.com. A Zoom link will be sent to all who RSVP prior to the event. We hope you will join us!

Rise Up Singing: In Concert! All are invited to a concert by Annie Patterson tonight, Wednesday, October 19 at 7:00 PM in person at the Bloomington Friends Meetinghouse, 3820 E. Moores Pike, Bloomington, IN and also online. The concert will focus particularly on songs of peace, justice, earthcare, and healing, with an aim to build community and resilience.

This is a “pay as you are led” concert: no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Since seating at the Meetinghouse is limited, we recommend that you obtain tickets in advance, and tickets are required if attending online so that you can receive the Zoom link. For those attending in person, masking is required. For general information and in-person tickets, go to https://www.riseupandsing.org/events/annie-patterson-concert-bloomington-2022

Annie is a singer, songwriter, and banjo and guitar player in the socially concerned tradition of Pete Seeger. With her husband Peter Blood, she coedited Rise Up Singing: The Group-Singing Songbook and Rise Again: A Group Singing Songbook, which together contain lyrics, chords, and sources for over 2400 songs. Annie and Peter are Quakers who have been singing and leading singalongs for decades and often lead singing at Friends General Conference Gatherings.

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 20 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2022 here.

You’re invited to Maple Seeds Preschool Coop’s annual Fall Festival! It will be held outdoors (weather permitting) in the First Friends courtyard. It will be Saturday, October 22 from 12pm-3:30pm. There will be food, make and take art, a costume dance party, pumpkin sensory play, a photo booth, face painting, reading circle, goodie bags, and a raffle. All families are welcome to join! Masks are not required.

Oak Leaf: Meeting for Reading would like you to join us from virtually anywhere in the world as we discuss Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

Selected by the Modern Library as one of the 100 best novels of all time, Slaughterhouse-Five, an American classic, is one of the world's great antiwar books. Centering on the infamous firebombing of Dresden, Billy Pilgrim's odyssey through time reflects the mythic journey of our own fractured lives as we search for meaning in what we fear most.

We will gather in the Parlor and via Zoom starting at 7 pm EST on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 led by Kristyn G. Everyone is welcome!

Help Refugees in Need: The meeting for business Oct. 16 approved a proposal to help raise money for the family of Peter K’s Syrian employee Mohammad to emigrate from Turkey to Canada. The family of 6 has lived as refugees in Turkey for several years, and now are threatened with forceful repatriation. Because of Mohammad’s involvement with Peter, the family would be in great danger if they re-enter Syria. The family has approval of the Canadian government to enter as privately sponsored refugees provided that a certain amount of money will be held in a secure account to meet the family’s living expenses for the first year. The meeting will work with Ed and Paula K to raise the money by having an account into which tax-deductible donations can be held until they are submitted to Canada. Ed and Paula are working with Beth H and Witness and Service to formulate plans. The K family express their gratitude to the meeting for agreeing to help facilitate this urgent need.

The Meditational Woods team is exploring ways to expand our native habitat to further love on God’s incredible creation. Over twenty years ago, the original plan included a prairie under the powerlines. Amy P, Mindy S and Mary B are investigating how they could install a test area under the high voltage electrical tower and extend it further north and whether it would be feasible. Indiana Native Plant Society has small grants to help with projects like this. We will keep you all posted about our progress!

AES Indiana, formerly known as Indianapolis Power & Light, is planning to reveal its next 20 year plan and it seems likely that they are not including any of the benefits offered by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. See Katharine Hayhoe’s newsletter and click on the link to the Sierra Club report on utilities' slow walk to convert to clean energy. AES IN gets a D grade for relying on fossil fuels for most of its energy. Our collective future is at stake. The effects of climate change are real and they are happening now and quickly. Call or write AES and urge them to go to clean energy by 2030.

You can sign up to participate in the final public meeting here: https://www.aesindiana.com/integrated-resource-plan

Election Day is approaching, and we need your vote to help secure a healthy planet for all! Can’t make it out to the polls this year? Eligible Indiana voters can still apply for Absentee Ballots through October 27! The deadline to return Absentee Ballots is November 8 by 6:00 pm. Visit this site for information on how to hand-deliver an Absentee Ballot. For more resources and information on how to vote, click here.

