Christian Formation Opportunities
St. John’s Episcopal Church
Christian Formation Opportunities Spring 2017 Inside are opportunities for spiritual growth for parishioners of all ages. Read about our Sundaymorning offerings, weekday opportunities, and special events. We hope this flyer will help you and your family determine how you can be more active at St. John’s.
Adult Opportunities
Contacts: Evan D. Garner or J. Seth Olson (256-353-9615 or [email protected])
Sunday Mornings at 9:30 a.m. Haydn’s The Creation—Led by Evan Garner (January 29-February 26; no class February 5) In this class, we will listen to and study the words and images used by Haydn in his masterpiece oratorio.
Stories of Creation—Led by Seth Olson (February 5-February 26)
Holy Scripture provides us a rich tapestry of how Creation came into being. In this course, we will study Genesis, the Psalms, and John’s Gospel account to explore our origins.
Come to the Well—Led by Evan Garner (March 5-April 2; no class March 26) Water is a central image in the Christian story as well as that of almost every religion in the world. In this series, we will explore the role that water plays in our faith and the faiths of others.
Lenten Art Throughout the Church—Led by Seth Olson (March 12-April 9; no class March 26) Using the themes and stories of Lent we will experience poetry, painting, artwork, and song from across the Church as we journey with Jesus to the Cross.
Learning from the Masters—Led by Evan Garner (April 23-May 21)
Some of the saints in our church are remembered for their peculiar spiritual disciplines. In this series, we will learn about and practice a few of them.
How To Be Spiritual Through Being Religious—Led by Seth Olson (April 30-May 21)
Religion gets a bad rap in the world today, but this class will explore religious practices that will (hopefully) open up your spiritual life! Sabbath, meditation, daily prayer, and other topics will be explored.
Weekday Offerings Rector’s Bible Study, Mondays at 10:00 a.m., in the Library Men’s Breakfast & Bible Study, Tuesdays at 7:00 a.m., in the Parish Hall Yoga Flow Level 2, Tuesdays and Fridays at 8:00 a.m., in the Downstairs Yoga Room (SE Corner) Cursillo Reunion Group & Breakfast, Wednesdays at 7:00 a.m., at City Café (101 1st Ave. SE) Yoga for Wellness Mixed Level, Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m., in the Downstairs Yoga Room (SE Corner) Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina, Thursdays at 9:00 a.m., in the Library Theology on Tap, Thursdays at 5:15 p.m., at The Brick, 112 Moulton Street SE Yoga for Wellness and Relaxation, Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., in the Downstairs Yoga Room (SE Corner) Men's Friday Cursillo Reunion Group, Fridays at 7:00 a.m., in the Library
Great Celebrations: An Interfaith Wednesday-Night Series (March 8-April 12) at 6:00 p.m. For five Wednesdays during Lent, we will gather together for dinner and to hear representatives from several of the world’s religions describe the great celebrations of their faiths.
Spring Wednesday-Night Series (May 3-May 17) 6:00 p.m. For three Wednesdays we will meet together for dinner and something different: a shared Eucharist, a cook-out, and our Children and Youth Banquet. Make plans to join us for the end of the school year.
Children’s Opportunities Contact: Sally Marsh (256-353-9615 or [email protected])
Sunday Mornings at 9:30 a.m.
Pre-school (3K and 4K) meet in their room across from the Nursery. Following Sunday school, the students may be picked up by their parents and taken to the 10:30 a.m. service or they may stay in the classroom where they will be supervised by a member of our nursery staff, taken to Children’s Chapel, and then brought to service for Communion with their families.
Kindergarten to 5th grade meet downstairs. Kindergarten to 2nd grade meet with Mrs. Lucy McCain. 3rd to 5th grade meet with Mrs. Mary McKimmon. Each grade level will be considering:
January 29–March 5: God’s Creation March 12–April 9: Saints and Holy People of the Church April 23–May 14: Our Sacraments
Children’s Church is offered during the 10:30 a.m. service. Children 3rd grade and younger are invited to come for age-appropriate Gospel lesson, sermon, prayers, and songs. Children follow the wooden cross during the Sequence Hymn and walk to the downstairs chapel. They return during the Peace. Also, in the Narthex, there are “Busy Bags” for younger children and children’s bulletins and colored pencils for older children.
