Our Christian Education theme for 2016 – 2017 is “Who is Jesus and Why Does Jesus Matter?” Jesus’ disciples ask to know his identity, but Jesus turns the question back on them: “Who do you say that I am? (Mt. 16:15)” This question resonates 2000 years later as each of us engages in a spiritual quest with Jesus acting as our guide, mentor, teacher, friend, provocateur, even savior.
Who is Jesus? What is the difference between “Jesus” and “Christ?” What does it mean to call Jesus “Lord” or “Messiah?” How do we faithfully arbitrate between our beliefs and our disbeliefs? We will return to these questions throughout the year as we explore the identity of Jesus and why Jesus matters for our lives.
*A note on how Christian Education at NDPC works: we run our adult education like a college curriculum–there are no “standing” classes that remain the same throughout the year, or from year-to-year. Classes change every few weeks, and you are invited to choose the class that meets your learning needs.
Reading Sacred Texts: The Qur'an and the Bible
Reading Sacred Texts: The Qur’an and the Bible (Parlor)
Dates: April 9, 23, 30
Facilitators: Kate McGregor Mosley, Anne Sayre, Alice Hickcox, and Kemal Korucu from the Atlantic Institute
This class will look at how important persons and ideas are treated in both the Bible and the Qur’an. How are they alike and how are they different? Kemal will bring members of his Muslim community to share the class with us.
What are your questions about Islam? We expect the class to be very participatory. There will be an opportunity to visit a Mosque and to eat with our Muslim friends. Qur’ans will be available for purchase for $5 on the first day of class.
Dates
April 9, 23, 30Time
9:45 - 10:45 a.m.Location
ParlorFacilitators
Kate McGregor Mosley, Anne Sayre, Alice Hickcox, and Kemal Korucu from the Atlantic InstituteCost
$5 to purchase Qur'an (optional)
Wired Word
Wired Word (Large Classroom)
Dates: April 9, 23, 30
Facilitators: Jen Ayres, Bob Way, Ginny Bowen
Do you ever read the front page news and wonder, “What would God have to say about this?” Join us as we explore current events–ripped right from today’s headlines–and how they connect with Scripture. No advanced preparation required!
Dates
April 9, 23, 30Time
9:45 - 10:45 a.m.Location
Large ClassroomFacilitators
Jen Ayres, Bob Way, Ginny Bowen
Inquirer's Class
Inquirer’s Class (Library)
Dates: April 23, 30
Facilitators: Rev. Lewicki and Evangelism Committee
If you are considering becoming a member of NDPC, please plan to be part of this opportunity to learn more about what makes this church unique and how you can be a part of its ministry. This class will provide participants the opportunity to explore the benefits and responsibilities of membership at NDPC, learn about the PCUSA and the wider church, develop friendships with other new members, and listen to others’ faith stories.
Dates
April 23 and 30Time
9:45 - 10:45 a.m.Location
LibraryFacilitators
Rev. Lewicki and Evangelism Committee
Weekly Bible Study
You are invited to sit with Rev. Lewicki and study the text for the following Sunday’s sermon. Each week will begin with some teaching, followed by reflection, group discussion, and prayer. The point of this study is to bring the Bible’s stories into your life. Attend every week or only the weeks that work for you. See you on Tuesday!
