Adult Programs and Events
First Church offers a wide variety of programs throughout the year to engage adults. In addition to the ongoing programs listed below, the community takes occasional day trips to local theaters, seminaries, and houses of worship to explore spirituality and faith in the wider community. Pilgrimages to places of religious significance, such as the Celtic island of Iona in Scotland or to the Holy Land, offer participants indelible opportunities for understanding and fellowship beyond the building. Adults also occasionally partner with First Church youth groups on service trips.
The John P. Webster Library, along with First Church’s pastoral staff, sponsors frequent programs for adults. Programs on relationships, Islam, antiracism, climate change, social justice, home improvement, and gardening are just a few of the topics we have explored in recent years. To stay up-to-date on adult faith formation classes and events at the JPWL, please contact Jennifer deSimas, Library Director, at jpwebsterdir@whfirstchurch.org.
Ongoing Programs
Awakening the Spirit Book Group
Mondays from September to May, 12 – 1:30 pm
Discussions are centered on interfaith dialogue, ethics, theology, biblical scholarship, and spirituality. Bring a bag lunch; beverages and desserts are provided. Copies of the books are available in the library and new members are always welcome. For more information contact Jennifer deSimas at jpwebsterdir@whfirstchurch.org or 860-232-3893.
Crofut Café
First Sundays from 8:30 – 9:30 am
Named in honor of the JPWL benefactor, Florence Siddette Marcy Crofut, whose lively, generous spirit lives on through our events and programs, the Crofut Café takes place on the first Sunday of each month and features hot & hearty dishes as well as fruit, coffee, and breakfast breads, including gluten-free and vegetarian options – plus, activities for kids. All are truly welcome!
Food for Thought Book Group
First Thursday of each month from October to June, 5:30 – 7 pm
This group reads autobiography/biography, literary fiction, sociology, historical fiction, and more through the lens of faith and spirituality. For current reading selections, please check the John P. Webster Library programs page. Copies of the books are available in the library and new members are always welcome. Please bring your own dinner; refreshments and desserts are served. For more information contact Jennifer deSimas at jpwebsterdir@whfirstchurch.org or 860-232-3893.
Lunch & Learn author visits, seminars, and workshops
Sundays after worship, 11:30 am – 1 pm
Monthly or bi-monthly lectures, workshops, author visits, and more. Visiting speakers discuss topics ranging from elder care to bee-keeping to photography to hygge and beyond.
Men’s Fellowship
Third Tuesday of each month from September to June, 9 – 11 am
Men’s Fellowship provides an opportunity for men of all ages, employment statuses, and backgrounds to share their stories in confidence in a place of faith and mutual support. Coffee and tea are available, and often members bring a dish or baked good for everyone to share. There is time for personal sharing; often there are speakers on various topics and current issues, and occasionally there is a book discussion. Members and non-members of First Church as well as interested visitors are encouraged to attend. For information contact Joseph Tobin at 860-916-1923 or jmtobin@gmail.com. Whoever you are, and wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome to join us.
Yoga Classes
7-week sessions throughout the year
Meets Tuesdays 7 – 8:15 pm, Wednesdays 9:15-10:30 am, or Thursdays 9:15 – 10:30 am
Join one class or all three. For more information contact the church office.
Take a break from the stress of life and connect with your body, mind, and spirit. Through yoga postures, breathing, and meditation techniques, quiet your mind and learn to hear the quiet voice of the spirit, while strengthening your body. This Kripalu yoga class is taught by Nancy Murray, RYT, and is appropriate for students of all levels, including beginners.