Did my Christian education end when the bishop laid his hands on me at confirmation...or do I continue to learn what it means to be a Christian throughout my entire life?

If I attend church regularly, listen to the sermons, and try to relate the lessons to my life, have I covered the bases?

Do I acknowledge my faith doubts head-on and attempt to learn how others have answered those questions, or is it easier to ignore those whispers in my head and heart?

These are the sorts of questions I have been asking myself recently in my role as chair of the Adult Education Committee. Everyone seems to think a parish needs adult programming; but it strikes me that it is a bit like flossing our teeth. Everyone agrees we should do it, but... Having been an active member of six Episcopal parishes and having attended scores more in my travels, I know that we at the Chapel of the Cross have far more adult education opportunities than is typical. Maybe Episcopalians don't believe in it!

Here at the Chapel of the Cross, a low percentage of us actually attend the Sunday morning, week night, or Lenten sessions scheduled; 30 is considered a terrific turnout. My observation is that we prefer being lectured to, have a minimal willingness to assume responsibility for class preparation, cope with unpredictable time allotments, and less than optimum meeting spaces. All of these factors combine to make scheduling adult education opportunities fairly frustrating for presenters and organizers. Obviously, what is currently being done is not hitting the mark.

The committee has, in the past, planned programs around Bible study, church history, liturgy, Christian ethics, social ministry, spirituality, and contemporary issues. We recognize that not all of us approach continuing Christian education in the same way or have the same needs or the same time availability. Nor do we believe that adult education programming at the church is the only source the congregation has for their personal growth as Christians.  Folks at different stages in their lives have different interests and each of us has a unique way of relating to God.

As the adult education committee begins to plan the 2003-2004 program, we are asking these and other questions. We ask you to tell us what would characterize a dynamic adult education program? Talk to us, please.

The Adult Education Committee members are Paul Carew, Al Guckes, Susan Irons, Gretchen Jordan, Michael McVaugh, Mary Ann Morris, Lee Thomas and Nancy Tunnessen. We are all listed in the new parish directory.

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© 2003 The Chapel of the Cross