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
The Path Ahead: Spirituality & Purpose in Later Life – Kate Maxwell 3/6-4/10
Beginning with a meal each session, we will explore the challenges and rewards of later seasons of life within a spiritual context. We will use videos and articles to stimulate our conversations.
Sacred Rhythms: Spiritual Practices – Nick Howe
An exploration of practical spirituality within a supportive group context. Members have the opportunity to begin, grow, experiment with, and discuss various practices. Topics will include mindfulness, energy, prayer, meditation, dreaming, and more!
Belonging: Our Journeys to St John’s – Janet Dieterich
We’ll hear from members about how they came to St John’s and why they stay. There will be opportunities to share our own journey stories as well.
Success in Other Words – John Brunner
Join us for meaningful conversations about how faith shapes our understanding of success in today’s culture. With participants from all generations welcome, we will share personal experiences and challenge societal norms and discuss what it truly means to live a life of purpose and significance as followers of Christ.
Coffee Conversations – Molly Donovan
Come and get to know one another better over a hot beverage. There will be starter topics for conversation each week, and the Spirit will blow where she will. Bring your desire to get to know other folks more deeply and enjoy these times of being together.
Spring Book Groups
Welcome to the Bible with Kate Maxwell 3/15 – 4/12 11-12 noon in the Parlor
Lots of people are nervous about opening the Bible and uncertain how to begin. It’s a big book, after all, and more than a little intimidating at first. This book group provides an introduction to Bible basics, from how to find Bible passages to the ways the Bible is interpreted, along with practical suggestions for beginning to read the Bible and ideas for incorporating it into our own prayer. Contact Kate here for info and sign up on the hallway board
Freedom of Simplicity with Fr. Art
4/23, 4/30, 5/14, 5/21 6 pm
Discovering simplicity is a lifelong process that tends to be difficult to put into practice. In his book, “Freedom of Simplicity,” Richard Foster reminds us how we can change our lives and world for the better by learning to live in harmony with the rich complexity of life and rediscovering simple Christian disciplines. Foster guides us on a path toward finding God by learning to listen, to give, to understand, to show compassion, and to accept what we already have. Our Book Study will be held on four Wednesday nights from 6-8pm at Father Art’s home (2304 6th Street, White Bear Lake). The dates are: 4/23, 4/30, 5/14, 5/21. A light supper will be part of our evening together. Contact Fr Art here for more information.
