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. Celebrating the Psalms Mondays at 7:00pm or Thursdays 11:00am October 12 - November 6 Join Ken Stancer to read, reflect on, listen to and sing for half an hour each week. Email Ken at music@standrews-madison.org to sign up. Celebrating Hymns Mondays at 7:00pm or Thursdays 11:00am November 6 - December 11 Each week this group will listen to, read and reflect on texts, learn about the history of tunes, and sing various hymns from our hymnal. Email Ken at music@standrews-madison.org to sign up. |
LEARNViewing and Discussion of the Documentary 13th with Rudy Bankston
October 5, 12, 19, 26 | 7:00pm-8:30pm Join members of other Madison-Area Episcopal Churches for a four week viewing and discussion of the documentary, 13th, with Rudy Bankston. Mr. Bankston is a skilled facilitator who has an interest in guiding conversations that move beyond head knowledge to a place of embodied experience. Click here for more information or to sign up. Fun with Rhythms Thursdays 3:30pm or Saturdays at 9:30am October 12 - November 6 Play rhythms on any kind of drum or found objects in the home! We will also take time to listen to drum ensembles around the world. Email Ken at music@standrews-madison.org to sign up. Fun with Ukeleles Thursdays 3:30pm or Saturdays at 9:30am November 6 - December 11 Learn basic chords and strum patterns with Ken Stancer, and join in playing an accompaniment to songs. Email Ken at music@standrews-madison.org to sign up. |