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. 

CONNECT GROUPS

CONNECT groups are small group experiences that focus on a particular topic or activity, with a bit of prayer and scripture reflection for grounding. Signups for the groups are on the GROW bulletin board in the hallway as you come in from the parking lot. Some groups will decide when to meet

● Grace in Transition: Creating a circle of support
Life changes can catch us by surprise and sometimes we need help we hadn’t
expected. This group will support participants in exploring strategies, supporters,
and other resources you will be able to rely upon if you experience a health event
or change of circumstances (big or small) where you cannot or choose not to
function alone.
Leader: Molly Donovan
 
● Sermon on the Mount
Let's take a look together at Jesus' Sermon on the Mount – "the nearest thing to a
manifesto that Jesus ever uttered"… It's not just about what we do … but who we
are to become. We'll use the LifeGuide booklet Sermon on the Mount by John
Stott, Anglican pastor and theologian.
Sunday mornings 8:45 a.m.- 9:45 a.m.
Leaders: Kathy Smith and Sylvia Lovett
 
● Roots and Roads: Exploring Where We’ve Lived and How God Has Shaped
Us
The places we live and the moves we make in life form us in many ways. In this
CONNECT group, we will share about where we have been along the way and
reflect on the effects of place in our spiritual lives.
Leader: Val Koutek
 
● Honoring the Land, Honoring the Story: Continuing the conversation
The Rev. Dr. Bradley S. Hauff who served as missioner for Indigenous
Ministries on the presiding bishop’s staff and is a member of our
congregation and an Oglala Sioux will talk to us on October 12 after the
10:00 service about the history of the Church with the Indigenous peoples
who have inhabited this land for thousands of years. He will help us
consider our shared history. This virtual CONNECT group will begin after
10/12 and will explore the themes of the forum more deeply.
Leader: Brad Hauff
 
● Beauty from Brokenness: Navigating Grief, Loss, and Estrangement
This compassionate course provides a safe space to explore the deep
realities of grief, loss, and relational estrangement. Through storytelling,
reflection, and community support, participants will learn healthy ways to
process pain, encourage others, and find hope in difficult seasons. The
class will also offer practical strategies and connect participants with helpful
resources for healing and growth. All are welcome—wherever you are in
your journey.
Leader: Joelle Sandberg

Fall Book Groups