Friday Greetings, once again. The redbuds by the common are in full bloom, the elms along the driveway are in bud and birch catkins by the Smith Gym sway with the slightest movement of air … I can hardly stop looking out the windows! May all be well. 

Love to you,

Wendy

IN THE MEETING

AN INVITATION FROM WORSHIP AND MINISTRY

DEEPENING AND STRENGTHENING THE MEETING FOR WORSHIP

Worship and Ministry is working with PYM's Meeting Enrichment  Services to open conversation about who we are as a worshiping community and how we might move together to a deeper and more spiritually grounded Meeting for Worship. This process begins with a survey of members and attenders about their experience of worship in our Meeting. The committee invites all interested members and attenders to join us in our regularly scheduled meeting this Sunday at 9 AM in Friends Free library. Facilitators for Meeting Enrichment Services will be introducing the survey to us.

NO SINGING AFTER AFTER ALL THIS SUNDAY

THE PYM YOUNG FRIENDS URBAN LIFE SKILLS GATHERING HAS NO ONE TO LEAD SINGING AND  NEITHER DO WE.

We will not have a program with our guests, but they will be worshiping with us at 10:30, which should be lovely.

FROM THE OUTREACH COMMITTEE

RE-ESTABLISHING A "COZY CORNER"

The Outreach Committee is interested in re-establishing a "Cozy Corner" in the NW corner of the Committee Room for conversations and informal meetings.  We are looking for the following donations:  sofa, loveseat or settee and one or two chairs.  We would like them to be traditional rather than modern and in a sturdy but delicate, parlor style with solid or small-patterned upholstery rather than in a large, family room style.  Contact the Meeting Office if you have something to contribute. Many thanks.

THERE'S STILL TIME TO SIGN UP FOR THE RETREAT

STOP BY THE SIGN-UP TABLE AFTER MEETING ON SUNDAY 

IS LATIN GREEK TO YOU?

FLORENCE MINI WILL HELP YOU SORT THEM OUT...

Enjoy an hour's Latin or Greek lesson for a $65 donation to the Meeting's General Fund. Contact Florence if you're interested.

THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 1

WORSHIP AND MINISTRY - 9:00 AM IN FRIENDS FREE LIBRARY

See note above.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting: Phyllis and Dick Taylor

Refreshments: Someone, for sure...

Closing: Anne and Peter Javsicas

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups

FINAL SESSION OF MINDFULNESS MEDITATION WORKSHOP - 3:30 to 5:00 PM

NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 8

THERE WILL BE NO MEETING FOR BUSINESS IN APRIL

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Nicole Juday and Matt Cadwallader

Closing: Leila and Hal Sawyer

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children of all ages will gather together for an Easter egg hunt.

IN THE WIDER QUAKER COMMUNITY

THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 1, HAVERFORD FRIENDS MEETING AT NOON

PETER G. BROWN WILL SPEAK ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS AND RETHINKG THE HUMAN-EARTH RELATIONSHIP

Peter is a highly respected Quaker scholar and advocate for ecologically sound alternative economic systems. Peter is the 2012 Friend in Residence at Haverford College, a program that brings gifted and experienced Quakers to the campus for extended interactions with the local community. 

Peter is a professor in the School of Environment, the Department of Geography, and the Department of Natural Resource Sciences at McGill University. Before coming to McGill, he was Professor of Public Policy at the University of Maryland and founded the Institute for Philosophy and Public Policy, the School of Public Policy itself, and established the School's Environmental Policy Programs.  Peter is a graduate of Haverford College (1961), holds a Master's Degree in the Philosophy of Religion from Union Theological Seminary and Columbia University, and a Ph.D. from Columbia in Philosophy. He is the author of Restoring the Public Trust: A Fresh Vision for Progressive Government in America (Beacon Press, 1994), and The Commonwealth of Life: Economics for a Flourishing Earth, Second Edition (Black Rose Books, 2008).   Peter co-authored Right Relationship: Building a Whole Earth Economy (Berrett-Koehler, 2009), and operates tree farms in Maryland and Quebec where he is a Certified Quebec Forest Producer.  Peter is a member of the Religious Society of Friends.

Peter will be worshiping with Friends at Haverford Friends Meeting from 10:30 - 11:30, and refreshments will be offered from 11:30 - 12pm.  Peter Brown will offer informal remarks and open a space for discussion from 12pm - 1pm.  The meeting is located at 855 Buck Lane, Haverford PA 19041.  All Friends in the area are warmly welcome.  

NEXT SATURDAY, APRIL 7

QUAKER SWEAT LODGE AT SNIPES FARM

A sweat lodge is an ancient Native-American practice of spiritual and physical cleansing and reunification with Mother Earth.  During a sweat lodge, rocks are heated up in a fire and then brought into the center of a small structure. Participants go into the structure (the lodge) and sit around the rocks. Water is then poured over the rocks and the lodge fills with steam. People sit in the lodge, surrounded by steam, and connect with the Creator.  George Price, a lifelong Philadelphia-area Quaker, has been leading sweat lodges for over 20 years. George was trained by Native Peoples of the Lakota and Cherokee traditions.  He blends native practices with elements of Quakerism and calls his sweats, "Quaker sweats". Our member, Carl Sigmond, has been doing sweats with George since 2006, and he feels they have helped him become a more spiritual person.  He always feel so connected with God/Spirit when he am in the lodge, and that feeling stays with him for days afterward.  

This is a public sweat, and all are welcome.  Snipes Farm is in Morrisville, PA, roughly 45 minutes from Germantown by car.  More information can be found on the Quaker Sweat Lodge Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/groups/137846592905331/  Interested Friends can also email Carl at carlsigmond@gmail.com with questions or George Price at stonelodge@gmail.com to RSVP.  

