Adult Education

Christian education is a life-long journey! We offer a variety of classes for adults. They have a range of formats, topics, and meeting times. Check out the church calendar, announcements, and newsletter for additional information on current classes. If you would like more information about any of these classes or other educational opportunities, please contact Pastor Sherry Scates, Minister of Faith Formation.

Faithlink Adult Study
This class encourages adults to think about the latest current topics and life issues through the lens of faith and United Methodist teaching. The topics are timely and broad in scope (including things such as Alzheimer’s disease, divorce, nuclear power, and more). No preparation is needed; participants can join the class at any time. Meets at 9:45am on Sundays in Room 206.

Immersion Bible Study
Pastor Eun-Hye will be leading a new adult class on 2nd and 4th Wednesday nights from 6:30-8pm. Beginning on September 14th, immerse yourself in the Gospel of John. With the input of leading Bible scholars and teachers, Immersion Bible Study is not only about God and God’s word, but also about the lives of its readers–their thoughts, feelings, and faith. In each study you will prayerfully read the Scripture and reflect on it. Then you will engage it in three ways: Claim Your Story–through stories and questions, think about your life, with its struggles and joys; Enter the Bible Story–explore Scripture and consider what God is saying to you; Live the Story–reflect on what you have discovered, and put it into practice in your life. Questions? Contact Pastor Sherry or Pastor Eun-Hye by e-mail or phone.

Short-term, Special Topic Classes
These classes, taught by the pastoral staff and lay people, cover a variety of topics to engage adults of all ages. We don’t shy away from tough questions, but call upon scripture, tradition, experience, and reason to explore what to believe and how our belief impacts our lives. Recent classes included: Servant or Sucker, Death by Suburb, Tough Questions Kids Ask, The Big Three World Religions, and When Christians Get it Wrong. Check the bulletin and newsletter for topics, dates, and locations of classes. Meet at 9:45am Sundays.

Seasonal Studies
These special seasonal classes are offered during Advent, the four weeks preceding Christmas, and Lent, the six weeks preceding Easter. Deepen your spiritual journey as you prepare for these holy days. Watch the announcements and the calendar for dates and times.

New Member Class
This class, geared towards helping those interested in joining the church understand United Methodist history, theology, and practice, is also great for current members who are curious about the United Methodist Church. There are three class session per cycle: at the first, you will have a chance to get to know the clergy staff of the church, meet others in the group, and take a tour of the church building; the second meeting focuses on sharing our denominational history, beliefs, and practices; the final meeting focuses on the ministries of this local congregation and how you can become an active member of our church family. Check the announcements or call the office for dates.

Disciple Bible Studies
Disciple Bible Studies are in-depth studies of the Bible used by many churches of many denominations all over the world. Courses vary in length, and can last from two-nine months. Participants form close bonds with their classmates as they grow in faith and deepen their walk with Christ. Watch the newsletter and bulletin for the next session’s dates and times. Click here to find out more information about the Disciple Bible Study Series (link to Small Group Disciple BS page).

Lunch Bunch
The Lunch Bunch (link to small group page) is a small group gathering over the lunch hour to share in prayer, learning, devotion, and fellowship. The group studies a variety of special topic and seasonal materials meant to impact faith and life. Meets Mondays from 12-1pm in the Conference room.

Women’s Book Group
The Women’s Book Group read a wide variety of styles and stories, both fiction and non-fiction. Book titles are chosen by the participants. The group meets on the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm to discuss the latest book. During the summer, the group hosts a special “Book and a Movie Series.” Participants read a book and then gather at a member’s home or local theater to snack, discuss, and watch the movie version of the month’s selection. In addition to sharing a love of reading, participants support one another, laugh together, and serve in yearly mission projects.
For a list of the books the group has read, click here.