2022 Trinity UMC Fall Small Groups and Adult Education Offerings by Trinity Church, Hackettstown, NJ

Trinity Church Small Group Offerings and Adult Education 2022 - 2023

FIND OUT MORE ON

catchthespirit.org

Table of Contents Welcome

COVID Protocols

How to Sign Up for a Small Group

Small Groups for 1-2 Days

Small Groups Short Term

Small Groups Ongoing

Index by Day of the Week

Index by Category

You Are Invited! to take a step along the path of discipleship by participating in the opportunities which are presented here in this booklet! This booklet is meant to help you find ways to become more intentional in your Christian journey by sharing with you the many opportunities to connect with others in our Trinity family to study, to serve, to pray, to fellowship, to explore, to give, and more. As we continue to navigate live in a COVID world, it is even more important to find ways to share life together. There is such power in gathering with our Christian sisters and brothers, and if you haven’t had an experience like this yet, with small groups, please take the opportunity to do so. If you are an experienced small grouper, invite someone along with you. You are invited to grow in your discipleship this fall. We hope that you will use this booklet to do that. Know that all groups are open to all people! You are welcome to bring a friend, neighbor, relative, or someone who is already a part of the Trinity family. Grace and peace, The Small Group Ministry Team Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos, Glenn Ashton, Jerie Berkowitz, Maureen Boer, Arlene McCollum, Rita Merring, and Pat Riegler.

Small Groups and the Covid-19 Pandemic Currently while on campus we are encouraging people to mask and sanitize their hands. Distancing is also helpful . As has happened throughout the pandemic, our protocols are subject to change as new information becomes available and the reality of the pandemic changes. Please pay attention to all our means of communication to stay informed of these protocols. We have some groups that will be meeting via Zoom or doing a hybrid of both in-person and Zoom. We are blessed to have some small group participants who live out of state and join our groups using Zoom. What a blessing to be able to connect beyond our walls and our state line! We also have some in-person groups as well. These are all indicated within. If you are not feeling well or are experiencing any of the Covid-19 symptoms, please do not attend your group and notify the facilitator or Pastor Deb. Check here for the list of symptoms and other information. https://covid19.nj.gov/ Everyone should still continue to sanitize or wash their hands regularly.

How to Sign Up for a Small Group We do ask you to sign up for most groups, though there are a few groups, which you are encouraged to join any time. •

•

Contact Kari Anzel ( kanzel@catchthespirit.org or 908-852-3020 )

•

Contact Pastor Deb (ddevos@catchthespirit.org)

The books be ordered directly through Amazon, Kindle, ChristianBook.com and Cokesbury.com Questions? If you have any questions regarding the information in this booklet, please contact: Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos at ddevos@catchthespirit.org

Small Groups for 1-2 Days Retreats, Workshops, Movies with Discussions Women Growing in Faith Women’s Retreat We are happy to announce that our 17th retreat at Star Lake Camp and Conference Cente in Bloomingdale, N.J. The setting is gorgeous and serene with walking trails around the lake. Join us for spiritual growth, fellowship, praise, and self reflection. Cost is $95. Payment in full or a deposit of $45 is required to reserve your spot. Sign ups will start in August. Facilitators: Date: Location: Cost:

Susan Manhire (908-852-1741) and Joanne Stiehl (908-362-5154) Friday–Saturday, October 14-15 Star Lake Camp and Conference Center $95 for the overnight stay and all meals (assistance available if needed)

Women’s Fall Breakfast Calling all women to come and enjoy fellowship and a delicious breakfast. We will again have a mission component helping Midnight Run and our Guest Speaker will be Barbara Miller, the Skylands District Lay Speaker. She will be talking about United Women of Faith and their work around the world today. Facilitators: Date: Time: Location:

Small Group Leadership Team Saturday, October 29 9:00-11:00 a.m. Starr Hall

Movies and Discussion Come join us to watch a movie together and have a discussion afterwards. Feel free to bring your lunch

