First United Methodist Church Omaha NE

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Adult Education

 The goal of Adult Christian Education at First United Methodist Church is to liberate in body, mind, and spirit. Through study, discussion, and spiritual disciplines we journey into freedom together.
 
Horizons of Faith presents...
Sunday Morning Happenings
Weekday Opportunities for Bible  Discussion
Wise and Wonderful

 

Sunday Morning Happenings

For additional opportunities, contact Sue Rood, Director of Religious Education or e-mail her.

Centering Prayer, Becky Jones & Debra McKnight's office -- A Centering Prayer group is in progress.  The session begins with a 20-minute centering prayer, beginning promptly at 9:45 a.m., which is then followed by time for reflection.

FaithLinks, west Parlor -- We explore how current issues in the news relate to our understanding of the Bible, our United Methodist Social Principles, and beliefs.  This is an on-going class so join it at anytime.

Galileans, room 112-- We have speakers who present topics of interest to Christians.  Please join us anytime!

No Name, room 108 --  If it is a lively discussion on numerous topics that you like, then this is the class for you.  They study various books decided upon by the class.  All are welcome.

First Forum, Cary Hall -- Held usually on the second Sunday monthly with a variety of topics and speakers. All are welcome to join -- there is no cost and no reservations are needed.

Sudanese Sunday School, room 113 -- Led by Peter Lam Puol and Reath Puoch, this is a class for Sudanese, currently studying keeping holy time and the power of praying together.

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Short Term Class Offerings for Sundays

Mornings:

Family Ties -- Do you ever wonder if you are turning into your mother?  Study family systems, investigate our family histories, understand our relationship patterns.  This class is particularly designed for young professionals and parents of young children; however, all are welcome.  This class will be led by Debra McKnight, Rev. Susan Davies and Rev. Hoard Surber on Sundays now through May 4 at 9:35 in room 107.

The Bible From Scratch -- "Where did the Bible come from?"  "Who wrote it?"  "What parts should we take literally?"  "How do we understand the contradictions?"  "How does a story become church doctrine?"  "Why do we have different denominations?"  "Who was Jesus?"  Join us as we explore these and other faith questions.  This class will be led by Jim Horrocks from now through May 4 at 9:35 in the Conference room.

Evenings:

Living the Questions, 4:00-6:00 p.m., February 10-May 18, room 113.  This class is an exploration of "progressive theology" for those yearning for something more than shallow platitudes.  Press here to register for this class or call Sue Rood at 556-6262, ext. 1008.
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Are you a knitter or crocheter?  Would you like to be?  Would you like to make prayer shawls to give away to people who need to be wrapped in love?  Join the Knitting Into the Mystery class in the Conference room from 5-6:30 p.m.  This is a time of meditation, knitting/crocheting prayer shawls and conversation.  All ages are welcome.  If you need childcare, please call Sue Rood (556-6262, extension 1008).

Centering Prayer:  Centering Prayer is a method of prayer, which prepares us to receive the gift of God's presence.  It consists of responding to the Spirit of Christ by consenting to God's presence and action within.  We learn to quiet our mind to cooperate with the gift of God's presence.  This class will be led by Rev. Don Bredthauer on April 20 & 27, May 11 & 18 from 4:30-6:00 p.m. in the east Parlor.

 

Weekday Opportunities for Bible Discussion

Lectionary Bible Study Groups

Sophia's Path--Wednesday Morning Group--On Wednesday mornings from 9:30-11:30, class members gather for great treats, meditation, meaningful discussion and fellowship.  This group is open to all who would like to join in this time of learning and friendship.  We are presently discussing the book "Three Cups of Tea."  Free childcare is provided during this time.

Centering Prayer also meets the first Wednesday monthly at 5:30 p.m. in the Conference room.  Praying in silence and opening of heart to God to foster spiritual formation.

Jesus' Friends: Ecumenical Hearts and Hands (also known as Friendship Ministries) --
 Something new is being birthed at FUMC thanks to FUMC members and Presbyterian and Lutheran Friends with a passion for ministry to the cognitively impaired. 
 This group will meet on the last Wednesday night of each month for prayer and praise, Bible study and activities, fellowship and refreshments.  New friendships will be created and existing ones deepened as we participate in spiritual, recreational and social interactions. As with any new endeavor, we could use volunteers to be buddies to these person, help with recreation, crafts and snacks.  If this is something that you would like to do, please contact Sue Rood.
 If you know persons who would benefit from such a ministry, please have them or their parent/guardian contact Sue Rood for a registration form.  Help us get the word out!!

Paper Plate Chorus Line, 9:00-10:00 a.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays in room 112 led by Carol Windrum.  Increase your heart rate and tone your muscles.

 

Labyrinth Walk -- Bring your picnic to the labyrinth on the south lawn (front of the church).  We will eat together in the spring evening.  There will be discussion on labyrinths, then we'll walk the labyrinth, reconnecting to the earth and being mindful of The Presence.  This class will be led by Sue Rood on Thursdays, May 1, 8, 15, & 22 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.

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Lectionary Bible Study Groups

These small groups meet weekly to study the Scripture lessons for the upcoming worship services.  Come visit/join one of these small groups at any time.
Tuesday:
•    9:00 a.m.—Room 111 at the church (may not meet in summer)
Wednesday:
•    6:40 a.m.—Peony HyVee Café, 78th and Cass
•    9:30 a.m.—Room 107 at the church.  Odyssey is a covenant prayer group that receives names
      from all over the world of those who desire prayers from our daily devotion publication Upper
      Room. They also receive prayers from the congregation.
Thursday:
    6:40 a.m.—Rockbrook Garden Café, 108 and Center
    7:00 a.m.—Perkins Restaurant, 72 and Grover
•    3:00 p.m.—Crown Pointe Retirement Village, 2820 South 80 Street
    5:00 p.m.—Soul Desires Book Store in the Old Market, 1026 Jackson
 
animated graphic of book, flowers and present

 

For additional education opportunities, contact Sue Rood, Director of Religious Education at 556-6262, extension 1008 or e-mail her.