ADULT FORMATION

Mission statement

The SJW Adult Formation Team works provide programming that fosters holistic adult faith formation by integrating relationships, life experiences, and Christian discipleship to cultivate meaningful connections, enriched spiritual engagement, and practical life understanding.

Adult Formation at SJW

is for any adult at any point in their faith journey, within the congregation and from the larger community.

happens in CONNECT groups, book studies, Bible study, 2nd Sunday speakers, workshops, retreats and more!

takes place at SJW, virtually, and in CONNECT groups that may meet in homes or wherever it makes sense.

is offered on Sunday mornings, Wednesday evenings, and more – check our calendar here!

connects us deeply with each other, supports spiritual practices of Christian discipleship, and helps us become better disciples in community.

Adult spiritual formation shapes Christian adults through immersive community experiences that include prayer, study, and service, recognizing that both formal and informal interactions contribute to our growth. This involves creating opportunities for individuals to share their lives and faith, deepen their understanding of Scripture within the Anglican tradition, gain practical insights on everyday topics, and engage in ministry while reflecting on its personal significance.

How can I get involved?

Sign up or just show up! Please see the calendar and weekly news for updates. Reach out to Kate Maxwell or Emily Brunner with any questions.

Adult Formation Spring & Summer 2026

An Indigenous view of the Christian faith, Part 2

4/19 8:45 in the Parlor Brad Hauff

In this second session, Brad Hauff, who previously served on the Presiding Bishop’s staff for Indigenous Ministries, will lead us in continuing to explore the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Episcopal church.

Exploring the Trinity

5/3 8:45 am in the Parlor Chris Lilley

Have you ever wondered what we really mean when we talk about God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Join us on Sunday, May 3, at 8:45am in the Parlor for an engaging Adult Education session exploring the mystery of the Trinity, led by our intern, Chris Lilley. The Trinity is one of the central pillars of the Christian faith, but it’s not always easy to understand what it means. In this forum, we will take a closer look at the Trinity, reflect on why Christian tradition understands God as “three in one,” and consider how this shapes our shared worship life. We will explore where this teaching comes from and how it appears in our worship through the sign of the cross, in our prayers, and in the ways we bless and praise God together. We will also see how it can deepen our sense of God’s presence in everyday life. Come be part of the conversation as we explore this mystery of our faith.

Introduction to Liberation Theology

5/10 8:45 am in the Parlor Chris Lilley

“Any talk about God that fails to make God’s liberation of the oppressed its starting point is not Christian,” writes Black liberation theologian James Cone. What might it mean to take that claim seriously? Join us on Sunday, May 10, at 8:45am in the Parlor for an Adult Education session that will challenge and encourage us as we explore an introduction to the themes of liberation theology, led by our Intern Chris Lilley. Liberation theology begins with the conviction that God not only hears the cries of people who are burdened, silenced, or treated unjustly but also stands with them, acts on their behalf, and calls the Church to do the same in courage and love. In this forum, we will look at how Scripture, the life of Jesus, and the witness of the global Church have shaped this movement, and how its insights can guide us as Christians seeking to follow the way of Jesus in our own lives. Come reflect with us on this hopeful and courageous vision of faith in action.

Being With the Bible

5/16 – August 15 9:30 – 11:00 am Parlor Kate Maxwell OSB & Nick Howe

(no sessions on June 13, July 4 & 11, or August 8)

Do you wonder what the Bible is all about? Are you reluctant to go to a Bible study because you think you don’t know enough? Are you looking for a fresh approach to the Scriptures? Being With the Bible may be what you’re looking for. No prior knowledge of the Bible is needed. Each session of this small group explores a part of the Bible story and connects it to our own experience. Limited to 12 participants.