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Friday greetings to you, Friends. I am sorry to say that this Saturday night DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME begins; we must set our clocks an hour ahead and lose an hour's sleep. Alas...

May all be well. Love to you,  Wendy

IN THE MEETING

FROM WORSHIP AND MINISTRY (more from Four Doors to Meeting for Worship)

The First Door: The Door Before

The first of these doors is the Door Before, or those moments when we find ourselves in a worshipful state of mind at any time during the week, either day or night...It is no accident that most traditional Quaker communities found it important to meet for worship in the middle of the week as well as on Sunday, and that some still do so. It is also not accident that daily 'retirement' (a time of reading of the Bible and inspirational writings, personal prayer, reflection and worship) has been frequently recommended throughout Quaker history...A person who has already experienced times of spiritual nourishment during the week will require less time to let go of the rhythms and preoccupations of normal life and can therefore enter more quickly and easily into full attention to the living Presence, to the Stream which is always here.

(William Tabor, Four Doors to Meeting for Worship, Pendle Hill Pamphlet 306, 1992, p.6) 

This pamphlet is available in the Meeting library, right by the Meeting office.

PLEASE REGISTER FOR THE MEETING RETREAT, COMING UP APRIL 13 - 15

THOUGH THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE ISN'T TILL APRIL, THE SOONER WE HAVE AN IDEA OF WHO'S COMING, THE BETTER WE CAN PLAN. A Registration form is attached.

Questions? Contact the Meeting office or David Mettler >damettler@aol.com>

FROM PEACE AND SOCIAL CONCERNS

AN INTERFAITH CONFERENCE, "ISRAEL, PALESTINE AND THE USA - WHAT CAN/SHOULD I DO ABOUT IT?" Sunday, March 25, from 1pm to 5pm at the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, 8000 St. Martin's Lane in Chestnut Hill.

Co-sponsored by Christian-Jewish Allies and St. Martins, there will be speakers and other resource people with direct experience from visits and work in the West Bank.  The program is designed to serve both newcomers to the topic and those who are already familiar with the issues; each participant will receive a copy of the 48-page study guide and 120-minute documentary DVD "Steadfast Hope".

Registration is $15 prior to March 20 or $20 at the door.  For more information visit www.stmartinec.org or call Charlie Day at 215-438-7479. INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION ATTACHED.

FROM THE RACIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE (RJC)

THE RACIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE AND GERMANTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL ARE CO-SPONSORING A TALK BY CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER, JULIAN BOND. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_Bond

Save the Date: APRIL 26, 7:30 IN THE LOEB AUDITORIUM

THIS SUNDAY, MARCH 11

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS: SET YOUR CLOCKS AHEAD ONE HOUR

MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS - 9:00 AM

The agenda is attached.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Ed Marshall and Joanna Bassert

Closing: Helen and Chris Nicholson

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION WORKSHOP - 3:30 to 5:00 PM

NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 18

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

We will resume our discussion of "The Warmth of Other Suns" by Isabel Wilkerson.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting: Elissa Berardi and Bruce Bekker

Refreshments: Helen Mangelsdorf and Roman Tybinko

Closing: Caleb Schodt

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups

CLIMATE CHANGE WORKING GROUP - NOON

All are welcome.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION WORKSHOP - 3:30 to 5:00 PM

IN THE WIDER QUAKER COMMUNITY

"EVOLUTIONARY SPIRTUALITY", SATURDAY, APRIL 7 AT 7:30 PM AT GREEN STREET MEETING

A presentation by Richard Siebels.

Albert Einstein said "Science without religion is lame; Religion without science is blind." Evolutionary Spirituality might be described as a spirituality that embraces current scientific knowledge regarding evolution, beginning with the “Big Bang,” and combines it with the insights of the great mystics. This way of looking at things can provide a context in which we are an integral part of an unfolding mystery, much as the epic myths have done in the past. The presentation will include one or two short videos and a time for discussion. It will run for about an hour and a half. (Sponsored by the Worship & Ministry Committee.)

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Greetings from the Meeting Office, where all is well. May all be well everywhere...love to you, Wendy

IN THE MEETING

FROM WORSHIP AND MINISTRY - TWO STANZAS FROM JOHN GREENLEAF WHITTIER'S "THE BREWING OF SOMA"

(Which is the source for the hymn "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind") These stanzas are in reference to silent worship.

Drop Thy still dews of quietness,

Till all our strivings cease;

Take from our souls the strain and stress,

And let our ordered lives confess

The beauty of thy peace.

Breathe through the heats of our desire

Thy coolness and Thy balm; 

Let sense be dumb, let flesh retire;

Speak through the earthquake, wind, and fire,

O still, small voice of calm!

SUPPORT FOR A FRIEND FOLLOWING A LEADING

Meeting member Zoe Samuel is in her second year teaching 6th grade English in Charlotte, NC, for Teach for America.  None of Zoe's students can afford to buy books, and the district can only afford to buy a single classroom set, so the kids have to do all their reading in class, leaving precious little time for the kind of discussion which might help them learn to read critically and thoughtfully.  Zoe's trying to raise money to buy enough copies of the final novel of the year that every child can have his or her own copy to read at home.  If you'd like to help Zoe get books for her students, please go to Donors Choose: <http://www.donorschoose.org/ms.case?utm_source=dc&utm_campaign=facebook&utm_medium=tp&utm_content=teachergotdonation>

BOOKS STILL LOOKING FOR HOMES - on display in the committee room

Feel free to browse and help yourself. These books are from friends who have downsized their libraries.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST MARCH 4  - 9 AM in the social room. All invited. Bring a friend. RSVP to the Meeting office.