Prince Among Slaves

Prince Among Slaves tells the story of Abdul Rahman, a military general and heir to a West African nation the size of Great Britain, who was a slave in America. He also became the most famous African in America, attracting the support of President John Quincy Adams and Secretary of State Henry Clay. Throughout his life, Abdul Rahman maintained his dignity and hope for the freedom of his people. Date: Sunday, October 9 Time: 12:30—2:30 p.m. Location: TH400

Black Panther After the death of his father, T'Challa returns home to the African nation of Wakanda to take his rightful place as king. When a powerful enemy suddenly reappears, T'Challa's mettle as king -- and as Black Panther -gets tested when he's drawn into a conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. Date: Sunday, November 6 Time: 12:30-3:00 p.m. Location: TH400 6

Spiritual Gifts Inventory A Spiritual Gifts Inventory or Assessment helps individuals identify their God-given gifts for living faithfully as Christian disciples day by day and find meaningful ways to use their gifts in connection with others through the community of faith. God has given us all gifts and very often they are revealed through our passions and talents. The process of the inventory helps people understand the nature of spiritual gifts and ways to enhance the effectiveness of their gifts in community and service with and for others. Come find out yours! Facilitator: Date: Time: Location:

Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos (ddevos@catchthespirit.org) Sunday, October 16 12:30—2:30 p.m. Room 104

Interchurch Social Principles Forum Several local United Methodist churches are joining together to explore the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church and our call to justice as followers of Jesus. All are welcomed to come and learn more about this core aspect of being a United Methodist as well as practical ways we can live it out. Facilitator: Date: Time: Location:

Rev. Kath Stone Saturday, October 22 9:30 a.m.—12:30 p.m. Denville Community Church (UMC)

Short Term Small Groups Hymn Study Do you wish you were more familiar with United Methodist Hymnody both past and future? Join us as we explore our favorite hymns and learn about new hymns being composed for us right now. Remember that our old favorites were once new and we owe a debt of gratitude to the congregations of the past for learning them and passing them on to us. In turn, we owe future generations the gift of learning the hymns that are being written today. We’ll do lots of listening and a little research and discuss the history and future of our favorite and soon-to-be favorite hymns and tunes. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Sarah Kuhns (kuhns.sarah77@gmail.com) Wednesday, September 7—December 14 7:00-8:00 p.m. 14 Sessions TH400

Spirituality of Aging In this small group study, we explore a spirituality of aging that invites us to receive the challenges of aging with compassion and inhabit a vulnerability that allows us to connect with the deep vastness of life.. This is not to ignore or deny the challenges of aging, the diminishments of our body and health among other things. It is to learn rather to hallow our diminishments; to hold them with compassion and to glimpse a shimmering in them that will call us deeper into our lives. We will not try to solve the challenges of aging in conventionally measurable ways in our time together. Rather we will seek to receive them and to honor them in the strong and tender wash of the spirit Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location: 8

Pat Riegler (patdriegler@gmail.com) Tuesday, October 4 2:00-3:30 p.m. 5 Sessions Room 105

The Heart of Christianity: Rediscovering a Life of Faith—How We Can Be Passionate Believers Today. The Christian path is not so much believing things about Jesus, but following the way of Jesus. One can believe all the right things about Jesus and have a head full of orthodox theology, but still be hard-hearted and mean-spirited. Following the way of Jesus leads to personal and societal transformation by living a life of love and justice, as taught by the Prophets and Jesus, which goes right to the heart of our faith. A very typical response by people to Dr. Borg’s teaching is, “Why didn’t someone tell me this before? I needed to hear this years ago!” If what you have learned about the Christian faith is more constricting than liberating, more based on fear (guilt and shame) than on love, more based on individual salvation than following Jesus’ lead to being a part of God’s Kingdom on earth (as it is in heaven), more based on belief in literal factuality than deeper metaphorical truths, this class can help you make sense of things that have been difficult to swallow and open up new opportunities of personal and spiritual growth. Sessions include traditional concepts and themes with emerging understandings and meanings for the 21st century. Participants will need to have their own copy of the book, The Heart of Christianity by Marcus Borg, and agree to read a chapter each week in anticipation of the class. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Dr. Charlie McNeil, L.M.F.T. Monday, September 12 7:00-8:30p.m. 12 Sessions TH400

