Adult Christian Formation
The Meanings of Atonement
Although the Christian Church decided definitively what it believes about the divine/human nature of Christ at Nicea in 325 CE, no council was ever successful in defining the Church's teaching on what happens in Christ's death on the Cross, or exactly how it happens. When you get right down to it, what is "the atonement?" When Christians say, "Christ died for our sins," what does that actually mean? This course will examine the biblical background of the atonement and four very different ways (theories) the Church has come up with to explain the complex of meanings surrounding Christianity's most fundamental teaching. The course will meet for six Sunday evenings, October 19 through November 23, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Library. The teachers are Philip Jones and Bruce Boston, both long-time St. Anne's members and adult educators.
Education for Ministry
In the early 1970’s members of the faculty of the Episcopal Seminary at the University of the South began an adult education program which had the goal of providing education to lay Episcopalians that would prepare them to function as ministers in their daily lives. EFM, as the course is now called, provides a basis of study of the Bible, Church History and Contemporary Theology, but, just as importantly, it supports students in developing ways to articulate their own faith, and in developing a foundation to be a minister in the world.
EFM is a four-year program, meeting from September to June. Groups meet once a week for two and a half hours. Year One is the Hebrew Scriptures; Year Two, the New Testament; Year Three, Church History; Year Four, Theology. There are currently two EFM groups at St. Anne’s. Contact the Rector for more information.
Inquirers’ Classes
This multi-week program is designed for adults who would like to be confirmed in the Episcopal Church or received into the Episcopal Church from another denomination. It will also be of interest to anyone who wants to find out more about the Episcopal Church and our Christian faith. To find out when the next Inquirers’ Classes are scheduled, call the church office.
Men’s Discussion Group
This group meets at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday morning in the Library to study the Bible and to engage in a lively discussion among friends. To find out more, contact the church office.
Adult Education Academy
Adult education classes meet on Sunday, Tuesday, or Thursday evenings and focus on studies of scripture, church history, theology and Christian ethics. Classes start promptly at 7:30 and end at 9:00. Contact Mother Jackie at the church office if you have any questions or have a suggestion for a future class offering.
Bible Study
Bible studies based on programs developed by Kerygma and led by the Senior Associate Rector are offered in two available sessions: Monday mornings, 10:30-12:15, and Tuesday evenings, 7:30 - 9:00. This fall, we began a 14-week study of the Gospel of Matthew. In January we will begin a 14-week study of the Book of Acts. Contact Mother Jackie at the church office for more details.
Book Discussions
St. Anne’s is a community of readers. Accordingly, at any time during the year a member of the clergy or a parishioner may be leading a book discussion group. Brief background and other information will be available in the newsletter, e-news, and bulletins.
All are invited to come to the Monday Morning Book Group Discussions. On October 28 we will discuss Body Surfing by Anita Shreve. December 3 we will discuss Anne LaMott’s new book Grace (Eventually). Join us in the Library from 9:30-10:30, and do bring suggestions for future selections.