Adult Formation
Sunday Morning Adult Christian Formation Classes
9:15 a.m. in Founders’ Hall
February 12, 19, 26 & March 4
The Politics of Mark
Most of us have been brought up with the notion that the Galilee of Jesus’ day was a quiet, rural, backwater of the first century Jewish world. In fact, however, Galilee of that first terrible century of the Common Era was a sophisticated mix of social, religious and political ideologies. And Mark’s community was a part of the mix. In this short course, we will examine some of the passages of the Gospel of Mark that reveal the politics of a new reality called the Kingdom of God.
If you:
- are new to the Episcopal Church OR…
- are new to Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral OR…
- are an adult seeking baptism OR…
- have forgotten everything you once learned in Confirmation years ago…
…then our adult education series, Road to Canterbury, may be for you.
Sundays, February 5-March 26 • 9:15-10 a.m.
This series is led by the Cathedral clergy and will cover such topics as:
- Some similarities and differences with other branches of the Christian Church,
- The Book of Common Prayer, the hymnals, Sunday morning worship, and why it takes such manual dexterity to be an Episcopalian,
- The role of Scripture, Tradition, and Reason in the Episcopal Church. (unity thru worship vs. uniformity of belief),
- Baptism as the Sacrament conferring full membership, and what that means, and much, much more.
Participation in this class can lead to adult baptism (for those who have not been baptized) or confirmation/reception/reaffirmation in the Episcopal Church at the Great Vigil of Easter. It can also lead simply to richer knowledge of the Episcopal Church. Register for this class now by contacting the Rev. Canon Rev. Canon Sue Sommer at 816-474-8260 x107 or ssommer@ghtc-kc.org.
Education for Ministry
Education for Ministry (EfM) is a program of study, prayer and reflection which is coordinated by the School of Theology at the University of the South. It is designed for laypersons who want to gain a better understanding of scripture, theology and themselves.
EfM is a four-year course of study, but you sign up one year at a time. The first year studies the Old Testament, second year the New Testament, and third and fourth years cover church history, liturgy, philosophy and theology. The groups meet once each week during the school year with the guidance of trained mentors. Meetings include worship, fellowship, study, discussion, and theological reflection.
Groups tend to become close and safe communities where people feel comfortable considering their own personal theology. Exploration and questions are welcome, and thoughtful reflection and discussion often provide new insight into participants’ faith and life.
Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral hosts EfM beginning each the fall. The program currently costs $340 per year. Study materials are provided. If you are interested, contact the Cathedral office.