This is the weekend of the GFS Craft Show, which benefits GFS scholarships. We have invited the school community and the artists to join us. It would be a great time to bring a friend to meet the Meeting....

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION - SUNDAYS MARCH 4 - APRIL 1

$140 for five sessions. All proceeds benefit the Meeting. Deborah Cooper is leading. Registration forms available at Meeting or I can email you one.

MEETING RETREAT - APRIL 13 - 15.

Registration forms are available at Meeting or I can email you one.

A NOTE FROM THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE

As was announced at GMM business meeting on December 11, Dick Wade has told the School Committee of his plan to retire as Head of Germantown Friends School at the end of the 2012-2013 school year.  School Committee officers have appointed a Search Committee to undertake the responsibilities of recommending a new leader for the school to the School Committee.  Its members are Pat Rose, clerk, Andrew Williams, David Feldman, David West, Rita Goldman and Anne Gerbner and GMM members Joan Countryman, Parvin Sharpless, Anne Stassen, Sam Rhoads, Megan Hess and Ellie Elkinton.   The committee is interested in hearing from GMM members suggestions of possible candidates, or comments on qualities of leadership that are required.  These may be sent to Pat Rose at prose@upenn.edu, or to Parvin Sharpless at jtsfps@verizon.net.

THIS SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

This is the 70th anniversary of the President Franklin D. Roosevelt 's Executive Order 9066, which authorized relocation and internment by the United States government in 1942 of approximately 110,000 Japanese Americans and Japanese who lived along the Pacific coast of the United States to camps called "War Relocation Camps," (From Wikipedia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_American_internment>). Adult Class is fortunate to have three presenters who have been directly touched by the internment: our own Ed Nakawatase and Teresa Maebori and Miiko Horikawa, of the Japanese American Citizens League.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Jim Hart and Bobbie Horowitz

Closing: Melissa Elliott

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups

CLIMATE CHANGE WORKING GROUP MEETING - NOON in the Meetinghouse

RETREAT PLANNIG MEETING - NOON in another corner of the Meetinghouse

We will be meeting with Elizabeth Piersol-Schmidt from PYM, who is going to design and run children's program at the retreat. Interested parents are invited to attend.

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26

WORSHIP AND MINISTRY - 9:00 AM

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Ruth and Bob Seeley

Closing: Gail Woodbury

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups

GMM IN THE WIDER QUAKER COMMUNITY

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26, PHILADELPHIA QUARTERLY MEETING, 1 - 2:30 PM AT 4TH & ARCH

JOURNEY TO RACIAL JUSTICE

The Racial Justice Committee (RJC) of the Germantown Monthly Meeting asks the Philadelphia Quarter to join and expand a continuing commitment to foster racial justice among Friends and the broader communities of which we are part.  The presentation will begin with a sharing by the Germantown Meeting of its current engagement with the ongoing imperatives of racial justice.  Another part of the presentation will be learning from other meetings in the Quarter of their engagements and efforts on these issues. From that sharing we seek to continue dialogue and to initiate possible activities within the Quarter that can address these concerns in a timely way.  As only one such action, we ask for support, at least in principle, for support of Germantown’s Declaration on Racial Justice.  

This will be a potluck/brown bag affair and childcare will be provided. For more information contact Ed Nakawatase, clerk of the Racial Justice Committee, at (215) 848-1715 or mailto: <jeanmas302@comcast.net> 

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 4 PM AT 1717 ARCH STREET

RALLY TO HALT PRISON GROWTH - BROUGHT TO OUR ATTENTION BY OUR RACIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE

In support of Occupy Oakland’s call for a “National Occupy Day in Support of Prisoners” join Decarcerate PA for a rally to protest prison expansion in Pennsylvania.  Right now, PA is spending $685 million dollar to build three new state prisons and expand 9 others. These prison expansions come at a time when budgets for education and human resources are being slashed left and right. These cuts will continue to devastate already struggling communities throughout Philadelphia. For more information, go to <http://decarceratepa.info/>

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 7 - 9:30 PM IN YARNALL AUDITORIUM AT GFS

GERMANTOWN UNITED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (CDC) PRESENTS:

A panel of experts on best practices for operating a successful Community Development Corporation (CDC). After the demise of Germantown Settlement, it’s time for a new beginning! For more information and to RSVP, please go to <http://www.germantownunitedcdc.org/wp/portfolio/events/>

SATURDAY, MARCH 3

"THE GOOD RAISED UP'  – A collaboration of Commonwealth Youthchoirs and The Johnson House Historic Site, presented by PNC Arts Alive. The Johnson House is the only accessible intact stop on the Underground Railroad and was home to generations of Quaker abolitionists. Commonwealth Youthchoirs has commissioned two acclaimed Philadelphia artists to create an original work of "sung story" recounting a fateful night when a community came together to conceal escaped slaves from a search party seeking to return "fugitives" to slavery at the Johnson House. The premise of this event is to further educate and celebrate both local and global history, right in the Germantown community. In addition to this music performance (that will take place inside the Johnson House) we will also host a street festival to help bring the community together as well as provide education on other related aspects of this time in history. The event will take place on the afternoon of March 3, 2012. Please see http://www.thegoodraisedup.org for more information and to RSVP.

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Dear Friends,

May all be well...

