Contact Becky Poor, Director of Christian Education for more information about theology classes.

Living the Questions
Wednesdays, 6:45-8:00 PM, beginning Sept. 22
A 21-week study aimed at helping people explore beyond the conventional theologies of traditional Christianity. The class will combine a weekly DVD presentation by prominent theologians with discussion and reading on topics of interest to contemporary Christians. “LtQ” offers a progressive viewpoint on Christian teachings, and offers stimulating resources for people who are in the midst of a life-long conversation about the mysteries of faith and life. Led by Rev. Susie Thomas. Cost is $5.

Past + Future:  The United Methodist Church
Sunday, 9:40-10:40 AM, Oct. 24-Nov. 21
Wednesday, 6:45-8:00 PM., Oct. 20-Nov. 17
A five-week study on what it means to be a United Methodist Christian.  In this discussion, we will cover Methodist theology and history, along with contemporary perspectives on how our denomination is responding to an ever-changing world. Led by Rev. Katie McKay Simpson.

Things Hidden: Scripture as Spirituality
12-week course; begins Sunday morning, beginning Sept. 12th, 9:40–10:40 AM.
In this course theology and spirituality merge as we explore the enduing themes of Scripture. This course will revolutionize the way you understand the Bible, and approach and live life. Course Book: Things Hidden: Scripture as Spirituality by Richard Rohr. Facilitated by Rev. Liz Wyatt, Carolyn McDowell, and Cherri Johnson.

Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White (An Adam Hamilton DVD Study)
Tuesday, 9:00-11:00 AM, beginning Sept. 7th.
Join this five week study as thinking persons of faith have thoughtful conversations on the political, moral, and religious issues that divide the country.  Led by Betty Evans.  Cost $12.

Thinking Missionally
Sundays, 5:00-6:00 PM, October 3rd–24th. Led by Director of Missions, Karen Stagg and Rev. Susie Thomas. Hands-on mission projects change lives: those who help, as well as those who are helped. Learn what "risk-taking mission and service" looks like, the theological thinking behind it, and how it can enrich individuals, their churches, and the world.

The Great Emergence: How Christianity is Changing and Why
Wednesdays, 6:45-8:00 PM., September 8th, 15th, 22nd
Combining history and theology, this class will examine the causes of social upheaval and current events to reveal what the “emerging church” in religion and culture is, how it came to be, and where it is going. Anyone who is interested in the future of Christianity in America will find this discussion a fascinating opportunity. Discussions are based on the thoughts and writing of Phyllis Tickle’s book, The Great Emergence. Led by Rev. Katie McKay Simpson

Theology on 3rd Street (for adults under 40)
Theologians have written and thought about God for centuries.  We will bring this ongoing conversation about God to our modern day context by studying selected writings and interpreting them through the lens of a 21st century world.  Meets in different locations on 3rd Street in downtown Baton Rouge. All discussions will begin at 7:00 PM.  Please contact katie@firstmethodist.org for more information. Led by Rev. Katie McKay Simpson.
Dates for the Fall:
Tuesday, August 24th—The Roux House (patio)
Thursday, September 16th— The Roux House (patio)
Wednesday, October 13th— The Roux House (patio)
Thursday, November 11th—The Roux House (Patio)
Wednesday, December 8th— The Roux House (patio)

Unplug the Christmas Machine (Just in time for Christmas)
Sundays, 4:30-6:00 p.m., Nov. 7-28
This four-session class will help you reduce the stress of Christmas, make the season less materialistic and more spiritual, and just generally recover the “reason for the season.” Led by Rev. Susie Thomas.