Christian Formation
Christian Formation at Saint James’ exists to enhance and further develop the spiritual life of the parish family “from cradle to grave.” Classes for adults, young people, and children meet 9:15-10:15 a.m. on Sundays, fall through spring. Nursery is available during this time, during the 10:30 am service, and during other church events. Teachers and leaders for children, youth and adult classes are always needed.
Check out these great classes and make plans to be part of them!
The Godly Play class, for ages 4-6, is a Montessori based method of teaching children the great stories from the Bible and our Christian faith. Each class begins with a story, followed by time for reflection and a "feast." This class is located opposite the nursery. (Note: we are not offering Godly Play for 2007-2008)
Elementary Disciples children in grades 2-5 become more biblically literate through reading, acting, games, and crafts. The classroom is on the right at the top of the stairs.
The Junior High 6th through 8th-graders study the Bible using the lectionary. By the time youth move up to senior high they have a sense of its entire contents. This class is the last room on the left in the upstairs hallway.
The Senior High class, 9th-12th-grade, focuses on relating scripture and faith more generally to world events and exploring the connections between the two. The classroom is the third door on the left in the upstairs hallway.
The Adult Forum explores a variety of issues of interest to Episcopalians. This year, we have explored Native American Spirituality and the General Convention.
For Lent 2007, beginning February 18th, Thinking and Acting on Faith is the theme. We will review the seasons of the church year and remind ourselves of the focus of each season, with an emphasis upon getting off to a good start on a chosen Lenten discipline. As Episcopalians, we rely heavily on three "things" to guide our faith-scripture, tradition, and reason. During the six Sundays of Lent, we'll use different models of theological reflection to integrate these three ways of guiding our faith into action and deeper understanding. We'll look at contemporary writings, scripture, the prayer book, news events, and personal interactions as a way to think about our faith . . . come join Sharon and Scott Teets as the conveners of the group! (There will always be some food available-Sundays, even in Lent, are still feast days!) Each Sunday will be a "stand alone" event, so if you are one of those obsessive compulsives who won't come to anything unless you can come to the whole thing-you're off the hook!
The Adult Synthesis Class is a peer-led class that discusses the day's lectionary texts. The discussions are led by Betty Bowling. The Synthesis class meets in the Conference Room.
Inquirers Class (Beginning in Lent) s for anyone who wants to know more about the Episcopal Church, whether you are in the process of discerning whether you wish to be confirmed or you're already a member and are looking for a "refresher course!"
- Contact: Megan Alden, Director of Christian Formation