Fall 2017 ADULT FAITH FORMATION. Programs & Classes. Martin Luther

Transcription

1 ADULT FAITH FORMATION Programs & Classes Fall 2017 Martin Luther Manchester United Methodist Church 129 Woods Mill Road, Manchester, MO

2 Sunday Mornings at Bread Co. Begins Sept 10, then on-going 8:15-9 a.m. St. Louis Bread Company Manchester Rd Grab a cup of coffee and a favorite pastry. Then, at 8:15, join in a discussion of current events that links how we live as United Methodists with what s happening in our world. Shared leadership. Alpha Class Begins Sept 10, then on-going 9:30-10:30 a.m. Room 311 The Apostles Creed -- we say it in church regularly and you may know it by heart, identifying with all or parts of it. What does it mean to us and how is it rooted in our faith? Join us for a six-part study from Rev. Adam Hamilton, Creed: What Christians Believe and Why. During our weekly time together, we ll watch a DVD clip then discuss the week s reading, expressing our own thoughts on the material. Book fee: $14. The study that follows Creed will look at the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation and how it still impacts us today. Alpha Class is led by Mark Irving. Sojourners Class On-going 9:30-10:30 a.m. Room 309 The church at Corinth was a focus of the Apostle Paul's energies on more than one occasion, and a source of some frustration. Join us as we study the two biblical books entitled 1st and 2nd Corinthians, and discover some amazing insights for our walk with Jesus in today's world. Led by Bill Cleveland. Sunday Mornings 2 Joy Class On-going 9:30-10:30 a.m. Room 141 This fall, our lessons in the Adult Bible Studies series follow the theme of Covenants with God. We will consider the major covenants God made with people on behalf of the earth and the human community. We ll begin with Noah and God s promise of benevolence toward creation. Then look at God s commitments with Abram, Phinehas, and Ezekiel. Ultimately, we ll see how the covenant forms the foundation for the coming Messiah. Led by Jane Carr. Christian Fellowship Class Begins Sept 17, then on-going 9:30-10:30 a.m. Room 222 We ll begin this fall with a four-week study of the book Happy? What It Is and How to Find It by local author and pastor Rev. Matt Miofsky. We will discover that contentment isn t dependent on the things of life. Instead, happiness can be found in the value of our relationships, a forgiving lifestyle, living in the present, feeling gratitude, and learning to release control. Book fee: $10. Led by Mary Beth Harper. Beginning Oct 15, we ll explore the brand new study by author Max Lucado, Anxious for Nothing, and learn how to stop letting anxiety rule the day. We ll join together on the journey to true freedom and experience more joy, clarity, physical renewal, and contentment through the power of the Holy Spirit. Anxious for Nothing invites readers to delve into Philippians 4:6-7, the most highlighted passage of any book on the planet. Book fee: $15. Led by Mary Beth Harper. Moms Group Aug 25 - June 2018 Fridays Join other moms for learning, sharing of ideas, and fellowship. This group meets twice a month: once for a time of learning and discussion and the other time is for play groups off-site at kid-friendly places (parks, indoor playgrounds, etc.). This is a great, relaxed way to take a break and to get to know other MUMC moms. Childcare is provided for learning times. Co-coordinators are Emily Garetson and April Milne. A complete schedule will be ed to you upon registration. Saturdays Men s Bible Study On-going 8:00-9 a.m. Room 141 A great way to start the weekend! Lessons are ed ahead of time. Copies are also available each Saturday morning. Coffee is provided. Led by Rev. Steve Harbaugh. 11 Frequently Asked Questions Do I need to register? We encourage you to register ahead of time so that there are enough books, handouts, supplies and seats for everyone. How do I register? You can register on Sundays at the Faith Formation kiosk in the Narthex. You can also contact Tiffany Conway at or tiffany.conway@manchesterumc.org, or registher on our website at Is there a fee? Many of our small groups do have book fees. You can purchase a book when you register for a class, or you may purchase the book on your own. Many of the books we use are now available as e-books. We ask that you purchase the e-book on your own if this is the option you choose. If no fee is listed, the program is free. What about my children? Childcare is available for all classes with advance registration only. I am not United Methodist. Is it O.K. if I come to these groups? Absolutely! Everyone is welcome in our small groups. Please feel free to bring friends or family with you, too. What do the symbols in the book mean? This circle means the group is part of our Living Compass program of holistic wellness. See page 6 for more info. This rainbow flame means that these ongoing groups have voted to be Reconciling Communities, welcoming all people as individuals of sacred worth, including those who are LGBTQ+.

