Everything that we do is a part of our spiritual formation. We want to be formed into the likeness of Christ and into a community of persons who welcome, worship, heal, and serve together as Jesus taught his disciples to do. We want to be known by our sincere worship of God and by our genuine love for others. Classes for adults are extensive and cover a broad array of topics and purposes, from being very new as a Christian, all the way to exploring deep historical and theological questions. All adult education classes, ministry groups, and forums are held in the Sophia (Greek word for Wisdom) Room after the 10:30 Mass unless otherwise noted. Classes include: “Beginnings” is an invitational program of hospitality and basic spiritual formation for newcomers to intentional Christian living. This program may be suitable for seekers, persons considering becoming disciples of Jesus, and newcomers to our community. “Beginnings” includes suppers hosted by our community, evocative videos, and small group conversations about the deep questions of our lives. In the late Winter and early Spring of each year, leading up to Easter, we offer the Catechumenate. This program is offered to those who are preparing for Holy Baptism, for Confirmation, and for formal Reception into the Episcopal Church. These rites take place at the Great Vigil of Easter, the ancient Christian service which takes place during the night before Easter Sunday, when one of our bishops administers the Sacraments. The Catechumenate includes evocative videos, small group discussion, and personal conversations with the clergy as the participants prepare to solemnly receive these Sacraments and to assume full membership in our community. Our community meets regularly during the year in small groups called House Gatherings. Each gathering has a different theme or focus based on the Christian life. Bible study, Christian meditation, spiritual disciplines, liturgical seasons, stewardship, are but some of the topics the groups address in a prayerful but celebrative setting around a meal in someone’s home.