Welcome Wednesdays This Winter | Spring

At first glance, the Bible can seem like an ancient collection of words, disconnected from the rhythms of daily life. We often read Scripture in snippets—individual verses or familiar passages—sometimes missing the grand narrative.

But what if we stepped back and saw these ancient texts from a wider perspective? Not as relics of the past, but as vibrant, living words that still speak today? What if Scripture isn’t just a record of what was—but a story we’re embedded in, a narrative still unfolding?

This study invites you to discover the Bible as God’s ongoing Story of love, redemption, and purpose. And you’re a vital part of it. Together, we’ll explore how our personal stories intersect with God’s continuing work, and how the Author of our faith is still writing stories of hope, healing, and transformation—including yours.

Join us as we read the full narrative of "The Story" through a new lens, and uncover how God's Word is not just history—but a present and living reality that shapes who we are today.

Details:

Former Christ Church Pastor Virginia Reynolds will moderate our weekly gatherings.

The study will cover 2 semesters for a total of 20 weeks in which we will read approximately 80% of the Bible.

You will need your own copy (preferably Hard Copy) of “The Story.” Some advanced copies have been purchased by the church and can be picked up from the Connection Point desk on Sundays or from Lynn Long in the church office for $5.

Each week, you will read 2-3 chapters and come ready to discuss your thoughts and insights in a conversational setting.

This course will be offered in a hybrid format with options to attend either in person or on-line.

Jesus was Different: Spiritual Growth Through Actually Following the Teachings of Jesus - Dan Gobble - book study (all weeks except Ash Wednesday) - In our world today, one of the biggest criticisms that unbelievers have against Christ followers is that they are oftentimes lukewarm at best and hypocritical at worst. Jesus didn't command us to be either of those. In fact, Jesus was different in ways that totally surprised the world around him. As Jesus's disciples followed him, they were taught to do things the Jesus way, and usually this was quite different. I believe that if we are following Jesus's teachings and commands then we will look noticeably different from the world around us. If you are hoping to gain spiritual growth in your walk with Jesus, this book will both encourage you and challenge you in ways that will leave you with the opportunity to make a change in order to grow to be more like Jesus. Jesus wants to invite you into a more significant way of life through following his commands. When you do this, you will be different like Jesus.

Join us in the Fellowship Center 6:30-7:00 for a check in and time of devotion. It’s been inspiring to hear your stories of faith connection with your children. Let’s continue to support one another on our parenting journeys! The games cart will be available afterwards for some time to relax and enjoy one another’s company.

This Lent, join us for a book study of The Great Search by John Philip Newell, as we explore what it means to seek vision, earth, presence, awareness, love, wisdom, meaning, and faith. Each week, Newell invites us into conversation with voices from across Christian tradition and the wider human family—guides who help us listen more deeply to God, to the world, and to our own souls.

-February 18, Ash Wednesday Service and Labyrinth Walk

-February 25, Introduction and Seeking Vision: Thomas Berry - Marge Birge, Moderator

-March 4, Seeking Earth: Nan Shepherd and Seeking Presence: Martin Buber -Brenda Madden, Moderator

-March 11, Seeking Awareness: Carl Jung and Seeking Wellness: Julian of Norwich, Alice Kunka, Moderator

-March 18, Seeking Love: Jalaluddin Rumi and Seeking Wisdom: Rabindranath Tagore Alice Kunka, Moderator

-March 25, Seeking Meaning: Etty Hillesum and Seeking Faith: Edwin Muir, Alice Kunka, Moderator

John Philip Newell is an internationally acclaimed spiritual teacher, speaker, and author of many books. He will be presenting a talk on The Great Search here at Christ UMC on October 16 and again at a silent retreat that same weekend at St. Francis Springs.

This slow flow yoga practice led by Rev. Kathy Randall Bryant, 200hr RYT, is an invitation to practice gentle movement with a heart centered in worship. Our embodied worship practice will yoke together selected liturgies from Yoga Chapel (TM) with a beginner friendly practice that stretches your body as well as your heart.

Practitioners are asked to bring their own mat or towel plus a blanket, and to wear comfortable clothes to move in. Straps and blocks will be available to borrow if you do not have your own.  Come if you’re curious about the practice, all bodies are welcome.