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The guiding philosophy for education at Holy Faith is that it should empower church members to grow in their own theology. We are about exploring where faith engages with life and maturing together in our knowledge of scripture, our understanding of how to live a life of meaning and service, and our experience of God.
Children
Every Sunday of the school year at 10:00 we offer a Sunday School program for ages 4-11 called "The Worship Center." (Nursery/child care is also provided for kids of all ages at both the 9:00 and 11:00 services.) Worship Center is a Montessori-based method which nourishes the child's inherent sense of reverence and faith. Teachers use beautifully-crafted figures to tell Bible stories in a spirit of wonder, inviting the children to explore with them and then to do self-directed crafts. Thanks to this curriculum and to our wonderful volunteer teachers, kids of every age look forward to church because they like Worship Center so much.
 Youth
The Discoverers Group for ages 12-16 meets twice a month from 7:00-8:30 on Sunday evenings for fun, faith, and friendships. Our current curriculum is called "Claim the Life." It uses role-playing, conversation, educational games, and other active methods of drawing out the meaning in Bible passages for contemporary life as a teen. Pastor Ian and Katie Mitchell (who is a teen/reference librarian at the Saline District Library) co-lead this group, supplementing the curriculum with visits to the worship services of other denominations and religions and with community service projects. This class also serves as a confirmation preparation class for youth who wish to be confirmed in the Episcopal and Lutheran denominations. (Yes, it's a twofer!)
Adults
Pastor Ian typically teaches several adult classes a year, most of them lasting from 4-8 weeks and meeting on a designated weeknight. These classes provide an opportunity to engage with the Bible or deepen our understanding and life of faith in other ways. Topics have included different methods of prayer, Women in the Old Testament, a study of Advent readings and traditions, Bible 101: A Romp Through the Bible, a study of Jesus' parables, and a class on forgiveness.
We have also had lay-run programs at the church, including a book study, several one-time community events featuring guest speakers from other faiths, a series on different decisions related to aging, and a year-long prayer group led by a trained spiritual director.
These classes and activities are open to anyone who wants to join. Check the calendar or contact the office for information on upcoming offerings.
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