CHRISTIAN EDUCATION - CONNECTING WITH GOD'S TEACHING
‘Disciple I’ This is an intensive 34 week study that gives a great overview of the whole bible. This study transforms members of the class by reading the word of God, self-examination and introspection. Each person brings their own feelings and experiences and allows the daily readings to transform them into better Disciples. The group grows closer in fellowship and class members begin to identify their gifts and how they might use these gifts in service to God and the church. (Not being offered in 2010-2011)
‘Companions In Christ ’ 2010-2011. This 28 week study offers small groups a powerfully transforming experience in spiritual formation.
'Year 3 Study' 2010-2011. This class is for those who have completed both 'Disciple I' and 'Companions in Christ'. At the end of these three years, you will have the following:
- A grounding in the overall theme and content of the Bible (Yr 1)
- A sense of self awareness through the practice of historical disciplines (Yr 2)
- A sense of what your gifts are and where they might be used (Yr 3)
What ties all these things together is our life together in the Church, and our life together in Christ. At the end of this year, you will see the totality of faith come together in a way you could not have imagined before.
Children ’s Church
SUNDAY SCHOOL 9:15 a.m.: We welcome a new Cokesbury curriculum - Rock Solid - to our Sunday School this year to help them build a strong faith foundation. Activities, crafts, stories, and games will contribute to a faith experience of God, the Bible and the message of Jesus.
Grades K-3 - meet for snacks, a message, and activities based around Bible stories and values.
Grades 4-6 - are studying more Old Testament stories starting with stories about Moses. Students should bring their Bibles as they read from scripture and learn how to use the Bible every week. These students meet with Cathy Leininger upstairs in the Education Wing in the room at the end of the hall.
Grade 7 Confirmation - This year-long curriculum will teach those interested in confirmation about different religions, the history of the church, a Bible overview, and the values and beliefs that Christians hold. At the end of the course they can choose confirmation which occurs on Easter Sunday. (Class begins Sept. 26, 2010)
After the Children's Message (in the 10:30 am Worship service)
Pre-K and K students go upstairs with Pam Beasore for snacks, crafts and a short Bible lesson. The children spend the time getting to know each other and work on social skills and have fun at church.
Jr. Church - 1st-6th grade These children go upstairs with Cathy Leininger to do their own Worship Service, which includes participating in putting up the paraments, acolyting, choosing music and singing, praying, delivering a message, and leading joys and concerns. After worship the children do a craft, game or activity related to the sermon message. Children stay in worship with their parents on the first Sunday of the month.
Coffee House/Current Events
The Coffee House Group studies contemporary issues and the United Methodist position on the issue using the FaithLink Curriculum. Mark Guererro and others lead this study group and there is usually a lively discussion. Sundays, 9:15 a.m.
Vacation Bible School
Stay tuned for this year's curriculum~
Lenten Studies - 2011
We are excited to offer two different Lenten Studies this year!
Ecclesiastes 6-week study - Wednesdays nights, beginning Ash Wednesday, March 9, 7:00-8:30 p.m. This study will follow the book "Who Knows What Is Good?: A Commentary on the Books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes" by Kathleen Farmer. The book is approximately $20 on Amazon.com. You may order your own book or contact the church office by March 1 to have the book ordered for you. Contact the church office for more info, 937-293-7279, oumc-assist@sbcglobal.net
Enough 6-week study - Sunday mornings, beginning March 13, 9:00-10:00a.m. The Coffee House group will be leading this class using the book "Enough: Discovering Joy through Simplicity and Generosity" by Adam Hamilton. Enough is an invitation to rediscover the Bible's wisdom when it comes to prudent financial practices. In these pages are found the keys to experiencing contentment, overcoming fear, and discovering joy through simplicity and generosity. Each week, concepts from the chapters (as outlined below), will delve further into the subject through teaching and discussions. Come for one week - or dedicate yourself through the Lenten process to all 6 weeks.
March 13 - When Dreams become Nightmares
March 20 - Wisdom and Finance
March 27 - Cultivating Contentment
April 3 - Defined by Generosity
April 10 - Overcoming Fear
April 17 - Faith in the Midst of Financial Crisis
You may purchase the book on your own or bring $8 (cash or check to "OUMC") by Monday, Mar. 7 when we will place a large order for the books from Cokesbury.com. This study will be open to the public. Contact the church office for more information, 937-293-7279, oumc-assist@sbcglobal.net