Grandparenting Potpourri This new Grandparenting Ministry will address the concerns and needs of grandparents in two ways: 1. Grandparent/grandchild fellowship event—Grandparents are invited to bring their grandchildren. If you are a grandparent whose grandchildren don’t live in the area or if you are a grandchild whose grandparents don’t live in the area, you too are invited. 2. Grandparenting small group—all grandparents are invited to the initial fall meeting of this new grandparenting small group for a time of fellowship as well as a time to share grandparenting concerns and discuss topics for future meetings. Facilitator: Start Date:

Ginny Thorp (gthorp@catchthespirit.org) TBD

Prayer of Saint Francis Through this study of one of the world’s most beloved and inspirational prayers, we will be challenged to look beyond ourselves and toward God and all of humanity. This study will reflect on each phrase of the prayer offering us ideas about what it means to truly be a peacemaker. We will explore how we need to sow love, forgiveness, faith, hope, light and joy if God’s Peace is to blossom in the world. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Pat Riegler (patdriegler@gmail.com) and Maggie Matthews (mmaggie0611@gmail.com) Thursday, September 15 7:00-r8:30 p.m. 10 Weeks TH403

Courageous Conversations The Courageous Conversation project is aimed to help us be like the aspect of Nathanael that was willing to move from skepticism (“can anything good come from Nazareth?” John 1:46) to curiosity and even openness to encounter God’s grace. The purpose of Courageous Conversations is to inspire and encourage the church and individuals to participate in conversations that might seem difficult. Many in our churches are hesitant to engage in such conversations, often viewing them as pointless since “we won’t convince anyone to change their opinions” or are fearful of causing further harm to relationships. However, the aim of Courageous Conversations is learning. Adults learn best when they question their assumptions and others’ assumptions. Additionally, adults learn best in community; that is, in dialog with one another. Join us as we embark on Courageous Conversations around racism, gun violence and Christian Nationalism. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos (ddevos@catchthespirit.org) Thursday, October 6 7:00-8:30 p.m. 7 Weeks TH401

Congregational Study—Shiny gods by Mike Slaughter There are a lot of words in the church that get a bad rap, for example, evangelism, justice and stewardship. Yet these are all things we are clearly called by Jesus to do. Through this study together as the faith community God has placed in this place for such a time as this, we will reassess priorities to create a culture and lifestyle of giving, based on the word of God and the example of Jesus. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Rev. Erica Muñoz (emunoz@catchthespirit.org) and Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos (ddevos@catchthespirit.org) Tuesday, October 4 12:00—1:00 p.m. or 7:00-8:30 p.m. 4 Weeks 11 Room 104

Advent Study—The Redemption of Scrooge by Matt Rawle Is redemption possible for Ebenezer Scrooge? Pastor and author Matt Rawle believes so as he discovers the teachings of Jesus in the words of the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. Rawle dives deep into the dark, sad, greedy world of Scrooge and discovers a man in dire need of a second chance. Along with Scrooge, we meet the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future and in the process learn about living with and for others in a world blessed by Jesus. Rediscover and reinvigorate your Christian faith this Advent and Christmas season and look at this familiar classic through the lens of faith. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration:

Jerie Berkowitz (jerieberkowitz@yahoo.com ) and Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos (ddevos@catchthespirit.org) Monday, Nov. 28 (Eve) or Tuesday Nov. 29 (Day) 12:00—1:00 p.m. in Room 104 or 7:00-8:30 p.m. via Zoom 4 Weeks