IN THE MEETING

FROM WORSHIP AND MINISTRY - TESTIMONIES

Friends have always held dear the belief that the Light would bring them into unity. Their pattern of worship is contemplative yet corporate, blossoming into experiences of deep communion and community. Similarly, Quakers have expected the Light of Christ to lead them in the same direction and toward the same goals. Because revelation is continuing, new leadings will come, but because the Spirit is consistent, certain principles will prevail. Friends have called these principles 'testimonies' because they witness to the wider world of the power of God to transform individuals and human society. (Michael L. Birkel, Silence and Witness - The Quaker Tradition, Orbis Books, Maryknoll, NY, 2004, p. 104)

NEW TO THE WORLD

Juliana Carmen Wilcox Gonzalez, born January 24, 2012 to our member Yolanda Wilcox Gonzalez and her spouse, Emily Wilcox Gonzalez. Juliana is at home with her parents and big brother Noah, in Roslindale, MA.

Gershom Brian Battis, born January 29, 2012 to our former member Seth Battis and his spouse Jordan Schuster Battis. They live in Lake Forest, IL. Gershom is the grandson of our member Florence Battis Mini and the late David Battis.

FRIENDS OUT AND ABOUT

Jeanne Angell has a photography exhibit at Pendle Hill. Friends are most welcome to come to a reception at Pendle Hill this Sunday afternoon from 2 - 4:30 PM. 

Here's a link to the exhibit http://www.pendlehill.org/events/706-jeanne-angell-photography-and-digital-art

 

BOOKS FOR THE TAKING

The Meeting has been given a lot of books that you might like to have in your own libraries. There will be several tables of them free for the taking this Sunday. If you can come a little early-before Monthly Meeting-to help put them out, that would be great. Thanks.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Sign up for this five-week introductory coarse, led by Deborah Cooper. It's on Sunday afternoons, from March 4 - April 1. A registration form is attached.

THE RETREAT - DEEPENING AND STRENGTHENING OUR MEETING COMMUNITY

Just a reminder that it's scheduled for April 13 - 15 at Camp Swatara. We'll have home made food, childcare and children's programs that parents don't need to plan themselves, a program for adults, led by Peter Yeomans' father, Thomas Yeomans on "The Practice of Presence." And plenty of time for singing, hiking, playing games--just being together. An information and registration form is attached.

THIS SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12

MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS - 9:00 AM

We will begin with Query 10, instead of Query 9. The change is reflected in the attached agenda.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Anne and Peter Javsicas

Closing: Anthony and Iwona Stover

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children of all ages will gather to make valentines for our older Meeting members and people who.

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

February 19th is the 70th anniversary of the President Franklin D. Roosevelt 's Executive Order 9066, which authorized relocation and internment by the United States government in 1942 of approximately 110,000 Japanese Americans and Japanese who lived along the Pacific coast of the United States to camps called "War Relocation Camps," (From Wikipedia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_American_internment>). Adult Class is fortunate to have three presenters who have been directly touched by the internment: our own Ed Nakawatase and Teresa Maebori and Miiko Horikawa, of the Japanese American Citizens League.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Jim Hart and Bobbie Horowitz

Closing: Melissa Elliott

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups

IN THE WIDER QUAKER COMMUNITY (WHICH INCLUDES US)

TOMORROW, FEBRUARY 11, CALLED SESSION OF PYM AT 4TH AND ARCH

Clerk Thomas Swain has announced a Called Session of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting on Saturday, Feb. 11 to consider our yearly meeting programs and concerns.  Our current financial situation and efforts to better align our expenses with our income in support of Quaker faith and practice will be presented and considered.  Loving, spiritually grounded discernment by members is important to this work.  Please join us for worship and discernment on February 11th. 

We will consider the yearly meeting’s budget in the context of being in right relationship with each other and with the commonwealth of life and divine guidance.  A relationship is right when it cares for the integrity, the resilience and the beauty of all involved. 

Gathering begins at 9:00 am; the Meeting begins at 9:30 am.  Junior Interim Meeting will be held concurrently with the Called Meeting, and childcare will be available. Parking is available at Arch Street Meeting House (enter from 4th Street).

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, PYM'S "WE CAN DO IT DAY", 9:15 -3 PM AT FRIENDS CENTER

"WE CAN DO IT DAY" offers support and skills-training to meetings through workshops, information, a children's program and fellowship. This "We Can Do It Day" will focus on healthy and effective committee function, including committee work, communications, discernment, effectiveness and more!  There is a fee of $20 which covers the event and lunch (scholarship and workgrants available!)  Make it an event for your committee or yearly meeting working group! Join us, and spread the word! GO TO http://www.pym.org/we-can-do-it-day/committees FOR MORE INFO.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26, PHILADELPHIA QUARTERLY MEETING, 1 - 2:30 PM AT 4TH & ARCH

JOURNEY TO RACIAL JUSTICE

The Racial Justice Committee (RJC) of the Germantown Monthly Meeting asks the Philadelphia Quarter to join and expand a continuing commitment to foster racial justice among Friends and the broader communities of which we are part.  The presentation will begin with a sharing by the Germantown Meeting of its current engagement with the ongoing imperatives of racial justice.  Another part of the presentation will be learning from other meetings in the Quarter of their engagements and efforts on these issues. From that sharing we seek to continue dialogue and to initiate possible activities within the Quarter that can address these concerns in a timely way.  As only one such action, we ask for support, at least in principle, for support of Germantown’s Declaration on Racial Justice.  

