Adult Education

ADULT EDUCATION @ GRACE

Faith formation is important for Christians of all ages, including adults. It shapes how we interact with God--and with our families, our communities, our workplaces, and the world. In addition, continued adult study models for the children and youth of the church that one's faith journey is never complete! Adults at Grace are encouraged to find regular opportunities to learn more, grow more, and reach deep.

Grace Presbyterian Church has a variety of opportunities for adults to grow in their faith, including weekly Sunday morning programming, midweek studies, and monthly groups. See below for current offerings. You can also check out our Adult Education Archives for highlights of previous studies.

WEEKLY OFFERINGS

OASIS (Adult Sunday School)

Leaders: Rotating
Every Sunday in Family Room (lower level) and on Zoom
9:00-10:00 a.m.

This discussion-based class explores biblical and thematic topics, led by rotating leaders. Participants are encouraged (but not required!) to read texts selected for study and to bring their insights and questions to the group discussion. The studies for the current year (Fall 2024 - Spring 2025) are listed below.

Grace in Polarized Times (Sept 8 - Oct 27, 2024)

Facilitators: Amy Trawick, Marty Post, Tim Wilder
Sunday Mornings, 9:00-10:00 a.m., in the Family Room (lower level) and on Zoom

The Sunday morning discussion-based OASIS group explores biblical and thematic topics. Join us starting on Rally Day as we begin a new 7-week study, Grace in Polarized Times.

"Polarization" is a fancy word for "division," which the Bible talks about quite a lot. For instance, Paul tells us that Christ should not be divided but rather united in one body by their love for Jesus and each other. But, wow, that's hard when the other side is so crazy, right?! In the weeks leading up to the election, we explore why we are so polarized and grapple with the challenges of overcoming tribal instincts and living as God's people. Facilitators will mainly draw from two books: Truth over Tribe by Patrick Keith Miller and Keith Simon, and The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt. Read along or just come for the discussion!
Adults of all ages and older youth are welcome.

Centering Prayer

Leader: Cindi Bryant
Every Monday on Zoom
7:00-7:45 a.m.

Are you looking for a way to set everything down, turn off the chaotic and deeply troubling news of the world, and find a time and place to refresh your heart and spirit?

Then join us for Centering Prayer on Monday mornings, beginning September 9. The Contemplative Outreach organization describes Centering Prayer as a “prayer that moves us beyond conversation with Christ to communion with God.” In this group you will find a loving community of seekers who wish to be refreshed in silence as we grow closer to God. Join us once, a few times, or every Monday to experience the love, hope, and healing that time in sacred silence provides to nourish our souls. All are welcome. For information, contact Cindi Bryant at: encbryant@msn.com.

Firepit Theology: Burning Questions (Oct 1 - Nov 19)

Facilitator: Nelson Thurman
Every Tuesday @ 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. on the church’s front lawn
Join your friends at Grace (and invite a friend!) as we gather around a firepit for fellowship, roasting marshmallows (or whatever you want to roast), and discussion on the breaking news of the day, the messiness of everyday life, and living out our faith. Bring your questions, your wonderings, and a chair -- and enjoy a lively evening of conversation!

MONTHLY OFFERINGS

Circle 6

Facilitators: Mary Helmantoler, Valerie Patrick

First Wednesday of the Month

10:00-11:30 a.m. in the Library/on Zoom

Circle 6 is a Presbyterian Women’s group that meets monthly for Bible study, fellowship, and special mission projects. This year Circle 6 is using the PW Horizons Bible study Let Justice Roll Down: God’s Call to Care for Neighbors and All Creation. Contact Mary Helmantoler for the study book and more information.

Men's Fellowship

Facilitators: Rotating leaders
Meetings: Second Saturday of every month @ 8:00a.m. in Wester Hall or a home

The men of Grace have a vibrant program that started over 20 years ago. On the second Saturday of each month, the men gather at 8:00 a.m. in Wester Hall for a delicious breakfast, a nourishing Bible study, and supportive fellowship. Watch for the announcements each month!

Grace 101

This class meets periodically to familiarize visitors and prospective members with key components of Grace Presbyterian Church. Topics cover faith journeys and spiritual gifts, Presbyterian beliefs and structures, and how to jump into Grace's missions and ministries. If you are interested in attending one of these classes, please contact the church office (703-451-2900).