When I Was Hungry

Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes • April 22, 2025

Let's be the change we want to see

On Sunday, we will once again welcome our friends from Bread for the World to The Garden. Over the years, we have partnered with Bread for the World to help combat hunger and provide hope and nourishment to people in need. As an advocacy organization, Bread for the World passionately works to push decision-makers to take action and help create a world where no one goes hungry. Their mission is rooted in educating and equipping individuals to advocate for impactful policies and programs that address hunger here in the U.S. and globally. There is enough for everyone if we collectively make this a priority!


This weekend during our service, we invite you to be part of this meaningful cause. You will have the chance to lend your voice to those who may feel unheard and advocate for change that uplifts the lives of the hungry. Throughout scripture, Jesus calls on us to be His hands and feet, to share compassion, and to respond to the needs around us. Will we answer this calling and embody love through action? Together, we can make a difference. Join us this Sunday for “When I was Hungry,” and let’s be the change we want to see in the world. We look forward to seeing you there!

ORDER OF SERVICE
SONG: "Another Day in Paradise" | Written by Phil Collins Doran Nash
Welcome & Announcements Betty Brandt
Intro to the service Betty Brandt
Words of Welcome & Centering Betty Brandt
Prayer & Harvest Basket Corey Howard
SONG: "One Moment in Time" | Written by Albert Hammon & John Bettis Debra Mullins
Message Mark Lynch
SONG: "Is This the World We Created?" | Written by Freddie Mercury & Brian May Kimberly Morgan
Interview & Intro to Letter Writing Mike Ransom & Bailey Schwartz
Letter Writing Mike Ransom
SONG: "Heal the World" | Written by Michael Jackson Caroline Smith
Closing Mike Ransom
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The Garden welcomes Josh Riddick for a message on justice, faith, and how Jesus’ desert journey offers courage and clarity for our moment.
By Rev. Richard Brendan February 9, 2026
To Be Known, Chosen, and Loved
February 3, 2026
A powerful call to action from a local vigil: “Never Again” is now. Stand up for dignity, justice, and immigrant rights in Indianapolis.
February 2, 2026
With The Universal Christ , Richard Rohr presents a vision of Christ not as a figure confined to Jesus alone or to Christianity, but as the eternal, cosmic presence of God permeating all creation from the beginning. Rohr distinguishes between Jesus (the historical person) and Christ (the divine reality revealed through Jesus). He argues that Jesus is the “first incarnation,” present in every person, place, and particle of the universe. Drawing on Scripture—especially John 1, Colossians 1, and Paul—along with early Christian mystics and contemporary science, Rohr reframes salvation. Rather than describing it as rescue from a fallen world, he presents salvation as awakening to the divine presence already within and among us. This universal, incarnational vision invites a way of life grounded in compassion, solidarity with suffering, and participation in the healing and transformation of the whole world. Rohr’s approach also offers a theological grounding that aligns with The Garden’s emphasis on finding the sacred in the ordinary and celebrating a universal spiritual nature. Come explore this with us Sunday at The Garden.
By Betty Brandt February 2, 2026
A stirring reflection on the Black National Anthem’s enduring message of hope, unity, and the pursuit of freedom—honoring Black History Month through song and story.
By Betty Brandt January 29, 2026
Reflections on a community celebration honoring Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., with powerful storytelling, music, and recognition of local justice work, hosted by northside Indianapolis Shalom Zone churches.
By Betty Brandt January 29, 2026
A gentle reflection on the spiritual practice of stillness—inviting readers to pause, notice, and embrace the quiet beauty of going nowhere during Lent.
By Betty Brandt January 27, 2026
Learning to Greet the Day With Wonder
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes January 27, 2026
As February 2nd approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on Groundhog Day—a moment filled with anticipation and hope. Just like that furry little creature who predicts the end of winter, we often face our own shadows and uncertainties. Are you tired of the cold and darkness, yearning for the warmth of spring? Maybe you’ve felt stuck in a season that just won’t seem to shift, repeating the same patterns and wondering when change will come. This Sunday, we’ll explore how to step forth in faith amidst life's challenges, seeking light and renewal even when the world feels overwhelming. Come as you are, and let’s lean into transformation together. Don't miss this opportunity to gather in community and discover ways to embrace hope and resilience! See you there!
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes January 20, 2026
In elementary school, we learn the life-saving phrase “stop, drop, and roll.” It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that can literally save lives. This phrase resonates with me when I reflect on Jesus’ call to his first disciples. He calls these fishermen right in the midst of their daily routines to stop everything and embark on a mission that would transform their lives forever. This Sunday, let’s take a moment to pause and consider what could happen if we were to stop, drop our distractions, and enroll in the invitation to live our best lives. Join us as we explore how answering this call can ignite a profound change within us!