3 Wednesdays Cont Protestant Denominations, Beliefs & Practices Oct 18 - Nov 29 (no class Nov. 1 & 22) 6:30-7:45 p.m. Room TBA This study explores the paths of Protestant practices over the centuries following the Reformation and the reasons for various denominations. Following study of some of the main denominations today, representatives will provide a deeper look at Methodist, Lutheran, Baptist, Presbyterian, and Episcopalian traditions, as well as the beliefs and practices of offshoot denominations. Led by Marsha Clark. Where Does the United Methodist Church Stand on Social Justice Issues? Nov 8 6:30-8:30 p.m. Room 223 How is missions different than social action? That question will be the starting point for this class. We will look at issues addressed in our United Methodist Social Principles, such as human rights, the environment, and healthcare, as well as ways to advocate for them. We will also explore how Manchester UMC might become more proactive in advocating for social causes. Led by Trish Gunby. Thursdays Yoga - Beginning Vinyasa 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Room 141 Vinyasa yoga synchronizes movement and breath through a series of poses that move participants through the power of inhaling and exhaling, creating a dynamic flow and moving meditation. Instructor Jennifer Minor is an energetic wife and mother of four. She has practiced yoga since 2004 and is now RYT 200 certified through Yoga 6 (certification through Yoga Alliance). Jennifer begins each class with an emphasis for her students to stay present with their breath, to make the practice their own, to leave comparison behind and to have a sense of humor. She hopes that her students personal time on their mat will translate into other areas of their lives, as it has for her. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring your own yoga mat. Fees: $10 per class for walk-ins; $40 for 5-class pass*; $96 for fall semester pass*. *Passes are non-refundable, but may be used any time Sept 7 - Dec 28, Sunday Mornings Harvest Class On-going 9:30-10:30 a.m. Room 223 During September and October, we will take a fresh look at the Holy Spirit using Fresh Air: The Holy Spirit for an Inspired Life by Jack Levison. The author brings a scholar's knowledge of this complicated biblical topic to a wide audience that crosses all denominational boundaries. Provocative and life-changing, Fresh Air combines moving personal anecdotes, rich biblical studies, and practical strategies for experiencing the daily presence of the Holy Spirit. This study will unsettle and invigorate participants. Book fee: $12. Shared leadership. Adult Singles Bible Study On-going 11:00 a.m.-noon Room 309 This fall we will be taking a serious look at the troubling and difficult questions that many adults face, using the book, Why? Making Sense of God s Will, by Rev. Adam Hamilton. We'll delve into questions such as, Why do the innocent suffer? and Why do my prayers go unanswered? We ll end the fall with Rev. Hamilton s new study, Moses, taking us on a video-study journey of Moses life in Egypt, through the desert wilderness, and on to Mt. Sinai. We'll also explore the wilderness experiences of our own lives. We welcome newcomers to join any Sunday! Coffee and pastries are provided. Following the class, many enjoy going to lunch together. Led by Ralph Burns. Coffee & Connect Aug 20 9:30-10:30 a.m. Room 312 Grab a cup of coffee from Fellowship Hall and then join Rev. Greg Weeks to find out more about Manchester UMC s ministries, programs, and people. You ll learn about our mission and the many avenues for deepening your faith, being the hands of Christ in our community and world, and ways to make lasting friendships. S U N D A Y Blood Pressure Checks Sept 17, Oct 15, Nov 19, Dec. 17 9:00-11 a.m. Fellowship Hall (Fireside Room on Nov 19) When was the last time you had your blood pressure checked? Stop by the blood pressure screening table in Fellowship Hall. No appointment is necessary. Nurses will be on hand to administer the blood pressure screening, as well as provide important health information. Led by Denise Keller, RN. First Aid Sept 3 OR Nov 5 1-3:30 p.m. Rm 141 CPR/AED Training Oct 1 1-3:30 p.m. Rm 141 Learn new skills that will further your abilities to minister to God's people and maybe save a life. This course teaches critical skills needed to respond to and manage first aid, choking, and cardiac arrest emergencies in infants, children and adults. Maximum of 8 participants per class. Led by Denise Keller, RN. Flu Shots Sept 17 and Oct 1 8:00 a.m.-noon North Side of Fellowship Hall Pharmacists from Walgreens will provide flu immunizations. Please pre-register for a timeslot. On the day of your appointment, please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment to complete paperwork. Please bring your insurance card with you. 10 3

