Adult Faith Formation
Adult Faith Formation
As followers of Jesus, Gloria Dei’s vision is that faith grows in dialogue with everyday life, and as we encounter and share the Word of God in written, spoken, and tangible ways.
FIRST WORD BIBLE STUDY
Join us on Tuesday for a look at the scripture readings appointed for the next Sunday. We meet from 12:00-1:00 p.m. on Tuesdays in the Community Room, and you are welcome to bring a sack lunch.
ADULT FORUM
All are welcome to join us at 8:45 in the Hillside Room (lower level) before worship. We gather from September – May and sometimes continue a few weeks into the summer. Presentations and discussions focus on the journey of faith, church and society, justice issues, ELCA social statements, and biblical interpretation. Our forums sometimes include DVD segments (for example, Living the Questions, Nooma, or courses taught by Lutheran professors) or feature guest speakers from the wider church or community outreach organizations (for example, CHUM or Lutheran Social Services of MN).
RELIGION & SCIENCE
Together with the invitation and support of the Oreck-Alpern Interreligious Forum of the College of St. Scholastica, Pastor Carlson facilitates a monthly study and discussion group at Chester Creek Café on the topic of Religion and Science in Dialogue. To borrow some terms from Ian Barbour, a pioneer in this interdisciplinary field, are science and religion enemies, strangers, or partners? How might a person be faithful and at the same time take scientific methods, theories, and findings seriously? How might questions raised by the scientific community impact faith? The purpose of this discussion is to honor the value and integrity of both religion and science and seek a constructive dialogue for the common good. The group is lively and engaging and group members continually bring in their own experience to connect our readings with current events and daily life. Newcomers are welcome!
BAPTIZED WE LIVE — FOR SEEKERS & NEW MEMBERS
This is for anyone interested in learning more about Christianity and the Lutheran Church, being baptized or confirmed as an adult, or joining Gloria Dei’s community and ministry. Led by Pastor Carlson twice a year, we use the helpful booklet, Baptized We Live: Lutheranism as a Way of Life, by Dan Erlander, to guide our discussions. We also learn about faith practices, Gloria Dei’s history, and current ministries. Our class meets after worship for five consecutive Sundays (lunch and materials are provided), and new members are received on All Saints Sunday or at the Easter Vigil. Current members are also welcome for a review! If interested in attending, please contact Pastor Carlson at the church office.
SCHOOL OF LAY MINISTRY
Those wishing to deepen their faith understanding and grow in their discipleship may benefit from this program of the Northeastern MN Synod. The School of Lay Ministry is designed to give adult students an opportunity to grow in their faith for the purpose of personal spiritual development, biblical enrichment and life-long learning. It is also a means of having an intentional conversation for the discernment of gifts to be used in a variety of ways for providing ministry and leadership within a person’s own congregation and community. This program seeks to assist those who have a desire to broaden their faith understanding and expand their skills for service in their local congregation. A number of Gloria Dei members have participated in the program.
Wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here!
Growing in Faith
