Christian Nurture

The Adult Christian Formation (ACF) Committee seeks to provide opportunities for the Parish community to participate in prayer, study, worship, and fellowship that strengthens and deepens our relationship with God. Discerning and exercising our God-given gifts as forming Christians may involve participation in some of our activities or development of new ACF ministries. Through prayerful attention to the unceasing process of ACF, we open our whole selves to listen to God's call and respond in love to serve Christ Church, Rockville, and the world. The rich Episcopal tradition in ACF focuses on both individual and community disciplines that deepen our relationship to God. Contemplative practices include quiet days, retreats, and labyrinth walks. Studies have explored scripture, Benedictine spirituality, and theological writings.

The ACF Committee aids in the offerings and scheduling of:

Adult Forums which meet on Sunday mornings form 10:15 to 10:55 in the Murdock Room

Studies in Christian Faith classes which meet every Sunday morning 9:00 to 10:00am in the parish House

Wednesday Morning Bible Study, 11:00 to 12:15 in the Parish House

Advent Studies Class meets Wednesday evenings during Advent

The Inquirers Class/Covenant Class meets at specified times during the year

The Lenten Studies Class meets Tuesday or Wednesday evenings during the Lenten Season

The Prayer Vigil for Christ Episcopal School and Christ Episcopal Church is held in early September

The Library Ministry to manage and rotate the library offerings of Christ Church

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION is the process by which we become equipped, in the name of Jesus Christ, for ministry in God's world. Since the formal Christian education of Christ Church can only supplement the learning that takes place at home, we try to offer an opportunity for children of all ages to experience faith as part of a community. We offer wonderful Sunday school classes for children of all ages from preschool through high school. Each class is aimed at helping children experience faith at their level of understanding. Faith is something that is, "caught not taught." We here at Christ Church are here to assist you and your children as they embark on their own faith journey, or experiences with God, as as they "catch faith." At Christ Church we believe you the parents, guardians, grandparents, or caregivers are the most important Christian educators of your children because you:

Want the best for your children.

Are the natural teachers of your children.

Are in physical contact with your children more.

Are better acquainted with your children than anyone else.

Recognize your children's uniqueness.

Are held Sunday mornings from 10:15 to 11:00 am in the Murdock Room from September through May. The Forums provide a weekly opportunity for fellowship and learning presented by both lay people and the clergy. Share your special areas of interest and expertise through facilitating an Adult Forum session or series.

Book Talk meets the second Monday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 7:30 pm in the Parish House for informal discussion of religious literature and poetry. The people who attend this reading and discussion group select the books to be read.

Bible Studies - Wednesday Morning Bible Study meets from 11:00 am to 12:15 pm and is a clergy-led Bible study that works through entire books of the Bible in a leisurely fashion, providing time for group discussion and personal reflection.