This will be a potluck/brown bag affair and childcare will be provided. For more information contact Ed Nakawatase, clerk of the Racial Justice Committee, at (215) 848-1715 or jeanmas302@comcast.net 

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 7 - 9:30 PM IN YARNALL AUDITORIUM AT GFS

GERMANTOWN UNITED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (CDC) PRESENTS:

A panel of experts on best practices for operating a successful Community Development Corporation (CDC). After the demise of Germantown Settlement, it’s time for a new beginning! For more information and to RSVP, please go to http://www.germantownunitedcdc.org/wp/portfolio/events/

SATURDAY, MARCH 3

"THE GOOD RAISED UP'  – A collaboration of Commonwealth Youthchoirs and The Johnson House Historic Site, presented by PNC Arts Alive.  Please see http://www.thegoodraisedup.org for more information and to RSVP.

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Friday greetings to you, Friends. I am late, once again in getting my message out--today because I was knitting with Joanne Sharpless for the Craft Fair and constantly checking the progress of the new DISHWASHER installation. Life in the Meeting kitchen is about to change, but don't despair, because there will still be plenty of opportunity for dishwashing fellowship. Only the method will change. Peace to you,  Wendy

IN THE MEETING

MORE ON MEETING FOR WORSHIP (From Listening Spirituality, Vol 2: Corporate Spiritual Practice Among Friends, p. 18, by Patricia Loring)

Often we arrive at meeting driven by harassments prior to meeting, the unfinished business of the previous week, our obsessions, and our own willful agendas – and with our eagerness to control the events and outcomes of the coming week driving us onward. As we settle into the collected quiet, the knot may loosen, our obsessively tight focus may open and widen to admit space and light around our drivenness. The stillness may gently wash away what clings to us or what we are clinging to. We may not enter into peace beyond understanding; but we may be cleansed or healed of some of the low-grade craziness of our lives. We may, like the crazed, dirty ragged person in Mark 5: 1-20, who was possessed by an unclean spirit named Legion, receive the gift of being returned to ourselves, properly clothed and in our right minds.

CHILI LUNCH THIS SUNDAY RIGHT AFTER MEETING

Just for fun and friendship. Everyone's welcome to stay and share chili--meat or vegetarian--rice, salad and corn bread.

CALL FOR CARDS

The FDS (First Day School) will be recycling used Christmas cards into gift tags on Sunday November 20 and the tags will then be sold at the Meeting's Craft Fair.  If you have Christmas cards that you are able to donate for use in this project, please drop them off in a box that will be set out in the Meetinghouse this weekend.  Thank you!

ADULT CLASS

"DHS GIVE US BACK OUR CHILDREN:" NOVEMBER 20  - 9 AM

ON November 20 Adult Class will feature a short documentary film called DHS Give Us Back Our Children – mothers and others reclaim children from the child welfare industry which member Phoebe Jones Schellenberg helped produce.  The award-winning film is a tale of triumph and set backs as three women dealing with the Philadelphia Department of Human Services – and the self-help group they work with – take on a privatized child welfare $$ industry across the country which devalues the bond between mother and child, penalizes families for being poor, removes children of color disproportionately and traumatizes children.  Discussion about the issue and how it fits in with the Occupy movement and our commitment to peace and social concerns will follow.For more information on the film and the issue, www.everymothernetwork.net

CONTINUING OUR CONVERSATION ABOUT RACE IN AMERICA

The adult class will continue our conversation about race in America in January 2012 by reading and discussing the book The Warmth of Other Suns.  This book by Pulitzer Prize winning author Isabel Wilkerson has won several awards and is now in paperback. Please read more at <http://isabelwilkerson.com/the-book/> The book may be purchased at <http://www.amazon.com/Warmth-Other-Suns-Americas-Migration/dp/0679444327> or at GFS's Browsers Bookstore. The office will also have four copies available for $12 each. Please join us in reading this important book.

CRAFT FAIR DECEMBER 4 - SAVE THE DATE

And make things! Contact Randal Whitman if you have questions. rwhitman@sprynet.com

THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6

WORSHIP AND MINISTRY - 9:00 AM

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Joanne and Ken Ford

Closing: Katy Hineline

CHILI LUNCH - 11:45 AM

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups.

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13

MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS - 9:00 AM

The agenda is attached.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Peter Samuel and Karen Lightner

Closing: Tom and Ellie Elkinton

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups.

IN THE WIDER QUAKER WORLD

WORSHIP, MINISTRY AND ELDERING - A Gathering of Friends with a full morning of Meeting for Worship 

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 9:30 AM TO 4 PM at Makefield Friends Meeting, 877 Dolington Road, Newtown, PA 18940. Call me at 267-879-1073 if you have questions.

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

WEIRD WASTE DAY, Saturday, November 12, 1-4pm in the parking lot beside Valley Green Bank, 23 West Highland Avenue in Chestnut Hill. Responsible electronic waste recycling. For a list of recyclables, go to http://www.greeninchestnuthill.blogspot.com/

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Greetings to you, rather late in the day, this chilly Friday. If you have ever washed dishes after a large potluck, you may be glad to hear that the automatic dishwasher has arrived. This Sunday, though, it is likely just to be in the way, as it is not yet installed. But soon....

IN THE MEETING

FROM WORSHIP IN SONG, A FRIENDS HYMNAL, NUMBER 137

TEACH ME TO STOP AND LISTEN (Words and music by Ken Medema, 1978)

Teach me stop and listen, Teach me to center down,

Teach me the use of silence, Teach me where peace is found.

Teach me to hear your calling, Teach to search your word,

Teach me to hear in silence, Things I have never heard.

Teach me to be collected, Teach me to be in tune,

Teach me to be directed, Silence will end so soon.

Then when it's time for moving, Grant it that I may bring

To every day and moment, Peace from a silent spring.

COMING UP

CHILI LUNCH NOVEMBER 6

Please come to the first Chili Lunch of the season, November 6th at the rise of Meeting.  Good food and no agenda except friendship and community!