Other Opportunities
Carnegie Carnival Mardi Gras Prince & Princess Parade Saturday, February 25: Information to follow as it is made available.
Lenten Wednesday-Night Series: 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday nights, March 8-April 12—Preschool will meet in their room for fun play. Elementary ages will meet in their rooms to consider how “We are One Body: Our Shared Family Tree.”
Palm Procession: Children will process into church with palms during the 10:30 a.m. service on Palm Sunday, April 9.
Parish Retreat at Camp McDowell—April 21-23. Come for the weekend or for one day.
Youth Sunday: If your child is in the 3rd grade, we would like to present him or her with a Bible during the 10:30 a.m. service on May 14.
Children and Youth Banquet: 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17. This is a time for the entire parish to reflect on the past year’s endeavors in children’s and youth ministry and recognize all the volunteers that made our programs a success.
End-of-School Year Party: We will celebrate the end of the school year on Sunday, May 21.
Summer Camp at Camp McDowell: Camp is for rising 1st through 12th graders. Parent/Child camps are available for 1st-3rd graders. Camp McDowell: http://campmcdowell.com/summer-camps-retreats/schedule
Vacation Bible School: Save-the-Date of June 19–22 from 5:30 p.m.—8:15 p.m.! St. John’s will be partnering with Westminster Presbyterian Church (801 Jackson St. SE) for VBS 2017: Hero Central—Discover Your Strength in God!
Youth Opportunities Contact: Tim Callahan (256-353-9615 or [email protected])
NEW SCHEDULE FOR YOUTH! Sundays Jr. High (6th-8th)
Sr. High (9th-12th)
Sunday Mornings from 9:30 a.m.-10:15 a.m. in the downstairs classroom.
Sunday* Evening Dinner & Program from 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
The Season after Epiphany (Jan 29-Feb 26): Creation The Season of Lent (Mar. 5-Apr. 9): Interfaith/ Ecumenical The Season of Easter (Apr. 23-May 21): Spirituality
The Sr. High Youth (9th-12th) will gather together either at St. John’s or at the home of a parishioner for dinner and a program on these dates : *1/29, 2/12, 2/26, 3/19, 4/9, 4/30.
Jr. & Sr. High Youth (6th-12th) Monthly Sunday* Dinner & Program from 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Both Jr. and Sr. High Youth (6th-12th) will gather together at St. John’s for dinner before leaving for a fun adventure on these dates: *3/12, 4/2, 5/7.
Wednesdays
EYC (Episcopal Youth Community) 6th-12th: The main time during the week for youth to experience a blend of learning, fellowship, and worship will take place on Wednesdays. Wednesday-Night Dinner & Program Series: March 8-22 and April 5-12 from 6:00-7:15 p.m.: Aligning with the Sunday teachings on Interfaith, youth will combine with adults on these Wednesday nights to from hear different speakers who identify with different faiths. Wednesday night begins with a service at 5:30 p.m. in the chapel followed by dinner with the parish in the parish hall. The program portion of the evening begins at 6:30 p.m.. Offsite Wednesday Dinners: On Wednesday evenings that St. John’s does not host a dinner and program, youth will meet at a local restaurant for dinner and fellowship at 6:00 p.m.. The location of these gatherings will be announced one week before the dinner.
Special Events for Youth
Confirmation Classes (Apr. 2, 9, 23, 30) from 4:15 p.m.–5:15 p.m.: Confirmation theme is “I Will With God’s Help” focusing on renewing one’s Baptismal covenant. Super Bowl Party (Feb. 5): Youth and parents are invited to the Parish Hall to watch the first half of the game on the big screen. Lots of food, games and much more! EYC Lock-In (Mar. 10-11): EYC will have a night of themed fun and little sleep. Parish Retreat (Apr. 21-23): Hosted at Camp McDowell; bring your family! Confirmation Retreat (May 5-6): Also at Camp McDowell; time to complete Confirmation experience! Youth Sunday (May 14): All youth take a role in the 10:30 a.m. worship service! Children/Youth Banquet (May 17): 5:30 p.m.; reflecting on the past year in both children’s and youth ministries and thanking all volunteers in both ministries. Rite 13 Ceremony (May 21): Ceremony for those who are turning 13 this year.
