Adult Formation Schedule 2012

O God, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, and light riseth up in darkness for the godly: Grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what thou wouldest have us to do, that the Spirit of wisdom may save us from all false choices, and that in thy light we may see light, and in thy straight path may not stumble; through Jesus Christ our Lord..

- Book of Common Prayer p. 832. For Guidance

Sunday Adult Formation

Sundays, 10 am to 11 am

Route 66 Intergenerational Bible Survey (St. Cecilia's Room). Route 66: A Trip through the 66 Books of the Bible. Most Sundays in our country's churches children and adults are learning about the Bible, but rarely together. We're studying the Bible with people of all ages! Anyone in 4th Grade or older may join us at 10 am in St. Cecilia's Room for a curriculum based on the historic Route 66 highway that runs through the heart of our nation. We 'travel' weekly through a book or group of books in the Bible to talk about authors, time frame, key verses and purpose. Get to know the handbook of our faith; no previous Bible study experience or knowledge is needed. Come join the 'road trip' through the Bible and meet new friends of all ages! Sign up at the Activity Center outside the Parish Hall or see Rev. Mark or Sheila Foster.

Introduction to Christian Ethics (Parlor) through Feb 19. Presentations and conversations on biblical ethics in today's contexts, with general understandings and issues specific to all our lives, and occasional speakers on timely topics.

A Lenten Journey Through the Parables (Parlor), Feb 26 through April 1. Parables were one of Jesus' favorite methods of teaching. Through these engaging stories, He challenged and shepherded his listeners to discern the gospel message. In this Lenten series, we will journey through some of Jesus' parables, trying to place ourselves among the first century crowds, listening to and discussing Jesus' own words about the kingdom of heaven, God's love, grace, and mercy, and our destiny as God's children. Please click on the PDF icon for a flyer on the series:

First and Third Sundays of the Month, at 12 Noon

@Home in the Wilderness Small Group Bible Study, is a study and discussion group open to all; it's a "lunch and learn" format; bring whatever you like to eat. We are studying N. T. Wright's Acts for Everyone. Please contact Angie Gordon at for more information

Wednesday Adult Formation

Wednesdays, 6 to 7 pm

The Book of Ruth, Epiphany Season January 11 - February 8, 2012. Shepherd's Notes: Ruth and Esther ISBN-13: 978-0805490572. The purpose for the writing of Ruth might be found in the main characters of the story. Although Ruth was a Moabitess, she was blessed by God. The story thus countered nationalism with a message of universal acceptance; the worship of God was not exclusively the prerogative of Israel. ~Shepherd’s Notes

The Gospel According to Mark, Lenten Season, February 22 - April 11, 2012. Shepherd's Notes: Mark ISBN-13: 978-0805490718. The title “according to Mark” was added to this Gospel by scribes who produced the earliest copies of the Gospel. According to early church tradition, Mark recorded and arranged the “memories” of Peter, thereby producing a Gospel based on apostolic witness. Peter was undoubtedly the source for most of Mark’s Gospel. Besides the content that came from Peter, there is indication of Mark’s own narrative and the inclusion of gospel truths that had been spoken by others and now were being put into writing. Mark himself may have been an eyewitness to part of what he wrote. Regardless of his sources, the Holy Spirit used Mark’s own personality in the writing. ~Shepherd’s Notes.

The Book of James Wednesdays, Easter Season, April 18 - May 16, 2012. Shepherd’s Notes: James ISBN-13: 978-0805490183. James’s letter makes a unique contribution in the New Testament with its strong ethical emphasis. Its ethical teaching is scattered throughout his writing. James clearly taught that a faith that lacks works is empty, vain and useless. James’s frequent use of the imperative mood (in the Greek language which he used to write the letter) indicates his passionate feeling about the issues he faced. His fiery words resemble those of an Old Testament prophet. He shared ethical commands that touched upon both personal morality and social justice. ~Shepherd’s Notes

Your Wednesday Evening Teaching Team: Rev. Mark Kelm (), Tim Hadley (), and Pam Hadley ()

Education for Ministry (EfM)

Education for Ministry begins in January! A group forming at St. John's needs at least 1 more participant to get started. EfM is a study of God's people throughout history. Anyone looking for a deeper knowledge of God and God's works, along with the support of a group, can participate. More information is available in the tract racks or online: www.sewanee.edu/EFM. Contact: Sally Holtz, . They're waiting for you!

Video

Interviews from the Biblical Fluency Project at St. Johns