Wednesday Evening Formation
Church is about community, and two of the best ways to build community are to eat together and learn together. This school year, we invite you to join us on Wednesday evenings to do just that. Each Wednesday evening, from September 16 to December 16 we will gather for a meal at 5:15 p.m. and then offer learning opportunities for all ages beginning at 6 p.m. To participate, all you need to do is register.
Formation for Adults
All classes begin September 16
Compassion Cultivation Training
Led by instructor Dr. Dent Gitchel, Jr.
8 weeks, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
In this course we’ll explore guided meditations, group exercises and discussion in Compassion Cultivation Training, an eight-week curriculum developed at the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University. Dr. Gitchel is a parishioner at Christ Episcopal Church and has been conducting CCT classes regularly since 2013. All participants will be provided with a CCT workbook (PDF format), recorded guided meditations, and an online class instructional platform with additional resources. This is an in-person class and regular attendance is expected. More information about CCT can be found at https://compassioninstitute.com/cct/
Practicing Christianity in the Anglican Tradition
Led by Ragan Sutterfield
8 weeks, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
What is a Christian? What does it mean to be Anglican? What are the foundational practices Jesus taught his disciples? These are a few of the questions we’ll answer in this back-to-basics course on following the Way of Jesus as expressed in the Episcopal Church. The class is open to everyone from seasoned church goers to those new to Christianity or the Episcopal Church. This course is a prerequisite for those who desire Confirmation, Reaffirmation, or Reception (and if you don’t know what those are, this is the class for you!). We hope all who seek to deepen their understanding of the faith we share will come learn with us.
From Generation to Generation: the History and Hope of Christ Church
Led by Frank Parke, Mildred Cooper, and Kate Alexander
5-weeks, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
As Christ Church begins a new chapter in our life together, this is an ideal time to rediscover the story that has shaped our parish. Join Frank Parke, Mildred Cooper, and Kate Alexander for an exploration of Christ Church's history, from its founding in 1839 to the present. Together we'll discover the people, events, and values that have formed this community — and consider how they can guide us as we discern God's call for the future. Along the way, participants are encouraged (but not required) to read Dr. Witsell's history of Christ Church, 1839–1947, available in the office.
Formation for Children and Youth
Episcopal Identity for High Schoolers
Led by the Rev. Hannah Hooker
Youth 9th to 12th Grades
8-weeks, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
As we look toward new and renewed spaces and opportunities this fall, we want to give some special attention to spiritual formation for our teens. We know that many high schoolers have a desire to delve deeper into the spiritual life and the trappings of our common life of worship, and some may even be interested in Confirmation. On Wednesday nights this fall, we will offer an 8-week class on Episcopal identity for youth grades 9-12, led by the Rev. Hannah Hooker. The environment will be casual and open with all spiritual journeys and questions welcome. The course will cover topics from wild and wily Church history to curious clergy costuming to whether or not God is really listening when we pray. If you or your teen are interested or have questions, please reach out to Hannah (hhooker@christchurchlr.org).
Episcopal Kids Community (EKC)
Led by Marvin McLennon
Youth 3rd to 8th Grades
8-weeks, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Big changes are coming to our Episcopal Kids Community (EKC)! Beginning thisfall, EKC will move to Wednesday nights from 5:30-7 p.m. as part of our Wednesday Night Formation offerings and will be offered WEEKLY! EKC is open to all 3rd–6th graders and gives our younger youth a space to play games, ask questions about their faith, and grow in community together all in a safe, welcoming, and fun setting! Sixth grade serves as a “flex year” for families to decide if they’d like to keep their youth in EKC, transition them to our older youth program (Episcopal Youth Community), — or, if their youth is up for it, do both! Questions? Email Marvin at mmclennon@christchurchlr.org.
One Room School House
Children 5 yo through 3rd Grade
8-weeks, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Beginning Wednesday nights this fall, we invite your children to be a part of our One Room Schoolhouse, a chance for kids to gather each week for Bible stories, discussion, prayer, and hands-on activities in a warm, small-group setting with our volunteer teachers. Children ages 5 through 3rd grade will gather each week to explore a new Bible story together, ask big questions, and grow in faith and friendship. Each week blends storytelling, play, and conversation, all designed to help kids feel known, welcomed, and excited about their place in God's story. We can't wait for you to join us! Questions? Email Marvin at mmclennon@christchurchlr.org.