FRIENDLY 8s NOVEMBER 13

This Sunday will be the last chance to sign up for the November 13th Friendly 8's dinner. We already have 3-4 dinners running, but there is always room for more (hosts and attenders!). Sign up sheet will be in the Committee Room after Meeting. (Assignments for the November 13th dinner will be sent out by email by the end of this weekend.) Questions?  Contact Anne Stassen (annebillstassen@yahoo.com or 215-769-5958).  

CRAFT FAIR DECEMBER 4

The Assistance Committee wants to remind Friends that we are seeking CRAFTS , home made items of every kind for our SECOND CRAFT FAIR to be held on the first Sunday in December. We have, in the past few years, been able to provide financial assistance to several members of our meeting and we are determined to increase the amount available to help our Friends in times of difficulty. Items priced below $50 seem to sell best. We invite your enthusiasm and creativity, and SAVE the DATE!! Please let Randal Whitman know what you will be making. rwhitman@sprynet.com

ADULT CLASS TO CONTINUE OUR CONVERSATION ABOUT RACE IN AMERICA

The adult class will continue our conversation about race in America in January 2012 by reading and discussing the book The Warmth of Other Suns.  This book by Pulitzer Prize winning author Isabel Wilkerson has won several awards and is now in paperback. Please read more at <http://isabelwilkerson.com/the-book/>

The book may be purchased at http://www.amazon.com/Warmth-Other-Suns-Americas-Migration/dp/0679444327 or at GFS's Browsers Bookstore. (If you would prefer, I can order some copies and you can pay the Meeting--just let me know--Wendy) Please join us in reading this important book.

THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

Consumer Rights Lawyer and neighborhood activist, Irv Ackelsberg will speak on “The Present and Future of Germantown.” Refreshments (homebaked pastry, fair trade coffee and cocoa, a variety of teas and some kind of juice) and child care are provided.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Katie Hineline and Theresa Maebori

Closing: Dorothy Care and Phil Kane

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups.

JOINT MEETING OF THE SUPPER AND OUTREACH COMMITTEES - NOON IN THE MEETINGHOUSE

PEACE AND SOCIAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE - N00N IN THE MEETINGHOUSE (A different corner)

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6

WORSHIP AND MINISTRY - 9:00 AM

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Joanne and Ken Ford

Closing: Katy Hineline

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups.

IN THE WIDER QUAKER WORLD

WORSHIP, MINISTRY AND ELDERING - A Gathering of Friends with a full morning of Meeting for Worship 

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 9:30 AM TO 4 PM at Makefield Friends Meeting, 877 Dolington Road, Newtown, PA 18940

We are invited to gather for a full morning of unprogrammed worship, lasting three hours or so. The extended period is an invitation for the Spirit to work within each person and the group in transforming ways. Afterward, we share a brown bag lunch and fellowship. See the attachment for more information.

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Friday greetings to you. Peace be with us all...Wendy

IN THE MEETING

ON DISTRACTIONS IN MEETING FOR WORSHIP  (from Michael Birkel's Silence and Witness, pp 40 & 41)

To sit in silence is often to notice how unsilent the world is and how unstill one's body is...What otherwise would be distractions can be woven into a prayerful frame of mind. A baby's babbling moves one to joy and gratitude for newness of life. A neighbor's coughing inspires a prayer for her health. Gladly received, such sounds lose their potential to distract, so the task is to cultivate a disposition of grateful receptivity...Once the outer world that comes to us through the senses ceases to disturb, the attention turns inward.

THE MEETING DIRECTORY

I am happy to announce that the 2011-12 Meeting Directory is back from the printer and available to pick up at Meeting on Sunday. I can also send you a pdf, if you'd like to have it on your computer. And if you live at a distance and would really like a hard copy, I can mail it to you--just ask. From this time on, corrections and changes will appear in the monthly newsletter. 

CHILI LUNCH NOVEMBER 6

Please come to the first Chili Lunch of the season, November 6th at the rise of Meeting.  Good food and no agenda except friendship and community!

CRAFT FAIR DECEMBER 4

The Assistance Committee wants to remind Friends that we are seeking CRAFTS , home made items of every kind for our SECOND CRAFT FAIR to be held on the first Sunday in December. We have, in the past few years, been able to provide financial assistance to several members of our meeting and we are determined to increase the amount available to help our Friends in times of difficulty. Items priced below $50 seem to sell best. We invite your enthusiasm and creativity, and SAVE the DATE!! Please let Randal Whitman know what you will be making. rwhitman@sprynet.com

THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

OLD TENNIS COURT FARM OCTOBER HARVEST POTLUCK

The Garden Group are all invites us all to their October Harvest Potluck next Saturday, October 22^nd from noon to 3 PM (Rain date: Sunday, Oct 23, 2-4 PM) The Garden Group will set up tables and chairs on site at the OTCF, and will bring essentials like eating utensils, paper cups, and cider. We plan to bring hearty soups made from vegetables, and apple crisp. Lillian Paulmier is coordinating the arrangements.  Please ask her if you have questions about what to bring. lpaulmier@gmail.com

FIRST FRIENDLY EIGHTS DINNER

I'm sorry to say that I don't have the particulars, but contact Anne Stassen if you have questions. annebillstassen@yahoo.com

THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

NIM’S Eric Wilden, will speak on “Building an Interfaith Movement for Justice in NW Philadelphia.” Refreshments (homebaked pastry, fair trade coffee and cocoa, a variety of teas and some kind of juice) and child care are provided.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Leila and Hal Sawyer

Closing: Joanna Bassert and Ed Marshall

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups.