Small Groups that are Ongoing God’s Word Blesses Us Lectio Divina is the practice of scripture reading. "Lectio Divina", is a Latin term, that means "divine reading". It describes a way of reading the Scriptures whereby we gradually let go of our own agenda and open ourselves to what God wants to say to us. Join us each week as we engage this practice using the scripture that will be preached on the upcoming weekend. The first 15 minutes of the group is Centering Prayer while Cathy plays meditative harp music followed by Lectio Divina. As you begin to explore the passage early in the week, it will take root and allow you to encounter God in a transformational way, blessing and enriching your life. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration : Location: 12

Cathy Ekeland (cathyharpnsoul@gmail.com) Tuesday, September 13 7:00—8:00 p.m. Every Tuesday, September through June Zoom meeting

Centering Prayer Want to grow more deeply in your prayer life? Want to create a habit of praying and dwelling in God’s presence? We’ll gather every week to practice the art of Centering Prayer. This is a type of silent prayer through which we learn to experience God’s presence within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than consciousness itself. This method of prayer is both a relationship with God and a discipline to foster that relationship. Centering Prayer is not meant to replace other kinds of prayer. Rather, it adds depth of meaning to all prayer and facilitates the movement from more active modes of prayer into a receptive prayer of resting in God. You’re welcome to join at any time. Come as often as you can, but don’t worry if you need to miss. Group meets most Thursdays throughout the year, if you are new, please email Fran so we can expect you, and she can send you the Zoom link. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Fran Blaskopf (franblas2@gmail.com) Thursday, September 8 11:00 a.m.– 12:00 p.m. Every Thursday all year Zoom meeting

The Sew and Sews “Stitching for others and keeping each other in stitches” That’s our goal in Sew ‘n Sews. This small group of seamstresses/sewists works by hand and machine to make items that will be useful to people near and far. They have created hats and microwaveable heat packs for chemo and infusion patients, luo pads and quilt tops for UNTO in Mt. Joy, PA, and a sock monkey just for fun. Facilitators:

Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

JoAnn Heembrock (908-876-4462 or jheembrock@comcast.net) and Deb Tuxhorn (908-689-6455 or tuxhorns@comcast.net) Saturday, September 17 1:00-3:00 p.m. Monthly, 3rd Saturday, September through June Rotunda 13

Sunday Morning Bible Study This year we will begin with a 6-week study called Mysteries of the Messiah—Unveiling Divine Connections from Genesis to Today by Rabbi Jason Sobel. From there we will move on to some of the epistles of Paul. All are welcome! Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos (ddevos@catchthespirit.org) and Pat Riegler (patdriegler@gmail.com ) Sunday, September 25 10:30 a.m. –12:00 p.m. Ongoing, September through May Room 104 and Zoom meeting

Wednesday Bible Study Not the type to sit down and read the entire Bible? Yes, the goal is to read the whole Bible in a year, but think about it in terms of smaller, daily goals. Think about a commitment to read a short selection from the Bible plus a concise devotional every day. You can do that – especially since The Bible Year has it all mapped out for you day by day. We will gather together each week in study to grow closer to God. Not only will we be creating new and deeper friendships, we will spend time intentionally enriching our spiritual lives, developing a deeper faith and forming closer connections to God. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Rev. Erica Munoz (emunoz@catchthespirit.org) Wednesday, September 14 Noon-1:00 p.m. September through May, weekly TH401 and via Zoom

Tuesday Evening Bible Study We will study the Books of Numbers and Deuteronomy This study is part of the Genesis to Revelation Bible Study series using the NIV Bible. It is designed to help strengthen our understanding and appreciation of the Bible by considering such aspects as ancient customs, locations of places, and the meanings of words while searching for the meaning of selected passages. Through this study, we will engage on 3 levels: What does the bible say? What does the passage mean? How does the Scripture relate to my life? Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location: Cost:

Ginny Mitchell (vgmitch1219@gmail.com) and Jerie Berkowitz (jerieberkowitz@yahoo.com) Tuesday, September 27 7:00-9:00 p.m. 13 weeks for this session, group meets through May Zoom $9 for course materials (assistance available)

