Adult Faith Formation Events

Lenten Book Study: Demon Copperhead

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus is asked: “And who is my neighbor?” His response is to tell a story. This Lent, we are all invited to read a story – the story of a boy named Demon Copperhead. In this novel by Barbara Kingsolver, we are invited to recognize the humanity of people we seldom think about.

Lent is a time of self-examination for us as individuals and as a Christian community. Reading this novel gives us an opportunity to examine how we are seeing or not seeing, treating or mistreating by indifference and unintentional impact, our neighbors.

Barbara Kingsolver, an accomplished novelist, uses the template of Charles Dickens’ beloved novel “David Copperfield” and sets it in southwestern Virginia. Because she lives and works there, she offers a fresh take on Appalachian culture and the effects of economic inequality on our fellow Virginians.

EfM – Education for Ministry:

University of the South study program led by trained mentors that takes participants on a four-year journey of theological study, Bible interpretation, and reflection. Participants read and discuss the Old Testament (year 1), the New Testament (year 2), Church History (year 3), and Theology (year 4). You do not have to commit to all 4 program years when registering, nor complete in 4 years. Holy Comforter offers two sessions of EfM:

Since its founding in 1975, this international program has assisted more than 120,000 participants discover and nurture their call to Christian service where they live, work, and play. EfM helps the faithful discover the Christian tradition, bringing it into conversation with their experiences of the world. EfM seminar groups meet onsite and online, developing theologically informed, reflective, and articulate seekers of God.

Holy Comforter offers two sessions of EfM:

Virtual 2½-hour meetings every Wednesday evening (6:30–9:00 p.m. starting mid September). Please contact Diane Stoddard.

In-person 3-hour meetings every other Sunday, with hybrid option (3:00–6:00 p.m. starting mid September). Please contact Joni Langevoort.

Registration now open for the 2024–2025 session. To register for Wednesday evenings, please contact Diane Stoddard. To register for Sunday afternoons, please contact Joni Langevoort.

Episcopal 101:

Episcopal 101 is a class for newcomers and old-timers alike—anyone who seeks a deeper relationship with God and to learn more about the Episcopal Church. Over the course of 11 sessions we will dive into the theology and history of the Episcopal Church, scripture, and the Book of Common Prayer; explore different forms of prayer; and learn about the ministries of Holy Comforter. At the end, some will choose to be baptized, confirmed, or received into the Episcopal Church, but that is not a requirement.

Class started on October 3. During autumn, we will meet (mostly on Zoom) on Tuesday evenings from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. After Christmas there will be three in-person classes (once a month) open to everyone in the congregation.

Participation is limited to 20 people, with a minimum enrollment of 10. Class syllabus and online registration is available below.

Living Compass:

Beginning at the Parish Retreat in September, and then in small group sessions in October and November, join us to examine your life using the Living Compass curriculum. Areas of focus are Care of Body, Stress, Vocation, Organization, Rest and Play, Spirituality, Emotions, and Relationships. Learn more and take the Living Compass Assessment HERE. For more information, contact the Rev. Ann Gillespie.

Small Groups:

Small groups meet together to study scripture, pray, and have a time of fellowship. Some meet in person, some on zoom. For a list of these groups, contact the Church Office or the Rev. Ann Gillespie.

Being With

Come explore the meaning of life together as we learn and share in a positive and inclusive setting. There’s no book to buy or read, just a willingness to engage and be with others and with God. These conversations are for everyone—people new to Holy Comforter or new to Christianity, or even coming back to try Christianity again after a painful experience, as well as longtime members.

Currently, the group meets twice a month on Mondays from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. on Zoom. For more information, please email Diane Poldy, Linda Christ. Matt Barazia or Gini Barazia.

Registration now closed for the July–October 2023 session.

Book and Movie Club:

Sponsored by the Becoming Beloved Community ministry, meets monthly, alternating between discussing books and movies, on topics that deepen understanding of racial justice. Check our Special Events calendar!

Sunday Adult Forum:

The Ministry Center is the venue for programs related to wellness and spirituality. Come explore subjects that particularly interest you as well as topics you know nothing about.

Sacred Ground:

Every other Monday, 7:00–8:30 p.m., beginning September 12.