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

Consumer Rights Lawyer Irv Ackelsberg will speak on “The Future of Germantown.” Refreshments (homebaked pastry, fair trade coffee and cocoa, a variety of teas and some kind of juice) and child care are provided.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Katie Hineline and Theresa Maebori

Closing: Dorothy Care and Phil Kane

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups.

IN THE WIDER QUAKER WORLD

QUAKER PRESENCE AT OCCUPY PHILADELPHIA

Val Gorski and his daughter, Sasha, went to Friends Center last Monday to volunteer to help. If you would like to be involved, go to  https://www.facebook.com/groups/occupyphiladelphiaquakers/

INVITATION TO QUARTERLY MEETING THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, noon or shortly thereafter

AT CENTRAL PHILADELPHIA MONTHLY MEETING, 1515 CHERRY ST

The seven First Day School Committees of the Philadelphia Quarter will host a gathering at Central Philadelphia MM. We have been working with a new format for QM: a brief time for business in the form of a consent agenda with maximum time used for getting to know one another and the program offering. This day, each First Day School Committee will give an overview of the work they have been doing.  This gathering will present a wonderful opportunity for all within the Quarter with a concern for First Day School and our children to share what they do and find inspiration, commonalities and support by bringing ideas and energy to the table. We hope to see you there!

64TH ANNUAL JOHN WOOLMAN LECTURE, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2 TO 3:30 PM AT

MT HOLLY FRIENDS MEETING, 81 HIGH ST, MT HOLLY, NJ

John Proud will speak on John Woolman and the Affairs of Truth, followed by discussion and reception. John Proud is both a retired Episcopal priest and lawyer who is a member of the Friends Historical association. He will share with us his original research on the essays of John Woolman. Questions? Call 609-267-3226 www.WoolmanCentral.com

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Greetings to you, this October Friday. Out the window to my right, the sky is a patchy blue and out the window to my left it is solid pewter grey--and the wind is blowing; it is good to remember that things are always changing.  Love to you,  Wendy

IN THE MEETING

DEEP CONDOLENCE...

To Peter Samuel and his children, Zoe, Mia, Ava, Ella and Colin--all members of our Meeting--on the death of the children's mother, Carol Wolfe, yesterday, October 13, 2011.  You can write to the Samuels at 6610 Wissahickon Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19119. Memorial plans are not complete.

ON SILENT WORSHIP AND QUAKER VALUES FROM THE FGC WEBSITE http://fgcquaker.org/what-are-quakers/worship

While all Quakers meet in worship to hear more clearly God's "still small voice" (1 Kings 19:12), Friends in the unprogrammed Quaker tradition base our worship entirely on expectant waiting. We take the Psalmist's advice literally: "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10).

We meet in plain, unadorned rooms because we have found that, in such places, we are less distracted from hearing that still small voice. There are no pulpits in our meeting rooms because we minister to each other. Our benches or chairs face each other because we are all equal before God. We have no prearranged prayers, readings, sermons, hymns, or musical orchestrations because we wait for God's leadings (guidance and direction) and power in our lives.

FIRST DAY SCHOOL CHILDREN WILL BE GREETERS THIS SUNDAY

This Sunday, the FDS children will be greeting and introducing themselves prior to Meeting.  The children will then participate in a "Gathered Meeting" where they will be baking the ever-popular Mish Mash cookies to serve as refreshments during social hour. We hope everyone can join us so that more children can meet more adults and vice versa! 

OUR FAMOUS CHILI LUNCHES RESUME NOVEMBER 6!

As the weather gets chilly, GMM's welcome gets warmer, with our first "Chili Lunch" of the season, Nov. 6,at rise of Meeting.  Chili, salad, all the fixings -- and no agenda except friendship and community! Outreach Committee organizes these yummy events to help us greet new attenders and get to know everyone around us better.  Please join us!  NOTE: That day, many are planning to attend a special 2 p.m. benefit performance of "Little Women" at the Old Academy -- and the Chili Lunch can be an ideal pre-theatre meal; no crowded restaurant, no parking hassle ... relax with us, and still get to the theatre in plenty of time. 

DON'T FORGET THE UPCOMING CRAFT FAIR DECEMBER 4TH

The Assistance Committee wants to remind Friends that we are seeking CRAFTS , home made items of every kind for our SECOND CRAFT FAIR to be held on the first Sunday in December. We have, in the past few years, been able to provide financial assistance to several members of our meeting and we are determined to increase the amount available to help our Friends in times of difficulty. Items priced below $50 seem to sell best. We invite your enthusiasm and creativity, and SAVE the DATE!! Please let Randal Whitman know what you will be making. <rwhitman@sprynet.com>

THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

AFSC’s Bill Pierre will speak on “The Arab Spring & Other Signs of Change in the Middle East.”

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: The First Day School children will greet and make mishmash cookies!

Closing: Rebecca Hoenig

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children of all ages will gather together. Those who can will arrive at 10 AM to be greeters for Meeting for Worship. When the children leave MFW, they will gather in the kitchen to make 0h-so-delicious mishmash cookies.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

OLD TENNIS COURT FARM OCTOBER HARVEST POTLUCK

The Garden Group are all invites us all to their October Harvest Potluck next Saturday, October 22^nd from noon to 3 PM (Rain date: Sunday, Oct 23, 2-4 PM) The Garden Group will set up tables and chairs on site at the OTCF, and will bring essentials like eating utensils, paper cups, and cider. We plan to bring hearty soups made from vegetables, and apple crisp. Lillian Paulmier is coordinating the arrangements.  Please ask her if you have questions about what to bring. lpaulmier@gmail.com

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

NIM’S Eric Wilden, will speak on “Building an Interfaith Movement for Justice in NW Philadelphia.” Refreshments (homebaked pastry, fair trade coffee and cocoa, a variety of teas and some kind of juice) and child care are provided.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Leila and Hal Sawyer

Closing: Joanna Bassert and Ed Marshall

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups.

