Adult Education
Inquirer's Class
Inquirers' classes are a basic four week course
which is held in an informal atmosphere and taught by the rector. For those who are new to the Episcopal Church, or
looking for a new spiritual home, this course will provide
an introduction to the Church; its history, beliefs,
worship, and work in the world.
Or, if you were confirmed earlier in life, and wish to renew your commitment at an adult level, consider this course as a part of your continuing Christian education; The course is required for all who wish to be confirmed or received into the church.
These classes will be held on Sundays at noon in the rector's office . This course is offered several times each year. Check in the Messenger (see the link from the homepage, under "Information") and Sunday bulletin or talk to the rector for more information.
Note: These classes are usually listed on our calendar page when they are being offered. Look ffor Sundays at noon.
Education for Ministry
The Education for Ministry (EFM) Program is the theological
education extension program of the School of Theology of the
University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. Completion
of the program takes four years, during which participants
study the Old and New Testaments, church history, and
twentieth century theology. The purpose is to provide lay
members of the church with a comprehensive foundation for
understanding and experiencing Christian faith. A special
emphasis is on doing theological reflection on daily life
issues. Students meet weekly in seminars led by a trained
mentor. Tuition is $340 annually (scholarships are
available). The course takes place in the Community Room
on Sunday afternoons between 2-4:30. If you
are interested, you might want to talk to recent
participants: Chris Jones, Diane Reed, Laura
Davis, Dennis Wisnom, Jo Adams, Trudy North, or Fr. James.
Note: EFM is not being offered art St. Stephen's for the 2009-2010 year.
Sunday Morning Adult Education
Faith & Reason
In this series of classes participants will watch videos in which Bill Moyers explores the complex region between faith and reason, engaging in thoughtful conversations with some of the world's noted writers and thinkers. The insights that emerge, about the creative process, the importance of myths and stories, and the human condition will afford a lively conversation and inquiry with those who attend.
"With the buzz around the book and then the film version of THE DA VINCI CODE reaching a fever pitch and The PASSION OF THE CHRIST ranked among the 10 highest-grossing movies ever, what is it about religion that's got America hooked? It's an old debate between absolutes, the contrasting viewpoints of belief and disbelief that stirs the passions. From the popular to the public square-79% of self-identified evangelical Christians cast ballots for President Bush in 2004-the tug of war between reason and faith is the undercurrent of our society in what some see as a fundamentalist era. On one end of the spectrum people say, "Only religion counts." On the other end, "Only reason counts." How do we keep the public space between reason and faith, where most of us spend our lives, from becoming a no-man's land of constant warfare?" Bill Moyers
The The month of November will include interviews with Colin McGinn, Mary Gordon, Margaret Atwood and Martin Amis.
Note: These classes are usually listed on our calendar page. Look on Sundays at 9:00 am. Information can also be found in the Messenger from time to time.
Kerygma Class
The spiritual depth and beauty of the Psalms have provided nourishment for Jews and Christians for centuries. This "hymnal" of ancient Israelis still in use in all our public worship, as well as in private prayer. Come and join us this fall, as we spend seven weeks learning more about the psalms. Workbooks will be provided at cost. Please call Deacon Pat for more information. Kerygma classes are usually given two or three times each year. Watch for announcements in the Messenger.
Watch for announcements in the Messenger for announcements of upcoming classes.
Bible Study
Thursday mornings, following the Eucharist.
