Christian Education

Adult Opportunities - Lent through Easter

Sunday Morning Education

Christian Zionism - February 29

"Without any shadow of a doubt, Christian Zionism is one, if not the most dangerous, biblical distortion that is challenging the Christian church in the Holy Land today," writes Naim Ateek, former rector of St. George's Cathedral in Jerusalem. What is Christian Zionism? What does it have to do with us at Chapel of the Cross? Is there a Christian response? The Rev. Stephen Sizer, expert on the origins and influence of Christian Zionism on the Middle East, and vicar of Christ Church, Virginia Water in the U.K., will be our guest presenter. In recent months, Sizer's seven-year research thesis on Christian Zionism was accepted by Middlesex University for the award of a doctorate. In it, Sizer traces the history, theology and politics of Zionism and asserts that "Christians are largely responsible for the origins as well as perpetuation of the Arab-Israeli conflict."

Praying through Lent - February 29 - March 14

"Form Follows Function" is a principle from architecture. It can also be applied to praying. Join Amy Harwell, our facilitator and member of the Chapel of the Cross, for a three part series on prayer, purpose, and personality. She'll be referencing three sources: The Practice of Prayer, by Margaret Guenther, an Episcopal priest and former professor; Prayer, by Richard Foster, a Quaker author and national speaker; and Paths to Prayer, by Patricia Brown, a Methodist minister and pastoral theologian. (February 29 - Integrating our common catechism and our unique personalities; March 7 - Prayer formats using the Bible: The Daily Office; and Ignatian Guided Imagery; Lectio Divina; March 14 - Prayer formats without using the Bible: Palms Up, Palms Down; Breath Prayer; and Centering Prayer)

Book Table - February 29 & March 14

Under the able organization of Marcy Clair, a variety of religiously related books, for adults and children, will be available for purchase in the dining room. Profits benefit the Parish Library.

Bible Study - February 29 - April 4

Joel Weinberger leads a discussion class on the lectionary passages of the day.

Parent Gatherings - March 14 & 21

Many parents struggle with how to talk with children about the crucifixion. Join Stephen Elkins-Williams, Victoria Jamieson-Drake, and Gretchen Jordan on March 14 for a discussion on this topic and other topics that challenge you. On March 21 Gretchen Jordan will offer an introduction to the labyrinth in preparation for the Ecumenical Holy Week Labyrinth Walk (A children's walk is set for Tuesday, April 6, and a youth walk on Sunday, April 4.)

Appreciating the Psalms - March 21 & 28, April 4

Many psalms have dimensions of meaning that are not evident on casual reading. We will consider examples of major Psalm types in their literary and historical contexts, seeking to understand and more fully appreciate their meaning and beauty. David Jamieson-Drake is a frequent and cherished presenter; the Hebrew Scriptures are one of his areas of expertise.

An Introduction to the Labyrinth - March 28

During Holy Week, our parish will join with seven other area congregations in sponsoring a labyrinth walk. What is this ancient spiritual tool? How does one use it as a prayer form? Join Gretchen Jordan for a slide presentation.

Other Offerings

Mary Harris Bible Study - Tuesdays, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.

The Acts of the Apostles is the study for the year. Newcomers are welcome.

Adult Inquirers' Classes - Mondays, 7:30 p.m.

Ethics Series - 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.

March 1 Laura Yordy on Environmental Ethics

April 5 Dr. Harmon Smith on Medical Ethics

Reading With Deeper Eyes Short Story Group - March 18 at 7:30 p.m.

A discussion on Alice Munro's "Pictures of the Ice"

Holy Week Labyrinth Walk

University United Methodist, Church of Reconciliation, Holy Family, Orange Methodist, University Presbyterian, United Church and Binkley congregations will join us in sponsoring a labyrinth walk at specified hours during Holy Week. The canvas labyrinth designed after the 11 circuit labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral in Chartres, France, will be in the Binkley Baptist sanctuary:

Mon. & Tues., April 5 & 6, 6:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Wed., April 7, 6:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Thurs., April 8, 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Fri., April 9, 6:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

There will be a special Youth Walk on Sun., April 4, 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. and a Children's Walk on Tues., April 6 at 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. A love offering will be received. Wear socks for walking.

Lenten Devotional Materials

A variety of free materials for adults, children, and families are displayed in the dining room.

Lenten Offering

Collection boxes and coin folders will be distributed through the Church School classes or may be picked up in the dining room. The offering will be sent to benefit children and youth programs in the Diocese of Jerusalem.