Pathways Fall 2019
REGISTER BELOW
Classes Begin Wednesday, September 4th, 6:30pm
Available for Youth and Adults
Begin your Wednesday evening with table fellowship in the Connection Center. We are encouraging you to bring a brown bag supper and visit with one another prior to classes and choirs. The Connection Center will be open at 5:00 so we can enjoy a meal and conversation before the Pathways activities begin.
Disciple Fast Track: Old Testament
Facilitator: Rev. Gary Gibson
We are offering a two-semester Bible overview that will be enjoyable for both seasoned Bible readers and newcomers. Fall’s study of the Old Testament will be followed by a New Testament class in the winter/spring. Disciple studies have been put in a different format, with shorter video segments and a homework plan that takes into consideration our hectic schedules. If you have been intimidated by the Old Testament in the past, Pastor Gary will shepherd you though with ease. Workbook: $13
Walking Group
Facilitator: Rev. Trent Lloyd
Pastor Trent is bringing back his popular “walk in the park” activity from last year. Individuals and families are invited to meet him at Beckley Creek Park splash pad at 6:30pm to enjoy with the outdoors together. Children are welcome to come with their parents. This activity will last 6 weeks. The final walk will be October 9th. Beginning October 16th, Trent will be leading the book discussion described below.
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction
Facilitator: Rev. Trent Lloyd
The modern world is a machine of a thousand invisible habits, forming us into anxious, busy, and depressed people. We yearn for the freedom and peace of the gospel, but remain addicted to our technology, shackled by our screens, and exhausted by our routines. What can we do about it? The answer to our contemporary chaos is to practice a rule of life that aligns our habits to our beliefs. This class will meet October 16th – November 20th. Participants can purchase a book on Amazon or from other retail book sellers.
Men’s Bible Study
Our men’s study group has met faithfully on Wednesday nights to explore various books of the Bible and works by Christian authors. This fall, they will begin with a 6-week study of James. No study guide or fee is required. Just bring your Bible.
Short-Term Faith & Art Classes – Reel Faith: Theology & Film
September 4th & 11th • Facilitators: Lee & Margo Grace
We will discuss the theology that is sometimes embedded in a movie. The references may be subtle or not so subtle, but we will search for how the faith ideas are brought to life and how they may prompt our deeper thoughts. You may attend either session or both of them. Each will present a different film.
Vincent Van Gogh’s Spirituality
September 18th • Facilitator: Rev. Nancy Tinnell
Nancy is currently preparing a study guide for this topic and invites you to look at some of Van Gogh’s paintings through a spiritual lens.
A Bead & A Prayer
September 25th
We are familiar with Catholic rosaries, but Protestants, too, have a history of using prayer beads. In this workshop, you will be helped to create a set of prayer beads, in addition to being given some sample prayers to use with them. No special skills are required for this workshop. Fee: $16 for the cost of materials
Other Studies:
Branches Women’s Ministry
Image Bible Study
(Begins September 10th) Tuesdays, 9:30am • Facilitator Nancy Tinnell
Adonai, a compilation of lessons on the life and ministry of Jesus, will be Nancy’s final Image Bible Study before her retirement in 2020. Join her for a 10 week exploration of why we call Jesus our Lord. Receive encouragement from one another as we engage in worshipful study. Each week will focus on a different aspect of Jesus’ life, with the intention of refreshing our faith through our quiet time with homework and the time we spend together in class.
Coffeebreak Bible Study
(Begins August 22nd) Thursdays, 9:30am • Facilitator: Bonnie Martinell
It’s a Coffeebreak “double header” this fall. Two studies by the fabulous Priscilla Shirer: Priscilla’s Breathe study allows us to immerse ourselves in the Word and find peace and comfort in our very busy world. One in a Million invites us to live beyond our circumstances and expect to see God move in miraculous ways day after day. Priscilla uses the example of the Israelites enslaved by the Egyptians to teach us not to become disillusioned and miss out on our destiny. Let her know you are coming and Bonnie will have your workbooks for you at the first session. bamartinell@aol.com
Workbooks: Breathe ($12) One in a Million ($16)
Email Bonnie
Branches Book Club
(First Meeting September 23rd)
Our book club meets the 4th Monday of the month from 6:30-8:00pm in the Connection Center. Our first selection for this year is Amanda Barratt’s “My Dearest Dietrich”. It is the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s ill-fated relationship with Maria von Wedemeyer. Visit our Branches Book Club page on Facebook or call the church office for a book club schedule.
