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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Comment

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?

Comment

Friend to Friend August 18, 2021

August 19, 2021

As Way Opens

I recently had the privilege to officiate at the wedding of Mary Blackburn and David Beatty's daughter Sarah getting married to Kase in Boulder CO. Sarah grew up in this Meeting and it was lovely to see how happy Sarah and Kase are to be committed to each other in marriage.

As I reflected on this extravagant promise a couple makes to each other on their wedding day, I was thinking about some of the words in my wedding address that apply to many relationships in all of our lives. We need to offer each other a generosity and extravagance that comes from God. The apostle Paul speaks to this in Philippians 2:1-5 saying “If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, make my joy complete; be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus.” Wow - these are life altering commandments and difficult to live out. Put others interests ahead of my own? Regard others as better than myself? Take on the mind of Christ Jesus? We often want others to change, to make adjustments, to believe what I believe and agree with me, to get over things and to make better choices and decisions. But as I have been trying to deepen my spiritual journey I must take these instructions in Philippians seriously. I can only change myself. Isn’t that one of the hardest lessons to learn in this life? In my wedding address I talk about our focus on trying to find that right partner for our life. But I’m not sure it is the question of finding the right person as much as it is a question of being the right person. When we do what is right and fair and honest and loving; if we are humble and kind and compassionate, our relationships will be full of these same qualities. Faithfulness to the mind of Christ in our relationships will have us respect each other’s ideas, keep each other’s secrets, guard each other’s dignity, and honor each other in public and private.

Beth

Joys & Concerns

Dan R Memorial Service ~ A service in memory of Dan R has been scheduled for Saturday, August 21st at 1pm at First Friends. We lost Dan in February of last year but have been unable to hold a service due to the pandemic. All F/friends are invited to attend the in-person service this Saturday.

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, August 19 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2021 here.

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 on Sunday, August 29th at our normal Meeting for Worship time (10:15am) in the meditational woods. 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!

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.

First Friends Financial Update: The Meeting continues to seek financial support throughout the year. If you would like to explore ways to assist, please 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.

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 Arle, Savannah Baker, Lena Brooks-Kelly, Krishan Coffman, Ally Haymaker, Sam Henry, Sam Miller, Eli Sample, Isaiah Sample, Chelsea Tinsley, Kendal Tinsley, and Sam Wilson. 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!

Queries for the Week

· Am I quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry?

· In what areas of my life do I need to work on listening more and speaking less?

· Of the 8 Problems of Effective Listening, which one(s) do I struggle with the most?

Comment

Friend to Friend August 11, 2021

August 12, 2021

As Way Opens

Every year we have an opportunity to do a service project to help fund our youth programming at First Friends. In conjunction with the American Dairy Association of Indiana we serve a plethora of yummy dairy items to Indiana State Fair attendees at the famous Dairy Bar on a Saturday in August. If you grew up in Indianapolis, you may make the Dairy Bar an annual trip. The long lines, the heat of August in Indiana, and the smell of cheese, milk, and ice cream is what it’s all about.

Yet, there is much more going on within the walls of that round barn-like structure than just the making of grilled cheese sandwiches, the pouring of milkshakes, and the hand-scooping of ice cream. Each year our two teams of volunteers work either the morning or evening shifts on our given Saturday.

The work itself can be tiring, but it also is greatly rewarding. Not only do we have the pleasure of serving thousands of people at our three windows, we also get to interact and enjoy spending time with each other – and boy do we. The laughter, the smiles, the child-like joy is contagious! I would say we let down our hair, but we actually have to keep it up in a cow-print bandana – which always makes for some memorable photos.

This year, since Beth Henricks was out of town for a wedding, Eric Tinsley and Jim Donahue led the morning shift, while Jed and Beth K took care of the evening shift – and a fine job they all did! Working the Dairy Bar has become a tradition for many at First Friends, yet for some folks this was their first time experiencing the fun! A BIG THANK YOU to all of this year’s volunteers – Deb S, Ben F, Vera F, Eric T, Chelsea T, Kendal T, Erin T, Jim D, Carol D, Gary W, Tiffany B, Bob H, Sue H, Brenda R, Carrie S, Eli S, Rik L, Linda L, Tom F, Kevin F, Beth K, Jed K, Lucy K, Logan K, Alana K, Noelle C, Sophie H, and Gabby B.

