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Adult Education Prospectus 2009/2010

Saint Augustine, in the 4th century, likened the Bible to a great ocean. It was possible, he said, to paddle along the shore, or to wade far out into the depths amidst the waves, and find pleasure and fulfillment either way.

The same can be said for our whole Christian faith tradition, for the myriad ways in which Jesus Christ has touched and transformed people over 2000 years, and for the host of commitments and insights which faith has given to our forebears and our immediate neighbors.

This year, the Adult Education work area invites you to take to the waters. Come in as deep as you wish; come seeking whatever you wish; come as you are and with nothing but an open heart and an enquiring mind. Above all, come with sisters and brothers in faith, to find community, and to be inspired, changed and renewed. However you desire to grow as a disciple of Jesus, we believe and hope that the program offers you that chance.

Come to the waters! And God bless your seeking, your understanding, your growth in faith and your enjoyment.

Jonathan Dean

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'100' Level Courses

These courses require no advance preparation time. Simply sign up (if necessary), turn up, listen and discuss.

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i. Bible Study 101…The Old Testament

This Thursday Night Bible Study will begin its 3rd year of Biblical exploration. This year we will be looking at various books of the Old Testament. It is important to connect with the history, wisdom and tradition of the Old Testament to fully understand the meaning and purpose of the New. As we explore such personalities as Ruth, Gideon, Josiah and a host of other kings, we will begin to understand the tragedy and triumph of these Old Testament figures. We will witness the strength of Deborah and get to know a cousin of Moses, Jael. It will be an interesting journey and we hope that you will come along. We will meet in the new Adult Classroom. Hope to see you there. Please bring your favorite Bible translation/version.

Led by Tom Ostrander.

Thursdays from September 24th, 7—8pm, Room 213

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ii. Foundations: a place to share, explore and inspire

Beginning on Sunday, September 20th we are pleased to offer a new Sunday School experience for adults. Foundations will meet at 9:30am in room 213. We are hoping that it will be ‘a place to share, explore and inspire’. We shall begin by watching and discussing the NOOMA video series. Members of the Adult Education work area will facilitate our conversations, beginning with Pastor Jonathan on September 20th.

Sundays from September 20th, 9:30am, Room 213

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iii. Parenting Teens in the Hectic 21st Century

While the challenge of successfully guiding youth through their teenage years is a struggle for many parents, others seem to have adapted and even embraced the situation. Why is there high stress and drama for some families and not for others? How do parents and their teens agree on issues such as: dating and curfews, extracurricular activities, social networks, studying, chores/work, and driving/car privileges? How do parents get teens to understand that with more independence and freedom comes more responsibility? These are just some of the questions and topics that will be discussed and explored on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings this fall. Participants will determine the specific agenda and have active input in these roundtable discussions. Discussions will begin the last week of September.

Led by Don Dunham.

Wednesdays from September 24th, 7-8:30pm, Chapel Hall
Sundays from September 27th, 10:45-12:15pm in Room 213

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iv. Fairview Bible Study

Each first Tuesday of the month we will meet on the 5th floor of the main building of Fairview Village. We meet at 2:00pm for one hour. We look at a Bible passage and find its relationship to our lives. It is a great way to have fellowship and community. Join us beginning in October.

Led by Tom Ostrander.

First Tuesday of each month, 5th floor common area, 2pm

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v. United Methodist Women

All women are warmly invited to attend General meetings or Circle meetings to engage in studies, enjoy fellowship, and be a part of the UMW’s remarkable missions locally and around the world. Studies for 2009–10 include: Giving our Hearts Away, Native American Survival, The Beauty and Courage of Sudan and Food & Faith.

General Meetings:
2nd Thursday of February, May, and September
Circles:
Mary Elizabeth: 4th Wednesday, 1:00pm in Chapel Hall
Rachel: 4th Thursday, 9:00am in Chapel Hall
Ruth: 4th Thursday, 12:45pm in Chapel Hall
Miriam: 4th Thursday, 12:45pm in members' homes
Sarah: 4th Monday, 7:00pm in room 213

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vi. Men's Huddle

Meet for breakfast, fellowship and conversation, every Tuesday morning in the Gym. The 2009-10 program begins in October.

Led by Kent Ebersold.

Every Tuesday in the Gym, 6:15-7:15am

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vii. Special Guest Speakers

This series is funded in part from the Adult Education Endowment that was created in 2001.

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viii. Meet the Author

November 8th, after each service

The Adult Education Work Area invites you to celebrate the recent publication of his first book Servitude and Freedom written by our very own Rev. Dr. Jonathan Dean. Buy your copy and have it signed by Jonathan in the Parlor at noon.

Servitude and Freedom: Reading the Christian Tradition shows how a study of Christian history and tradition can help us engage with the most important and divisive issues affecting us today, such as sexuality, environmentalism, religious violence, and ecumenism.

November 8th at noon in the Parlor

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ix. Opening to God:
Guided Meditations for You!

