Learning at Emmanuel Presbyterian

Adults

Most of the learning opportunities offered at Emmanuel for adults are seasonal.  During particular times of the year we offer small group Bible studies, book reading groups, prayer retreats and special seminars.

Upcoming Community Groups

Praying in the Kingdom — Beginning April 26

Our sermon series for April and May is focused on life in the Kingdom of God. We will be asking: what does it look like to live as a citizen of God's Kingdom right now? Not someday, not in the distant future, but today—in the ordinary moments of our lives, in our neighborhoods, at work, in our relationships, at our tables. The answers to those questions begin with prayer and cultivating an attentive listening to God. We see Jesus do this throughout his ministry as he withdraws to a quiet place to commune with His Father. An intimate listening to God empowers us for Kingdom living as we tap into the power of the Holy Spirit. For four sessions over April 26–June 6, we will meet in community groups to listen to God through the practice of communal prayer and by using the practice of Lectio Divina. Lectio Divina is an ancient practice of reading scripture and letting scripture read us as we seek to hear and respond to God's voice. Indicate your interest HERE.

Loving One Another — Coming this Summer

During the summer we will consider the many "one another" commands in the New Testament. To guide our journey through these mutuality commands, we will read Jerry Sitter's book Love One Another and share meals with each other. These community groups will have a relaxed, casual rhythm. Each group will have the goal of gathering for a meal together 5–6 times (to welcome one another) and share in conversation over dinner (to encourage one another). Discussion will center on what people are hearing God say to them through Sunday sermons and the book. You don't have to read the book and you don't have to be at the preceding discussion because they don't build on each other. These groups are casual, so some people might be traveling for two of the sessions. Each person in the group will be invited to host the group. It could be potluck, BBQ, picnic or you could order out depending on what the group decides. The goal is to eat together, grow in relationship, enjoy each other, and consider how we are a community gathered around Christ’s call to love one another. Sign-up info to come in May.

What people are saying about community groups

“It was a gift to have an opportunity to connect. I felt God’s presence in a safe and encouraging space.”

“It is a joy to see and hear everyone’s reactions as we delve into prayer in new ways and even as we discuss hard subjects like unanswered prayer with candor and humility.”

“I believe this experience during Lent is revolutionizing people’s idea of prayer not so much as a task to perform, but as a conversation with God for insight, wisdom, and direction.”

“I have enjoyed praying in a group during this Lenten season, to hear the emotions of those around me and to portion out the words of scripture in order to understand them more fully.”