Christian Formation
What is Christian Formation?
Christian Formation is a process of being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ for the glory of God and for the sake of others (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). The focus of spiritual formation is the Holy Spirit, who guides the ongoing journey towards union with God. This is becoming a disciple…a follower of Christ. At St. Philip’s we are so dedicated to teaching others how to become disciples that we have rebranded our Christian Formation program to "Disciple Enrichment."
Why the name change?
Our decision to rebrand our Sunday school program stems from a deep commitment to honoring the diverse and dynamic nature of our congregation and surrounding communities. As disciples of Christ, we are called to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of the world around us. By embracing a new name, we aim to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment where individuals of all backgrounds feel valued and empowered to explore their faith journey. This change signifies our dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and connection as we journey together in faith, seeking, wondering, and discovering the richness of God's love and grace. We believe that this rebranding initiative will not only strengthen our Christian Formation program but also deepen our collective sense of unity and purpose as a church community.
There is something for everyone.
Christian Faith Formation in The Episcopal Church is a lifelong journey with Christ, in Christ, and to Christ. Because it is lifelong each person may need something different than the next person to help them grow in their faith. St. Philip’s offers Disciple Enrichment for all stages and ages in life.
African Bible Study
African Bible Study is a group of adults who meet weekly on Sunday mornings at 9:00 am in-person and virtually on Zoom. Within this group are disciples who are in varied steps in their spiritual journey. Learn More!
Children & Teens Chapel
From preschool to 12th grade, there is a lot of developmental growth in our children. St. Philip’s offers 3 Disciple Enrichment classes for any child’s spiritual growth. Learn more
Bible Study
A group of adults who meet weekly on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm via teleconference. This study is for Disciples who are seeking a discussion-based study of the bible. Learn More!
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
Colossians 3:16
African Bible Study
What is African Bible Study and how is it led?
The Method
The African Bible Study method was introduced by the African Delegation to the Lambeth Conference in 1998. It is known by both names: “Lambeth” and “African.” It is rooted in the ancient method of praying the scriptures, known as Lectio Divina, or “Holy Reading.”
Collect of the Day (example):
O God, whose blessed Son came into the world that he might destroy the works of the devil and make us children of God and heirs of eternal life: Grant that, having this hope, we may purify ourselves as he is pure; that, when he comes again with power and great glory, we may be made like him in his eternal and glorious kingdom; where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Opening Prayer:
O Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scripture to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our savior Jesus Christ, Amen.
One person reads passage slowly.
Each person identifies the word or phrase that catches their attention. (1 minute)
Each shares the word or phrase with the group. (3-5 minutes, NO DISCUSSION)
Another person reads the passage slowly (from a different translation, if possible.)
Each person identifies where this passage touches their life today. (1 minute)
Each shares. (3-5 minutes, NO DISCUSSION)
Passage is read a third time (another reader and translation, if possible.)
Each person names or writes: “From what I’ve heard and shared, what do I believe God wants me to do or be? Is God inviting me to change in any way?” (5 minutes)
Each shares their answer. (5-10 minutes, NO DISCUSSION)
Each prays for the person on their right, naming what was shared in other steps. (5 minutes)
Closing Prayer : The Lord’s Prayer
Notes: This should take 30-40 minutes for a group. It could easily be adapted for individual prayer or as a method of lectio divina.