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ADULT CHRISTIAN FORMATION  Recall we turned our Christian Formation process upside down this year, seeking parishioner-led initiatives and programs rather than deploying canned curricula to the parish. Here's an update of where we have been and where we are headed as we
prepare for the slower summer months.
Our Vision "Christian Formation is an experience that should be continual, lifelong and transformative. It stimulates each one of us to allow the Holy Spirit to work within us so that we can follow more closely the call of Jesus Christ. At Ascension & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, we offer each other structured, accessible and dynamic curricula to engage the head, heart, and soul as we practice living up to our
baptismal vows more fully every day." Programs and Activities Completed An Evening with Marcus Borg (Weekend Lecture Series)
(September, 2012) Sponsored by Don Schmidt in conjunction with
the Mt Washington Presbyterian Church, parishioners heard and
discussed Marcus Borg's presentation.
Canines for Christ (Session 1 completed, session 2 Ongoing) Sponsored by Betsy Cooper, this program has evolved into an active
ministry, taking our faith and our canine (nee Canaan!) companions
with us to provide pet therapy at local retirement homes and
hospitals. At last count we had seven owner/pet pairs who have
completed the program and certified as "AKC "Canine Good
Citizens" and are awaiting their working vests to take their show
on the road locally.
Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World - (January - April,
2013) Sponsored by Bridget Glover and Lynn Kellner, this program
provided a formative "book club" reading sections of the book and
discussing them as a group. This not only provided a forum for participants
to read and discuss the book, but also provided an informal
venue for getting to know other parishioners better AND touched on
the broader community - we had several participants from outside
the parish, building community BEYOND our parish walls!
The Last Week (2013 Lenten Series) Sponsored by Don Schmidt,
this program provided a multi-week review of the gospel accounts
Christian Formation
at
Ascension & Holy Trinity
of Holy Week using the text by Marcus Borg & John Dominic Crossan as a guide, with a particular focus on the gospel of Mark, including historical context few previously had, and further opportunity to build our faith community.
What's Next?
Consider the Conversation - (Summer, 2013) Sponsored by Angela Horne and the Parish Health Ministry, this program involves the viewing and discussion of the award-winning PBS documentary video of the same name and family preparations for the end of life. A subject that has historically been taboo and much avoided, this uplifting and inspiring video is intended to help us engage in the necessary conversations while we can still express and influence our choices prior to death.
Labyrinths - (Summer, 2013) Sponsored by Roxanne Gurevich, we will explore the two-dimensional
journey in prayer and meditation by way of labyrinths. Did you know there is a
labyrinth right here in Wyoming? We plan to provide additional context and
coordinate a few labyrinth visits over the summer. Stay tuned for more!
Movie Nights With individual film sponsors to be determined, there are many
films worthy of viewing and discussion. From controversial films such as Mel
Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" to more popular/contemporary films such as
"Les Miserables" and "The Life of Pi", our thought here is to advertise a common
viewing opportunity, to be followed sometime thereafter by discussion of the
film. Consider sponsoring a movie you'd like to engage in dialogue about!
What about you?
Recall, our Christian formation program comes from you - your interests, your
initiative, your curiosity. Is there a topic or activity that sparks YOUR
interest? Talk to one of the Christian Formation Council members - we will help
you bring your idea to life with minimal effort and maximum impact!!!!
Remember, the Christian Formation Council is:
Bridget Glover, Rich Gómez, Roxanne Gurevich,
Renee Kuyath, Margot Madison, Don Schmidt |