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

THE AIDS WALK IN PHILLY IS THIS SUNDAY (16TH) (FROM OUR MEMBER SARAH KANE, GFS '15)

Over 30,000 people in the Delaware Valley are living with HIV/AIDS. Many of our friends, family and neighbors are in desperate need of health care services and other life-saving programs, but with cutbacks in government dollars, these programs are often under-funded. Now, more than ever, your donations are needed to support organizations providing HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention education, counseling and testing and care services for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Bus leaves Germantown Friends School at 8:15 and will be coming back around noon

If you would like to preregister here is how: 

go to: www.aidswalkphilly.org

Then login by creating an account- Sign up as a member of a team:  Germantown Friends School Our code is: 0015-06

If you would like to participate and not come you are welcome to donate, which you can do online.

MEETING CHILDREN ON STAGE

"HANSEL AND GRETEL", SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 4 PM, in Steinbright Multipurpose Building, Plymouth Meeting Friends School, 2150 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462. Featuring Children's Opera Box and Plymouth Meeting Friends School  students: The performance is perfect for kids of all ages and runs about an hour. Tickets are $5 for individuals and $15 for families. For more info, call Sarah Sweeney-Denham: (610) 828-2288 ext 226.  Download and mail in ticket order form, here: www.pmfs1780.org/fallevents The most important detail is that GMM FDS students Lily and Trudy Aparin-Buck are part of this family friendly production!

"LITTLE WOMEN",  ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2 PM, the Old Academy Players will perform "Little Women" for the benefit of the Cancer Support Community of Philadelphia ("CSCP") which is located in Fairmount Park.  A minimum $20 donation per ticket is being requested and seats can be reserved by contacting Jody Hobbs at <jodeen@aol.com>. The show is directed by GMM's own Carla Childs and Jessica Hobbs Pifer (another GMM FDS student) is playing the role of Amy.   If you are unable to attend the special benefit performance, please plan on seeing Little Women at the Old Academy on a different day. It is playing on weekends from November 4th to the 20th.   www.oldacademyplayers.org

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org

Greetings to you on perfect October day...

There are no doubt many things going on, but my message is short today. May peace prevail. Love to you,  Wendy

IN THE MEETING

EIGHT THINGS THAT YOU CAN DO TO PREPARE FOR MEETING FOR WORSHIP (From Downingtown Friends Meeting)

1. Engage in daily prayer, worship, and meditation

2. Practice stillness

3. Remove obstacles

4. Deconstruct your own ego

5. Open yourself to divine messages, especially from nature

6. Take a cleansing breath

7. Make sure you're comfortable

8. Repeat a personal mantra

NOTE ON A FRIEND

Our member, Zoe Samuel, GFS Class of 2006, Cornell University Class of 2010, (eldest of Peter Samuel's five children) was selected to join Teach for America in the James Martin Middle School in Charlotte, North Carolina.  Zoe returned to GFS last week to observe our middle school and to catch up with her many GFS friends still on campus - including Elissa Sunshine, who kindly passed along Zoe's impressive blog to share with you. http://teatimewiththeteacher.blogspot.com (this note courtesy of Sally Williams of GFS)

CRAFT FAIR COMING UP ON DECEMBER 4TH

The Assistance Committee wants to remind Friends that we are seeking CRAFTS , home made items of every kind for our SECOND CRAFT FAIR to be held on the first Sunday in December. We have, in the past few years, been able to provide financial assistance to several members of our meeting and we are determined to increase the amount available to help our Friends in times of difficulty. Items priced below $50 seem to sell best. We invite your enthusiasm and creativity, and SAVE the DATE!! Please let Randal Whitman know what you will be making. rwhitman@sprynet.com

THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9

MONTHLY MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS

The agenda is attached.

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: Lillian and Greg Paulmier

Closing: Rebecca Hoenig

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children will meet in their age groups

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16

ADULT CLASS - 9:00 AM

AFSC’s Bill Pierre will speak on “The Arab Spring & Other Signs of Change in the Middle East.”

MEETING FOR WORSHIP - 10:30 AM

Greeting and Refreshments: The First Day School children will greet and make mishmash cookies!

Closing: Rebecca Hoenig

FIRST DAY SCHOOL - 10:45 AM

Children of all ages will gather together. Those who can will arrive at 10 AM to be greeters for Meeting for Worship. When the children leave MFW, they will gather in the kitchen to make 0h-so-delicious mishmash cookies.

MISCELLANY

BARGAINS (COURTESY OF PAT LIBBEY)

Anyone with a Bank of America credit card can get into the following museums FREE on the first weekend of every month:  Please Touch Museum, Phila Museum of Art, Academy of Fine Arts, Constitution Center, African American Museum.  One only has to punch in the name of a city to find free museums there.  NOTE that this just gets one into the museum - all special exhibits are still extra!

A reminder that people who are over-65 can ride city buses for FREE 24/7, and suburban trains for only $1!  One has to provide either Social Security card or a SEPTA yellow transport card gotten from the Market St Septa terminal a block from Broad St. Sometimes aging has it's compensations! 

Wendy Wells, Secretary

Germantown Monthly Meeting

47 W Coulter St

Philadelphia, PA 19144

215-951-2235

gmm@gfsnet.org