Christian Education
First Church offers Christian Education opportunities for all ages and here's the reason.
So often we think of Christian Education as something for children and possibly youth. But Christian Education is for eveyone because we never outgrow our need to learn. From mid life through the senior years increased use of both hemispheres of the brain contributes to postformal thinking. In healthy brains new neurons continue to form and learning continues. In terms of interpersonal relationships we find that some relationships are strengthening, others deteriorating over time. We experience a need for feelings of significance in our relationship to others. In middle age many are caring for children and parents. In later years there may be a loss of significant relationships due to death but we are still quite able to establish new relationships. We recognize the need for relationships that recognize the value and quality of life even as people age.
At First Church we strive to offer a variety of on-going and short term classes as well as fellowship opportunities to enhance the lives and learning of all. As the Pastor for Education, I work with councils and committees in order to provide a wide range of programming that will invite participation in an environment of encouragement and growth. My hope is that you will come and see for yourself what we are doing in the area of Christian Education and also share with me what your needs and interests are so that as a community of faith we can learn together. We also know how to have fun so we provide a number of fellowship activities as well. This is a great way to meet others in the church. Won't you join us and see for yourself?
Blessings, Pastor Eva
SUNDAY SCHOOL
On Sunday mornings from September through June, Sunday School classes are offered for all ages. Children begin Sunday School at age 2 in the nurturing environment of a class that includes ample time for play and fun as well as a weekly story and project. Preschool and Kindergarten students enjoy a self-contained environment using the "Live B.I.G." (Belief In God) curriculum. Students in elementary school participate in a Workshop Rotation program. Each month a different bible story is studied in a variety of formats. Classes move from week to week into different rooms to experience the biblical teaching through various activities. Rotations have included art, music, computers, cooking, games, videos, drama, science and more. Each child has the opportunity to experience each of the rotations.
Youth Sunday school includes classes for middle school and senior high school students as well as a biennial confirmation program. The youth programs focus on learning about our faith and applying it to real life situation.
There are currently three adult classes offered each Sunday in addition to special short-term studies. Some classes are inter-generational; some explore topics of social justice and contemporary issues while others are bible studies.
See the Sunday School Link
SHORT TERM STUDIES Occasional short term and single event studies are offered.
BIBLE STUDY GROUPS
Women's Bible Study Sunday Evenings in September and October, using the Beth Moore curriculum 'Believe God' - contact Pastor Eva for more information.
Thursday Morning Bible Study 9:30 AM - led by Pastor Amy Smith will be using the Maxie Dunham study 'That's What the Man Said'.
Thursday Night Bible Study 6:00 PM - led by Pastor Amy
Men's Bible Study First Thursday of the Month 9:00 to 11:00 AM led by Pastor Dick Howarth (October to June) will be using the Maxie Dunham study 'That's What the Man Said'.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Every Monday 10 AM at the home of Betty Moore and 7 PM at the church. Contact Pastor Eva for more information.
FELLOWSHIP There are fellowship opportunities offered for all ages.
The Methodist Youth Fellowship maintains its own page on the website, and you are invited to go there for more information about their activities.
The Children's Council sponsors activities through out the year for children and their families. Past events have included hayrides in the fall, movies and bowling during the winter months, a road rally, winter children's activity night at the church, and holiday events at Christmas and Easter.
THIRD TO FIFTH GRADE FELLOWSHIP- Meets the third Sunday of the month from 5:00 - 7:00 PM for activities, service projects and a meal.
The Adult Council plans multi age adult activities through the PEPPERS (People Enjoying People, Parties, Events, Relationships and, Spirited discussions) and the Leisures provides fellowship events for older adults.
Upcoming Activities
October 29, 2010 COMMUNITY NIGHT@ FUMC Join us for music, pumpkin patch, and a "Trunk or Treat" Extravaganza. Free to the public.
