First Baptist offers religious education for children and adults each Sunday morning at 11 AM. Wherever you are on the journey of faith and the struggle of life, our classes are for you!
For the winter quarter (January through March 2008)
GODLY PLAY (ages toddler to preschool/kindergarten)
An interactive bible storytime that helps young learners begin to learn biblical narratives in a fun and memorable way!
FAITHWEAVER (elementary children)
A weekly exploration of biblical narratives with instructors encouraging the children to read and reflect on the story together through several fun learning activities.
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL
Adult Education
Winter 2008 Quarter
EXPLORING THE WAY: An introduction to the spiritual journey
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This six week study provides an orientation to the Christian spiritual life through weekly meetings, daily explorations of basic spiritual practices, and learning to listen for God in one’s life. Learners are encouraged to find a rhythm that encourages life-long spiritual growth. Remember “We do not want to be beginners. But let us be convinced of the fact that we will never be anything else but beginners, all our life” (Thomas Merton, OCSO)
COURSE SCHEDULE
February 3, 2008 Introducing the Course
February 10, 2008 Dwight Lundgren, National Ministries, special event (practice daily journaling!)
February 17, 2008 Session One: Beginning the Journey (facilitated by Darcy Oakes)
February 24, 2008 Session Two: Sharing the Adventure (facilitated by Rev. Hugenot onwards)
March 2, 2008 Session Three: Bread for the Journey
March 9, 2008 Session Four: Drink for the Journey
March 16, 2008 Session Five: Companions on the Way
March 17-22, 2008 Holy Week—attend our corporate observances and spend special time in prayer
March 23, 2008 EASTER (no Sunday school)
March 30, 2008 Session Six: Reaching Out in Love
IMPORTANT GROUND RULES
Basic Rules for a Group Involved in Spiritual Formation (suggested by curriculum)
1. Speak only for yourself about your feelings, beliefs, and experiences.
2. Maintain confidentiality. What members share in this group stays in the group.
3. Respect and receive what others offer, even if you disagree.
4. Honor the way God works in different individuals.
5. Share only what and when you choose.
Note: The group is not a place to debate biblical or theological issues. Instead, we gather to learn and share the benefits of spiritual practice in daily life. Spiritual formation is not therapy or advice giving. We come together to direct our thoughts toward God’s presence, help and guidance; not to fix one another’s personal problems.
AVAILABILITY OF MINISTER
If you would like to talk about spiritual practices, the minister is available by appointment, scheduled through the church office. Weekday mornings/evenings work best.
ADDITIONAL EVENT FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH
First Baptist, St Peter’s Episcopal, and Second Congregational join together during Tuesday evenings throughout in Lent for a light supper and time for reflection.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
See what the adult class did last fall:
September 9 through October 14 "CHILDREN IN POVERTY"
Darcy Oakes and Lisa Flynn guide you through the American Baptists' new mission emphasis on Children in Poverty. By exploring the biblical backgrounds on children, poverty, and what Christianity teaches about the role of the church in advocating for those in need, the class will begin dreaming about what First Baptist can do in our community and meeting critical needs.
October 21 through November 18 "EXPLORING A VISION"
With lay leadership, the Rev. Jerrod Hugenot conducts a four session series for First Baptist to begin articulating/weaving a vision for ministry to help set the next stage of the church's new outlook on ministry and mission. Small and large group exercises, study of the bible, and exploration of the Christian disciplines/practices of discernment will be integral to these sessions.
Sundays of December (December 3, 10, 17--none on 23)
Explore the scripture texts that help us deepen our devotion during this Advent season. While familiar, these passages bear attentive and reverent reading as we anticipate the coming of the Christ Child.