After it is all over, we usually don’t want to see another grilled cheese sandwich or milkshake, for quite some time. And definitely no one wants to scoop ice cream because our arms continue to hurt for the next week, but the memories and stories live on.

Bob

Joys & Concerns

MANY THANKS to our Mid-North Food Pantry Volunteers: Ruth K, Barbara O, Linda and Rik L; Kathy and Bill F; Christie M; Dana F; Barb D; Deb and Phil G; Virginia and Derek S; Penny P; Mara S; Carol and Jim D. A big welcome to newcomers Dana, Barb and Deb! Over 50 families were served.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Lynda S’s mother, Bernice, this Saturday, August 14th, at 2:00pm. The service will be held at West Richmond Friends Meeting, 609 W. Main St. in Richmond, IN. A reception will be held on the lawn outside the church after the service. Bernice was a strong and compassionate woman who was a wonderful role model to all who knew her. All are welcome to join in person or remotely through Zoom—contact office@indyfriends.org for the Zoom information.

A Walk Through an Urban Wonderland~ Would you like to hear about last Wednesday’s urban homestead tour at Carrie’s house? It was a fantasyland of not-so-usual urban experiences. It included a walk through tunnels of beans winding up trellises; the sight of soft sunlight spilling over sunflowers as their heads turned to follow the fireball’s journey; the sound of colorful hens quietly clucking inside the covered pen of their chicken coop where they avoided any hawks flying overhead; and the soothing sound of sweet splashing water flowing into a homemade pond afloat with lily pads. Other experiences included dodging slightly irritated—yet friendly—bees as gathered “tourists” blocked their flightpaths to cleverly painted European hives. One hive was blue and the other, yellow. They were decorated with lovely script, quotes about nature. One example by E. B. White: “I am a queen, I am a bee, I am devil-may-care and fancy free.“

Busy educator Carrie has a casual and loving air about her garden and brands her luscious gardening style as “benevolent neglect.” After all, she is in league with her partner, Mother Nature, who seems to cover any loose ends. The “Queen Bee Carrie” tour highlighted raised beds of beans, basil and other crops in the backyard. Flowers climbed up fences while luring pollinators. Pink hollyhocks stood at the yard’s edge overseeing the activities of the adults and one awe-struck child as they gazed at and stepped over, under and around multiple plants. A pine towered over the backyard. Two small pear trees hovered near the chicken coop and a small greenhouse. (Carrie’s three children built the greenhouse as her Mother’s Day gift.) Additional garden elements included a cherry tree, four apple trees and a fringe of raspberries and blackberries along the fence line.

The front yard beckoned passers-by from the street. Many varieties of flowers, including zinnias, a peony and sunflowers, waved them in. Neat pathways among crops invited a closer inspection. Watermelon and pumpkin vines wound prettily over straw mulch. Onions, leeks and asparagus covered the ground. A flower box with purple petunias peeping over the edge sat in front of an enclosed front porch with tall multi-paned windows. The entranceway boasted a large, decorative limestone slab that hung above its double doors. Carrie is still looking into secrets of her home’s history.

Carrie invited all participants to sit and relax in a circle of chairs behind the house. She brought out a refreshing red, homemade punch made from shrub (cider vinegar, sugar water and berries). It was thirst-quenching and tour participants appreciated the accompanying snacks. Carrie handed out some of her chickens’ eggs to those who had RSVP’d. The eggs varied in hue according to the type chickens from whence they came. The temperature for this summer evening was perfect; an empty fire pit was available for cool evenings and cookouts.

What a convivial evening for all who attended this fun-filled event! Thank you to a gracious hostess and her supportive hubby.

