Coming this Fall...

Know Thy Self: The Enneagram
Two-session workshop: Session I, Sunday, September 12th from 4:00-6:00 PM. Session II, Sunday, September 19th, from 4:00-6:00 PM. Facilitated by Sister Lucy Silvio, CSJ. With roots in sacred tradition, the Enneagram personality system guides us toward authentic self-understanding. An added gift is that it also contains an enriching and insightful spiritual component. Know Thy Self –gain valuable insight and instruction. Cost $15.00 per person. Past participants may review the course for $5.00. Contact Cherri Johnson, Director of Spiritual Formation for more information at 225-383-4777 or by e-mail at cherri@firstmethodist.org .

Seeing With New Eyes: Photography
Sunday afternoon, September 26th, from 1:00-5:00 PM.  Instructor, Todd Rossnagel, professional photographer. We are surrounded by the beauty and majesty of God in all creation, but often we miss the divine imprint. This course in the fine art of photography will not only give you hands-on instruction, but it will also help you see God in new and surprising ways. Bring your camera, even your cell phone camera will do. Contact Cherri Johnson, Director of Spiritual Formation for more information at 225-383-4777 or by e-mail at cherri@firstmethodist.org .

The Artist’s Way: Unleashing Creativity
Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30 PM. Begins Sept. 8th. Facilitated by Jennifer Carwile, artist and designer.  This insightful and stimulating 12 week course is designed to free your creative spirit, strengthen you self-confidence, and open your heart and mind to new ways of seeing and believing. This evening class explores life as an act of participation with God. Course Book: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. Contact Cherri Johnson, Director of Spiritual Formation for more information at 225-383-4777 or by e-mail at cherri@firstmethodist.org .

Growing Through Grief
Wednesday, 6:45-7:45 PM, Nov. 3-Dec. 8
This is a 5 week session designed to help you grow through your grief so you come out on the other side as a stronger person. The class is open to the community, and weekly topics include:  Sharing and Support, Stages of Grief, Response, Journaling, and Holiday times.  Questions? Contact Rev. Brad Franklin at 383-4777. Class Facilitated by Nancy Kahrs.

Young in Heart and Spirit: Aging and Caring
10:00 AM – 12:00 noon, on Thursdays from October 14th to November 18th. Facilitators: Rev. Brad Franklin, Rev. Liz Wyatt, Sandra King, and Paula Mercer. We live in a culture that primarily focuses on youth and image; which makes the wisdom inherent in aging even more important for today. Through numerous insights, you will discover again the deep joy in Christian friendship. There will be a light lunch during each session. Register by contacting Renée Deaton at 383-4777, ext. 229.  Course Book: The Gift of Years: Ageing Gracefully by Joan Chittister.

Sessions offered:

• Aging with God: October 14th, facilitator: Rev. Brad & Rev. Wyatt. Grow old with me, the best is yet to be, it’s in HIS hands.
• Discover the New Age: October 21st, facilitator: Rev. Brad & Rev. Wyatt. Discover the fun in growing older.
• Five Wishes: October 28th, facilitator: Paula, Sandra and Rev. Brad. What are your options? Make your medical and spiritual wishes known.
• Caring for you, caring for Me: November 4th, facilitator: TBA. As Christians, how do we take care of the elderly and how do we take care of ourselves as care giver.
• Caregivers Service: November 11th, facilitator: Paula, Sandra and Rev. Brad. A sacred moment of blessing and affirmation for the care giver.
• What Are You Waiting For? November 18th. Facilitator: Rev. Brad and Rabenhorst. Theology and guidance for planning your own or a loved ones funeral service.

Books of Life : Monthly Book Club
This group meets the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 PM to discuss quality literature. Each month the group reads a book and then gathers for discussion. All who enjoy reading are welcome! For more information contact Mary Jacob at 753-4226.

Knitting the Threads of God’s Love
Tuesdays, 9:00-11:00 a.m.This fun course is offered on Tuesday mornings for beginning or experienced knitters. You will not only learn to knit, you will knit with a purpose. Class members knit hats, shawls, and prayer blankets that benefit others. For more information contact Sandra King , Director of Pastoral Care at 225-383-4777.