Diocesan Events for Youth
Diocesan Convention & Youth Lock-In (Feb 17-19): Held at Camp McDowell/open to 9th-12th graders Happening #70 at St. John’s Decatur (March 3-5): Open to all 10th-12th graders Rites of Spring (March 24-26): Held at Camp McDowell/open to 9th-12th graders
St. John’s Episcopal Church 202 Gordon Drive SE Decatur, AL 35601 (256) 353-9615 office (256) 350-0514 fax Website: stjohnsdecatur.dioala.org Facebook: facebook.com/stjohnsdecatur Instagram: instagram.com/stjohnsdecatur Twitter: @StJohnsDecatur
Weekly Calendar Sundays 8:00 a.m. 8:45 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m.
Holy Eucharist (Rite I) Parish Breakfast Nursery Opens (Through 10:30 Service) Sunday School for All Ages Holy Eucharist (Rite II) EYC (See Schedule for Jr. High & Sr. High)
Mondays 10:00 a.m.
Rector’s Bible Study
Tuesdays 7:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 12:10 p.m.
Men’s Breakfast & Bible Study Yoga Flow Level 2 Holy Eucharist w/Prayers for Healing
Wednesdays 7:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:45 p.m.
Cursillo Reunion Group & Breakfast Yoga for Wellness Mixed Level Evening Eucharist Supper & Programs (See Schedule) Choir Rehearsal
Thursdays 9:00 a.m. 5:15 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Centering Prayer & Lectio Divina Theology on Tap at the Brick Yoga for Wellness and Relaxation
Fridays 7:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m.
Men’s Cursillo Reunion Group Yoga Flow Level 2
Special Events Parish Work Day 8:00 a.m. on April 8 Holy Week Services April 10–April 15 Services Every Day Parish Retreat April 21-23 At Camp McDowell Shared Episcopal Eucharist May 3 At Rhodes Ferry Park with Covered-Dish Supper Ascension Day Service 5:15 p.m. on May 25 Children and Youth Banquet 6:00 p.m. on May 17
Christian Formation Opportunities Spring 2017 Inside are opportunities for spiritual growth for parishioners of all ages. Read about our Sundaymorning offerings, weekday opportunities, and special events. We hope this flyer will help you and your family determine how you can be more active at St. John’s.
Adult Opportunities
Contacts: Evan D. Garner or J. Seth Olson (256-353-9615 or [email protected])
Sunday Mornings at 9:30 a.m. Haydn’s The Creation—Led by Evan Garner (January 29-February 26; no class February 5) In this class, we will listen to and study the words and images used by Haydn in his masterpiece oratorio.
Stories of Creation—Led by Seth Olson (February 5-February 26)
Holy Scripture provides us a rich tapestry of how Creation came into being. In this course, we will study Genesis, the Psalms, and John’s Gospel account to explore our origins.
Come to the Well—Led by Evan Garner (March 5-April 2; no class March 26) Water is a central image in the Christian story as well as that of almost every religion in the world. In this series, we will explore the role that water plays in our faith and the faiths of others.
Lenten Art Throughout the Church—Led by Seth Olson (March 12-April 9; no class March 26) Using the themes and stories of Lent we will experience poetry, painting, artwork, and song from across the Church as we journey with Jesus to the Cross.
Learning from the Masters—Led by Evan Garner (April 23-May 21)
Some of the saints in our church are remembered for their peculiar spiritual disciplines. In this series, we will learn about and practice a few of them.
How To Be Spiritual Through Being Religious—Led by Seth Olson (April 30-May 21)
Religion gets a bad rap in the world today, but this class will explore religious practices that will (hopefully) open up your spiritual life! Sabbath, meditation, daily prayer, and other topics will be explored.
