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.
Advent Sundays: Stories of Calling
Tell your story! Our Advent theme is calling, and we’re highlighting the fact that each of us is called to do something, whether an audacious bold action or a small decision that leads to wholeness and healing. On the four Sundays of Advent, First United friends will tell brief stories from their lives. These 10-minute stories will be personal stories that broadly relate to the themes of the scripture or stories from a sense of call to seek justice in the world that relate to one of the scripture’s themes.
How do you relate to the disbelief in Zechariah’s story? The power of Mary’s Magnificat? The bravery of the Hebrew Midwives? The fear brought on by Joseph’s dream? Each Advent Sunday, come and hear stories of call from your friends here at First United and consider your own call.
December 1: Zechariah
Scripture: Luke 1:5-24; 57-80
Themes: Disbelief in your calling, nothing is impossible with God, breaking from family tradition, God’s faithfulness
December 8: Mary
Scripture: Luke 1:46-55
Themes: Strength in weakness, justice for the oppressed, praising God, God’s faithfulness
December 15: Hebrew Midwives
Scripture: Exodus 1:15-21
Themes: Being sneaky for God, bravery, standing up to the powerful, opposing injustice, saving lives
December 22: Joseph
Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25; 2:13-23
Themes: Dreaming for God, averting disaster, knowing what you must do, protection, God’s faithfulness
Book Groups
Pick-up book groups are often available! Check back for information about future book groups.
