Adult Faith Formation
We learn, grow, and walk in the way of Christ.
Adult Faith Formation is offered in a myriad of ways and days, times, and seasons. We invite and support questioning, exploration, and wrestling with faith. Through a rich variety of programs for all stages of Christian development, we nurture and practice our core beliefs and are encouraged to live into our Baptismal promises. Programs include weekly Bible Study, Episcopal 101 (introduction to the Episcopal church), social justice programs like Sacred Ground, and Open Circles neighborhood groups that meet regularly for book study.
The Adult Faith Formation team meets monthly to pray together and plan upcoming offerings.
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.
Bible Study:
Sunday Bible Study: Sunday, 11:15 a.m.–Noon on Zoom
Men’s Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:45–7:45 a.m.
Women’s Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:45–7:45 a.m.
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!
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:
(1) Virtual two-hour meetings every Friday – please contact Sharon McGroder or Dianne Stoddard.
(2) In person every other Sunday, with hybrid option – please contact Julie Nutter.
Episcopal 101:
Preparation for baptism, confirmation, and reaffirmation for adults. This class is for newcomers and old-timers alike—anyone who seeks a deeper relationship with God and to learn more about the Episcopal Church.
Sacred Ground:
Every other Monday, 7:00–8:30 p.m., beginning September 12.
Small Groups:
Members meet together to study scripture, pray, and have a time of fellowship. For a list of groups, contact the Church Office or the Rev. Ann Gillespie.
Being With:
Holy Comforter has launched a new program called Being With for small group conversation around issues that matter; the desire to make sense of our lives and the world in the context of the Christian faith. Come explore the meaning of life together as we learn and share in a positive and inclusive setting.
Participants commit to attending 10 sessions spread out over 4 months. Starting February 6, we will meet on Zoom Monday evenings from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. There’s no book to buy or read, just a willingness to engage and be with others and with God.
This course is 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 long time members. PLEASE NOTE: Registration is now closed. Questions? Contact the Rev. Ann Gillespie.
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.
If you have questions about Adult Faith Formation and/or any of our current offerings, please contact the Rev. Ann Gillespie.
Learn and Grow With Us
Children
Nursery, 4 Years Old–6th Grade, Holy Comforter Episcopal Preschool and Kindergarten, VBS