PA R I S H P R O F I L E
Formation that Transforms In addition to our vibrant adult education programs that offer many ways for us to engage our intellect, many of us are hungry for knowledge about scripture and formation that transforms the heart. St. Paul says in Romans, “Be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God.” (Romans 12:2). The prophet Ezekiel promises, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you.” (Ezekiel 36:26). Three councils offer formation to three age groups: The Christian Formation and the Arts Council engages adults with spiritual, creative, embodied, and intellectual formation. Quiet days, artistic events, field trips, experiential learning days, and lectures augment the Sunday morning Formation Hour series. Evening offerings include The Anglican Way, How-to Bible, Amazing Women of Faith Hagiography Club, EfM, and Cathedral Commons Bible studies. The endowed Robert C. Stuart Lenten series (honoring the Very Rev. Barkley S. Thompson) is a highlight of each year, with well-known speakers who engage with the congregation in both large and small group settings. The council also leads the annual Cathedral Reads summer program. Books offered in the last few years include To Kill a Mockingbird, A Prayer for Owen Meany, The Cloister, and To the Lighthouse, and are shared in small group settings and with the entire congregation. The council also organizes tours of venues and destinations with inspiring art and also helps highlight art exhibits in Reynolds Hall. The council strives to encompass the whole person in faithful, fun, and challenging discipleship.
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