—Submitted by Nancy on behalf of Connections Program Meeting. If you have ideas for events, please pass them on to Connections Clerk Jim Kartholl.

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 on Thursday, August 19 at 7:00pm. See locations for 2021 here.

Artful Meditation ~ The Connections Program Meeting is offering a workshop guided by ART THERAPIST Shawn H. 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.) More details will be announced closer to the date.

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 at our normal Meeting for Worship time (10:15am) in the meditational woods. 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!

Peace & Christian Social Concern Board Member (term 2021-2023) – Responsibilities include promoting and supervising the raising of funds for the Yearly Meeting budget and the FUM Goal, recommend to the Yearly Meeting the names of persons to serve as Treasurer, Benevolence Treasurer and Financial Trustees of Western Yearly Meeting, and provide a fidelity bond for persons handling Yearly Meeting funds.

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.

America's Existential Crisis was just released as an audiobook ~ Jeff Rasley’s America's Existential Crisis: Our Inherited Obligation to Native Nations is a historical journey and a road trip through "Indian country". The personal histories of two of Jeff’s ancestors illustrate the conflicted relationships of white Americans with Native Americans in the 19th century. The book makes the case that the history of land theft, broken treaties, massacres, and cultural suppression created a moral obligation of the USA to Native nations. Because the United States of America pledged to grant "justice for all", Americans must reckon with that history. The book proposes how that can be done through the culturally sensitive development of Native communities. The book is available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Americas-Existential-Crisis-Inherited-Obligation/dp/B09C2MBJL4 and on Audible at https://www.audible.com/pd/Americas-Existential-Crisis-Audiobook/B09C2LKB9K

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. 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. Please examine your hearts and give as you are led.

Meditational Woods
Bird of the Month for August
Barred Owl: Too Late for this Friend

Pastor Bob called me this week to let me know that on the church grounds he had found a bird that might interest me. It did! After not having observed any new species here for more than a year, I had wondered what the 93rd species would be. This was it: a Barred Owl! Of the eight or nine owls that regularly appear in Indiana, five or six are rare and found in habitats much different than our woods and grassy yard. The three remaining are screech owls, which prefer more trees and less grass, great horned owls, which frequent open areas like our north meadow, but more likely ones with scattered mature trees, and barred owls, which can be found in wooded neighborhoods, but usually denser than ours. Barreds are known by their rounded head, apparent black eyes, and dark streaks…or bars…on their neck and chest. It is this last characteristic that gives the species its name.

I had often thought of coming down to the meeting house on a late spring evening, just after sunset, to imitate a barred owl, with a call of “Who-cooks-for-you, who-cooks-for-you-all,” just to see if one would respond, but I had never gotten around to it. Now it was TOO LATE!! Too late at least for this individual. You see, Bob had gotten out of his car, and noticed nearby what he thought was an item of striped clothing. It turned out to be a dead Barred Owl! Birders familiar with keeping a birdlist know that although I saw this bird, I cannot count this on my personal list for the woods. It does count on the historical list of birds “observed” on the property. So thanks to Bob, it is #93.

I wondered about this “too late” business as it applies to people. Many is the time a Friend has said, “Do you remember (so-and-so) who used to be a member here…?” Although I know our paths had crossed at one time, I had never gotten to know that person, even his or her name. For most, it is indeed, too late! This even applies to asking grandparents about family history! Don’t put it off! No time like the present!!

Note: I DID examine the owl, and found no signs of trauma or injury as if it had been hit by a car on an adjacent street. It could be the malady that is affecting the bird world, or simply old age.

~Brad J

Queries for the Week

What are the stories that have shaped my understanding of my life as a Quaker?
How might communicating my story help create better communication with those at First Friends and within our Yearly Meeting?

Comment

Friend to Friend August 4, 2021

August 5, 2021

As Way Opens

A good friend recently sent me a book called The Book of Hours, a compilation of Thomas Merton’s writings, prayers and psalms. Book of hours became popular as a Christian devotional book in the Middle Ages. This is a prayer guide and helps create a discipline of prayer throughout the day. Each book of hours was unique and often they were beautifully illustrated and almost works of art. Tens of thousands of the book of hours have survived and are in libraries and private collections all over the world.