The Prayer Labyrinth was met with such positive reaction that we are offering a time of meditation in the Chapel using a number of guided meditations by Carolyn Stahl. This will be a time of individual reflection using a personal CD player and headsets in the Chapel. There is no interaction with anyone else. It is simply you, the CD and God. This is an opportunity for personal prayer and meditation, in a beautiful setting, using some very creative guided meditations. Each week a new one will be used with the opportunity to visit previous ones if so desired. No leader, no need to get there on time, simply an open ended 1 hour slot for a 30 minute guided meditation alone with God. We hope you enjoy this oasis of prayer.

Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00pm in the Chapel, from October 28th

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'200' Level Courses

These require some advance preparation: maybe to read a chapter or article or sermon before discussion.

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i. Wednesday Faith Forum

A small group for faith-seekers and all wanting to explore their faith journey with honesty, mutual respect and openness to one another. This year, four books will guide our reflections and sharing.

Led by Jonathan Dean.

10am, in Room 213, repeated at:
6:30pm, in Room 213 (during Family Fellowship)

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ii. Fiction Book Group

Meets on the third Thursday of every other month. We discuss a work of literature, and how it speaks to both the human condition and our search for God. Where are the intersections here between the story and our story, between the author’s imagination, and the timeless questions all of us face? This year, a series of diverse works by mostly women authors, dealing with a common theme of finding our place and identity in a complex, fearful, and sometimes ruthless world.

Led by Jonathan Dean

Thursdays in the Parlor at 7pm.

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iii. The Discipline in Eight Weeks

There have been a few that have wondered about the United Methodist Rule Book and so for those inquiring minds we will venture forth to explore parts of this often mentioned but seldom explored book. Those attending will need to purchase a 2008 Discipline. We will have several copies available at the first class meeting. There will be outside reading and discussion on Wednesday nights. We will meet from 7:00 until 8:00pm. Come and get an inside look at the United Methodist Church. We will learn interesting facts about our church, for instance, what does the Cross and Flame symbolize and when did it come into existence. Join us beginning September 23.

Led by Tom Ostrander, Terry McDorman and Herb Bell.

Wednesdays at 7:00pm in Room 116
September 23rd until November 11

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iv. Lent Courses

Again this year, we are offering a choice of Lent courses. Choose the topic – or topics – that suit your interests and availability best, and sign up in the office. Each course varies in length, at times indicated or to be published early in 2010.

a. A Lenten Bible Study

Lent begs for a time of introspection and prayer. We will be offering a class for that purpose beginning Wednesday February 24th. We will be using "Irresistible Invitation." We will spend the first five weeks of this six week program rehearsing the Gospel, reflection on the nature of God, the teachings of Jesus, the meaning of the cross, what Jesus' life models as it relates to the shape of discipleship, the glorious possibility that Christ lives in us and we are to be his presence in the world. That is the foundation that supports the call of for God's people to partner with him in his kingdom enterprise. There is a book and outside reading. What a great way to uncover a meaningful and holy Lent. The last day of class will be the Wednesday of Holy Week.

Led by Tom Ostrander.

Wednesdays at 11:00am followed by lunch
February 24th until March 31st, 2010 in Room 213

b. Servitude and Freedom

A chance to challenge, grill and critique the author! This book deals with the complicated history of the Church: and how contemporary Christians should receive and interpret it today.

Led by Jonathan Dean.

Sundays at 12:30pm with a $4 lunch
February 21st until March 21st, 2010 in Room 213

c. Why New Orleans Matters

Rev. Nick Nicholas will lead a session of three classes on the resurrection of a city; using the book by Tom Piazza. He will be just back from his Renewal Leave two weeks of which will be spent working with UMCOR in New Orleans.

Led by Nick Nicholas.

Thursdays at 6:30pm in Room 213
March 4th, 11th, 25th, 2010

d. Spiritual Self-Care

Lent is a time of introspection and contemplation. It’s a great time to take stock of what is truly important in life and to make adjustments so that your calendar and your efforts reflect your values. Cap off the work week in a small group that reflects on personal stewardship: spending time and energy in accordance with what we value, setting healthy boundaries, nurturing important relationships, and finding joy in a busy schedule. Come enjoy another Lenten tradition of table fellowship at its best!

Led by Claire Marich.

Friday evenings in March, 2010

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'300' Level Courses

These course require more intensive reading and preparation, and may necessarily have limited availability. Please sign up in the church office.

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i. Just Faith

Is it time for a faith lift? Just Faith is a call to a new level of compassion and community. This thirty-week study program uses books, videos, guest speakers, discussion, prayer, retreat and immersion experiences to move believers to a new state of awareness and relationship with all of God’s people, with a preference to the poor. This small covenant group environment is geared for those looking to claim the promise of experiencing God's love through loving one another, especially the most vulnerable.

Led by Claire Marich.

Times to be arranged, beginning October 2009
Please contact Claire or the church office if you are interested.

| JustFaith Calendar |

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ii. Paul: Saint or Sinner?

An introduction to the life and thought of Saul of Tarsus. Was he the real founder of Christianity? Is there any hope for us to navigate the difficult passages of his works? What did St. Paul really think?

Led by Jonathan Dean (3 – 4 sessions).