The Garden

05/20/2026

“The Art of Community” Workshops
As we dig deeper into the theme of Belonging, we want to explore the important work of Charles Volg who advises leadership groups worldwide. We will have lots of opportunities to meet our neighbors in the months ahead. When they show up at 7171 N Pennsylvania Street for the first time, they might wonder if they will fit or even feel comfortable. What can we design to effectively communicate who we are and what we value, while acknowledging we cannot be all things to all people? This workshop is offered by the Center for Congregations and is video based. Wednesday, May 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., or Thursday, May 21 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register at thegardenonline.org/art-of-community. Meal is included. Betty Brandt will lead both sessions.

05/20/2026

This Sunday, we gather to celebrate the Indianapolis 500, often hailed as the greatest spectacle in racing. In just a few hours, drivers will take their places on those iconic bricks; the checkered flag will drop, and 3 to 4 hours later, one driver will stand in Victory Circle to drink the milk. The victor! But that also means thirty-two drivers will leave the track labeled as “losers.”
Our society is fixated on winning. We applaud the champions, showcase the trophies, and highlight the first-place finishes. However, what can we learn from those thirty-two drivers who gave their all but didn’t secure the top spot? There are invaluable lessons to be discovered among those who may not have won the prize. Perhaps the true essence of the race lies with the “losers.” Join us this Sunday for “The Thrill of Victory and the Agony of Defeat”” and uncover the wisdom that comes from embracing the experience of “losing.”

05/17/2026

05/17/2026

05/17/2026

Bread for the World advocates for public policies that ensure every person, both here at home and around the globe, has access to the food they need to thrive. Hunger is not inevitable; it is a challenge we can address when we choose compassion and justice together.

This weekend during The Garden service, you’ll have the opportunity to add your voice to this effort. Together, we can help move our leaders toward decisions that protect and uplift the most vulnerable among us.

Jesus called people to respond to human need with courage, generosity, and love. Writing letters in support of policies that feed the hungry is one simple, meaningful way to live out that calling. When we act together, even small steps can create real change.

Let’s continue to be a community that shows up, speaks up, and believes that a world without hunger is possible.

05/13/2026

On Sunday we will participate in our annual Bread for the World letter campaign and be reminded of “the Power of the Pen”. It is a time each year when we acknowledge we live in a world where there is more than enough for all to eat. We acknowledge Hunger is a policy choice, not an inevitability. In a season of division in our country followers of Jesus are called to put pen to paper to live to feed the hungry. It is a season when we are reminded Jesus commands us, not just to "pray for the poor," but to be God's hands and feet, taking action to ensure the needy are fed.
In a democratic society, the "pen"—our letters, emails, and phone calls to legislators—is a tangible, effective tool for justice, turning compassion into public policy. Join us Sunday as we welcome representatives from Bread for the World and share in The Power of the Pen.

05/10/2026

This weekend, we invite you to return to your mother church, The Garden, as we celebrate the beautiful tradition of Mothering Sunday! Originating in England on the fourth Sunday of Lent, this special day has deep roots stretching back to the 16th century when families would gather at their "mother church" for a communal service. Over the years, it blossomed into a joyous occasion where children express their love through gifts, flowers, and heartfelt cards for their mothers.
Today, Mothering Sunday reminds us not only to honor our mothers and mother figures but also to cherish the nurturing spirit within our community. Let us come together to acknowledge the love, support, and guidance that shapes our lives.
Join us as we celebrate the vital role of mothering in our journeys and how each of us is called to nurture one another. Don’t miss this heartfelt service filled with reflection, love, and connection!

05/09/2026

PLANT SALE today (May 9) at First Congregational on the patio
7171 N Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis
10a.m.-2 p.m.