Trinity Adult Education Program
2009-2010
Eric Udd
While there may be some lecture style and DVD presentations most of this year’s program will involve group discussions on topics addressed by the modules. Each module will run until the participants reach a consensus that the discussions related to it have run their course and it is time to look at the next module.
Module 1—“The Trinity”
This module will explore how each of us looks at God. Possible topics will include: (1) which person in the Trinity is most real to you…, (2) how has God touched me…., (3) why do bad things happen to people…, (4) how does God heal us…, and (5) what is my purpose in life…and what is God’s purpose. Some of these discussions will center on chapters from “The Shack” and people who have read the book and would like to discuss it are especially encouraged to attend although it is not necessary to have or to read it to benefit and or contribute to the discussions. The module will start September 20, 2009.
Module 2—“The Early Jews”
This module will begin with two one hour presentations from a PBS NOVA DVD exploring: (1) how the Jews came to believe in one God, (2) who wrote the Torah, why and when, (3) archeological linkages to the Bible and (4) where the Jews came from. This NOVA presentation was sponsored in part by a series of Jewish foundations and consists of inputs from Biblical scholars, historians and archeologists.
After the DVD presentations a group discussion will be on Exodus and Genesis including (1) creation, (2) Noah and the ark, and (3) the exodus. The discussion will center around how each of looks at these Biblical stories and how that might be affected by how we view God from Module 1.
Module 3—“The Early Christians”
This series will begin with a special four hour PBS Frontline program “From Jesus to Christ”. This series explores what is known historically about Christ from the perspective of Biblical scholars and historians. It goes on to explore who wrote the Gospels, when they were written and for whom.
Additional material will be added to this module from histories of the early Christian church and such sources as the Gnostic Gospels. I have talked to at least two members of the congregation who have studied this area and anticipate their participation in these discussions. Any member of the class would be free to introduce additional material to this module or the others.
Module 4—“A Balance Life”
This module will address how to pursue a life that is productive, fulfilling and happy in a world that is often full of stress and problems. This module will be a mixture of presentations and discussions on how people have worked to optimize their lives. It will include sections on how striving to improve our health, social and spiritual lives may contribute to happiness. A number of congregation members have asked for this module and indicated they have material they may be able to contribute either through a presentation or in the discussions.