6b. Education & Spiritual Formation
Join us for our current book study:
Toxic Charity: How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help, and How to Reverse It by Robert D. Lupton
November 14, 21, and 28, from 6:15pm to 7:30 pm in the Chapel.
This challenging book has caused many churches and organizations to rethink how they offer assistance to underserved communities and populations. Looking at the traditional models of charity, Lupton shows how sometimes, with the best intentions, we hurt more than we help. He offers an “Oath for Compassionate Service” and suggests that all mission and service projects should model their efforts on this oath. As we continue to seek God’s will for us as a congregation, this book offers us a way to have a deeper conversation about our commitments.
Copies of the book are available in the church office for $10.
Second Sunday Sundaes: 2nd Sunday of the month, 12:00–2:00 p.m.
December 11: Engaging in Those Uncomfortable (Christian!) Conversations: Virgin Birth and Incarnation
Join us for fellowship and conversation around a series of interesting topics. We will gather for a potluck-style lunch after worship, followed by some lively discussion. Ice cream sundae makings will be provided for everybody’s enjoyment. No previous knowledge necessary, all are welcome.
There are all kinds of conversations that make progressive Christians feel squeamish in the 21st century. We don’t know how to talk about the stuff that matters in traditional language, and we don’t know what other language might be helpful. Come and join us after worship on the second Sunday of every month when we will explore a designated topic, what it meant for the first Christians and what it might mean for us today.
Reading materials will be available a week in advance (or more). We will gather for lunch after worship, then have a discussion some of those “foundational topics,” such as eternal life/afterlife, resurrection, the language of salvation, the virgin Mary, prayer, stewardship, charity, and “Why I am a Christian” and how to be articulate about it. Afterwards, we’ll close with ice cream sundaes!
More information about our Education and Spiritual Formation programs can be found on our website: http://upcbgm.org/grow-your-faith/adult-education