Christian Formation is a lifelong process that gives purpose and meaning to our lives as followers of Christ. It involves both the study of sacred texts and engagement with the practices that shape our daily lives. To that end, Grace offers many opportunities for adults – classes, workshops, retreats, symposiums, discussion groups, social activities and more.
We are all on a personal spiritual journey that is enhanced by the companionship of others. Grace Church offers adults opportunities for learning that meet their individual needs while benefitting from the perspective of others. Classes will meet most Sundays until May 4, 2025.
Our new Sunday Forum, beginning March 2 and continuing through Lent, will focus on Biblical texts and their composition and history. Have you ever wondered where the Bible “came from?” Have you wondered how the many different books were gathered into the collection we have today? Each book has a story, and the Bible itself is much more a library than a single book. It is complex to say the least, with a very wide range of genres to explore. We will focus on these essential questions around what we call our sacred texts. We will look at the Old Testament (Hebrew texts), the New Testament, as well as the Apocrypha. Bring your Bible and a notebook and be prepared to explore.
Also, some have asked about a particular version or translation of the Bible. We use the New Revised Standard Version in our services, and the Common English Bible is a recent update that is very good. You may also find the Jewish Study Bible fascinating.
Blessings,
Stuart
The Forum will meet on Sundays at 9:30 AM in the Parish Hall. Facilitator: Fr. Stuart Higginbotham
Join us for Parenting with Grace! This Christian Education offering brings together parents at all stages of the parenting journey to support and encourage each other as we navigate the tension between how we long to parent and the daily hustle of life.
We are exploring Justin Earley’s book Habits of the Household. The book introduces habits and easy to implement daily rhythms that provide a greater sense of peace and purpose as we create homes where we practice how to love God and each other. Having a personal copy of the book will be helpful for your personal study and group discussion but is not required to attend.
We look forward to journeying with you!
The Parenting Group will meet in the conference room of the Grace Center. Facilitators: Callie & Kevin Flack
The Soul Work book club, part of The Center for Prayer and Spiritual Practice at Grace, meets on Zoom [Meeting ID: 897 7425 9670, Passcode: 254002], on the fourth Sunday of each month, at 7 PM. Our conversations focus on the deep work of the soul, how we make meaning in the world.
Just Finished Reading The Great Search: Turning to Earth & Soul in the Quest for Healing & Home by John Philip Newell
Next Up Four Elements: Reflections on Nature by John O’Donohue
Centering Prayer is a contemplative method of prayer that facilitates opening the mind and heart to God. Gatherings consist of a brief opening; sitting in silence for 20 minutes ending with the Lord’s Prayer, then a sharing of video or short discussion of spiritual topic of choice. All are welcome.
Centering Prayer meets on Mondays at 5:00 PM on Zoom (link can be found in the ON THE CALENDAR section of the email newsletter) and on Fridays at 6:00 PM in the parlor.
The Daughters of the King is an Order, founded by Margaret J. Franklin in 1885, for women in the Episcopal Church. There are chapters in the United States, Africa, Asia, Europe, Central America, South America and the Caribbean Basin. As Daughters we undertake A Rule of Life, A Rule of Prayer and Service, and Evangelism. The Greek Fleury cross worn by members of the order is inscribed in Latin, “Magnanimiter Crucem Sustine” which translated means “With heart, mind and spirit, uphold and bear the cross.” The cross is an outward and visible sign of a deep and inward vow we take to become a Daughter of the King.
Our Grace Chapter was established in 1940, currently with 42 members. Seeking the will of God, we pray daily for unity in Christ’s Church, the spread of Christ’s Kingdom, for God’s blessing on our Order, the clergy, and the spiritual growth of our parish. Meetings are held monthly and are open to any women who wish to visit with us.
DOK meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AM in the Grace Center Conference Room and on Zoom.
A small group of men gather at 7:00 AM on Monday mornings for coffee and conversation. Another group gathers for pub theology at Tap It every third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM. Information about additional events can be found in our newsletter and on the calendar. All men are warmly invited to participate.
The women of Grace typically gather annually for a weekend of rejoicing, reflection, and renewal at the Montreat Retreat and Conference Center in North Carolina. Information about additional events can be found in our newsletter and on the calendar. All women are warmly invited to participate.
Grace also regularly offers unique retreat, lecture series, short term studies, and symposium formation opportunities. Learn more about additional adult Christian formation events and opportunities at the links below.
The Center for Prayer and Spiritual Practice at Grace Episcopal Church seeks to nurture the transformation of the community from the inside out.
Watch this space for announcements about formation opportunities in the community.