Faith Formation at St. Andrew's
It seems safe to say that we are living in a time like no other.
Our familiar patterns of life have been thrown out the window as this pandemic has stretched on far longer than we could have expected. We are all experiencing ongoing, collective loss and upheaval on a scale that exceeds anything in our lifetimes.
In the midst of such disputation, loss, and disorientation, our hope is to hold sacred space for weary souls. This fall we will look at and try on sacred rhythms as a community to help guide us into the spiritual resilience needed for this time.
At the core of our faith is the rhythm of death and resurrection. Think of all the ways in which this simple pattern is manifested in our scriptures and our worship.
The bread that is first broken so that it might become a feast.
The Christ who is recognized by his wounds.
The baptismal candidate who goes down into the baptismal waters so that they can be brought up in new life.
The slain Lamb that sits on the throne.
This rhythm is what we speak of when we speak of the paschal mystery. That life and death are inexplicably intertwined; and that what looks like death, despair and hopelessness is not the end of the story. Somehow grief and grace can go hand in hand.
As we move through this strange season, we will be forming communities of small groups around this topic of grief and grace that will meet weekly for an hour over six weeks. Groups will gather virtually for a time of reflection, to name the challenges and gifts of this time and listen for God's invitation together. Groups will also be invited to consider remaining together as a small group at the conclusion of the six weeks.
Our familiar patterns of life have been thrown out the window as this pandemic has stretched on far longer than we could have expected. We are all experiencing ongoing, collective loss and upheaval on a scale that exceeds anything in our lifetimes.
In the midst of such disputation, loss, and disorientation, our hope is to hold sacred space for weary souls. This fall we will look at and try on sacred rhythms as a community to help guide us into the spiritual resilience needed for this time.
At the core of our faith is the rhythm of death and resurrection. Think of all the ways in which this simple pattern is manifested in our scriptures and our worship.
The bread that is first broken so that it might become a feast.
The Christ who is recognized by his wounds.
The baptismal candidate who goes down into the baptismal waters so that they can be brought up in new life.
The slain Lamb that sits on the throne.
This rhythm is what we speak of when we speak of the paschal mystery. That life and death are inexplicably intertwined; and that what looks like death, despair and hopelessness is not the end of the story. Somehow grief and grace can go hand in hand.
As we move through this strange season, we will be forming communities of small groups around this topic of grief and grace that will meet weekly for an hour over six weeks. Groups will gather virtually for a time of reflection, to name the challenges and gifts of this time and listen for God's invitation together. Groups will also be invited to consider remaining together as a small group at the conclusion of the six weeks.
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Small Groups: Grief and Grace
October 11- November 22 | 1 hour virtual gatherings Specific dates and times will be determined by the individuals who sign up. Each gathering will center around three questions:
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GROWContemplative Prayer
Mondays | 8:00pm Gather online for prayer and discussion of Into the Silent Land by Martin Laird. Those looking for an extended time of meditation are invited to log on at 7:30pm. Youth: Donut Dash First and Third Sunday | 1:00pm-2:00pm Jump on Zoom for games, check-in time, and to find out who received this week’s donut delivery to their home! For more information and to sign up email Mtr. Melesa at associate@standrews-madison.org. Children: Formation in a Box! Every two weeks beginning in mid-October, children will receive a hand-delivered package with something to remind them of God's presence with them and to connect them to their St. Andrew's community. No assembly required! Parents will also receive resources from our clergy. All families will be contacted prior to deliveries being made. To make sure your child is included, email Ruth at family@standrews-madison.org. |
WORSHIPMidweek Morning Prayer
Tuesdays and Wednesdays | 8:00am Click here fore more information. Compline Thursdays | 8:00pm Click here fore more information. Sing Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs Targeted for young people and their families. Learn to sing a psalm, a hymn and an anthem over a period of weeks. Basic music concepts will be explored during the learning. All materials will be provided for participants. Scores, books and recordings will be emailed or delivered. Two 4-week sessions on Thursdays @ 4:00 p.m. in March and May. Celebrating Hymns Listen to, read and reflect on texts, learn about the history of tunes, and take turns singing a verse if you wish. Tuesdays @ 6:30 p.m. or Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m. (40 minute sessions) The session will run 14 weeks, but you may attend a session at any time. Each of the months of February, March, April and May will have a slightly different focus, but it will all center around hymnody. |
LEARNFun With Ukeleles
Learn basic chords and strum patterns. Join in playing an accompaniment to favorite Christian hymns. Two 3-week sessions on Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. in February and April. To indicate interest or sign up, please email music director Ken Stancer (music@standrews-madison.org) Invitations will also be sent out directly. I hope you will take advantage of these opportunities to stay connected. |