Bible Studies
Spiritual & Personal Growth Opportunities
First Church Academy Classes - The First Church Academy offers a wide variety of classes and programs for personal enrichment, spiritual growth, Biblical understanding, and creative outlet. Three seasonal Academies are offered each year: Fall Academy classes include all programs offered from September through November, Winter Academy: December through February, and our Spring Academy: March through May.
Programs include a monthly “Cinema Night”, monthly Book Clubs, Yoga classes, Art and Creative Expression Classes, Short Term Bible studies, Book Reviews, programs on health and wellness, marriage enrichment and relationship enhancement, guest speakers on current events and social concerns, and much more. Most classes are offered on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 8:00 / 8:30 p.m., although weekend seminars and special engagements may be scheduled at other times.
Bible Studies - Disciple Bible is a series of long-term Bible studies that began in September. Students begin with the 13-week Disciple I study and may choose to progress through the longer term studies (30 weeks) of Disciple II, III, and IV. Registration for all classes is held in August. A brochure with a complete description of each class, meeting times, and leadership is available.
Disciple Bible Graduate Courses - After completion of Disciple Bible classes, participants may choose to continue in Disciple Graduate classes, which include Jesus in the Gospels, Christian Believers, Living the Questions, and a Theological Discussion group. Registration for these classes is held in August. A brochure with a complete description of each class, meeting times, and leadership is available.
Ongoing and Short Term Bible Studies - FUMC offers a variety of Bible Study groups, including Companions in Christ, Women’s Bible Study, Men’s Breakfast Bible Study, 11:00 Bible Study (Sunday Mornings, seasonal), 8:30 Bible Study (Sunday Mornings, ongoing), and a variety of Bible Study classes offered through the First Church Academy (see full First Church Academy Booklet).
Seasonal Studies - Special short term studies are offered each year during Advent (three to four weeks in preparation for Christmas) and Lent (six weeks in preparation for Easter). Two study times are available for each: Breakfast Study at 7:00 a.m. and Evening Study at 7:00 p.m. These classes are led by church ministers.
Lectio Divina Prayer Group - Lectio Divina is an ancient Christian practice of praying the scriptures and offers a unique opportunity to experience the Bible in a new way. The Lectio Divina Prayer Group meets weekly for one hour and is led by trained lay people within the church.
United Methodist Information Class is especially helpful to people considering membership in the United Methodist Church discussing such topics as “What are the official United Methodist beliefs about God, Jesus Christ, the Bible, the Holy Spirit?” United Methodist theology, denominational beginnings and organization are discussed also.
Retreats – The Adult Education office maintains information and contacts for a variety of retreat settings and programs in our region, including programs offered through Glen Lake United Methodist Camp. Contact Virginia Covaleski, 817/339-5078 or Rev. Linda McDermott, 817/339-5064 for more information.
Roots of Change Covenant Groups – A five- to six-week series offered each quarter that looks at relationship issues such as conflict, intimacy and personality differences. The covenant between participants provides a safe container for deep sharing and personal growth. For more information please contact Charles Gaby, 817/339-3881 or email him.