4 Sunday Afternoon & Evenings New Member Classes Sept. 10 OR Nov. 5 Noon-2 p.m. Room 141 If you are interested in becoming a member of Manchester UMC, you are invited to participate in New Member Class. We will cover United Methodist beliefs, organizational structure and how to get connected at Manchester UMC. To register, kristie.whitney@manchesterumc.org. Light lunch provided - please mention any food allergies or sensitivities when registering. Childcare available with registration. UNFINISHED! The Challenge of Discipleship Sept 24 - Oct 22 6:30 p.m. Room 141 This five-week study will challenge you in five key areas of your discipleship: trust, sacrifice, surrender, amazement, purpose. Each session will relate to the sermon that will be preached the following weekend, but will go much deeper and will include additional biblical passages. The result will be a deeper connection with Christ that will transform your everyday life. All are warmly welcomed and encouraged to be part of this life-changing, life-enhancing experience! Led by Rev. Greg Weeks. [Also offered on Wednesdays, Sept. 27- October 25, at 6:30 p.m., led by Rev. Stephanie Lendt and Rev. Winter Hamilton] Mondays Monday Early Bird Class Sept 11 - Nov 13 7:45-8:30 a.m. Six North Café Clayton Rd. Our first study of the fall will be Upside Down: A Different Way to Live. This book of short daily readings draws upon the teachings of Christ from the Sermon on the Mount. Over the course of four weeks, the author uses prayer, Scripture and reflection to invite us to think about what it means to live each day as followers of Jesus. Please come with Week 1 read. Book fee: $6. Shared leadership. Our second study begins Oct 9. Using James W. Moore s book Moments that Take Our Breath Away, we ll explore the idea, It s not the number of breaths we take, it is the number of moments that take our breath away. Every now and then, and more often than we realize, God breaks into the routine and gives us one of those awesome moments, so powerful, so amazing, so beautiful that time seems to stand still. Book fee: $10. Shared leadership. Living Compass: Faith & Wellness Circle Sept 11 Oct 16 6:30 8 p.m. Library This 6-week, in-depth program takes a holistic approach to faith & life that builds from the biblical concept of loving God with all of our heart, soul, strength and mind. The inner compasses of our lives are acted upon by God, who calls us to greater wholeness, gently reminding us when our course in life needs adjusting. This group will help you to be still, to listen, and to say yes to God s invitation for your life as you are gently guided in self-discovery and self-direction. Limit of 8 participants. Led by Vicki Samuels. Martin Luther & The Reformation: The 500th Anniversary Sept 13 - Oct 11 6:30-7:45 p.m. Rm 311 October 31 of this year marks the 500th anniversary of a key event in the Protestant Reformation and world history. That is the date that the reformer Martin Luther is said to have nailed his 95 theses (complaints) to the door of the church in Wittenberg, Germany. During this 5-week class, we ll watch excerpts each week from the movie Luther, starring Joseph Fiennes, and dig deeply into this amazing time in history from which we still feel repercussions today. Led by Debbie Irving. What Is the Bible?: How an Ancient Library of Poems, Letters, and Stories Can Transform the Way You Think and Feel About Everything Sept 20 - Oct 25 6:30-8 p.m. Room 310 Using theologian and best-selling author Rob Bell s new book, we ll explore how we read the Bible. Bell will take us from reading this book through a lens of black and white to a lens of vivid color as he relates it to our lives today. Bell describes the Bible as a book about what it means to be human. We will look at what was being presented, to whom, how it was perceived at the time, how it relates to other passages elsewhere, what the language at the time meant, and why stories were included that we have a hard time with today. Book fee: $17. Led by Steve Powell. Wednesdays Forgiveness Sept 13-Oct 4 6:30-8 p.m. Fireside Rm It takes a lot of emotional energy to hold on to hurt. One of the benefits of doing the hard work of forgiveness is that it frees up emotional energy. Most of us spend time and energy reliving the hurt and what happened. Making the choice to forgive will release us from the emotional turmoil and exhaustion that comes from holding on to hurts, grudges, and resentments. Learn the tools you need to move into a place of forgiveness. Led by Jason West. Aging Well Sept 20-Oct 11 9:30-10:45 a.m. Rm 222 Approximately 10,000 Americans will turn 65 every day for the next twenty years. Aging well invites us to be more mindful