Adult CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Programs
Adult Christian Education
Adult Christian Education meets year round in the Kyle House from
9:30-10:15 on Sunday mornings. The class usually involves Bible study, with some
parishioners and the rector taking leadership roles. The content can vary if the group decides to do that. All adults are welcome to attend.
A class for younger adults is being held during the same time period on the first and third Sundays of each month in the Vestry Room beside the rector's office.
Women's Bible Studies
A women's bible study group meets Tuesday mornings at 10 in the Library. Marion Sandler leads the class, which currently is studying Exodus.
Daughters of the King
The Daughters of the King is a religious order for women who are communicants of the Episcopal Church, churches in communion with it, or churches in the historic Episcopate. The order was founded in 1885, and there are over 18,000 women members worldwide. See Lydia Chapter. Officers are Marilyn Ellerbe, president/vice president, and Margaret Ann Player, secretary/treasurer.
Inquirers' Classes
St. John's provides an inquirer's class in preparation for confirmation. The course, entitled "Encountering Christ," is designed for those who desire to learn more about the tenets of Anglicanism and what Episcopalians believe. Subjects covered are Holy Scripture, Church History, Structure of the Church, Sacraments, and Worship, as well as contemporary issues that all these subjects raise. St. John's holds these periodic classes for youths and adults who desire Episcopal confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation of their baptismal vows. The classes include comprehensive spiritual instruction based on The Book of Common Prayer's "Outline of Faith" or "Catechism." In addition, participants are presented a wide-ranging overview of St. John's church, our Diocese, and the Episcopal Church. The highlight of this spiritual journey is public affirmation of faith and commitment with the receiving of the laying on of hands by our Bishop during a joyful church service. This year's classes begin on September 17 at 9:15 a.m. and will continue for the following four Sundays.
Education for Ministry
Education for Ministry (EFM) provides a comprehensive, experiential education in the foundations and message of our Christian faith. The Program, sponsored by the School of Theology of the University of the South in Sewanee, TN, is for the laity of the church. Participants commit one year at a time to meet regularly in seminars led by a trained mentor. Will Bridges, who has completed a specific 18-hour training session, leads the seminars at St. John's. The group meets Sundays from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the church to reflect theologically, discuss the materials they have read, and to worship together. Completion of the program takes four years, during which time participants study the Bible, church history, and twentieth century theology.
For additional information or to join any of the Christian Education classes, please contact the Church Office.
