JOURNEY IN FAITH
Wednesdays 7:00pm – 8:30pm (September – May)
JIF is based on the early Christian Catechumenate and is for those seeking Adult Baptism, Confirmation, Reception or Reaffirmation of Faith in the Episcopal Church. It is also a great opportunity to acquire a deeper understanding of what it means to be an Episcopalian for those seeking formal membership at Saint Patrick’s. Together we will learn about scripture, theology, prayer and much more. Join our Rector Shelby Scott and the JIF leadership team for discussion, fellowship and interactive learning.
I AM NOT AN EPISCOPALIAN—OR EVEN CHRISTIAN—BUT I AM A “SEEKER.” MAY I STILL ATTEND?
Yes, it is for you… In Jesus’ words to the disciples of John, “Come and See.” (John 1:39)
WHAT WILL I EXPERIENCE?
Join us as you deepen your relationship with God. These sessions will offer a learning community that will investigate subjects ranging from: Church History, The Episcopal Church, the Bible, Theology, Prayer Life, Social Justice, Scripture, and Liturgy. You will experience interactive large and small group discussions, shared meals, meditation, reflection, worship, and prayer in a safe and welcoming environment. Journey in Faith addresses issues of Christian life in the context of the values of the Saint Patrick’s community. Here at Saint Patrick’s we find our center through prayer and spiritual practice guided and informed by Scripture and the traditions of the Apostles. It is our hope that you will find this series of instruction edifying and a community of people willing and ready to journey through celebrations, challenges and the ordinary things of life with you.
HOW DO I KNOW JOURNEY IN FAITH IS FOR ME?
You desire to be baptized
You have been baptized but never publicly acknowledged your baptism
You have been baptized in another denomination and wish to be received into the Episcopal Church
You have been baptized but have been inactive in the life of the Church for a period of time and wish now to make a new beginning by reaffirming your faith
You desire to be confirmed
You have been baptized, confirmed, and are a long-time active member of the Episcopal Church and seek spiritual renewal
You can commit to meet on Wednesday nights from September to May.
EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY
Education for Ministry is a four-year course of study in theological bible study and reflection for lay persons. Through study, prayer, and reflection, EfM groups move toward a new understanding of the fullness of God's kingdom through weekly meetings. Members enroll for one year at a time and have their entire lifetime to complete their studies.
September through May
The theme for 2021-2022 is Living Faithfully in Your World
• Study - Participants are given weekly assignments to study with the help of resource guides. They are responsible for setting their own learning goals. In the weekly seminar members have an opportunity to share their insights and discoveries as well as to discuss questions which the study materials raise for them.
• Reflection - The goal is to learn to think theologically. By examining their own beliefs and their relationship to our culture and the tradition of our Christian faith, participants can learn what it means to be effective ministers in the world. In coming to terms with the notion that everything we do has potential for manifesting the love of Christ, we discover that our ministry is at hand wherever we turn.
• Worship - The seminar is supported by a life of prayer and regular worship.
Two of the three St. Patrick's EfM groups have openings for September through May 2020-2021 (The Tuesday evening online group is already full).
Saturday morning 9:00-10:30 a.m. online-openings for Year 1 students.
Sunday afternoon 3:00-4:30 p.m. online-This is a new group. When pandemic conditions improve, this group will become a Face to Face group meeting at St. Patrick's.
Enrollment for these groups begins August 2021. The fee for 36 weeks which includes the textbooks is $375. Tuition is paid to the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee. Partial scholarship funds are available based on need. If you would like to enroll or would like to sponsor a student from our parish contact Rinda Skaggs by email: rinda.skaggs@gmail.com