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| Faith Seekers is focusing its current study on Adam Hamilton's books, Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White. Each of the twenty-three chapters becomes a week's lesson, although some chapters may merit two weeks of discussion. For those who may not be familiar with Adam Hamilton it is worth noting that he is the founder of what has grown to be the largest Methodist Church in the country, located in Kansas City, Missouri. |
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| Imagine our Faith Seekers as paddling along a river. The book is the river. Yet, when the collective mind set of the class is to explore a new tributary, we do so without hesitation. So far our side trips have taken us up the stream of Pentecostalism, using a DVD series by Hamilton that focuses on the traditions of eight different Christian sects. Another trip explored the current ramifications of the freedom of religion as expressed in the first amendment and the Virginia State Constitution as guided by Thomas Jefferson. As part of that exploration we considered the religious viewpoints of our founding fathers and witnessed a DVD by Newt and Callista Gingrich describing the religious references physically etched and enshrined in various public buildings in Washington, DC. Certainly, we discussed the threat posed by some groups to have those references removed. |
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| We've recently had occasion to discuss Franklin's Thirteen (moral) Virtues, the origin of Taps and religion in colonial America. We routinely discuss religious holidays and observances that occur throughout the year and historical events that have impacted our religious perspective. Sometimes, we visit old classmates that are now shut in. Twice now our entire assembly has eaten lunch after class with an ex-classmate that is now in the Shepherd of the Valley assisted living facility. Practically every Sunday a portion of the class meets together for lunch. We will also plan, organize and operate the Silent Auction fundraiser in the fall of 2010. If you like a group dynamic that is cohesive, we've got it. |
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| The class format is designed to elicit input and feedback freely from all students. And, it does just that. We are not stampeded to adhere religiously to a prescribed schedule. Before we start study we always discuss joys and concerns that are in our hearts and on our minds. We have found that our prayer cards are perceived most favorably by their recipients. Our feedback is that they (recipients) draw strength from them. |
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| As the facilitator I may be slightly biased but I strongly suspect we enjoy a unique Sunday school experience that is certainly not "mainstream." Our yoke is pretty easy. Homework is as minimal as you like it. But, certainly the book is there for your most serious study and reflection. |
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| Unlike some doctors that are no longer taking new patients, we welcome new students. Starting with the first Sunday in February we will embark upon chapter eight, the Battle Over the Bible, of Hamilton's book. So there is plenty of time left in our current course of study and reflection. |
Howland United Methodist Church