Adult Formation
Adult Christian Formation – Fr. Christian Brocato
St. Mark’s offers a variety of adult Christian formation opportunities and welcomes not only our own parishioners, but also members of the community interested in learning with us. Beyond Worship Services where we are most nourished and fed and from which all formation flows, we offer a variety of opportunities for learning and fellowship which can include Bible studies, special topics, book discussions, videos, and guest speakers from within the Parish and from the wider community. These programs are usually offered between September and May and are always free.
Episcopal 101 and Inquirers’ Class
Several times a year, a session called Episcopal 101 is offered which plunges participants in to learning as much about the Episcopal Church as possible in one session. Each year, the Rector offers an Adult Inquirers’ Class over a period of months for those who wish to be received into the Episcopal Church, Confirmed in the Episcopal Church or to Reaffirm Faith as an Episcopalian. A varieties of resources are used for study, learning and discussion purposes with the intention of deepening one’s relationship with God in Jesus and learning as much as possible about the Episcopal Tradition.
Wednesday Adult Formation Series
For six to seven weeks during the fall, St. Mark’s offers a Fall Formation Series. During the five weeks of Lent, a Lenten Formation Series is offered. At times, there may be a special February Series, and usually, there is a Spring Series as well. These opportunities can focus on bible studies, guest speakers or parishioners leading presentations and discussions and employ a variety of topics for learning more about God and the world in which we live and deepening one’s spiritual life. Speakers address wide-ranging topics. Representatives from area social service agencies such as Degage Ministries, Heartside Ministry and Dwelling Place may be asked to participate. The Wednesday Series includes a potluck, presentation/discussion and Compline (night prayer) from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Education For Ministry (EFM)
Facilitated by a trained parishioner, this formation opportunity is a four-year course with weekly sessions leading to a certification from the University of the South. Varieties of topics are covered with particular foci for each of the four years covering theological topics, spiritual development topics and biblical studies.
Sunday Adult Forums
Hosted by parishioners, this group meets on Sunday mornings between the services to discuss a variety of topics, including prayer, the liturgical seasons, and Scriptures. The forum meets from 9:15-10:15 am in the Canterbury Room.
One-on-One Sessions
Both Fr. Christian and Mother Sue offer opportunities for individual parishioners to learn more about the Episcopal Tradition as well as their relationship with God. One-on-one conversations for potential spiritual growth are encouraged and appreciated. If you are interested, please, contact either Fr. Christian or Mother Sue.