JPWL Lunch & Learn

Soul Conversations by Rev. Susan Izard

Sunday, October 18, 11:30-1:30

In the midst of busy schedules, constant noise, and the ache for something deeper, Soul Conversations: A Pilgrimage of the Heart offers an invitation to pause and listen for the sacred voice within.

Spiritual director Susan Izard shares her lifelong journey of learning to recognize, trust, and befriend her soul. Blending memoir, spiritual reflection, and gentle guidance, this book explores how soul conversations can help us reconnect with ourselves, with Holy Presence, and with a more purposeful, peaceful way of living.

Soul Conversations is both a spiritual memoir and a gentle companion for anyone longing to live with more presence, trust, and connection to the sacred within. 

Free program. A light lunch will be served. Register here.

Interfaith Gatherings Explore

Christian Nationalism

In February, the JPWL partnered with First Universalist Church to watch "Legacy," a powerful film about the ways systemic racism continues to shape life in South Africa, long after the laws that enforced it were abolished. The screening was followed by a conversation with director Tara Moore. Both the film and the discussion offered a deeper look at the painful and persistent culture of injustice that has marked South Africa’s history.

This fall, we’ll continue exploring more of these troubling issues as we look at Christian Nationalism—its history, its influence, and its implications for our faith and our democracy. We’re planning two free events, with discussions facilitated by HIU’s Rev. Dr. David Grafton. Details are still being finalized, but please save the dates:

Sunday, September 27, 12 p.m.–2 p.m. Book Discussion

Baptizing America: How Mainline Christian Protestants Helped Build Christian Nationalism

First Universalist Church, 433 Fern St., West Hartford

In their 2024 book, Baptizing America, authors Brian Kaylor and Beau Underwood explore the history of mainline Protestants' role in intertwining church and state interests. They offer thoughtful suggestions for how Christians can uphold democracy while resisting the allure of political power. Read the Christian Century review.

Sunday, October 18, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Documentary Screening

"Bad Faith" (TV-MA; 89 minutes)

Temple Sinai, 41 West Hartford Rd., Newington

"Bad Faith" examines how Christian nationalism has moved from the political fringes into mainstream American life, influencing debates about democracy, religion, education, and civil rights. The film traces the movement’s development over several decades and explores why it has become such a significant force in American politics today.

We hope you’ll join us for these opportunities to learn, reflect, and engage in meaningful conversation about the intersection of faith, justice, and our common life.

Faithful Fitness

Resumes in September

SIGN UP for CLASSES!

nurture your body, mind, and spirit

Tai Chi & Qi Gong Resumes 9/10

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Chapel (meets in Community Room #232 on warmer days)

Gain mindfulness through movement. QiGong and Tai Chi promote the flow of qi, or energy, in the body, helping to reduce stress, depression, or fatigue while providing a sense of balance and clarity. These movements can be done while seated or standing; all are welcome!

Instructor: Cynthia Hoag, Dragon Rising Wellness.

More info and registration here.

FitMix Fitness Resumes 9/15

Tuesdays, 5:45 – 6:45 p.m. in the Auditorium

A well-rounded class featuring resistance training, cardio, and balance using multiple fitness modalities. Chairs will be used for seated and standing support. Please bring a mat, light weights and a small ball. No tools? No worries! Some tools can be provided. 

Instructor: Kathi Boratko, FitMix with Kathi.

More info and registration here.

Book Group Discussions

Start after Labor Day

The JPW Library sponsors three book groups that meet from September through June. Copies of the books are provided for participants, and new members are always welcome! Here's what's ahead for early fall:

Awakening the Spirit (Adult, Hybrid): Every Monday, 12-1:30 p.m.

Next Meeting September 14 in the JPW Library

Next Book: How the Qur'an Interprets the Bible: Comparing Islamic, Jewish,

and Christian Scriptures by John Kaltner and Christopher G. Frechette

Explore how the Qur’an retells and interprets stories and figures shared with the Bible. Rev. Dr. David Grafton, Professor of Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim Relations at Hartford International University, will lead the discussion.

Food For Thought (Adult, Hybrid): First Tuesdays, 5-6:30 p.m.

Next Meeting: October 6 in the JPW Library

Book: Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray

Discover the remarkable story of Frances Perkins, the trailblazing woman whose partnership with FDR helped change the nation.

