Fall Studies at Highlands
All adults are invited to join one of our spiritual formation classes offered this Fall. Being part of a fall class or small group focused on Adult Christian Formation offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and deepening one's faith. In a supportive and nurturing environment, individuals can engage in meaningful discussions, study scripture together, and explore theological concepts that can enrich their understanding of God and the Christian faith. Through study and reading together, we can cultivate a deeper relationship with God, gain new insights, and strengthen our spiritual lives. This intentional focus on Christian formation during the fall season allows us to prepare our hearts and minds for the upcoming year, equipping us with the knowledge and tools needed to live out our faith in a meaningful and impactful way. By actively participating in a class or small group, we can experience personal transformation, build community with fellow believers, and ultimately grow closer to God as we journey together on the path of discipleship.
Sunday School Offerings
October 18 - November 22
Centering Prayer
Making Room for God
In a world that rarely stops talking, Centering Prayer invites us into a quiet place of trust. Rooted in the ancient contemplative tradition of the church this simple practice is less about finding the right words and more about consenting to God's presence and action within us. As the psalmist says, "Be still, and know that I am God."
Each week we'll share a brief teaching on the practice and its history, spend 20 minutes in silent prayer together, and close with time for reflection and conversation. No experience is necessary, and you don't need to be "good at" silence. Come as you are, wandering thoughts and all. Whether you're a seasoned person of prayer or simply longing for some stillness, all are welcome.
Led by PJ Ellis
Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in The Chapel
Theology and Practices of American Religions
America has always been a place of faith: inventive, passionate, sometimes surprising, and never boring. Join us for a lively tour through some of the movements that shaped the nation's spiritual landscape:
The Puritans: their "city on a hill" and the faith behind it
The Great Awakening: the revival fires that gave birth to American evangelicalism (and helped spark Methodism)
The Shakers: simple gifts, ecstatic worship, and some very fine furniture
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: a homegrown American faith and its remarkable story
Black Family Gospel Singers: the sound and soul of faith carried through generations
Come curious and leave with a deeper appreciation for how Americans have sought God, and what their stories might teach us about our own.
Led by Dr. Larry Brasher
Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in Room 204
Paying Attention: Reading Mary Oliver
Few poets have helped people notice the holy in the ordinary quite like Mary Oliver. Geese crossing the sky, a grasshopper in the palm of her hand, a morning walk by the pond: in her poems, simple moments become invitations to wonder, gratitude, and prayer.
Each week we'll read a few of Oliver's poems aloud, including beloved favorites like "Wild Geese" and "The Summer Day" along with some lesser-known gems. Then we'll talk together about what they stir in us. Along the way we'll explore how paying close attention to the world God made can itself be a spiritual practice.
You don't need to be a poetry expert, just someone willing to slow down, listen, and maybe be a little astonished. Bring a friend, a cup of coffee, and an open heart.
Led by Angela Stowe, Craig Taylor, Kathleen Lalor, Janet Holt, Michelle Jones, and Reggie Holder
Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in Room 209
Fall Study Opportunities
Disciple Bible Study
BEGINS SEPTEMBER 15
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing around Easter. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
Led by Reggie Holder
Tuesdays at 11:45 in Room 204
Lunch available with weekly RSVP.
Being With
Coming later this fall!
The Being With course is an introduction to Christianity with a difference –at its heart is the idea that God’s greatest desire is to be with us in Jesus. Grounded in the conviction that we already have a wealth of understanding of truth, beauty, and goodness that signify God’s presence in our lives and everyday experiences, the course aims to enable participants to discover dimensions of this presence and to live abundantly with God, with one another, and with creation. Leaders for this course will soon complete training and we anticipate offering multiple courses later this fall.