First United Methodist Church Omaha NE

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Adult Education

 The goal of Adult Christian Education at First United Methodist Church is to liberate in body, mind, and spirit. Through study, discussion, and spiritual disciplines we journey into freedom together.
 
Horizons of Faith presents...
Lawn Labyrinth
Sunday Morning Happenings
Weekday Opportunities for Bible  Discussion
Wise and Wonderful

 

Sunday Morning Happenings

For additional opportunities, contact Sue Rood, Director of Religious Education or e-mail her.

Centering Prayer, Mead Chapel -- A Centering Prayer group is in progress.  The session begins with a 20-minute centering prayer, beginning promptly at 9:45 a.m., which is then followed by time for reflection.

FaithLinks, west Parlor -- We explore how current issues in the news relate to our understanding of the Bible, our United Methodist Social Principles, and beliefs.  This is an on-going class so join it at anytime.

Galileans-- We are now on summer hiatus!  Join us September 7 for a new year of great speakers who present topics of interest to Christians.  All are welcome!  In the meantime, we hope you'll take this opportunity to attend one or more of the other classes during the summer--we know, we will!

No Name, room 108 --  If it is a lively discussion on numerous topics that you like, then this is the class for you.  They study various books decided upon by the class.  All are welcome.

First Forum, Cary Hall -- Held usually on the second Sunday monthly with a variety of topics and speakers. All are welcome to join -- there is no cost and no reservations are needed.

Sudanese Sunday School, room 113 -- Led by Peter Lam Puol and Reath Puoch, this is a class for Sudanese, currently studying keeping holy time and the power of praying together.

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Short Term Class Offerings for Sundays

Mornings:

"Who Started the Bible?" is a five-session series beginning July 6 at 9:35 a.m. in room 107 with Dr. David Schadt and Rev. Mark Kemling co-teaching the class.  The class reference book is "Who Wrote the Bible?" by Richard Elliott Friedman.  This is a very readable book and may be purchased in the class.  Students will discover the social sources of the first five books of the Bible and how their construction influenced the further development of Jewish and Christian beliefs and practices.

 

Weekday Opportunities for Bible Discussion

Lectionary Bible Study Groups

Sophia's Path--Wednesday Morning Group--On Wednesday mornings from 9:30-11:30, class members gather for great treats, meditation, meaningful discussion and fellowship.  This group is open to all who would like to join in this time of learning and friendship.  We are presently discussing the book "A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose" by Eckhart Tolle.  Free childcare is provided during this time.

Centering Prayer also meets the first Wednesday monthly at 5:30 p.m. in Mead Chapel.  Praying in silence and opening of heart to God to foster spiritual formation.

Jesus' Friends: Ecumenical Hearts and Hands (also known as Friendship Ministries) --
 Something new is being birthed at FUMC thanks to FUMC members and Presbyterian and Lutheran Friends with a passion for ministry to the cognitively impaired. 
 This group will meet on the last Wednesday night of each month for prayer and praise, Bible study and activities, fellowship and refreshments.  New friendships will be created and existing ones deepened as we participate in spiritual, recreational and social interactions. As with any new endeavor, we could use volunteers to be buddies to these person, help with recreation, crafts and snacks.  If this is something that you would like to do, please contact Sue Rood.
 If you know persons who would benefit from such a ministry, please have them or their parent/guardian contact Sue Rood for a registration form.  Help us get the word out!!

Paper Plate Chorus Line, 9:00-10:00 a.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays in room 112 led by Carol Windrum.  Increase your heart rate and tone your muscles.

 

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Lectionary Bible Study Groups

These small groups meet weekly to study the Scripture lessons for the upcoming worship services.  Come visit/join one of these small groups at any time.
Tuesday:
•    9:00 a.m.—Room 111 at the church (may not meet in summer)
Wednesday:
•    6:40 a.m.—Peony HyVee Cafι, 78th and Cass
•    9:30 a.m.—Room 107 at the church.  Odyssey is a covenant prayer group that receives names from all over the world of those who desire prayers from our daily devotion publication Upper Room. They also receive prayers from the congregation.
Thursday:
•    6:40 a.m.—Rockbrook Garden Cafι, 108 and Center
•    7:00 a.m.—Perkins Restaurant, 72 and Grover
•    3:00 p.m.—Crown Pointe Retirement Village, 2820 South 80 Street
•    5:00 p.m.—Soul Desires Book Store in the Old Market, 1026 Jackson
 
animated graphic of book, flowers and present
The Labyrinth
Left half of the circle for the Labyrinth Blessing Half of the circle for the Blessing of the Labyrinth May 25 2008Our new classic seven circuit labyrinth is ready for our use.  There are two nice benches on either side of the labyrinth where you can sit, enjoy nature and quiet yourself.   This labyrinth is located on the southwest area on the front lawn. As you walk the labyrinth you will notice that it  is a metaphor for your life journey.  Sometimes you will be close to the center and sometimes you are far away but never lost.    There is only one way in and one way out.  There are instructions located by the north bench that can guide you on your journey.  Feel free to use it anytime day or night.  One way to walk the labyrinth is to bring a quiet presence to each step.  Be  aware of each step because it is happening “now” and it brings you into the present.  When thoughts come in, don’t judge them or resist them, just let them pass on.  Return to awareness of each footstep.  It seems like a small thing but it is in the awareness of the small things that we find our inner peace. 
Children walking the Labyrinth
For additional education opportunities, contact Sue Rood, Director of Religious Education at 556-6262, extension 1008 or e-mail her.