themessenger MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH VOL 100 | ISSUE 8 | AUGUST 2011 315 E. Pecan St. | San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 226 -2426 | www.stmarks-sa.org
Continuing in the Apostles’ Teaching: Adult Christian Formation This Fall By The Rev. Jonathan Wickham
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while ago I was discussing one of my favorite books with my son, Patrick. He had been assigned Ernest Hemingway’s Old Man and the Sea for an 8th grade English class and I relished the opportunity to talk about Santiago’s struggle with the great blue marlin. I am not as well read as I want to be, but I have a sort of “thing” for Hemingway. I’ve read most of his novels and many of his short stories and had considered that a source of literary pride- a pride that grew as I began to share my insights.
some reference works on Hemingway…and there it was, plain as day. And I had missed it, and he was right. The imagery is obvious. I had much more to learn.
Patrick listened patiently as I went on about themes of struggle, of Santiago’s heroic steadfastness, his deep regard and honor for the fish, the sweet tragedy of life as a series of toils and humble rewards. “And how about the way Hemingway worked in the Jesus imagery, the crucifixion and all that? That was really great.” he said. I was stumped. I had no idea what he was talking about. Now, I had read and reread this book more times than I can remember. I had watched Spencer Tracy on a Saturday afternoon TV rebroadcast of the movie. At no time had I considered the themes of Jesus’ suffering and path to the cross.
Last summer at St. Mark’s brings the beginning of a new season of learning and formation for all ages. Adult education classes feature many friends and members of the St. Mark’s family. Our themes of worship, Bible, family life, generosity, Sabbath, spirituality, and community give a variety of insights for our large and diverse community. Groups and classes meet on Sundays and during the week.
“It’s right there.” Patrick continued. “We talked about it in class. My English teacher pointed it out and once you see it, it’s really obvious.” So I went back to the book. I slowed myself down, opened my imagination, and I even consulted
There is always more to learn. This is true in all areas of life, particularly in our life of faith. Our formation as followers of Jesus must include our immersion in a long-term pattern of learning and discovery. No matter how much we think we know about the matters of our Christian faith, we can always learn more.
Come on out in the fall and learn something new. Take part in life-long learning and formation at St. Mark’s.
The schedules and course descriptions on the next page are available online at www.stmarks-sa.org. Use the “Fridge Friendly” insert included in this Messenger for easy reference throughout the fall.
Special Edition: Fall Adult Formation