ADULT EDUCATION ACTIVITIES

       Upcoming Events               

At First Pres we are continually nurtured and challenged through study, reflection, discernment  and conversation.  Through the study of scripture,  discussion of contemporary writings and other formats we strive to provide many different kinds of opportunities for learning and growth.  From lectures to book discussion groups, support groups and dinner and bible study groups there are a variety of ways to be involved and connected.   Listed below are classes and events that begin this Fall.  For more information look at the newest version of the newsletter.

SUNDAY MORNINGS

Christian Concerns and Theological Thought - at 9:00

This series is designed to engage you in stimulating study and discussion on topics of interest. Reknowned educators from Washington University, Saint Louis University, Eden Seminary and the like lead series on current issues in theology, religion and the study and interpretation of scripture.

FEBRUARY CLASSES

February 5: The Role of the Monarchy in Judaism: As Seen Through the Faithfulness and Short-comings of King David. Dr. Ben Asen, Associate Professor of Theology at St. Louis University concludes a discussion of the topic “David: Heart of Faith, Feet of Clay”--a study of the life and times of King David and the importance of the monarchy in Israel’s life and faith. February 12 and 19: A Journey through Mark’s Gospel. The Rev. Dr. Deb Krause, Eden Seminary’s Academic Dean and Professor of New Testament, will discuss the Gospel of Mark utilizing her emphasis of focusing on “biblical interpretation and their roots in critical theory, theology and politics.”

Fireplace Room Series 10:00 a.m. in Room 030: A series on issues of living out faith in today's world--covering topics such as travel, parenting, stewardship of the earth and other contemporary issues. This year's focus is Nurture:  of self, of family, within the community and in caring for God's creation.

February Classes

February 5 and 12: Kinjal Mujamder will speak on Hinduism taking us from its origins on the banks of the Inus River to how it evolved into the modern multilingual and polytheistic culture of today.    Kinjal has an international background: he was born in Germany, raised first in Australia and then in India, the homeland of his parents. Married to Erica Wunderlich he is a Ph.D. student in immunology at Washington University.

February 26:    Out of Chaos: Hope.    David Holyan and Paul Reiter will share with us the things that make Presbyterian Disaster Assistance unique and respected by others as they offer the gift of presence, support and hope in the midst of chaos.

OTHER SUNDAY MORNING  OPTIONS AT 10:00 AM

Discussing Faith in Today’s World, Room 029. Drop off your children at Sunday School then join us downstairs for a casual discussion. This year we’re learning to appreciate how God is in the midst of the movements and changes of life, no matter how minor or how transformational. We’re loosely following a Bible study called Exodus: Leaving Behind, Moving On. Facilitator: Sarahlynn Lester, Sarahlynn@LesterBoal.net.

Quest for Parents, Room 007. Note: this class is not scheduled to meet weekly.
Facilitators: Amanda Yahng, Kirk Hutchison, Brad Gift  This course for the parents of QUEST students parallels the topics and focus of the Quest or Confirmation Class for eighth and ninth graders in our congregation.

WEEKDAY BOOK STUDY GROUPS

The Second Saturday book group will  to continue discussion of The Power of Now by Elkert Tolle on February 11 14  to discuss chapters 5-8. We meet at 9:00am in the church lounge.

The Fourth Wednesday book group  will discuss "In the Garden of Beasts" by Erik Larsen, a historical work about the events surrounding the rise of Nazism from the perspectives of the American Ambassador and his family. We will meet on February 22nd at 1:30.  In March we will discuss "Caleb's Crossing." 

The First Tuesday book group will  begin discussion of Karen Amstrong's book "Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life"  We will resume meeting on Tuesday, February 7 beginning at 10am  for felllowship and start our discussion at 10:30am.

The Tuesday Morning Beginning Tuesday January 25 we will meet through February 28th to discuss 'Saving Jesus From the Churc"h by Robin R. Meyers.

If you would like a copy of the books listed, please contact Karen Blanchard at 314-965-0326 or kblanchard@kirkwoodpres.org

See the Children and Youth sections for more Lifelong Learning information.