Christian Education for Adults


 

 


Confirmation Class, June 2008

from left:  Geoff Oosterhoudt, sponsor Sharon Hiers, Azi Golshan, the Reverend Beverley Elliott, Jacob Dalton, Jerry Abraham, sponsor John York, and Bart Bates

THE CENTRALITY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION AND SPIRITUAL FORMATION
Although St. Bartholomew’s understanding of what and how we conduct Christian Education and Formation continually evolves, the following can safely be said at this point of our development.

St. Bartholomew’s seeks to be a vital and mature community of faith. To that end, the leaders of our Christian Education programs for children, youth and adult programs develop learning experiences that respond to the questions, challenges and needs that each person brings from their particular stage and circumstance in life. The hope is that all that happens in our life together as a Church, whether worship, study, social gatherings or service, will respond to these needs and questions of life and lead us to grow more deeply in our understanding and practice of Christian faith in daily life.

Parish education leaders believe that Christian formation begins with the conviction that God is working in each person’s life, inviting us into relationship with God and one another. The Baptismal Covenant & Catechism of the Book of Common Prayers, the traditions of the Anglican Communion & Episcopal Church, the particular identity of St. Bartholomew’s parish, and the ongoing revelation of the Holy Spirit in our midst, all shape our faith and our teachings.

We welcome you into the rich and exciting journey of becoming who you are called to be in Christ.

If you have ideas, comments or feedback around the programs and underlying assumptions and philosophies, or if you would like to be part of our teaching teams or planning committees, please contact Rev. Beverley Elliott.


Our adult programs have ranged from lectionary study, Bible study, and the study of church history and practices to discussions of some of the current issues in culture and society that invite Christian reflection and exploration. Midweek programs are offered during Lent each year and are considered an important Lenten discipline by those who participate. An Education for Ministry class is available for those interested in more in-depth theological study as are other classes and book studies. Theme-based retreats and quiet days during Advent and Lent have been an important addition to the spiritual practices of many adults in the parish.