Studies

Through adult education, social justice classes, and intentional book groups, continue your life-long spiritual growth.

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Adult Education Classes

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Disciple Fast Track: Old Testament

Thursdays • September 7 – December 14 • 2 – 3:30 pm 

Led by Jill H.

Disciple Fast Track: Old Testament provides a viable option for busy people seeking comprehensive engagement over time with the entire Old Testament. Participants read a manageable 3-5 chapters of the Bible in preparation for the weekly meetings.

Enjoy review videos, engaging presenters, and lively discussion. 

Understanding The New Testament

Sundays • In-person & Zoom • Starts September 10 • 10:30 am

Tuesdays • On Zoom • Starts September 12 • 7 pm

Video Lecture series led by Dr. David Brakke

This study starts at the beginning — with 1 Thessalonians and Paul. Why? Paul’s letters were written first! Mark, the gospels, other letters and Revelation will follow.

This will help us better see the diversity and distinct perspectives found in the New Testament over time.

Signs and Wonders

Mondays • September 11 – October 9 • 7 – 8:30 pm

Led by Barb G. and Jill H.

Read and discuss Amy-Jill Levine’s book, Signs and Wonders, and explore the miracles of Jesus. Amy-Jill Levine is an internationally-renowned scholar, teacher, and author.

 

Pandemics & Religion: Historical Lessons and Social Challenges

Thursdays • October 19, 26, November 2 • 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Led by Dr. Albert 

What really happens in society and people’s lives after a major pandemic?

Is it always doom-and-gloom or do the tragic effects of pandemics sometimes inspire cultural revitalization?

How does concern for personal health and collective safety affect concern for the common good?

How have different historical memories of fear and trauma from deadly pandemics given rise to resilience, innovation and creativity?  

Methodism 101

Mondays • October 23, 30, November 6 • 6 – 7:30 pm

Led by Rev. Jerry

Where did all these Methodists come from? Who was John Wesley? What does Methodism teach and believe? 

Explore the historical origins and teachings of a people called Methodists. Methodism made its way to the shores of America in the early 18th century, but the movement was shaped much earlier through the life of John and Charles Wesley. This short course will dive into cultural influences that shaped early Methodism, the introduction of Methodism to early America, and the basic teachings and structure of Methodism today.

2024 Economic Outlook - Post Pandemic, Heading into an Election Year

Tuesday • Zoom • November 14 7 – 8:30 pm

Led by James L.

Join us for a special evening with top industry experts from JP Morgan and PGIM discussing the state of the economy, 2024 market outlook and the impact of continuing inflation, sunsetting of tax cuts, the Fed and election uncertainty.
We are living in unprecedented times so ensure your financial strategies are up to date.

The History of St. Andrew

Mondays • December 11 and 18 • 6 – 7:30 pm

Led by Rev. Jerry

A two-session course covering the history of St. Andrew UMC.

Participants will learn about major milestones in the life of this amazing faith community that has shaped its cultural identity and led to it becoming the largest congregation in the Western Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church.

Ongoing Classes

Join in on classes that happen throughout the year.

Contemporary Issues

Sundays • In-person & Zoom 10:30 – 11:30 am

The Contemporary Issues Adult Sunday School class discusses current issues from a Christian perspective. Topics include book reviews, politics, the Bible, arts and more. Drop in visitors are always welcome and many attend this way.

For the Zoom link, please email.

Pastor's Scripture Study

Mondays • In-person & Zoom  1:15 pm

Join Senior Pastor, Rev. Mark, for this weekly class that focuses on the upcoming Sunday sermon passage. Read the text and discuss the context and possible interpretations. Please have a Bible available.

For the Zoom link, please email.

Journeys

Wednesdays • In-person & Zoom 2 – 3 pm

This is an ongoing book study group. Each September a new book is chosen, but newcomers are welcome at any time. 

Led by Ron D.

Monday Noon Book Group

Mondays • In-person • 12 – 1 pm

This is an ongoing book group for women. Reading fiction and non-fiction throughout the year. Newcomers are welcome at any time. 

Led by Rev. Amy

Spiritual Seekers: Braiding Sweetgrass Book Study

1st & 3rd Tuesdays

• 

In-person 12 – 1:30 pm

In Braiding Sweetgrass, Kimmerer brings these two lenses of knowing together to reveal what it means to see humans as “the younger brothers of creation.” In reflections ranging from the creation of Turtle Island to the forces that threaten its flourishing today, she circles toward a central argument: The awakening of a wider ecological consciousness requires acknowledging and celebrating our reciprocal relationship with the world. 

Spiritual Seekers: Braiding Sweetgrass Book Study

1st & 3rd Tuesdays

• 

In-person 12 – 1:30 pm

In Braiding Sweetgrass, Kimmerer brings these two lenses of knowing together to reveal what it means to see humans as “the younger brothers of creation.” In reflections ranging from the creation of Turtle Island to the forces that threaten its flourishing today, she circles toward a central argument: The awakening of a wider ecological consciousness requires acknowledging and celebrating our reciprocal relationship with the world. 

Book Groups

Explore ongoing book groups.

Justice Studies

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Gender & Sexuality: Theology, Identity, and Me

Tuesdays • September 19, 26, October 3 • 6:30 – 8 pm 

Led by Rev. Amy and Lexi

Delve into Christian thought, natural sciences, and Church history as we explore gender and sexuality.

A Real Look at Critical Race Theory

Sundays • November 5 and 12 • 11:45 am – 1:15 pm 

Led by Dr. Peter V.A.

Join Social Justice in better understanding Critical Race Theory and what it means to teach it in school. We’ll explore where the theory came from, what is the theory’s purpose, and why is it so controversial in schools.

This class is two parts, we recommend coming to both classes to delve in deeper into CRT.

Senior Adult Studies & Events

Prime Time Luncheon

Fridays • Monthly • 11:30 am – 1:30 pm 

 October 13 | November 10 | December 8 | January 12 | February | March 8 | April 12 | May 10

Enjoy a healthy, tasty lunch and an entertaining program on the second Friday of each month, September through May, for our 55+ community.

Call 303-351-0096 by the Tuesday before or register below.

AARP Smart Driver Program

Saturday • September 23 • 8:30 am

Become a safer and more confident driver! Through this class, you will learn skills and strategies you can use on the road every day, discover defensive driving techniques, learn local laws and traffic rules, and get tips for maintaining your vehicle for safety. People who take this course may receive a discount on their auto insurance, but the amount varies, depending on the company. Nine out of ten drivers improved how they drive.

No registration needed.

Roadmap to Retirement

Tuesday • October 10 • 7 – 9 pm

Led by James L., ChFC©, Financial Planner with Prudential Advisors.

 

There are many ways to prepare for and transition into retirement, but the path is very different for each of us. Whether you are in your 40s or 70s this workshop will focus on the important decisions one needs to make at each financial stage to ensure that they can retire and stay retired. The workshop includes discussions on savings and investing strategies during difficult market cycles, tax mitigation, insurance decisions, and generating retirement income that keeps up with inflation.