about the choices we make as we age. The benefits of choosing to age well include more energy, better relationships and an overall sense of vitality. This four-week class is an opportunity to consider how we can age well in heart, soul, strength, and mind. Whether you are already 65 plus or you are thinking ahead about aging well, you are invited to join this class! Led by Rev. Nancye Dunlap. Design-Your-Own Faith Bracelet Oct 18 6:30-8 p.m. Room 223 Join jewelry designer Genny Schumacher as she guides us through making beautiful, beaded fall bracelets embedded with symbols of faith. You ll have time to visit and chat as you make your unique creation. Makes a great gift, or keep for yourself. All materials provided. No previous jewelry making knowledge is expected. Advanced registration is required. Materials fee: $

5 Tuesdays Mondays Tuesday Early Bird Class Sept 12 - Nov 14 7:45-8:30 a.m. Fireside Room Our first study of the fall will be Upside Down: A Different Way to Live. This book of short daily readings draws upon the teachings of Christ from the Sermon on the Mount. Over the course of four weeks, the author uses prayer, Scripture and reflection to invite us to think about what it means to live each day as followers of Jesus. Please come with Week 1 read. Book fee: $6. Shared leadership. Our second study begins Oct 10. Using James W. Moore s book Moments that Take Our Breath Away, we ll explore the idea, It s not the number of breaths we take, it is the number of moments that take our breath away. Every now and then, and more often than we realize, God breaks into the routine and gives us one of those awesome moments, so powerful, so amazing, so beautiful that time seems to stand still. Book fee: $10. Shared leadership. Tuesday Morning Women s Bible Study Sept 12 - May 29 9:30-11 a.m. Room 141 We will spend the fall studying the book of Genesis, with a special emphasis on the women in Genesis. We will start with a deep dive into the creation story as foundational for our understanding of our relationship with God. This is a supportive, encouraging and caring fellowship of women who are also busy with family and other outside activities. Outside reading is kept to a minimum. Led by Rev. Brenda Becker. Photography as a Spiritual Practice Sept 12 - Oct 31 6:30-8 p.m. Room 223 Come, join with others in learning to see with the eyes of your heart -Ephesians 1:18. We will be using the book Eyes of the Heart: Photography as a Christian Contemplative Practice, by Christine Valters Paintner as a guide for discussion and learning. The author is a contemplative photographer, modern day monk and Benedictine Oblate. We will also be sharing our own images and reflections each week. No photography experience necessary and no special equipment is required, just a simple digital camera or smart phone. Registration limited to 12 participants. Book fee: $13. Please read the Introduction and Chapter 1 before the first class. Led by contemplative photographer Susan Miller. Wednesdays UNFINISHED! The Challenge of Discipleship Sept 27 - Oct 25 6:30 p.m. Room 141 This five-week study will challenge you in five key areas of your discipleship: trust, sacrifice, surrender, amazement, purpose. Each session will relate to the sermon that will be preached the following weekend, but will go much deeper and will include additional biblical passages. The result will be a deeper connection with Christ that will transform your everyday life. All are warmly welcomed and encouraged to be part of this life-changing, life-enhancing experience! Led by Rev. Stephanie Lendt and Rev. Winter Hamilton. [Also offered on Sundays, Sept 24-Oct 22, at 6:30 p.m., led by Rev. Greg Weeks] Fast Track Disciple Bible Study: Old Testament Sept 11 - Nov 27 6:30-8 p.m. Room 223 This new program offers a deep, 12-week study of the Old Testament. You ll read daily from the Bible and reflect on Scriptures. During the weekly group time, a video featuring the insights of current Biblical scholars, along with group discussion, will deepen your understanding of week s readings. Please allow about 20 minutes per day for reading. Book fee: $15. Led by Wanda Oldani. Single Again & Starting Over Sept 25 Nov 20 6:30-7:45 p.m. Room 309 This is the 8th SASO series we have offered to help singles move ahead after a divorce, death of a spouse, or after a long-term relationship. Each 9-week series is similar, but features some new topics and handouts. Each meeting highlights a specific topic and is designed to help you get your life back on track. Sample topics include: moving past the past, mending a broken heart, self evaluation, how we sabotage new relationships, the changing dating scene, red flags in new relationships, and more. This is designed to be a learning and sharing experience