All Saints Episcopal Church: Education & Spiritual Formation

Education & Spiritual Formation

Fellowship

Outreach

Pastoral Care

Property and Administration

Worship Ministries

	Nursery Church School Youth Group Library Catechesis Discernment Groups Education for Ministry Adult Forums
Christian education is a key facet of the spiritual life of every member of the congregation. It teaches us about the nurturing love of God. It not only shapes our identity and our morals, it also influences our outlook on the world and our place in it. It often challenges our deeply held beliefs and prejudices. As we grow, we see God in a new and more complex light, and in doing so we deepen our spiritual faith.

Nursery—The nursery serves children three and under, giving them a safe and loving place to play while their parent(s) attend worship services or adult forum.	Church School—On an average Sunday the church school comprises approximately 30 students and teachers. Christian formation begins at the preschool and continues through junior high, culminating in confirmation. Last year the church school also sponsored a few intergenerational events (especially during Lent).

Youth Group—The All Saints Youth Group is comprised of parish members and their friends in the 7th-12th grades. This ministry provides fellowship, continued religious identity, and numerous opportunities for outreach.	Library—The library serves both the spiritual and cerebral needs of the congregation. Books are either donated or purchased from a small budget, and the library is maintained by a small group of volunteers.

Catechesis—Catechesis classes serve new members of the Episcopal community, providing pre-baptismal teaching and instruction.

Discernment Groups—Discernment groups meet with parishioners considering the call to the priesthood, talking with them, challenging them, and praying with them, aiding these persons in determining whether or not they are truly being called by God into the priesthood. Ultimately they become the advocates for these persons as they are presented to the Vestry and the Diocese.

Education for Ministry—Education for Ministry (EFM) is a group that meets weekly during the school year to study the bible and discern how God is working in their lives. Participation in this group provides an avenue by which adults continue their Christian education and formation.

Adult Forums—The adult forums, which are held at 9:00 A.M. between the two services, provide an additional means by which adults can continue their spiritual journey. They often address timely (and occasionally controversial) issues with the Episcopal church as well as within the community. A new “high school forum” is being initiated during the 2004-2005 year.

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