Foundations Programs

Dear Grace,

We are in a moment where having a firm foundation may be essential. Being grounded in our values and beliefs protects us from anxiety, postures us towards hope, and emboldens us with courage. Being rooted in the presence and power of God’s Spirit enables us to flourish, even when things are tough and distressing. Our faith matters; tending to our own spiritual growth and development is key to our well-being.

This season, in addition to Sunday worship, we have several opportunities to feed our souls. The Wednesday Gathering is a place for thoughtful conversation on the Biblical texts for the week, healing prayer and Eucharist. Each Thursday at 5:00 p.m. you can sit with others for Meditation and Centering Prayer. Beginning February 3, on Monday mornings at 10:00 a.m. you can join others for Coffee & A Psalm — conversation on Eugene Peterson’s reflections on the Psalms. Finally, Kim and I are developing a course during Lent focused on “How Then Should We Live?” Be on the lookout for more info on that.

Beginning February 9, after the 9:30 a.m. service, I will also be offering a Foundations Class. It is designed for those who want a deeper understanding of the Episcopal Church, and my particular take on Christianity. If you are new to Grace, and curious about the Episcopal tradition, a teenager or adult who wants to be confirmed, or have been around Grace a while and want a refresher — this is for you. It’s a new members class, a confirmation class, and a spiritual repast combined.

Classes are structured around a presentation by me, videos, and facilitated conversation. Kim will lead the teens (and their parents), and I will lead the adults for the conversation.

Topics will include:

— Reading and Understanding the Bible

— The Trinity: God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit

— How to Pray

— History of Christianity, the Episcopal Church, and Grace

— Christianity in the World

— Living out our faith

We will meet in the sanctuary after worship on Sundays, 11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m., February 9 – April 20.

For those who wish, we will travel together to St. Mark’s Cathedral on Saturday, May 3, to be confirmed by the Bishop.

If you are a member of Grace, but have never been confirmed, you might want to consider doing so. Confirmation is a requirement for membership in the greater Episcopal church (though not for membership at Grace). When I went through the process, I didn’t think it was going to be that meaningful, but I was surprised by how impactful my confirmation ceremony was. Bishop Greg Rickel laid his hands upon my head, in line with a long succession of people before him, passing on to me the blessing that comes with being one of Jesus’ disciples. I had a greater sense of belonging and a peace at knowing I was spiritually home.

If you are interested in joining this class, please let me (reveric@gracehere.org) or Kim (kim@gracehere.org) know.

And, by all means, let’s continue to strengthen ourselves for this present time.

Peace,
Rev. Eric