Adult Faith Formation
Lifelong learning is an important part of Christian faith and practice. At Incarnation we have lots of opportunities for adults to grow in faith, from first explorations through advanced Christian education.
Exploring Faith
Is God real? How do I pray? What does the Bible mean? Who is Jesus, really? Is there a purpose to my life? Why do we do what we do in church?
Church is a place where we ask the big questions. Whether we’re brand new to church or we’ve been in a pew for decades, there are times when we’re called to explore faith and what it means. Exploring Faith is a course for anyone who wants to explore some of the basic questions of Christianity. We talk about our images and understandings of God, scripture, Jesus, prayer, and more.
This series is for anyone 16 and up, whether beginners on the Christian path or longtime disciples. This course is also our standard form of preparation for adults considering being baptized, or recommitting to faith by going through one of the rites known as confirmation, reaffirmation, or reception.
Sunday Forums and Classes
We often have learning opportunities during the Community Hour on Sunday mornings between the 9:00 and 11:15 services (roughly from 10:15 to 11:15). Sometimes we'll have a congregational forum in Farlander Hall about a topic of importance to the whole parish. Other times we offer smaller classes and discussion groups. Watch News and Notes or the parish calendar for upcoming opportunities.
Living Compass and Seasonal Classes
Throughout the year, various small group classes meet on weekdays, usually once a week for a period of several weeks. Some of these classes focus on Advent, Lent, or other seasons, using the Living Compass curriculum. Others focus on aging, spiritual wellness, or other topics. We also offer Bible Study groups throughout the year.
Education for Ministry
Education for Ministry, or EfM, is a comprehensive, four-year theological education program for lay people, developed by the University of the South (Sewanee). Through study, prayer, and reflection, EfM groups move toward a new understanding of the fullness of God's kingdom. Participants are given weekly assignments to study with the help of resource guides. By examining their own beliefs and their relationship to our culture and the tradition of our Christian faith, participants learn what it means to be effective ministers in the world. In coming to terms with the notion that everything we do has potential for manifesting the love of Christ, we discover that our ministry is at hand wherever we turn. The seminar is supported by a life of prayer and regular worship.
Incarnation Bookstore
The Bookstore’s ministry is to provide literature and readings suited to enhancing and stimulating the spiritual life of our community. The bookstore sells Fair Trade jewelry and other items that benefit the sellers of the country of origin.
Located in Farlander Hall, our parish bookstore offers books, calendars, cards and other items that are particularly centered on Episcopal faith. Books of a general spiritual interest are also available, as are materials needed for classes. We can special order books for you, if we don’t have them in stock.
To place an order, see one of our managers at the store on Sundays or email us at [email protected].
Open Sundays, 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Lectio Divina - Sacred Reading
