Shadows and Light
Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes • April 1, 2024
The Solar Eclipse
As natural phenomena, total solar eclipses have captivated humanity for centuries, provoking awe, fear, and wonder. The spectacle of the moon blocking the sun's light inspired myths among cultures all over the world as various peoples attempted to explain what they saw. On April 8, we found ourselves in the path of the last total solar eclipse we will see in the continental U.S. until 2045. As we witness the rare event of the moon passing in front of the sun, casting a shadow over the earth, we may ponder the grandeur and beauty of the universe. But beyond the visual experience, does the eclipse hold a deeper spiritual significance that can illuminate our hearts and minds? This Sunday, we celebrated the historic eclipse of April 8, 2024.
Dear Friends, Please read these two important announcements: First: We’re excited to share that The Garden has now officially moved into our new home at 7171 North Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240. This is a joyful new chapter for our community, and we’re so grateful for the ways you’ve helped us grow into it. If you give to The Garden through your bank, IRA, or BillPay service, please take a moment to update our new address with your financial institution so your gifts continue to reach us smoothly. Second: We hope you will be with us for our Annual All‑Church Meeting on Sunday, October 5, immediately following the 9 a.m. service at the church. As a United Methodist congregation, this is one of those “official business” gatherings we hold each year. It’s short and simple—we’ll share financial updates, answer questions, and take care of the necessary business of being a church family. Even in our untraditional way of doing things, this meeting is a reminder that we’re in this together—tending The Garden with love, transparency, and care. With gratitude and joy, Carolyn and The Garden Leadership Team P.S. Please reply to this email if you have any questions we can answer!
Your Voice Matters
Twenty‑five years ago, sociologist Robert Putnam released his groundbreaking book Bowling Alone, in which he shed light on a troubling cultural shift from a society knit together by shared experiences to one increasingly dominated by individualism. In the decades since, isolating walls have grown taller, separating neighbors, friends, and often families. This Sunday at The Garden, we invite you to step into an informative exploration of how our faith may help us dismantle those walls and return to the heart of community. Together, we can engage with the incredible power of unity and how it nurtures love, encourages us, and draws us closer to Divine Spirit and to each other. As you may know, we chose the name "Together to Gather" as a nod to the strength and beauty of gathering with intention, with purpose. People joining together maintain their individuality while simultaneously creating something new and stronger than the sum of its parts: community. Let's explore what it means to belong deeply within a chosen family like The Garden. We’ll celebrate the joy of living in harmony, not as isolated individuals, but as a vibrant, interwoven community of faith and our shared desire to bring more love to the world. Come ready to be inspired, challenged, and renewed. We'll hear a couple of scripture passages and stories, reflect, and consider why gathering matters. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your connections, embrace the beauty of fellowship, and step boldly into the life God calls us to live—together.
Building Access, Building Belonging
World Peace Day
When was the last time you set off on a treasure hunt?
Choosing Light When the World Feels Heavy
The Garden Moves to Its New Home
Explore how everyday choices shape your inner flame and life force. Richard Brendan reflects on spiritual wisdom, emotional vitality, and conscious decision-making—featuring insights from Debbie Ford and Bradford Keeney, Ph.D.
On the Bridge Between