Weekday Offerings Rector’s Bible Study, Mondays at 10:00 a.m., in the Library Men’s Breakfast & Bible Study, Tuesdays at 7:00 a.m., in the Parish Hall Yoga Flow Level 2, Tuesdays and Fridays at 8:00 a.m., in the Downstairs Yoga Room (SE Corner) Cursillo Reunion Group & Breakfast, Wednesdays at 7:00 a.m., at City Café (101 1st Ave. SE) Yoga for Wellness Mixed Level, Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m., in the Downstairs Yoga Room (SE Corner) Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina, Thursdays at 9:00 a.m., in the Library Theology on Tap, Thursdays at 5:15 p.m., at The Brick, 112 Moulton Street SE Yoga for Wellness and Relaxation, Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., in the Downstairs Yoga Room (SE Corner) Men's Friday Cursillo Reunion Group, Fridays at 7:00 a.m., in the Library
Great Celebrations: An Interfaith Wednesday-Night Series (March 8-April 12) at 6:00 p.m. For five Wednesdays during Lent, we will gather together for dinner and to hear representatives from several of the world’s religions describe the great celebrations of their faiths.
Spring Wednesday-Night Series (May 3-May 17) 6:00 p.m. For three Wednesdays we will meet together for dinner and something different: a shared Eucharist, a cook-out, and our Children and Youth Banquet. Make plans to join us for the end of the school year.
Children’s Opportunities Contact: Sally Marsh (256-353-9615 or [email protected])
Sunday Mornings at 9:30 a.m.
Pre-school (3K and 4K) meet in their room across from the Nursery. Following Sunday school, the students may be picked up by their parents and taken to the 10:30 a.m. service or they may stay in the classroom where they will be supervised by a member of our nursery staff, taken to Children’s Chapel, and then brought to service for Communion with their families.
Kindergarten to 5th grade meet downstairs. Kindergarten to 2nd grade meet with Mrs. Lucy McCain. 3rd to 5th grade meet with Mrs. Mary McKimmon. Each grade level will be considering:
January 29–March 5: God’s Creation March 12–April 9: Saints and Holy People of the Church April 23–May 14: Our Sacraments
Children’s Church is offered during the 10:30 a.m. service. Children 3rd grade and younger are invited to come for age-appropriate Gospel lesson, sermon, prayers, and songs. Children follow the wooden cross during the Sequence Hymn and walk to the downstairs chapel. They return during the Peace. Also, in the Narthex, there are “Busy Bags” for younger children and children’s bulletins and colored pencils for older children.
Other Opportunities
Carnegie Carnival Mardi Gras Prince & Princess Parade Saturday, February 25: Information to follow as it is made available.
Lenten Wednesday-Night Series: 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday nights, March 8-April 12—Preschool will meet in their room for fun play. Elementary ages will meet in their rooms to consider how “We are One Body: Our Shared Family Tree.”
Palm Procession: Children will process into church with palms during the 10:30 a.m. service on Palm Sunday, April 9.
Parish Retreat at Camp McDowell—April 21-23. Come for the weekend or for one day.
Youth Sunday: If your child is in the 3rd grade, we would like to present him or her with a Bible during the 10:30 a.m. service on May 14.
Children and Youth Banquet: 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17. This is a time for the entire parish to reflect on the past year’s endeavors in children’s and youth ministry and recognize all the volunteers that made our programs a success.
End-of-School Year Party: We will celebrate the end of the school year on Sunday, May 21.
Summer Camp at Camp McDowell: Camp is for rising 1st through 12th graders. Parent/Child camps are available for 1st-3rd graders. Camp McDowell: http://campmcdowell.com/summer-camps-retreats/schedule
Vacation Bible School: Save-the-Date of June 19–22 from 5:30 p.m.—8:15 p.m.! St. John’s will be partnering with Westminster Presbyterian Church (801 Jackson St. SE) for VBS 2017: Hero Central—Discover Your Strength in God!
Youth Opportunities Contact: Tim Callahan (256-353-9615 or [email protected])
NEW SCHEDULE FOR YOUTH! Sundays Jr. High (6th-8th)
Sr. High (9th-12th)
Sunday Mornings from 9:30 a.m.-10:15 a.m. in the downstairs classroom.
Sunday* Evening Dinner & Program from 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
The Season after Epiphany (Jan 29-Feb 26): Creation The Season of Lent (Mar. 5-Apr. 9): Interfaith/ Ecumenical The Season of Easter (Apr. 23-May 21): Spirituality
The Sr. High Youth (9th-12th) will gather together either at St. John’s or at the home of a parishioner for dinner and a program on these dates : *1/29, 2/12, 2/26, 3/19, 4/9, 4/30.
