At First Church, our goal of Adult Education is to provide a dynamic program of small group classes that not only strengthens, inspires, and sustains our current church membership but also encourages and welcomes newcomers to join us! We learn with open minds and hearts to enrich our faith and lives through Christ.
We hope you’ll join us in this journey. For more information, please contact us.
Current Classes:
TALKING IT OVER: End of Life Decisions and Their Effects
Dates: Every Sunday from Sept. 14 to Oct. 12 (except for Sunday, Oct. 5)
Time: 10:00 – 10:50 AM
Place: Room 211
“I Have Fought the Good Fight. And I have finished the race. And I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7-8
The death of a loved one is perhaps the most difficult experience any of us will have. How do we face death, either our own or that of our loved one? How can we prepare for this, and if we are the survivors, how do we live through this? In this four week class, we will informally share personal stories, reference Methodist Church publications, The National Institute on Aging, and other resources as well, in a loving effort to help answer questions, give useful advice, and perhaps soften or take away some of the unknown or unexpected.
TALKING IT OVER will be small and large group discussions and reflections on End of Life Decisions and their effects on both the loved one who is dying and the loved ones who are closely involved. Each week will feature one central theme:
Sun. Sept. 14—Exploring Your Personal Views on Dying
Recognize and then begin reflecting on influences and experiences that have shaped your views about death and dying.
Sun. Sept. 21—Talking with Loved Ones
Consider why it is difficult to talk about this topic with family. Identify and share ways to become more comfortable talking with loved ones.
Sun. Sept. 28—Making Tough Decisions
Identify things to consider when making decisions for a loved one. Share ideas about those who could provide support when facing the end of life. Include how our faith and our church can contribute.
Sun. Oct. 12—Before and Afterwards
Share personal experiences about effects on primary caregivers and others closely involved, such as grieving, taking care of “business” created by the death, short term and long term effects, the expected and unexpected.
Resources:
- Coalition of Compassionate Care of California
- National Institute on Aging
- United Methodist Communications
Everyone is invited to attend. For more information contact Diana Hoke at hokediana@gmail.com or 765-491-1273.