Men’s Bible Study We dive into scripture and ask what it means. What does it mean for our world? What does it mean in our lives? There’s always great fellowship and you need not register. Just show up when you can, and we’ll be there. We’ll be exploring books of the Bible of interest to the group. You are welcome. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Darrell Haytaian (dnlhaytaian@msn.com) Glenn Ashton (glenn@superiorpowder.com) Matt Bippart (matthe_bippart@yahoo.com) Saturday, September 10 8:00-9:00 a.m. All year Starr Hall and Zoom

Heath Village Bible Study This Bible study is provided for residents of Heath Village. Others are welcomed also. We come together in faith through scripture, faith sharing, and fellowship. We’ll explore the Upper Room Disciplines and see how God speaks to us. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Hope and David Dingley (201-652-0889) Wednesday, September 8 2:00-3:00 p.m. Monthly, First Wednesday, from September to May Heath Village Auditorium

Sister Share Sister Share is a Bible based study of topics for women. Our lessons are self contained for each session. We have lively discussions, prayer, and food for our souls, bodies and minds. Our ministry is to support those in the group and people of the church. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Jackie Gebhard (jbgebhard@yahoo.com or 908-8132835) and Betsy Hart (hart410@comcast.net or 908-8522643) Wednesday, September 21 7:00-8:30 p.m. Twice Monthly, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, Sept.—May TH401

Watching Over Our Kids! Parents and grandparents, let’s get together for prayers, devotion, life -sharing while our kids are in Church School. We will also talk about the needs of our kids and share useful resources for parenting/ grandparenting. Special sessions will be provided as needed. Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Sunday, September 18 9:15 -10:15 a.m. Every Sunday Starr Hall

Contemplative Creators Crafters wanted! Do you knit, crochet, scrapbook, embroider, needlepoint, or do any other sort of craft? If so, come join us! We begin each session with scripture and a time of reflection. Then we eat, fellowship and work on whatever craft project we have. You can come whenever you are available. Join us at any time. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos (ddevos@catchthespirit.org) and others within the group Thursday, September 15 12:00-1:00 p.m. Every Thursday all year Blue Room and Zoom

Stamping Angels Each participant will make 3-5 cards, one of which will be donated to the military, church or other organization. You will learn different techniques and make cards for all occasions, and fellowship with one another as you create. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location: Cost:

Cindy Behler (ccbehler@gmail.com) Tuesday, September 13 6:30-9:00 p.m. Monthly, 2nd Tuesday all year TH400 $15 per month for supplies

Prayer Shawl No experience necessary. The purpose of the Prayer Shawl Ministry is to provide a "comfort gift" of care and concern in the form of a hand-crafted shawl for those in need. The group members minister to each other as they knit or crochet these beautiful shawls with love, prayers and blessings. Come and learn!! You are welcome to join anytime. Daytime Group Facilitators: Eileen Bozzuffi (908-689-8762) and Rosie Jepson (908-850-1577) Start Date: Monday, September 12 Time: 1:00-2:30 p.m. Duration: Monthly, 2nd Monday Location: Rotunda

Evening Group Facilitators: Pat Bristow (908-852-1143) and Lorry Fulton (908-684-9235) Start Date: Monday, September 19 Time: 7:00-8:30 p.m. Duration: Monthly, 3rd Monday Location: TH401

Wiseman’s Journey This small group is designed for the Christian male age 50 and above. We will explore topics such as coping with retirement, the male grandparent, preventive medicine, social and personal relationships, the mature male and the church, and other topics of interest for the mature Christian male. We will read books, magazine articles and other print materials to gain information to enhance our discussions. You are welcome to join any time. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Claude Buchman (cabuchman@gmail.com) and Fred Bormann (memab13@verizon.net) Wednesday, September 7 11:00 a.m.—12:30 p.m. Monthly, 1st Wednesday, September through May TH400

