Adult Education at St. Lucas

"Faith Bible Study"                             

Thursdays @ 10:00 a.m., beginning September 4, 2008 led by Rev. John Holst

Join us each week this fall as we delve deeper into our faith. We will be focusing on prayer using two books written by Roberta Bondi. They are: To Pray and to Love: Conversations on Prayer with the Early Church, and

A Place to Pray - Reflections of the Lord's Prayer.

"Living Beyond Yourself: Exploring the Fruit of the Spirit"        

Fridays @ 9:00 a.m., beginning September 5, 2008 led by Cheryl Mather and Dianne Stever

This class is a 10-week interactive Bible study of the fruit of the Spirit as presented in the book of Galatians, concentrating on Galatians 5:22-23. Beth Moore walks participants through each trait listed in these verses and encourages women to know the freedom of a Spirit-filled life. Study guide cost: $14.95.

"Treasures New and Old - Some Themes in the Gospel of Matthew"               

Wednesdays @ 6:00 p.m., September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 2008 led by Rev. Dr. David Mehl 

Matthew is the lead-off batter in the New Testament - and for good reason. A Jewish writer for a primarily Jewish Christian community, Matthew is aware of the long, rich history of the Hebrew Bible, but believes that something new and earth-shattering has happened in Jesus of Nazareth. His Gospel offers a primer for first century Christians on how to take the best of their past and apply it to a new time - even in the face of plenty of resistance! During these 6 sessions, we will explore some of the themes of the first Gospel which chart the course for the rest of the New Testament. For example: Who is Jesus? How do we incorporate our past into the future? What does it mean to belong? How do we live together faithfully? Where is God calling us? BYOB (Bring your own Bible, that is!) and an open heart and mind.

"The Ten Commandments for Today"                             

Sundays @ 10:30 a.m., October 5, 12, 19, 2008

led by Rev. Dr. John Bracke, Professor of Old Testament, Eden Theological Seminary 

Though developed centuries ago, the Ten Commandments still occupy a prominent if not iconic place in churches and even in American culture. At a time when memorization is passe, many churches still insist that young people memorize the Ten Commandments. When an Alabama judge installs a massive granite statue of the Ten Commandments in his courtroom, the event makes national headlines. This course will explore the meaning of the Ten Commandments for today and invite discussion of their continuing relevance and importance.

 “A Discussion of Faith and Politics:  Remembering One’s Faith in the Polling Place”

Sundays @ 10:30 a.m., October 26, November 2,  led by Rev. John Holst 

At his third inaugural address on January 20^th, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt offered these words, A nation, like a person, has a mind -- a mind that must be kept informed and alert, that must know itself, that understands the hopes and needs of its neighbors -- all the other nations that live within the narrowing circle of the world. In the 67 years that have passed since that inaugural address we, the citizens of the United States, have observed that “narrowing circle of the world” with each passing year. Each time we enter the polling place we must consider not only which candidate will lead our community, our state, or our country on the best course, but which candidate will best partner with other world leaders, corporate giants, and social activists. We simply need to know more or maybe it has always been that way. Now one’s faith, referring to that of each candidate, has become a frank part of the political debate. Once a private and somewhat untouched topic is now seen as one more important area to consider when voting. How should we approach the topic of a candidate’s faith when making our selection? How has your faith guided your vote in the past, and how will it guide your vote in the future? Come join the conversation!      

"Grief Recovery Group"                             

Wednesdays @ 6:00 p.m., October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2008 led by Pastor Carol Keller and Linda Hartmann 

Grief is not an easy journey. But grieving is more bearable if some vital information is known about the work that needs to be accomplished and if we realize we are not alone on the journey. With a goal of supporting anyone who is suffering the loss of a loved one, we are offering a Grief Recovery Group at St. Lucas during the weeks leading to Thanksgiving. In the four-week seminar you will receive "tools" to help the work of grieving as well as meet others who are making adjustments in their lives. The group will meet from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. in the Conference Room. Registration in the church office prior to October 28 is requested.

“Enhancing Our Spirituality”

Sundays @ 10:30 a.m., November 9, 16, 23, 2008, led by Pastor Carol Keller 

“The Natural Way of Prayer: Being Free to Express What You Feel Deep Within” (DVD) - Twelve brief directions to enhance our praying are offered and explained, including practical suggestions for a more robust prayer life.

“Common Bushes Afire: Discovering the Sacred in Our Everyday Lives 

Beginning with the Story of the Exodus” (DVD) - "Take off your shoes, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground." This session will help us see the Sacred in our common lives.

“Nothing Is Permanent Except Change: Learning to Manage Transition in Your Life” (DVD) – This session will look at the process of change and offer ideas for negotiating each transition.

“Advent Festival”

Sunday, December 7 @ 3:00 p.m. sponsored by the Board of Christian Education

 This event is a festive learning experience for all ages. It marks the beginning of the Christian calendar, as we prepare to welcome our Savior, Jesus Christ.