"Unabashedly Episcopalian: Returning to Our Roots", Fall Christian Ed for All Ages and Confirmation Preparation Begins, Sept 10, between Services (10:20 AM)
I am so excited to announce that our Fall Sunday Morning Christian Education Programs for all ages will begin, Sept 10 between services (10:20 AM). Please mark your calendars and plan to join us each week. We see worship AND Christian Ed as two sides of the same coin that, together, lead us, as our Vision Statement reads, to "Grow in Relationship, Love all Well, and Seek Intimacy with Christ".
Our adults will begin the semester with a class titled "Unabashedly Episcopalian: Returning to our Roots". This will be a deep dive into what it means to be a part of, what our Presiding Bishop calls, the Episcopal Branch of the Jesus movement. Our Theologian in Residence, Dr. Tony Baker, along with our clergy and special guests, will be exploring both the faith and practice of Episcopalians. How we live, move and have our being.
The class will include topics like: How Episcopalians read and interpret Scripture. How Episcopalians approach moral theology and ethical decision making. How sacraments confer the grace of God in our lives. How and why we worship the way we do. And, what's in and how do we use the Book of Common Prayer both personally and corporately...among many others. The title for the class comes directly from the book "Unabashedly Episcopalian: Proclaiming the Good News of the Episcopal Church" by our Bishop, the Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle. We recommend purchasing and reading the book to complement the class, though it is not necessary to participate (click here for a copy).
Though this class promises to be formative and fun and is for all adults at St. Julian's, it will also serve as preparation for those who would like to be Confirmed or Received into the Episcopal Church at our next Bishop's Visit on Sunday, Oct 22. If you are interested in using this class to formally join St. Julian's and the Episcopal Church, please email Jonathan for more information.
Please note, this class is for adults, as a separate Confirmation Class will be offered for our youth, grades 8 and up, on Sunday evenings during regular Youth Group (5-7:30 PM). Whether your teen is actively involved in the Youth Group or not, they are very welcome to participate if interested in being Confirmed at the Bishop's visit on Oct 22. If you would like to sign your teen up or have questions, again, email Jonathan.
Whether new to the Episcopal Church or not, I am so very excited to consider, as a whole community, what it means to share our faith tradition, and how God in Christ has uniquely formed us as a powerful witness to the power of love in our own day for the very life of the world. This class is truly for all of us, as we commit to supporting each other in the life of faith, wherever we might be on that journey. Class meets in the Worship Space.
Additionally on Sept 10, we will resume Christian Ed for our Youth and Children. Below is a list of their fun and formative offerings. If you have any questions about any of these gatherings, email Jennifer Cowles.
Pre K 4-2nd grade, "The Jesus Storybook Bible": A curriculum which explores stories from the Old and New Testaments, using storytelling, video, song and directed activities/crafts. Class meets in the Red Room.
3rd-5th grades, "The Deep Blue curriculum": An awe-inspiring and comprehensive Bible Study that helps children discover what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ today. Class meets in the Green Room.
6th-12th Grades, "Companions for the Journey": A bible study with discussion and activities generated from topics discerned directly by our teens from real life challenges and opportunities. Led by our Vicar, Miles. Class meets in the Blue Room.
Children's Chapel (3-years-old-3rd grade): A child-centered time of worship with teaching, prayers, songs, and activities. Meets during the first part of our regular Sunday services at 9 and 11:15 AM. Children return in time to receive communion with their families.
Childcare/Nursery (Infants-3-years-old): Our nursery is available each Sunday morning during worship and Christian Education. The nursery is located near the front entrance to the church.
If we can answer any questions about our Fall Christian Ed Programs, or anything in our shared life, please feel free to reach out to either of us. I hope this reaches you and yours well.
Peace and Warm Friendship,
Miles+
The Rev. Miles Brandon, Vicar
with
The Rev. Jonathan McManus-Dail, Associate Vicar for Youth and Young Adults