I became quite fascinated by this way of prayer during a class at seminary that I took exploring different methods of prayer. Merton’s book of hours is organized by the day of the week as well as a reading for dawn, day, dusk and night. I have not worked up to reading all of them 4 times a day, but first thing every morning I am reading the dawn passages and often the dusk passages at night. This simple practice has deepened my devotional time and also made me realize that during this crazy time of the pandemic, I lost some of my practices. I became less focused, less disciplined and let some of my practices fade away. Reading Merton and spending time alone in prayer has brought this into a sharper focus and I am becoming intentional on re-establishing some of my practices so they become habits.

Merton’s writings have a transcendence to them as well as an appreciation for every part of nature. Here is an excerpt from Monday’s dawn passage:

“We are warmed by the fire, not by the smoke of the fire . We are carried over the sea by a ship, not by the wake of a ship. So too, what we are is to be sought in the invisible depths of our own being, not in our outward reflection in our own acts.

“When I speak of the contemplative life I do not mean the institutional cloistered life, the organized life of prayer. I am talking about a special dimension of inner discipline and experience, a certain integrity and fullness of personal development, which are not compatible with a purely external, alienated, busy-busy existence. This does not mean that they are incompatible with action, with creative work, with dedicated love. On the contrary, these all go together. A certain depth of disciplined experience is a necessary ground for fruitful action. Without a more profound human understanding derived from exploration of the inner ground of human existence, lo e will tend to be superficial and deceptive. Traditionally, the ideas of prayer, meditation and contemplation have been associated with this deepening of one’s personal life and this expansion of the capacity to understand and serve others.”

May we all seek a deeper connection to our Spirit life and prioritize that above our busyness and activities.

Beth

Quaker-Affiliated Organizations

IFCL -- Indiana Legislature Kicks Off Redistricting

It's almost kick-off time for the long awaited legislative redistricting process in Indiana. Thanks to hundreds of calls and emails from Hoosiers all across the state, the Senate and House Elections Committees have scheduled meetings to take public testimony on redistricting. This is not just a spectator sport where citizens passively watch as legislators draw the district maps that will be with us for the next ten years. If we want fair maps that favor neither political party and instead serve our communities, it is critically important that we turn out for these meetings and demand an open and fair process.

The Senate Elections Committee will be holding four meetings and the House Elections and Apportionment Committee will also hold four meetings, in different locations around the state. For us in the Indianapolis/Central Indiana area, there will be a joint committee hearing of both committees on Wednesday, August 11th, at 1 p.m. in the House Chambers of Indiana State House at 200 W. Washington in Indianapolis. (This is the one that most of us at First Friends would attend.)

Everyone is welcome to attend this meeting. You do not need to testify--although anyone is welcome to. You do not need to understand the ins and outs of redistricting. Just by showing up on August 11th, you will send a clear message to legislators: we are watching them, and expect maps that serve the public interest, not their partisan interests.

For an excellent overview of redistricting and further motivation to get involved, here is a recent op-ed from The Republic newspaper in Brown County, co-written by Sunny Leerkamp. http://www.therepublic.com/2021/07/23/fair_redistricting_needed_in_indiana/ Sunny is a Quaker; she was long an active member at Noblesville Friends. She is playing a key role in trying to ensure a fair and transparent redistricting process in 2021, and we are fortunate to have a Friend involved in this effort.

For more information, please contact the office at office@indyfriends.org. Thank you.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

Mini Urban Homestead Tour & Artful Meditation ~ The Connections Program Meeting is offering two new events:

The Mini Urban Homestead Tour offers tips on raising chickens, beekeeping, growing flowers and creating edible landscaping throughout the yard. Carrie Sample answers questions and takes participants on a guided tour of her urban homestead. It will take place at 6:30pm TONIGHT, Wednesday, August 4th. Snacks will be provided. Please RSVP to the host at carriesample1974@gmail.com. She will respond with the address where the tour will take place. (The rain date will be Monday, August 9th at 6:30pm.)

