Journey of Faith
Journey of Faith lets participants dive into the Bible in new and exciting ways, connect with others and build relationships, and ultimately deepen faith. It involves gathering to prayerfully listen to and discuss our Sunday worship Bible passages, reflecting on God’s presence and calling in your life. Journeyers will be paired with a faith partner from the church. The Journey of Faith culminates with baptism or an affirmation of baptism at the Easter Vigil. We talk more about the Journey of Faith process in our Come and See classes. We encourage everyone who is part of the St. Andrew community to experience the Journey of Faith process at least once.
Come and See classes are typically for those new to our community. These classes offer time to explore and ask questions. Sometimes this is a person’s first step on their faith journey. Therefore, this series explores questions about Christianity, Lutheran beliefs, and St. Andrew Church in general. You will have the opportunity to meet others and share about yourself. These sessions are typically scheduled in October between worship services, from 9:45 to 10:30 am. These open-ended sessions honor the voice of each person, and your questions and experiences are always welcome. These sessions can help determine your interest in moving forward with the Journey process. Child care or Sunday School is available for children during these gatherings.
Come and Grow classes are another step in the Journey of Faith experience, offering a time to grow in your faith. Participants in Come and Grow will be joined by a faith partner from the congregation for learning and growth in your relationship with God. These sessions, led by trained lay leaders and the pastor, will prepare you for Baptism or the Affirmation of Baptism, including becoming a member of St. Andrew. Our gatherings include an opportunity to hear and discuss the Bible readings for each week and to share your own experiences and stories of faith. We explore Christian beliefs and faith practices. This group meets beginning in November. Our goal is not to fill you with information but to lead you into a deeper journey of faith with Jesus Christ. Child care provided upon request.
Come and Celebrate is a time to celebrate new life in Christ. The high point of the journey takes place during the first service of Easter, the Easter Vigil worship, which is held on the evening before Easter Sunday. The Vigil begins with the lighting of a fire outside and then entering the worship area to hear the story of God’s saving grace. Following this hearing of the Word, all those planning to be baptized or to affirm their baptism are invited forward with their faith partners. As you are baptized or affirm your baptism, you are joined to the Body of Christ, which is the Church, and we welcome you as companions in a life-long journey of faith and discovery.
Come and Serve is a time to live out your calling! Through faith, we receive a wonderful gift of grace that impels us to share our lives with others. We help you explore your gifts, interests, and passions to find meaningful ways to serve God and others and promote justice. During the fifty days of Easter, Come and Serve offers the opportunity to reflect on the Easter Vigil and your Baptism or Affirmation of Baptism. And finally, at the culmination of Come and Serve, you are invited during a Sunday worship to affirm the gifts you intend to use in serving God and others.
For more information or to sign up, contact the church office or Pastor Cindy.