Jr. & Sr. High Youth (6th-12th) Monthly Sunday* Dinner & Program from 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Both Jr. and Sr. High Youth (6th-12th) will gather together at St. John’s for dinner before leaving for a fun adventure on these dates: *3/12, 4/2, 5/7.
Wednesdays
EYC (Episcopal Youth Community) 6th-12th: The main time during the week for youth to experience a blend of learning, fellowship, and worship will take place on Wednesdays. Wednesday-Night Dinner & Program Series: March 8-22 and April 5-12 from 6:00-7:15 p.m.: Aligning with the Sunday teachings on Interfaith, youth will combine with adults on these Wednesday nights to from hear different speakers who identify with different faiths. Wednesday night begins with a service at 5:30 p.m. in the chapel followed by dinner with the parish in the parish hall. The program portion of the evening begins at 6:30 p.m.. Offsite Wednesday Dinners: On Wednesday evenings that St. John’s does not host a dinner and program, youth will meet at a local restaurant for dinner and fellowship at 6:00 p.m.. The location of these gatherings will be announced one week before the dinner.
Special Events for Youth
Confirmation Classes (Apr. 2, 9, 23, 30) from 4:15 p.m.–5:15 p.m.: Confirmation theme is “I Will With God’s Help” focusing on renewing one’s Baptismal covenant. Super Bowl Party (Feb. 5): Youth and parents are invited to the Parish Hall to watch the first half of the game on the big screen. Lots of food, games and much more! EYC Lock-In (Mar. 10-11): EYC will have a night of themed fun and little sleep. Parish Retreat (Apr. 21-23): Hosted at Camp McDowell; bring your family! Confirmation Retreat (May 5-6): Also at Camp McDowell; time to complete Confirmation experience! Youth Sunday (May 14): All youth take a role in the 10:30 a.m. worship service! Children/Youth Banquet (May 17): 5:30 p.m.; reflecting on the past year in both children’s and youth ministries and thanking all volunteers in both ministries. Rite 13 Ceremony (May 21): Ceremony for those who are turning 13 this year.
Diocesan Events for Youth
Diocesan Convention & Youth Lock-In (Feb 17-19): Held at Camp McDowell/open to 9th-12th graders Happening #70 at St. John’s Decatur (March 3-5): Open to all 10th-12th graders Rites of Spring (March 24-26): Held at Camp McDowell/open to 9th-12th graders
St. John’s Episcopal Church 202 Gordon Drive SE Decatur, AL 35601 (256) 353-9615 office (256) 350-0514 fax Website: stjohnsdecatur.dioala.org Facebook: facebook.com/stjohnsdecatur Instagram: instagram.com/stjohnsdecatur Twitter: @StJohnsDecatur
Weekly Calendar Sundays 8:00 a.m. 8:45 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m.
Holy Eucharist (Rite I) Parish Breakfast Nursery Opens (Through 10:30 Service) Sunday School for All Ages Holy Eucharist (Rite II) EYC (See Schedule for Jr. High & Sr. High)
Mondays 10:00 a.m.
Rector’s Bible Study
Tuesdays 7:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 12:10 p.m.
Men’s Breakfast & Bible Study Yoga Flow Level 2 Holy Eucharist w/Prayers for Healing
Wednesdays 7:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:45 p.m.
Cursillo Reunion Group & Breakfast Yoga for Wellness Mixed Level Evening Eucharist Supper & Programs (See Schedule) Choir Rehearsal
Thursdays 9:00 a.m. 5:15 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Centering Prayer & Lectio Divina Theology on Tap at the Brick Yoga for Wellness and Relaxation
Fridays 7:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m.
Men’s Cursillo Reunion Group Yoga Flow Level 2
Special Events Parish Work Day 8:00 a.m. on April 8 Holy Week Services April 10–April 15 Services Every Day Parish Retreat April 21-23 At Camp McDowell Shared Episcopal Eucharist May 3 At Rhodes Ferry Park with Covered-Dish Supper Ascension Day Service 5:15 p.m. on May 25 Children and Youth Banquet 6:00 p.m. on May 17