ARTFUL MEDITATION is 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.) More details will be announced closer to the date.

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.

Meditational Woods
Bird of the Month for August
Barred Owl: Too Late for this Friend

Note: I DID examine the owl, and found no signs of trauma or injury as if it had been hit by a car on an adjacent street. It could be the malady that is affecting the bird world, or simply old age. ~Brad J

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. 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. Please examine your hearts and give as you are led.

Queries for the Week

· What are the stories that have shaped my understanding of my life as a Quaker?

· How might communicating my story help create better communication with those at First Friends and within our Yearly Meeting?

Comment

Friend to Friend July 28, 2021

July 28, 2021

As Way Opens

Last Friday night, Sue and I attended the Quaker Lecture for this year’s Western Yearly Meeting Annual Sessions in Plainfield. My former superintendent and doctoral advisor, Colin Saxton was giving the lecture, Walking Together in Power, Proximity, and Peace. Colin considered it a “part two” of his Quaker Lecture from last year. I highly recommend, if you did not already watch the lecture, to tune in here: https://youtu.be/LsQWqaZTxis (the lecture starts at about 43:40).

On Sunday for closing worship, I was asked to provide the Pastoral Prayer. Being moved by Colin’s words on Friday, I decided to let them be the inspiration for my prayer. My hope was to capture his words in both a prayer and challenge to Western Yearly Meeting. I named the prayer, SET US ABLAZE!

Gracious God,

As we join for worship at the close of these Yearly Meeting Sessions, we ask that you send down your fire upon us once again.

Refine us by its searing heat.
Warm us by its overwhelming intensity.
Renew us by its blazing energy.

Ignite Your fire light within each of us, this day!

That our ears would again hear the call of our Quaker ancestors to burn bright in the darkness of our world!

That our hearts would desire a renewed proximity to ALL our neighbors - no matter their political, ideological, racial, or sexual identities and worldviews.

That our posture would be that of refining and reconciliation – drawing our hearts to find true peace with all whom we encounter on our way.

That our lives would abide in the passionate example of Jesus Christ– whose humility called him to forsake his own nature, become a servant, and lay down his life for our peace.

NOW, set us ablaze by your Spirit that Western Yearly Meeting may not be people who simply “blow smoke” but rather be trailblazers for Your ministry of grace.

NOW, set us ablaze by your Spirit that Western Yearly Meeting may practice what we preach, live into our testimonies, and abide in your presence.

NOW, set us ablaze by your Spirit that Western Yearly Meeting may once again be a life-giving, life-saving, and life-changing community!

NOW, set us ablaze by your Spirit that Western Yearly Meeting may be a band of sisters and brothers who are knit together, and when necessary restitched, in the bond of peace and fellowship!

Great Fire of God descend upon us, we pray!

SET US ABLAZE!

And all God’s People said… AMEN!

May this also be our prayer at First Friends as we serve within Western Yearly Meeting.

Grace and peace,

Bob

Joys & Concerns

Many thanks to our Mid-North Food Pantry Volunteers from last Wednesday! Linda and Rik L; Christie M; Virginia and Derek S; David B; Kathy and Bill F; Mara S; Tom F; Jim D. Wonderful weather brought out 75 families that we served.

The Gardeners are still at it! The gardeners are keeping busy tending to and harvesting their crops! Here is a garden poem for all of us to share.

The kiss of the sun for pardon,
the song of the birds for mirth
one is nearer God’s heart in a garden
than anywhere else on earth.

A big thank you for all the volunteers that participated in our Vacation Bible School program last week. The kids loved the week and the volunteers of First Friends made it all possible. You are treasured!

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Ed M is now home and recovering after a successful second placement of a pacemaker. Thank you to everyone who sent their well-wishes and prayers!