GriefShare If you have lost a spouse, child, family member, or friend to death, it may be hard for you to feel optimistic about the future right now. You may have found there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. You might feel isolated, confused, depressed, stuck, questioning. GriefShare is an opportunity for you to meet weekly with a group who will help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. Each session has three elements: video seminars with experts, supportive group discussion around the week’s focus, personal study and reflection. To find a group, please go to www.griefshare.org

GriefShare Cares This is a monthly support group and safe place to share your grief journey with others. Those who participate must have gone through the GriefShare program at least once. Facilitator: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Joann Hoff (joann1420@gmail.com) and Marybeth Caldera (mair23us@yahoo.com) Tuesday, September 20 7:00-9:00 p.m. Monthly on the 3rd Tuesday, Sept. through May TH401 21

Trinity’s Friendship Circle All from Heath Village as well as Trinity church are invited! We will meet the first Monday of every month (except September when we meet on the second Monday). October will be our Annual Friendship Tea and Uncle Claude will serenade with his Oldies but Goodies songs In December we will have our Annual Christmas luncheon and May we will have our Annual Spring Luncheon. Our meetings are lots of fun with fellowship and great snacks and treats. We have a variety of programs. Something for everyone. Our meetings are always posted in the Trinity Connection, church bulletin and Heath Village Information sheet. Please join us we know you will have some delightful afternoons. Facilitators: Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Ginny Bormann (908-852-6431) and Lauren Mount (908-459-5493) Monday, September 12 2:00—3:30 p.m. 1st Monday of every month, October through May (Not meeting in January) The Grille at Heath Village

Trinity Garden Join the gardening effort any time! Have you noticed the garden in the back of the church property, near the brook? Through the summer and into the fall, plants will continue to ripen and be ready for harvesting and donating to the Lord’s Pantry to share with those in need in our community. Whether you are a master gardener or aren’t sure whether you’ve got a green or a black thumb, come join, learn, grow together as you help bountiful food and flowers grow. We need waterers, weeders, composters, harvesters, and more! We are constantly increasing our accessibility in the garden. There is now a ramp and a bed raised high enough that no bending over will be necessary. Contact Vivian for more information and to find out how you can help! “One is nearer God's heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth.” (Dorothy Frances Gurney ) Facilitators: Start Date: Duration: Location:

Vivian Thornes (ruthornes@gmail.com or 973-641-9547) Join Anytime Ongoing Garden area

Jesus was the first Small Group Facilitator

United Women in Faith New beginnings for United Methodist women at Trinity UMC. In 1972, United Methodist Women first became the women’s mission organization as part of The United Methodist Church’s Board of Global Ministries. And in 2012, The United Methodist Church General Conference voted to make United Methodist Women’s national policymaking body autonomous. Today, we mark the beginning of a new era. As United Women in Faith, we stand ready to not only continue our legacy but forge courageous new paths. We will go wherever we are needed, without hesitation, because the needs are great but our power, our resolve and our faith are even greater. More information will be shared at the Women’s Breakfast. Make sure you join us on October 29.

United Methodist Men All men (and women) are welcome to enjoy Christian fellowship together at our delicious monthly breakfast! Most months, a speaker comes to share information on a timely topic. Throughout the year, the UMM, raises money for the Torgersen Scholarship through our annual Hoagie Sale, and hosts family friendly events such as minor league baseball games and bowling. Our Men’s Miracle Network provides support to people and families in need by providing manpower to do projects and transportation to such things as doctor appointments. Our goal is to foster community by strengthening men in Christ’s name. Facilitators:

Start Date: Time: Duration: Location:

Bill Blaskopf (President, billblaskopf314@gmail.com or 201-841-2284) and Glenn Ashton (Vice President, glenn_a07803@yahoo.com or 908-230-6990) Saturday, September 10 9:30-10:30a.m. Monthly, 2nd Saturday, September through June Starr Hall

Trinity Church is a BeADisciple.com Congregational Partner BeADisciple.com is a ministry of the Richard and Julia Wilke Institute for Discipleship. The Institute was founded at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas in 2001. The college is a United Methodist institution of higher education founded in 1885, and provides degrees for ministry vocations both on its residential campus and online. The Institute is “dedicated to providing educational opportunities that nurture and enrich Christian leaders – lay and clergy – for effective living and ministry.”

