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: Soul Conversations

Sunday, Oct. 18 • 11:30-1 • Hybrid Event

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.

In-person attendance is full, but you may register below to attend via Zoom. The link to join will be sent a few days before the event.

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

LUNCH & LEARN Book Talk: Quarter-Acre of Heartache of Heartache

Sunday, Nov. 15 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm • Hybrid Event

We will be joined via Zoom by Clan Mother Shoran Waupatukuay. Quarter-Acre of Heartache recounts the Golden Hill Paugussetts’ 1976 legal battle to preserve their reservation, led by Chief Big Eagle and supported by civil rights lawyer William Kunstler and leaders of the American Indian Movement.

Join the discussion! A light lunch will be served. If you choose to attend remotely, you’ll receive a Zoom link upon signing up. Books may be ordered through West Hartford’s River Bend Bookshop HERE

The JPW Library also has a limited supply of copies to lend.

Please Register to attend CLICK HERE

“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.

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!