that is meaningful and fun, with all kinds of questions and comments from participants. We welcome newcomers any week. Led by Ralph Burns. Where Does the United Methodist Church Stand on Social Justice Issues? Oct 16 6:30-8:30 p.m. Room 222 How is missions different than social action? That question will be the starting point for this class. We will look at issues addressed in our United Methodist Social Principles, such as human rights, the environment, and healthcare, as well as ways to advocate for them. We will also explore how Manchester UMC might become more proactive in advocating for social causes. Led by Trish Gunby. Emotional Wellness Nov :30-8 p.m. Room 222 We all feel the full range of emotions happiness, frustration, fear, anger, joy, sadness, awe, peace and all these emotions are God-given. Your emotions influence your life as they inform you, motivate you, and guide you to do or not do, to say or not say, and to react or not react. Being emotionally healthy means you understand your emotions and you have control over how you express them. You ll receive the tools to improve your emotional wellness by learning to express your emotions in a constructive manner, which will benefit every aspect of your life. Led by Vicki Samuels. 8 5

6 Living Compass is a comprehensive array of health and wellness programs for congregations that takes a holistic approach to faith & life. It is built around Jesus words in the Gospels, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind. [Luke 10:27, Mark 12:30] We are excited that a variety of these programs are being introduced to our congregation this fall. These courses offer an opportunity for self-reflection and selfdiscovery as you connect your Christian faith to all aspects of your life. Enjoy! Living Compass: Parent Wellness Circle Sept/Oct [Dates and times tbd by group] Living Compass: Faith & Wellness Circle Mondays, Sept 11 Oct 16 6:30-8 p.m. Library This 6-week program is for parents of children ages birth high school who are looking to add intentionality and depth to their family relationships. During this holistic approach to parenting, we will focus on eight dimensions of wellness: healthy relationships, handling emotions, organization, work and school, spirituality, rest and play, stress resilience, and care for the body. You will learn and practice being more intentional about how you lead your life as a parent, and how you can best serve as a compass for your children and for your family. Limit of 8 participants. Led by Debbie Irving. This 6-week, in-depth program takes a holistic approach to faith & life that builds from the biblical concept of loving God with all of our heart, soul, strength and mind. The inner compasses of our lives are acted upon by God, who calls us to greater wholeness, gently reminding us when our course in life needs adjusting. This group will help you to be still, to listen, and to say yes to God s invitation for your life as you are gently guided in self-discovery and self-direction. Limit of 8 participants. Led by Vicki Samuels. 6 Forgiveness Wednesdays, Sept 13-Oct 4 6:30-8 p.m. Fireside Room Emotional Wellness Mondays, Nov :30-8 p.m. Room 222 It takes a lot of emotional energy to hold on to hurt. One of the benefits of doing the hard work of forgiveness is that it frees up emotional energy. Most of us spend time and energy reliving the hurt and what happened. Making the choice to forgive will release us from the emotional turmoil and exhaustion that comes from holding on to hurts, grudges, and resentments. Learn the tools you need to move into a place of forgiveness. Led by Jason West. We all feel the full range of emotions happiness, frustration, fear, anger, joy, sadness, awe, peace and all these emotions are God-given. Your emotions influence your life as they inform you, motivate you, and guide you to do or not do, to say or not say, and to react or not react. Being emotionally healthy means you understand your emotions and you have control over how you express them. You ll receive the tools to improve your emotional wellness by learning to express your emotions in a constructive manner, which will benefit every aspect of your life. Led by Vicki Samuels. Aging Well Wednesdays, Sept 20-Oct 11 9:30-10:45 a.m. Rm 222 Approximately 10,000 Americans will turn 65 every day for the next twenty years. Aging well invites us to be more mindful about the choices we make as we age. The benefits of choosing to age well include more energy, better relationships and an overall sense of vitality. This fourweek class is an opportunity to consider how we can age well in heart, soul, strength, and mind. Whether you are already 65 plus or you are thinking ahead about aging well, you are invited to join this class! Led by Rev. Nancye Dunlap. 7