St. Peter's United Church of Christ

Here are some of the activities women at St. Peter’s enjoy. Of course, many of our retreats, book studies and outings are for everyone (men, women, families, old and young). We just thought we’d highlight some activities that have proved popular with women:

Women and the Word  During the school year, this group meets every Thursday morning from 9:30 – 11:30 in the parlor (the room with couches at the front of the church).

They often study a book or review a DVD series (e.g. –  Same Kinds of Different as Me, Take This Bread, Jesus Freak, An Altar in the World, The Irresistible Revolution, Living the Questions, and Servant or Sucker). Discussions can be lively, poignant, and hilarious. 

Women and the Word is much more than a book study, however. Meeting for two hours every week has brought the group close. Members often share the joys and challenges of their lives, and receive support from the group. But don’t think it’s closed to newcomers – drop in whenever you can! 

Craft and Chat  Craft and Chat is an evening to bring your craft supplies to St. Peter’s and join other members to enjoy 3 hours of uninterrupted time to work on a project. The Hospitality Team provides some light snacks and drinks for the evening. If you’re not “crafty” but would like to learn how to bead, there’s usually an expert in attendance to teach you how. You can learn how to make a bracelet and/or earrings for just the cost of supplies! For any questions about Craft & Chat Night please contact the Hospitality Team. 

Health and Fitness 

Yoga  On Monday evenings, St. Peter’s hosts gentle yoga. This all-levels class develops strength and flexibility, and reduces stress. A gentle group warm-up is followed by basic yoga postures for every body, and ends with deep relaxation. This pay-as-you-go class is designed for all ages and abilities. Join us Monday evenings, 5:30-6:45, in Fellowship Hall.

Walking Groups  From time-to-time, St. Peter’s hosts group walking activities. We’ve enjoyed “Walk to School” (where we walked to a nearby elementary school after Sunday Services) and a “Dog Walk.” We’ve also distributed pedometers to members to promote walking 10,000 steps per day. Walking is a lot more fun when you’re laughing and talking with friends!

Health & Wholeness Ministry  With our health and wellness being such a big concern in our busy lives, St. Peter’s has created a ministry focus in this area. Health & Wholeness will focus on things like nutrition, exercise, alternative therapies, healing, and the general wellness of our congregation. Within this ministry you may see such things as fitness events, exercise classes, alternative therapy speakers, healthy cooking classes, and so much more. The possibilities are endless within the goal of Health and Wholeness for our St. Peter’s community. 

Mother’s Time Out  For parents of two-year-olds, the Mother’s Time Out program provides an opportunity for parent free-time as well as a warm and caring environment for their little ones. For many children, it’s their first experience away from home, and our goal is to create a positive and happy experience. Children have an opportunity to learn skills such as cooperation and sharing, and to have their curiosity stimulated by the many activities a loving, caring staff has planned for them.

Compassion Circle  Compassion Circle is a small group of men and women committed to being centered individuals who spread compassion in our world. They meet weekly on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. in the parlor, and enjoy breakfast and conversation. Their discussions focus on the challenges they face, methods used to find peace, and the opportunities to increase kindness and compassion in their lives and the lives of others. They close their sessions with prayer and meditation. If you’re looking for a group where you can be known and supported, please join us! For more information, contact the Spiritual Life Team.

Women’s Retreats  From time to time, the women of St. Peter’s have organized and benefitted from retreats covering a range of topics centered on spiritual and emotional growth. Occasionally a full weekend – but more often a few hours – these retreats have focused on meditation practices, embracing your “shadow,” and grief. One annual favorite is the Winter Solstice Retreat, 2 hours of peaceful reflection, contemplation and quiet fellowship in the midst of the hectic holiday season.

Dine with Nine  Dine with Nine has long been a tradition of our congregation. Typically, groups of nine people have been coordinated to share meals and/or an activity together, usually once a month for six months. This provides a unique way to meet new people, reconnect with old friends, and share in fellowship with other St. Peter’s friends.

Special Workshops  Throughout the year, our pastors and/or outside speakers hold special workshops on issues important to members. Recent sessions: When your Parent Needs You and Discovering God’s Vision for Your Life.

Peace Garden  We had land. We had gardeners. So a couple of years ago, some enthusiastic members created our very first “Peace Garden” right in the front yard of the church. It’s a wonderful way to participate in creation, by preparing the soil, planting seeds, pulling weeds and harvesting lots of cucumbers, pumpkins, corn, squash and green beans. Most of the bounty is donated to Gleaners Food Bank in Indianapolis.

Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN)  Four times a year (rotating with other area congregations), St. Peter’s hosts a group of families facing homelessness. Our goal is to keep families together during this challenging time (often, families are forced to split up). During weeks that we host families, about fifty St. Peter’s folk volunteer for a variety of service tasks: setting up bedrooms, preparing breakfast and dinner, driving to and from the day center, coordinating activities for the children, staying overnight as a host to the families, and laundering the bedding at the end of the week. IHN is a great ministry opportunity for all ages! For more information, contact the Missions Team.