It is through this partnership that we are able to connect you with the various online groups you will find at the BeADisciple website. This fall, you can connect to several online opportunities, which allow you to directly join a group with others around the world. These are excellent courses, ranging in length and intensity. You are welcome to explore the www.BeADisciple.com site for even more opportunities.

To register for one of these groups, you will need to do so directly with BeADisciple.com. There is a fee associated with each course, which you will also pay directly to them. If you need any assistance or have any questions, please contact Rev. Dr. Deb De Vos (ddevos@catchthespirit.org )

Not sure which ones to choose? Contact Pastor Deb at ddevos@catchthespirit.org or 908-852-3020 She’s happy to help you find the small groups that will work best for you in terms of your spiritual journey, your spiritual goals and your schedule. Remember to always invite a friend!

The Academy for Spiritual Formation The Academy for Spiritual Formation is an experience of disciplined Christian community emphasizing holistic spirituality—nurturing body, mind, and spirit. The program is ecumenical in nature and meant for all those who hunger for a deeper relationship with God, including both lay and clergy persons. Each Academy fosters spiritual rhythms—of study and prayer, silence and liturgy, solitude and relationship, rest and exercise. Academy participants rediscover Christianity's rich spiritual heritage through worship, learning, and fellowship. In covenant community and at a personal level, participants find time and space to discern direction, make covenants, and practice commitments. The Academy for Spiritual Formation recognizes that the Holy Spirit is the enabling power in all Christian spiritual formation. It is designed to provide a setting where a spiritually disciplined community of lay and clergy can open their lives to receive God's love and grace so that they increasingly may become spiritual leaven within the Body of Christ. Source: http://academy.upperroom.org/about

Two Year Academy Two-Year Academies meet in residence (in the same location) for five days each calendar quarter (total of 40 days). The first year (sessions 1-4) focuses on the inward journey with Christ; the second year (sessions 5-8) begins to shift to outward aspects of spiritual leadership. Throughout the two years, participants engage in spiritual practices of body, mind and spirit in the context of a supportive community. Between sessions, participants covenant to deepen their spiritual lives through journaling, spiritual direction, reading, and care of the physical body. First and second year covenant commitments provide a focus for spiritual growth and a focus for one's engagement in the world. To view other upcoming dates, cost and locations go to http:/academy.upperroom.org/events/

5-Day Academy Worship shapes the heart and soul of the Academy. With forty or fifty participants, the Academy community is just the right size for rich worship experiences. Following ancient practices, the day begins with Morning Prayer and closes with Night Prayer; we begin and end each day with God. The Sacrament of Holy Communion or Eucharist is celebrated every day as well, a time to "taste and see the goodness of the Lord." The Upper Room Worship book offers a wide variety of musical selections and liturgies that are theologically sound and appropriate for this spiritual formation journey. Throughout the week you will meet in a small group called a covenant group. Here you will be invited to reflect on your spiritual journey and share how God is working in you during the Academy. As the week goes on, the covenant group can be a sacred place for spiritual growth and intimacy. To view upcoming dates, cost and locations go to http:/academy.upperroom.org/events/

Offerings by Day of the Week Sunday Movies with Discussion ............................................................................................. ..6 Spiritual Gifts Inventory………………... ................................................................... ..7 Sunday Bible Study...................................................................................................... 14 Watching Over Our Kids! ......................................................................................... 17

Monday Interchurch Social Principles Forum .................................................................. .7