Believe in YourSHELF (Middle Schoolers, In-Person): Third Sundays, 10:15

Next Meeting: October 18 in the Community Room

Book: The Other Side of Tomorrow by Tina Cho; illustrated by Deb JJ Lee

Two young North Koreans risk everything to escape lives ruled by fear and oppression. finding courage, hope, and an unexpected bond as they journey toward freedom — facing danger at every turn. Sometimes, survival depends on having someone beside you. This book is the recipient of several awards, including ALA Best Graphic Novels for Children and Booklist Editor’s Choice of 2024: Books for Youth.

For more information, please contact Jennifer or Molly at 860-232-3893, or at jpwebster@whfirstchurch.org. 

NEW PROGRAM

Memory Café

Wednesday, September 16

2-4 p.m.

Sign up today — call us!

Memory Café: Reflections—Growing Up

Join us Wednesday, September 16, for the JPW Library’s first Memory Café. Program staff from the CT Museum of Culture and History will share images, artifacts, and music from the 1940s–1960s to spark memories and conversation. A dementia specialist and library staff will be on hand to offer support and create a welcoming environment.

Memory Café brings people with dementia and their care partners together for conversation, community, refreshments, and uplifting activities in a safe, supportive setting. Each month will feature a different activity, from music and storytelling to crafts and therapy pet visits.

Space is limited and registration is required. Each attendee must be accompanied by their care partner for the full hour.

To register, call the JPW Library at 860-232-3893 or email us at jpwebster@whfirstchurch.org. Please include the names of both attendees and a phone number or email address.



The BOHMAN BOOK REVIEW

The Midnight Train by Matt Haig

Upon his death, 81-year-old Wilbur Budd boards the eponymous Midnight Train on his way to eternity, stopping at scenes throughout his life along the way. Wilbur is able to watch these moments as they occurred the first time, though it is emphasized that he must not meddle with these past events, he is only to watch them as a bystander. This is increasingly difficult for Wilbur as he realizes how much he wishes he could change.

In this second installment of the Midnight books (The Midnight Library, 2020), Haig powerfully explores life’s most significant questions. While it may be too late for Wilbur to benefit from what he learns on the Midnight Train, it is not too late for us readers. Readers will not soon forget this deeply resonant message, nor the experience of the Midnight Train. 

-- Molly Bohman, Assistant Librarian

Introducing: Living Spirit, Living Justice

Living Spirit, Living Justice explores the places where faith, justice, and action meet. We’ll welcome speakers who invite us to think, learn, and consider how our faith can shape the way we live and work in the world. Our first event is a guided

walking tour in Farmington to the sites connected to the amazing story of the Amistad. 

October Guided Walking Tour

The Odyssey of the Amistad:

A Trail to Freedom

A Living Spirit, Living Justice Event



Saturday October 3, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

First Church, Farmington (75 Main St.)

Cost: $20 per person

Register here

In 1841, Farmington residents sheltered 38 people from the Mende tribe in Sierra Leone who had rebelled against enslavers and seized the slave ship Amistad. The town’s Congregational church and other abolitionists in the community welcomed the newly freed Africans and rallied behind the legal case that ultimately secured their freedom.

Join us as we explore the lives of the Mende people and the abolitionist-era people of Farmington. After a presentation at the church, guides will lead a 1.5-mile walking tour to key sites throughout the village. The tour will last 1.5 to 2 hours. The event runs rain or shine. Please see Jennifer with questions or concerns.

AT OUR PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS



Seed Saving Workshop

Wednesday, September 9 at 6 p.m.

Noah Webster Library Meeting Room

Have you wanted to save seeds from flowers or vegetables in your garden, but didn't know how to get started? Come learn the basics of seed saving for common flowers and vegetables. The seeds that you save can be added to First Church's WeHa Grows Seed Library! Register here.



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Many Paths to God Retreat

September 11 - 13

Wisdom House Retreat & Conference Center

229 East Litchfield Road, Litchfield, CT

Presented by Sr. Peggy Murphy, OP

On our spiritual journey together we will explore the prayers and and spiritual rituals of our neighbors as a way to honor and appreciate how they can aid us on our path to hope and new life. “Every major religion of the world has similar ideals of love, the same goal of benefiting humanity through spiritual practice and the same effect of making their followers into better human beings” (The Dalai Lama). Register here.

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Equinox Earth Songs:

An Evening with Terry Hermsen

Saturday, September 19 at 7 - 8:30 p.m.

HIU Chapel

Hartford International University for Religion & Peace (HIU) presents a soulful evening of ecologically informed love, outrage, mourning, wit, and joy. In poems and songs, Terry will trace the existential shift into eco-awakening and belonging, inviting us with him into this journey of creating restorative Earth practices. Register here.