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Faith formation

Formation means “an act of giving shape to something.” We are shaped into followers of Jesus in lots of ways: through scripture, prayer, worship, friendship, and care for our neighbors, among other things. Part of our commitment as a church is to provide helpful, thoughtful, and sustaining opportunities for deepening Christian faith in the Episcopal tradition. We study the Bible, participate in book studies, and share our personal experiences of faith in weekly and seasonal programs. Participants come from many faith backgrounds with all kinds of experience levels. Whether you’re a Biblical scholar or have never opened the Bible, you are welcome. You won’t be tested on anything!


We also celebrate and honor each stage in the life of faith (Rites) through special services like Baptisms, Weddings, Confirmations, and Funerals.

Image of a group of people sitting at a table for bible study

Formation means “an act of giving shape to something.” We are shaped into followers of Jesus in lots of ways: through scripture, prayer, worship, friendship, and care for our neighbors, among other things. Part of our commitment as a church is to provide helpful, thoughtful, and sustaining opportunities for deepening Christian faith in the Episcopal tradition. We study the Bible, participate in book studies, and share our personal experiences of faith in weekly and seasonal programs. Participants come from many faith backgrounds with all kinds of experience levels. Whether you’re a Biblical scholar or have never opened the Bible, you are welcome. You won’t be tested on anything!

We also celebrate and honor each stage in the life of faith (Rites) through special services like Baptisms, Weddings, Confirmations, and Funerals.

Sunday school group meeting at a table

Formation

A note: these programs are variously referred to as “Formation” (the act of being formed), “Sunday School,” or “Christian Education.” All of these terms refer to the same thing.

Formation Offerings

Adult Sunday School (with Coffee and Donuts)

Sunday | 9:30-10:15 am

Every Sunday, adults and older teens are invited to take some time to study scripture and theology as part of this formation.  All are welcome! No preparation necessary – we will supply books and materials as needed. Come hungry! We’ll have coffee and donuts.

For more information, please contact the Rev. Leah Wise.

*Nursery care available

Children's Chapel for kids ages 3-3rd Grade

Sunday | 10:15-11:00 am

Kids ages 3-9 are invited to attend an interactive chapel with age-appropriate stories, songs, and activities. They will rejoin the worship service at the Peace to take part in Communion and closing prayers. Older kids are invited to attend regular worship with their families. 

Bible Study for Deaf Adults (with Lunch)

Sunday | 12:15-1:15 pm

In this interpreted Bible study, deaf and hard-of-hearing participants are invited to bring their questions and experience to a guided conversation about the Bible. We will learn about the history, stories, theology, and interpretation of Christianity’s Holy Scripture in an open and inclusive way. No preparation needed. Led by Daniel Wise with ASL interpretation. Nursery care available by request.

For more information, please contact Daniel Wise.

BIBLE STUDY FOR YOUNG ADULTS IN THEIR 20s  & 30s

Thursday | 7:00-8:00 pm

Join young adults in The Hill’s parish hall (1700 Woodland Ave) for a drop-in study on Paul’s letters to the Church in Corinth. No preparation needed – just bring yourself (and your favorite Bible if you have one). Cookies and drinks will be provided. We will end our time together with a brief service of Compline (night prayer). We meet on Thursdays from 7:00p–8:15p at The Hill, parish hall.

For more information, please contact the Rev. Leah Wise.

Episcopal Way Classes

Seasonal

Whether you are new to the Episcopal tradition or a longtime Episcopalian, the six-part The Episcopal Way series is a great way to learn about our Anglican and Episcopal roots and traditions. Led by the clergy of Good Shepherd, these classes will introduce Episcopal Church history, liturgy, and theology, The Book of Common Prayer, and what it means to practice your faith as an Episcopal Christian. Childcare will be provided. This series will provide the basis for further commitment for adults interested in being Confirmed or received into the Episcopal Church when the bishop visits on November 15.

For more information, please contact the Rev. Brin Bon.

Sacramental Services

Our tradition invites us to honor the dignity of every human being. One way we do that is by marking significant moments in our lives through special services that reveal the Holy Spirit’s presence with us. Some of these services, like Baptism and Confirmation, invite God to make himself known in the life of the participant and welcome those participants more fully into the household of God called the church.Other services, like Weddings and Funerals, remind us that God is at work in our human relationships and our mortal lives, and direct our attention to the eternal love and life God promises.

If you are interested in learning more about Baptism, Confirmation, Weddings, or Funerals - or have theological or practical questions about any of our religious rites and practices - you can reach out to the Rev. Leah Wise for more information.