Please pray for the Heusel family as Kim H recently lost his step-mother, Magaline H, who passed away Monday, July 12.

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

The members of the First Friends Bible study group invite you to "Hearing God," the theme of the upcoming study book. This small group meets by Zoom at 7:30 pm each Thursday. The Samuel study will begin Thursday, July 29 and last 13 weeks. You are welcome to drop in and try out the group. To receive a Zoom link, contact the office. To order a study book, go to Illuminate: 1, 2 Samuel (barclaypressbookstore.com)

Monday Meditational Worship Time Change ~ Please note that the Monday mid-day meditational worship has returned to its original time of 12:15pm. Hopefully, this will allow some more people to join us for that time. We hope you will join us!

Mini Urban Homestead Tour & Artful Meditation ~ The Connections Program Meeting is offering two new events:

The Mini Urban Homestead Tour offers tips on raising chickens, beekeeping, growing flowers and creating edible landscaping throughout the yard. Carrie Sample answers questions and takes participants on a guided tour of her urban homestead. It will take place at 6:30pm on Wednesday, August 4th. Snacks will be provided. Please RSVP to the office at office@indyfriends.org. (The rain date will be Monday, August 9th at 6:30pm.)

Men’s Threshing Together ~ Hey Men! Threshing Together will return in August. We are planning several months out and have posted the locations here. Plan to join us on the third Thursday of each month at 7pm. For those interested, Threshing Together is a gathering of 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.

NOTICE: New Directory ~ Please note that due to LifeTouch Church Photography shutting down, our online directory is changing. You can now access updated addresses and contact information on our website at https://www.indyfriends.org/private. Once you access the portal just click “Access the Online Directory.” If you have any questions, contact the office at office@indyfriends.org or 317-255-2485.

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. 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. Please examine your hearts and give as you are led.

You’re Invited! We're super excited to invite you to Samantha and Gabe's baby shower happening Sunday, August 22nd! 👶Join us as we get ready to welcome baby Von Letscher into the world with raffles, don't-put-down-the-babe games, and all kinds of shower-friendly shenanigans designed by Sam's strange siblings. This party is completely co-ed (all are welcome!) and will be held at Miriam and James's place in Woodruff.

Feel free to swing by Sam and Gabe's baby registry to pick up a special tchotchke for the babe. And don't forget to come with a pack of diapers for automatic entry into the raffle! To RSVP, contact the office for details. Hope to see you there!

Fellowship Hour ~ We will begin holding fellowship hour in Fellowship Hall after worship each Sunday We will offer some individually wrapped snacks and drinks for this time. We hope you will join us!

Comment

Friend to Friend July 21, 2021

July 27, 2021

As Way Opens

It is strange and wonderful to come back together for our Vacation Bible School program this week. The joy of being together again has been significant and parents, volunteers and kids are living in the delight of joining in to sing, dance, learn about how much God treasures each and every one of us and explore some of the important characters and stories of the Bible that demonstrate how important we are to God.

I know this is an important concept for all of us to reflect on as this pandemic has isolated us and might make adults and children feel insignificant and without human connections. Each of us is a gem, a treasure, a beloved child of God and it’s been a great reminder to me this week.

The last 16 months have been such a surreal experience and it is hard to get back into a routine when everything normal for us was turned upside down. I know I felt out of rhythm working on putting the week’s details together and forgot several normal processes that we follow every year.

Yet our kids are so resilient! Much more so than we are as adults. The kids have come back together and they are running around, talking, laughing, sharing their incredible insights, being savvy about what is going on and totally into singing and dancing to the songs of this VBS program (Treasured Discovering You’re Priceless to God). VBS is always a week of the year that gives me hope as I watch our precious kids discover their value and share their unique personalities with all of us.

You are treasured!