Bread for the World Offering of Letters ~ During this time just prior to our mid-term elections, we are often encouraged to “vote - so that your voice will be heard.” Electing people who will work for legislation that ultimately shapes our lives in many ways is the purpose of elections. But often times once elected, those politicians may not always be aware of, or attentive to, how their constituents really feel about certain issues. Letters are a great way to communicate with elected officials. It takes effort to hand-write and mail a letter and when a large group of letters on a specific topic, such as hunger, arrive at a senator’s office, those letters make an impact. There are 40 Indiana churches, congregations, and now our meeting, that will be writing to Senator Braun to encourage him to support the reauthorization of the Global Food Security Act. Come to Fellowship Hall after meeting on Sunday, October 30, to find out specifics about this legislation and to participate in this Offering of Letters.

From the Woods: Happy Anniversary to the Clean Water Act, signed October 18, 1972. The Clean Water Act was created in response to increased public concern for the environment and for the condition of the nation’s waters.

Before the CWA, rivers and streams were choked with pollution and were toxic to fish and not fit for recreation. One of the most famous triggers was the repeated fire and pollution of the Cuyahoga River near Lake Erie. Industry and people thought of our rivers and streams as trash pits, or “Dilution is the solution to pollution” For a visual story, read https://www.history.com/news/epa-earth-day-cleveland-cuyahoga-river-fire-clean-water-act.

The Sierra Club is concerned that parts of the Clean Water Act are threatened. To learn more, read this notice from The Sierra Club.

Vote for a Green Indiana ~ If climate change and sustainability are important policies when you vote, we encourage you to check out Voters for a Green Indiana who have prepared a digest of the environmental views of candidates for office in Central and NW Indiana. Voters for a Green Indiana is a non-partisan, independent advocacy group of volunteer citizens for urgent action on climate mitigation. Questions? Reach out to votersforagreenindiana@gmail.com.

This Week’s Queries

· When am I a Pharisee and when am I a Tax Collector?

· In searching my heart, where do I divide people and think one side is good and the other bad?

· Do I embrace God’s love, mercy and forgiveness for all?

· Do I speak my truth in love and care to others even when they believe or behave differently?

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Friend to Friend October 12, 2022

October 12, 2022

As Way Opens

What a spectacular fall this year! Sometimes we have years where the leaves show us their orange, red and yellow brilliance and heavy rains come or we have significant wind and they are mostly gone in a few days. Not this year. We have had several weeks of sunny days and we are watching the slow turn of our trees. Every year I am taken aback by the beauty of the trees and it brings me immediately into the presence of God. I was out driving around the city making some deliveries on Monday and I turned down many side roads and saw beauty upon beauty and am amazed at the different hues of red, yellow and orange. Yesterday morning I walked along the Monon Trail into Broad Ripple for coffee and experienced a gentle shower of leaves for part of the trail. I felt like these yellow leaves were talking to me saying pay attention and don’t be afraid to let go and change.

My next door neighbor has a magnificent maple tree and every year the dimension of color is astounding (picture attached). This tree is like my old friend and I can count on it each year to take my breath away. My home was built in 1947 and I know this tree has been “wowing" the 4 families that lived in this home during the last 75 years. God is manifested to all of us through these trees, through all creation and is our alpha and omega. I turned to Psalm 90 this week in trying to express how much I experience God in all the seasons but especially fall -

“Lord, you have been our dwelling place, in all generations.

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

You turn us back to dust and say, Turn back, you mortals.

For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past, or like a watch in the night.

You sweep them away; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning; in the morning it flourishes and is renewed; in the evening it fades and withers"

Take time to experience God during the next few weeks.

Beth

Joys & Concerns

Nancy P’s heart surgery was successful and she is recovering at home. Thank you to everyone for sending their prayers.

Quaker Affiliated Organizations

Right Sharing of World Resources (RSWR) -- Now Hiring!

RWSR is seeking candidates for three senior leadership positions. All positions are fully remote. An eligible candidate must have legal authorization to work in the U.S. The full job descriptions (with salary information) are hyperlinked below.

The Associate Secretary of Operations is a senior leadership position responsible for organizational operations including accounting, bookkeeping, budgeting, and financial and legal transactions that promote the mission of RSWR.

The Associate Secretary for Advancement is a senior leadership position responsible for promoting the mission of RSWR, including all development, communications, and public relations.

