Christian faith is a lifelong journey. God’s not done with you yet.
First United’s Adult Education program offers insight, growth, and fellowship with classes, workshops, intimate discussions, and presentations and lectures by leading scholars. Topics range from church history to current events to race relations to international issues, and always include a biblical perspective. Sometimes a series of classes is scheduled on specific topics that lend themselves to in-depth study. Adult ed is a ministry that drives learning, deepens faith, and wrestles with the relationship between God’s world and the human world.
Sunday morning speaker series
Classes meet at 9:30 a.m. on Sundays from September through late May. Bring your whole self, including your questions, your doubts, and a sense of humor. For more information on any adult education programs, contact Lydia Mulkey, Associate Pastor of Education (lmulkey@firstunitedoakpark.com), 708-386-5215 (ext. 103).
Bible Study and Small Groups
Monday Night Bible Study: 6-7:30 p.m. in the Library.
Wednesday Small Group: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Conference Room.
For information on other Bible studies and small groups contact Lydia Mulkey.
Syria: The Burden of Memory
and The Hope of the Gospel
The fighting in Syria and the surrounding countries is not over. Lebanon and Iraq have had street protests the last few weeks. Iran is embroiled in protests. The U.S. withheld military aid from Lebanon for six months, releasing it in early December 2019. Why are we so involved in the Middle East? What will it take to end the fighting and violence that has torn Syria apart? This study looks at the forces at work in Syria and the broader Middle East. Throughout, the Christian’s response will be discussed. A study guide will enhance our understanding. This four-week session will be led by Pauline Coffman, a member of First United Church who has led several trips to the Middle East.
Jan. 12: What led up to the Arab Spring in March 2011? We’ll look at how Syria was formed after World War I and the activity of Protestant Christians who established schools and hospitals. We’ll look at Ba’athism and the Alawites and discuss the role of church and state in Syria.
Jan. 19: The Arab Spring and the ensuing conflict, up to the present. The role of a major drought from 2007-09 and how population growth affected Syria is an important part of the story. We’ll look at sectarianism and the role of the interests of the Gulf states and their impact on Syria.
Jan. 26: The Arab Spring up to the present. We’ll look at the promise of the Arab Spring and the reality. The role of proxy groups and outside powers will be considered, along with the reality of the very young population, its protests, and its demands.
Feb. 2: The Hope of the Gospel. How have the Presbyterian Churches in Syria responded to the crisis? We’ll look at the “burden of memory” and the role of the U.S., Israel, and other countries in the violence that has wracked Syria. The hope of the Gospel, as the prospect of rebuilding Syria comes, will undergird this session.
Sunday morning Bible Study in February
Our lead pastor, Rev. John Edgerton, will lead a Bible study on Feb. 9, 16, and 23 on differences in the four Gospels.
Book Groups
Pick-up book groups are often available! Check back for information about future book groups.
