Adult Education

"Racism remains a wound at the heart of our nation, a wound that cannot be wished away or treated carelessly" the Rev. John H. Thomas wrote in his pastoral letter at the 2008 General Synod. This was the impetus for a United Church of Christ Sacred Conversations on Race inititative that we at Immanuel Congregational Church will embrace this spring. Under the leadership of Roland Axelson, participants will have the opportunity to discuss aspects of race such as culture, immigration, economics and poverty, education, religion, and the criminal justice system. Additionally we hope to describe our congregations' activities that address racism, define priority points for future actions, and enlarge our capacity to talk openly and honestly about difficult issues related to race.

This program will conclude at 8:00pm each evening. If you have questions, please contact Roland Axelson or Deb Hovey through the Church Offce.

Offered by the Rev. Dr. Ralph Ahlberg
February 25th, March 11th and 18th

Romans is a religious classic having an intrinsic quality that has endured and continues to speak to ever new generations. It draws power in the present as it relates to actual past and sacred events. Asit does this, it yields new insights to understanding our own world. Participants are asked to read:

• February 25th: Romans 1-5
• March 11th: Romans 6-10
• March 18th: Romans 11-16

Suggested optional reading: "The First Paul" by Marcus J. Borg and John Dominic Crosson

Romans is a piece of literature that for centuries in widely differeing situations has inspired countless people, some very notable. For example, Augustine turned to Romans near the close of the fourth century for help in debating the Manichean heresy as he argued for free will. Luther found in Romans his understanding of righteousness by faith. And the acknowledged leading theologian of the twentieth century, Karl Barth, wrote a commentary on Romans in 1919 in which he reflected on the devastation and human cost of the First Wold War. It was during a time when many thinking people began to despair of the idea of historical progress and disillusionment was rife. Today, as we face a "Great Recession" that many claim to be the result of human greed, Romans still speaks and helps us to understand the realities of human sin when divine wisdom is neglected.

A fifteen to twenty minute presentation will be followed by discussion.

Offered by the Rev. Audrey Chapman

Of the four gospel portraits of Jesus, the Gospel of Luke is distinctive in its prophetic critique and emphasis on justice themes. Luke also offers the most sustained and coherent narrative with many vivid and memorable parables and stories. This five week adult education course will read and discuss passages dealing with five sets of themes in the Gospel. The emphasis will be on interpreting the text and its meaning for our lives. If participants would like a supplementary resource, Luke Timothy Johnson’s The Gospel of Luke (The Liturgical Press, Sacra Pagina series) is recommended. If enough people are interested, Immanuel Congregational Church will order copies.

The readings will be:

• February 25: Early ministry – Lk. 4: 1-6:16, 7:18-35.
• March 4: Ethical and prophetic teachings – Lk. 6:17-46; 10:25-42; 12: 13-34, 13:22-35
• March 11: Teachings on discipleship and community life – Lk. 8: 1-21, 9:1-62, 12:13-59
• March 18: Jesus in Jerusalem –Lk. 19:28- 21:4
• March 25: Death, and resurrection – Lk. 23:32-24:53

Offered by Donald Funk
February 25th and March 4th

This class will explore the hymnals we have in our pews, covering the wealth of information found in them. In the two sessions, we will cover the varied sources of hymn texts and tunes, as well as differences among a variety of hymnals – those from the past and those from other traditions/ denominations. Finally we will analyze and listen to ways musicians can accompany hymns to bring out the images or the general spirit found in the texts.

Offered by Ehren Brown
6:30pm to 7:15pm

The Handbell Choir is a vital part of our music ministries here at Immanuel, and is always interested in attracting new members. If you have an interest in making music in a fun and unusual way, this is the place for you, regardless of your ringing experience. A familiarity with music reading does help, but is not required. Our regular rehearsal time is on Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:15pm. Contact Ehren Brown at ehren@ehrenbrown.com if you would like more information. Come join us and see what you've been missing!

Offered by Ali Lurie

Ages kindergarten through grade 5

Offered by Mark Singleton and Jeffrey Vanags
6:30pm to 7:15pm

Calling all Youth! The youth group will be gathering on Thursday evenings during Lent for a time of fellowship, sharing, singing and games. The program will run from 6:30 – 7:15. For more information, please see Mark Singleton, email him at mark.singleton@iccucc.org, or call him at (860)527-8121.