The Associate Secretary of Programs is a senior leadership position responsible for implementation of international programs, and educational outreach and programming.

Note that the list of qualifications in each description are desired qualifications--no one has all of them, and successful candidates will bring a variety of life experience to their work.

Please share this with anyone you think would be a good fit. This is an exciting time in the life of RSWR, with expanding programs abroad and at home. Maybe one of these positions is a good match for you?

Feel free to contact the office with any questions. Thank you.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Rise Up Singing: In Concert! All are invited to a concert by Annie Patterson on Wednesday, October 19 at 7:00 PM in person at the Bloomington Friends Meetinghouse, 3820 E. Moores Pike, Bloomington, IN and also online. The concert will focus particularly on songs of peace, justice, earthcare, and healing, with an aim to build community and resilience.

Election Day is approaching, and we need your vote to help secure a healthy planet for all! Can’t make it out to the polls this year? Eligible Indiana voters can still apply for Absentee Ballots through October 27! The deadline to return Absentee Ballots is November 8 by 6:00 pm. Visit this site for information on how to hand-deliver an Absentee Ballot. For more resources and information on how to vote, click here.

From the Woods: Find a spot on your property to rake and store your leaves. Our bird and pollinator friends will thank you! https://www.birdnote.org/listen/shows/leave-leaves?fbclid=IwAR2EVglA3BdCLqI-rQAQzo0U30ykqaO16rpiZI1AzO4f0sTgGcmVpxflA2c

Protect migrating birds this fall. Turn off your house lights at night, put decals on the windows to make your windows obvious and speak up for birds and become an advocate. https://www.audubon.org/news/what-does-bird-safe-glass-even-mean

October 22, 2022: Want to learn more about native plants and why we humans need to live in harmony with them? Come either virtually or in-person to the Indiana Native Plant Society annual conference. Learn more here: https://indiananativeplants.org/inps-sponsored-events/annual-conference/

Bread for the World Offering of Letters October 30, 2022

Food insecurity is where a person literally doesn’t know when their next meal, or two, or three meals are coming from. This can happen because of lack of money, transportation, and housing. It can also happen because of drought, floods, wildfires, pandemics, the war in Ukraine and other conflicts.

An upcoming bill in Congress is the Global Food Security Reauthorization Act, originally passed in 2016 and reauthorized in 2018. The objectives of the bill are 1) inclusive and sustainable agriculture-led economic growth; 2) strengthened resilience among people and systems; and 3) a well-nourished population, especially women and children. Passing this bill will help people all over the world deal with food insecurity and daily hunger.

Please join us on October 30 in Fellowship Hall right after the worship service to write letters to Senator Braun urging him to sign this bill.

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for October

Bay-breasted Warbler: Fashion Rules

According to custom, clothing of certain colors is not to be worn after Labor Day, or so I hear. It is true that I see a general change, especially in the color of pants worn by men.

Many male birds go through a similar change around Labor Day. In fact, there are pages in field guides entitled, “Confusing Fall Warblers.” Without such a guide or knowledge, recognizing the drab bird seen in September and October as the same species that had glorious, dazzling plumage last spring would be impossible. I would like for you to google Bay-breasted Warbler (right now!), and you will see the beautiful bay color on the cap, throat, and sides of the male. This reddish-brown contrasts with the black color on the face. In September a Bay-breasted Warbler, on its way southward, showed up in the Meditational Woods, and I managed to take photographs. In the photos, one can see that the bay colored area has been reduced to a narrow stripe along the wing. Some color change happens when the colorful ends of the feathers wear down due to activity. More importantly, most birds go through a molt at the end of the season, replacing their worn spring feathers with new ones.

Thusly, birding during fall migration can be very challenging. These small birds, in alternate plumage, moving from branch to branch in the canopies of trees still bearing leaves gives the birder only brief glimpses. In addition, the leaves themselves may be blowing in the wind, or falling, which look like birds moving down to a lower branch.

The human “plumage” rule is rather simple for me; I ignore it. I wear what is comfortable and appropriate for my activities. I am not the slave to seasonal fashion as are my avian friends.

Story and photo by Brad J

This Week’s Queries

· How do I let humor disarm me?

· Who in my life brings needed humor and allows me the freedom to be my authentic self?

· How might I utilize humor with others to build empathy in my world?

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