Bible

The Bible, Canon, and Biblical Interpretation –
Scripture as Transformative
Teacher: The Rev. David Burns and guest teachers
7 weeks: April 11 – May 23
Room: B112

In what sense is the Bible “inerrant,” the “Word of God,” a “mere” human work of literature?  How did the books of our Bible get “in,” while other competing literature was left out of the canon?  How do we go about achieving a fuller and deeper understanding of Scripture?  Led by David Burns, Trinity Church’s Acting Senior Pastor, and guest teachers, this course will explore the nature and status of Scripture and the ways we go about understanding the Bible, combining lecture and class discussion.  The class will also consider how our reading and understanding of the Bible can have a transformational impact on our lives.

Contemporary Issues

Exploring Contemporary Issues Through Film
Teachers: Trinity members Richard Howerton and Lasley Gober
7 weeks: April 11 – May 23
Room: B104-106

“But as if a magic lantern threw the nerves in patterns on the screen...”
– “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” T.S. Eliot

Film is back, and Richard Howerton and Lasley Gober will explore contemporary issues through the medium of film, using clips and connecting narrative to stimulate discussion about what we see and hear in the film that touches some of the challenging issues in our contemporary culture. Film acts as a window into worlds to which we otherwise have no access. The film-maker makes deliberate choices to craft a “true” vision of what is or might be. We hope you will join us in our cinematic study of our world, as it is and as it is becoming.

Theology and Ethics

Living the Question: Challenges to Orthodoxy
Teachers: Rev. PC Enniss, Rev. Katie Givens Kime
7 weeks: April 11 – May 23
Room: B110

Beware of the Christian who claims, “I’ve got God all figured out.” Not even Jesus was that bold! Trinity Church has a long tradition of creating space for raising serious theological questions without fear of being branded a heretic. Now is a time when many “edgy” theologians like Elaine Pagels, Marcus Borg, Bishop Spong, Bart Ehrmann, and Karen Armstrong are posing alternative ideas, deep questions, and fascinating theological constructs to the conventional cul-de-sac where Christianity finds itself today. Bodily resurrection, miracles of Jesus, virgin birth…nothing is off limits for faithful, thoughtful questioning.

In this course, the Rev. P.C. Enniss and the Rev. Katie Givens Kime will present some of the latest challenges to Christian orthodoxy and Presbyterian doctrine, and guide related discussion.
“Everyone seeks answers, mostly to questions that are not very important. The great concern in life should be to discover which are the right questions. Then, even if you rarely get answers, you are at least journeying in the right direction.” - Paul Tillich

On any authentic spiritual journey, asking the hard questions is not only permitted, but necessary! Join us!

Common Ground

Worship, Prayer, and Everyday Faith
Coordinators: Trinity members Jill Stewart, Kathy Friestad, Lesley Carroll
Room: B108

Common Ground is a class seeking to explore the tenets of our faith and how to live our faith day to day.  Each week a moderator introduces a topic and facilitates open conversation. The class is diverse in terms of age and life experience a situation which results in casual but vigorous conversation.  Each week is unique and does not require previous attendance. We are also a good choice for those who find themselves showing up late or leaving early for choir or ushering. We may seem casual in our approach to church school, but together we find new Common Ground with each other and our faith.  The winter session will address topics such as mission, fellowship, life lessons, and the Bible.

Roots
(Formerly Drop Everything Drop In, a class for Young Parents and Couples)

Living Faithfully in the Midst of Multiple Demands
Coordinators: Trinity members Allison Builder, Leslie Byars, Krysia Waldron
Room: A116

Looking for a way to make some connections here at Trinity? Want to establish some “roots” in your church home?  Interested in a place where you can make friends, as well as engage your mind and spirit in conversations around faith and life?  Too overwhelmed with the complications of babies, young children, work or life to imagine such a possibility for you?  We may have the answer. 

This class focuses on fellowship and the opportunity to delve into our faith through subjects that are relevant to this season in our lives. The class is taught by class coordinators, as well as various members of Trinity, clergy, and staff.  Most participants have young children and some are expecting their first child, but everyone interested in discussing the theme of building a Christian foundation for family life is always welcome.

None are scheduled for this session