Discussion Groups
CONVERSATIONS WORTH HAVING

Most of us carry questions we rarely get to talk about as we ponder loss, meaning, aging, mortality, and how we may find–or choose–meaning in our lives. The sessions here make room for those conversations, drawing on books, facilitators, and the accumulated experience of those gathered in the room. Each one is grounded in the belief that intentional reflection among neighbors, supported by a room full of curious people, is among the most valuable practices a community can cultivate.

On Earth as It Is In Heaven
Discovery Series with David Forsell

4 Saturdays, October 10, 17, 24 & 31 | 10-noon
7171 North Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis

Arden neighborhood resident and retired nonprofit leader David Forsell has published his first book, a memoir titled On Earth as It Is in Heaven.

This four-week experiential series, hosted and facilitated by David, explores faith, belief, values, and the search for purpose and meaning. Drawing on his own life experience, David will guide participants in reflecting on their own paths. This isn't a book study; it's a chance to create a personal creed and to examine how your values and joys connect to what the world most needs.

Each week, participants complete a short assignment and come to the group ready to listen first, in a supportive, confidential space. The series draws on the writings of Howard Thurman, Paul Tillich, Abraham Joshua Heschel, Carol Johnston, and Richard Rohr, but the real material is the group itself: your own wisdom, questions, and honesty, as you wrestle together with "Who am I?" and "Why am I here?"

Together to Gather

Every Sunday | 10–11 am | Lower Level

Lifelong learners gather to explore a wide range of subjects. Past discussions have explored topics like food insecurity in Indiana; the data center controversy; progressive Christianity; sustainable dietary choices; facts about climate change; gender fluidity; Mysticism; local grass roots initiatives; and more. Some sessions include a guest speaker or presentation, while others unfold as informal group conversations in which participants share their experiences, ideas, and questions around the day’s topic.

October 4: Caring for Your Community

Returning to the wisdom of Charles Vogl, author of The Art of Community, come for a discussion about the importance of CARE and a celebration of those at The Garden and FCC who provide care to their congregations.

October 11: The Hidden Poet Within Us All with Lorelei Guenther

FCC is blessed to have a special relationship every year with a Butler student. The current Just Peace Butler intern, Lorelei Guenther, has graciously agreed to share one of her loves with us: poetry. Come meet her and be inspired.

October 18: Sacred Rebel: Fierce Love in a Fearful World with Author Jerry Zehr

In his new book, Sacred Rebel, Jerry Zehr explores what it means to practice a "fierce love." He'll encourage us to build bridges across deep divides by abandoning comfortable boundaries and adopting deep civility.

October 25: It's Time for Infectious Generosity: Here's How

Chris Anderson became curator of the TED conference in 2002. Because of his generosity, TEDx events have spread around the world, and we can watch TED Talks on a huge variety of subjects. Come watch Chris Anderson's own TED Talk about how his mom inspired him to be generous.

A Death Cafe

Wednesday, October 21 | 6-7:30 pm
Joy's House at 2028 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis

Join us for a warm, open-hearted gathering where people come together to talk about life, death, and everything in between.

A Death Cafe offers a space for conversation, not grief counseling or a seminar but a relaxed and respectful environment where thoughts about mortality can be shared freely. There’s no agenda, no wrong questions, no religious affiliation, and no judgment. Just coffee, tea, snacks, and meaningful discussion by people who are curious, reflective, and open to exploring what death means to us and how it shapes how we live.

Whether you’re pondering legacy, loss, or simply what it means to be human, you’ll find compassionate company here.

Inspired by the global Death Café movement. Sponsored by The Garden and Joy’s House.

Discussion GroupsCONVERSATIONS WORTH HAVING

Discussion Groups
CONVERSATIONS WORTH HAVING