The Heart of Christianity……………………………...…………………………………...9 Advent Study - The Redemption of Scrooge .................................................... 12 Prayer Shawl Daytime................................................................................................ 21 Prayer Shawl Evening ................................................................................................ 21 Trinity’s Friendship Circle........................................................................................ 24

Tuesday Spirituality of Aging ................................................................................................... ..8 Congregational Study—Shiny gods ...................................................................... 11 Advent Study - The Redemption of Scrooge .................................................... 12 God’s Word Blesses Us ............................................................................................... 12 Tuesday Evening Bible Study................................................................................. 15 Stamping Angels .......................................................................................................... 18 GriefShare Cares ........................................................................................................... 21

Wednesday Hymn Study .................................................................................................................... ..8 Wednesday Bible Study ............................................................................................. 14 Heath Village Bible Study ......................................................................................... 16 Sister Share..................................................................................................................... 17 Wisemen’s Journey …………………………………………………………………………20 30

Offerings by Day of the Week—continued

Thursday Prayer of Saint Francis ............................................................................................... 10 Courageous Conversations………………………………………………………………11 Centering Prayer .......................................................................................................... 13 Contemplative Creators............................................................................................. 18

Saturday Women’s Breakfast ..................................................................................................... 5 Interchurch Social Principles Forum ................................................................... .7 The Sew and Sews........................................................................................................ 13 Men’s Bible Study ......................................................................................................... 15 United Methodist Men................................................................................................ 25

Days vary Women’s Retreat …………………………………………………………………………… 5 Grandparenting Potpourri ………………………………………………………………10 Griefshare …...………………………………………………………………….……………...21 Trinity Garden ............................................................................................................... 23 United Women in Faith …...……………………………………………………………...24

Offerings by Category Bible Study Sunday Bible Study ..................................................................................................... 14 Wednesday Bible Study ............................................................................................ 14 Tuesday Night Bible Study ....................................................................................... 15 Men’s Bible Study ........................................................................................................ 15 Heath Village Bible Study ......................................................................................... 16

Life Experience Women’s Fall Breakfast ............................................................................................ 5 Movies with Discussion............................................................................................. 6 Interchurch Social Principles Forum ................................................................... 7 Spirituality of Aging .................................................................................................... 8 The Heart of Christianity …………………………...…………………………………… 9 Grandparenting Potpourri ……………………………………………………………..10 Courageous Conversations ...................................................................................... 11

The Sew and Sews ....................................................................................................... 13 Watching Over Our Kids! ......................................................................................... 17 GriefShare Cares........................................................................................................... 21 Trinity’s Friendship Circle ....................................................................................... 22 Trinity Garden............................................................................................................... 23 United Women in Faith ............................................................................................. 24 United Methodist Men ............................................................................................... 25

Offerings by Category– Continued Prayer with Creativity Contemplative Creators ............................................................................................ 11 Stamping Angels ......................................................................................................... 18 Prayer Shawl Daytime ............................................................................................... 19 Prayer Shawl Evening ................................................................................................ 19

Retreats Women’s Retreat……………………………………………………………………………. 5

Spiritual Disciplines Spiritual Gifts ................................................................................................................ 7 Prayer of Saint Francis .............................................................................................. 10 God’s Word Blesses Us .............................................................................................. 12 Centering Prayer .......................................................................................................... 13

Topical Studies Hymn Study.................................................................................................................... 8 Congregational Study—Shiny gods...................................................................... 11 Advent Study - The Redemption of Scrooge .................................................... 12 Sister Share .................................................................................................................... 17 Wisemen’s Journey ..................................................................................................... 20

~Notes~

213 Main Street Hackettstown, NJ 07840 Address service requested

www.catchthespirit.org

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage

PAID

Hackettstown, NJ Permit Nº127

908-852-3020

2022 Trinity UMC Fall Small Groups and Adult Education Offerings

Articles inside

Small Groups for 1-2 Days

Small Groups Ongoing

How to Sign Up for a Small Group

COVID Protocols

Welcome

Small Groups Short Term