Indianapolis First Friends

Conscientious objection is not passive. It is an active and deliberate engagement with one of the most serious questions a person can face: Would I participate in organized killing if my government told me to? If the answer is no, build the evidence for that answer now.

Visit here for a highly actionable, one-page leaflet to help youth - and those who support them - document their beliefs as conscientious objectors to war: https://stonyrunfriends.org/co/ You can also view the companion presentation and learn about a training they held on May 17, 2026 and the topics covered.

"We utterly deny all outward wars and strife and fightings with outward weapons, for any end, or under any pretence whatsoever; and this is our testimony to the whole world. - Declaration of Friends to Charles II, 1660

Friend to Friend June 17, 2026

Friend to Friend June 17, 2026 — Indianapolis First Friends

Thank you to everyone who joined us this past Sunday as we celebrated our 2026 Friends Education Fund scholars. We were honored to welcome Chris Lindley, who shared the rich history of the Friends Education Fund and the remarkable legacy of John Williams, whose vision continues to support African American students pursuing higher education. This year, we were blessed to award 69 scholarships and enjoyed the opportunity to recognize and encourage these outstanding young scholars during a reception following worship. Special thanks to Kathy Rhyne for capturing photos from the day.

Due to the severe weather, we have decided to cancel in-person Wednesday Waiting Worship tonight, June 17th. The Zoom room will still be available at 7:00 p.m. for anyone who wishes to gather virtually. As storms are expected to move through our area around that time, please be mindful of conditions where you are, keep weather alerts enabled on your phone, and prioritize your safety should warnings be issued during the gathering.

Thank you for your understanding, and stay safe.

Friend to Friend June 10, 2026

Friend to Friend June 10, 2026 — Indianapolis First Friends

Youth Pool Party! Youth grades 6-12 are invited to a summer pool party on Friday, June 19, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Devon Country Club (4646 Millersville Rd., Indianapolis). Come cool off, celebrate summer, and feel free to bring a friend! Attendance is free. Please wear a swimsuit, bring a towel and sunscreen, and consider bringing a favorite snack to share. Drinks will be provided, and the concession stand will be open for purchases. Parents are welcome to stay or drop off their teens. Please RSVP to Chrissy or the office at [email protected] by Wednesday, June 17.

IPJC Program: The Underground Railroad in Indiana: Join the Indianapolis Peace and Justice Center here at First Friends on Tuesday, July 14 at 7:00pm for a presentation exploring the history of the Underground Railroad in Indiana. The program, presented by our own Jeff and Alicia Rasley, will explore the history of the Underground Railroad in Indiana, including its development and routes, and how enslaved people fleeing to freedom traveled through the state—either continuing on to Canada or settling in Indiana before the Civil War. It will highlight the conductors and communities who made these journeys possible, with special attention to the roles of Quakers, formerly enslaved individuals, and abolitionists. This promises to be an engaging opportunity to learn more about an important chapter of Indiana and Quaker history.

Friends Education Fund (FEF) Sunday: We hope you will join us on Sunday, June 14, to worship with and honor our Friends Educational Fund scholars. Chris Lindley, Pastor of Blue River Friends Church will give the message that day and provide more information about the history of FEF, a Quaker college scholarship program for Indiana’s African American students. There will be a reception following Meeting for Worship with refreshments and time for you to greet and congratulate these aspiring young Hoosiers. This year, we were able to award 69 scholarships, and we expect a large turnout. Our tradition of providing these scholarships began with a large bequest from John Williams, a formerly enslaved man who bequeathed his assets to the only orphanage in Indiana that cared for African American children, which was founded by First Friends Meeting. When the orphanage was closed many years later, the assets were used to start the Friends Educational Fund because of Williams’ intent to fund the education of African American children. Please join us to hear the entire fascinating story of John Williams and to honor this year’s scholars.

This coming Sunday, June 7 after Meeting for Worship we will be selling chocolates, coffee and olive oil. Proceeds will support our youth programming. These are wonderful treats to enjoy or gifts for loved ones. If you’d like to buy some, be sure to bring your pocketbook!

Save the Date for Sitting Saturday! Our next Sitting Saturday is Saturday June 13th, 4:30-7:30 pm, hosted by Christina N and Violet T. This is a free event for kids ages 3 thru 5th grade. We hope your kids can join us for an evening of fun. It’s a great opportunity for parents to drop off their kids, and for the kids to have a fun night! Questions? Reach out to Chrissy Sommer. Or RSVP online!

First Friends Sitting Saturday Sign-Up Summer is almost officially here. Let's celebrate by giving the parents a few kid free hours. Mark your calendars for our next Sitting Saturday. This is a free event. Please sign up using this form to streamline details for our volunteers. Christina Nelson is hosting a fun night of outdoor play, gam...