Beth

Joys & Concerns

Announcements, Reports, & Opportunities

No Monthly Meeting for Business ~ Friends, please note that there will be no Meeting for Worship this coming Sunday, July 25th (neither in-person or virtual). We encourage everyone to attend Western Yearly Meeting’s annual sessions either in person or virtually (see more information below!) We will still hold 9am unprogrammed worship in the Parlor, but at 10am we hope you will join in Western Yearly Meeting’s worship service (held both at Plainfield and via live stream). Also please note that there will be no Fellowship Hour with us that day.

Western Yearly Meeting Annual Sessions ~ All are invited to Western Yearly Meeting’s (WYM’s) annual sessions which will be July 23-25, 2021. This year’s theme is “See I am Doing a New Thing” (Isaiah 43:19). Most events will be held online, with 3 in-person events at the WYM Meetinghouse with online streaming so friends can view remotely:

Friday 7/23 7:00pm - Quaker lecture by Colin Saxton

Saturday 7/24 7:00pm -Missions gathering

Sunday 7/25 10:00am - WYM meeting for worship

Other events will be held online in an interactive format (zoom) with the opportunity for friends to gather and participate virtually. There is no fee to participate, though donations are welcome. To register and for more information, please visit https://www.westernyearlymeeting.org/2021newthing.

Men’s Threshing Together ~ Hey Men! Threshing Together will return in August. We are taking July off due to VBS and Yearly Meeting Sessions. We are planning several months out and have posted the locations here. Plan to join us on the third Thursday of each month at 7pm. For those interested, Threshing Together is a gathering of 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.

Fellowship Hour ~ We will begin holding fellowship hour in Fellowship Hall after worship each Sunday (although please note there is no Fellowship Hour this Sunday, July 25th as we participate in worship with Western Yearly meeting; see above). We will offer some individually wrapped snacks and drinks for this time. We hope you will join us!

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. 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. Please examine your hearts and give as you are led.

Mini Urban Homestead Tour & Artful Meditation ~ The Connections Program Meeting is offering two new events:

The Mini Urban Homestead Tour offers tips on raising chickens, beekeeping, growing flowers and creating edible landscaping throughout the yard. Carrie Sample answers questions and takes participants on a guided tour of her urban homestead. It will take place at 6:30pm on Wednesday, August 4th. Snacks will be provided. Please RSVP to the host at carriesample1974@gmail.com. She will respond with the address where the tour will take place. (The rain date will be Monday, August 9th at 6:30pm.)

Meditational Woods Bird of the Month for July

Chipping Sparrow: A Common Friend

This time of year, the number of birds singing decreases, as does singing itself. Nesting is coming to an end, and males no longer need to defend a territory. One bird that does continue to sing is the Chipping Sparrow. This species can be found anywhere in the woods, but most likely along the western edge near the parking strip. They can be in any of the trees in the front yard of the meetinghouse, or in those that line the meadow.

From April, when they arrive from the Gulf coast, through October when they leave, one can hear the song made of a string of rapid chips. This song is unlike any other Indiana bird, except for Pine Warbler (found in large pine woods), and Worm-eating Warbler (found on the slopes of the deep woods of Hoosier National Forest). Chippies are more associated with people, and have adapted to the changes in the landscape brought by humans.

Note the reddish-brown cap, black eye-stripe, clear breast, and wingbars, which help one identify this rather small bird.

I want to dedicate this month’s article to Linda Lee, who always had a bird story or question, often asked during our $tamping 4 Dollar$ sessions. Like the Chipping Sparrow, she was well-known to all and seemed to be ever-present. Her “song” was unique and special. Unlike the bird, Linda was quite uncommon. If I may share one final story: Linda and Ed came to a couple of the Indiana Stamp Club meetings to help auction off our stamps. I watched her as she made the rounds of the tables in the room, talking to the folks she encountered. Later she told me about many of the people she had met. Linda remembered names and details. I must admit that I have an awkward shy streak that appears in social situations like those meetings, but Linda had met and befriended more people in two hours than I had in two years! I will miss her! ~Brad J

Queries for the Week

· Can you recall a time when someone genuinely called you “special” (in a positive way)? What effect did it have on you?

· What does it mean for you to know that you are treasured in God’s eyes?

Comment