
Join other poetry lovers to hear poems about Mary, spend some time reflecting and writing on the themes of advent and Mary with writing prompts. Throughout the evening we will move between hearing poetry, writing, and sharing your reflections (if you want) , along with cider, wine and snacks.
All ages are welcome, but/and it is a contemplative event, not planned for people who need to be active and talkative. You can figure out if that makes this event appropriate for you/your children.
(Image by Jen Norton)

Here is your holiday book! In Prayer for Owen Meany, novelist John Irving writes a hilarious and poignant tale that includes plenty of interesting comments about faith, and a Christmas Pageant scene that will have you laughing out loud. This book is irreverent in its reverence, which is of course why I like it. But it may not be for everyone. This book came out in the ’80’s so it should be available at every library and used book store (and of course, Moon Palace Books) Here, I’ll get you started with the first line of the book:
“I am doomed to remember a boy with a wrecked voice – not because of his voice, or because he was the smallest person I ever knew, or even because he was the instrument of my mother’s death, but because he is the reason I believe in God; I am a Christian because of Owen Meany.” -John Irving, A Prayer for Owen Meany
There will be two nights of discussion: December 17 and January 7, both upstairs at Moon Palace Books at 7:30. Grab a drink or food downstairs and then find us at the tables.

The Women’s Group’s first volunteer project is to participate in Happy Hour Squared-otherwise known as Happy Hour with a purpose. Enjoy a drink, share a laugh, and make some sandwiches. The sandwiches made at HH2 are handed off to Mr. Law (The Sandwich Man) immediately at the event and go to feed people who are hungry on the streets that night. Come from 5 to 7 pm (or 5 to 8 if you want to stay for improv games). Contact Shelli for more info! Also, watch this video about the Sandwich Man.

Start out the new year with some time to squeeze out the old year, contemplate what is past and what is to come and how the seasons bring us around again. We will twist, stretch and breathe into the new year with yoga, contemplate the changing calendar with poetry and writing, and recognized the circular rhythm of life and wholeness making mandalas. There will be healthy snacks and beverages to start the year out right.
This event is sponsored by Spirit Garage, (a ministry of Bethlehem Lutheran Church) but is open to all. If you have a yoga mat, bring it. If you have a favorite pen or journal, bring those too. Come alone or with friends and family. All genders welcome. Register by December 29th.
Yoga instructor: Rachel Kurtz
Artist: Maris Gilbert
Poetry and writing: Holly Johnson

Here is your holiday book! In Prayer for Owen Meany, novelist John Irving writes a hilarious and poignant tale that includes plenty of interesting comments about faith, and a Christmas Pageant scene that will have you laughing out loud. This book is irreverent in its reverence, which is of course why I like it. But it may not be for everyone. This book came out in the ’80’s so it should be available at every library and used book store (and of course, Moon Palace Books) Here, I’ll get you started with the first line of the book:
“I am doomed to remember a boy with a wrecked voice – not because of his voice, or because he was the smallest person I ever knew, or even because he was the instrument of my mother’s death, but because he is the reason I believe in God; I am a Christian because of Owen Meany.” -John Irving, A Prayer for Owen Meany
There will be two nights of discussion: December 17 and January 7, both upstairs at Moon Palace Books at 7:30. Grab a drink or food downstairs and then find us at the tables.