Programs

Programs at the

John P. Webster Library!*

events are FREE unless otherwise mentioned. We ask that you register to secure a spot!

The John P. Webster Library (JPWL), along with First Church’s pastoral staff, sponsors frequent programs for adults. Programs on mental wellness, Islam, memoir-writing, antiracism, climate change, social justice, home improvement, and gardening are just a few of the topics we have explored in recent years. Some programs are offered in person in our beautiful facility, and others have a Zoom option.

To stay up-to-date on adult faith formation classes and programs at the JPWL, please contact Jennifer deSimas, Library Director, at jpwebsterdir@westhartfordfirstchurch.org.

Click here for Adult Faith Formation info. which includes book groups, bible study, exercise classes and more! You may read our nearly-weekly newsletter here.

*Some Co-Sponsored events are in different rooms, or off site

LUNCH & LEARN: ReCONNECT

Sunday, Oct. 4 • 11:30-1

JPW Library

Listen as authors Michael Shelby and Paul Tieger explain how to protect kids from anxiety and depression caused by digital addiction in this program designed for parents, educators, and mental health professionals. Personality Type expert Paul Tieger and Michael Shelby, LPC, have combined their extensive experience to create a tool “RECONNECT: A personalized plan to protect your child from anxiety and depression fueled by digital addiction” that allows parents to better understand the harmful effects of their child’s digital addiction while providing individualized strategies to help protect their child’s mental health.

Childcare provided. A light lunch will be served.

Sign up here for free, or see Molly or Jennifer in the library

“Not THAT Kind of Christian”

Interfaith Gatherings Explore Christian Nationalism

This fall, the JPWL is partnering with First Universalist Church, the Unitarian-Universalist Society East, and Temple Sinai to explore the troubling issue of Christian Nationalism—its history, its influence, and its implications for our faith and our democracy. We’re planning two free events:

“Bad Faith” (TV-MA; 89 minutes)

Sunday, October 18, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Documentary Screening

Temple Sinai, 41 West Hartford Rd., Newington

“Bad Faith” examines how Christian nationalism has moved from the political fringes into mainstream American life, influencing debates about democracy, religion, education, and civil rights. The film traces the movement’s development over several decades and explores why it has become such a significant force in American politics today.

We hope you’ll join us for these opportunities to learn, reflect, and engage in meaningful conversation about the intersection of faith, justice, and our common life. See Cathy Mieczkowski or Jennifer deSimas with questions.

LUNCH & LEARN: Soul Conversations

Sunday, Oct. 18 • 11:30-1

JPW Library

In the midst of busy schedules, constant noise, and the ache for something deeper, Soul Conversations offers an invitation to pause and listen for the sacred voice within. Spiritual director Susan Izard shares her lifelong journey of learning to recognize, trust, and befriend her soul. Soul Conversations: A Pilgrimage of the Heart is both a spiritual memoir and a gentle companion for anyone longing to live with more presence, trust, and connection to the sacred within. We look forward to seeing you for this free event.

Childcare provided. A light lunch will be served.

Sign up here for free, or see Molly or Jennifer in the library

Located beneath the First Church Meeting House, the JPWL is the go-to place for books and media related to sermons, Sunday School, social justice issues, and so much more!