Mission Statement: The mission of the Christian Nurture and Development Ministry Team is to create an environment that invites all people to grow into the fullness of who God intends them to be.
Walking in the way of Jesus Christ is a life-long commitment. Our goal is to honor our life’s journey and to prayerfully deepen our relationship with God. This includes Church School between 8:45 and 11:15 AM services. It also includes Wednesday Night Live and the Lenten Series. Christian Nurture and Development course offering brochures are distributed at the beginning of the Church School year. Refer to the current brochure for more information.
Advent Eucharist and Study Jim Nixon, 770.971.2839 x202
We will celebrate a Eucharist at 7:00 AM each Tuesday in Advent followed by a brief study. This is a meditative way to begin our days as we wait and watch for the coming Messiah. This early morning offering is designed for those who want a mid-week worship and study opportunity but don’t have the time in the evening. Our study will last exactly one-half hour so that we can be on our way to our daily responsibilities at 8 AM.
Adult
Sunday School Michael Paris,
770.509.0161
Kathy Holman, 770.971.2839
Teach Church School to adults. Classes are staffed by teachers who bring both a desire to teach and an interest in the material. Substitutes are available at all times. Classes generally run Sundays, September-May, 10:00-11:00 AM. We use a variety of material based on the needs and desires of adult members of the congregation. Curriculum ideas are always welcome. Current Adult Sunday School offerings include: Bible Study: The Sunday Lectionary; Discovering the Divine Within; One Faith, Many Wells; and Church One-O-One.
Daytime
Bible Study Jim Nixon, 770.971.2839 x202
Lisa
Cook, 770.971.9505
Wednesdays beginning August 15, 9:30 to 11:00 am. We begin this year with a study of the book of Exodus. We’ll journey with Moses and the people of Israel as they escape from Egypt and travel to the Promised Land. Join us for lively discussion and probing questions as we seek a deeper understanding of the character and nature of God and His covenant relationship with us. Coffee always provided and sometimes snacks, too! No prerequisites or text required, just bring your Bible. Led by Father Jim and Lisa Cook.
Education for Ministry (EFM) Jan & Chris Potter, 770.587.3512
Church members face a difficult task in interpreting the richness of church faith in a complex and confusing world. They need a safe environment to develop their own theology that supports their faith and trains them to express that faith in day-to-day events. EFM is a four year educational opportunity that meets once a week from September to May. It is a time to study our collective church history and to work toward developing what we believe. Registration is done each year and there is a charge involved. Scholarships are available.
Inquirer’s Class Jim Nixon, 770.971.2839 x202
Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation – This class is for those adults desiring to learn more about the Episcopal Church, those wishing for a refresher course on the Church, and those desiring to be confirmed in the Episcopal Church. This class usually meets on Sunday afternoons during the winter semester from 4 PM to 6 PM. There may be additional opportunities added during other parts of the year.
Lenten Eucharist and Study Jim Nixon, 770.971.2839 x202
We will celebrate a Eucharist at 7 AM each Tuesday in Lent, followed by a brief study. This early morning offering is designed for those who want a mid-week worship and study opportunity but don’t have the time in the evening. Our study will last exactly one-half hour so that we can be on our way to our daily responsibilities at 8 AM.
Lenten Series Jim Nixon, 770.971.2839 x202
A five-week series of simple suppers and a program on Wednesday evenings in Lent. The programs focuses on the journey through Lent as we observe the season by “self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God’s holy Word.”
The Marriage Journey Peter and Colleen Morich, 770.424.9054
Throughout a marriage, husbands and wives find themselves evaluating whether or not their relationship is growing the way they want it to grow and the way God wants it to grow. Last year six couples met to study, discuss and reflect on their marriage journey and how they have experienced it. We used the book The Marriage Journey: Preparations and Provisions for Life Together. We are beginning more Marriage Journey discussion groups to help couples interested in strengthening their relationship.
Men’s Book Study Tom Hunter, 678.488.6675
This study is for men who want to explore a book study over the coming year. We will meet on the second Monday each month during the school year (September through May) to explore together the interaction between our faith, our soul, and our work. A light supper will be provided followed by study, reflection, and prayer.
Men’s Bible Study Tom Snead, 678.795.9508
Beginning Sept. 6 this Bible study group meets each Thursday evening, 7:00-8:30 PM, at the church to continue their survey of Scripture. Men of St. Catherine's and any others who want to join us will begin Volume 2 of “Journey Through the Bible” from Cokesbury. Participants are expected to read the Student’s Guide ($7, available from Tom Snead) and the Scripture required before each Thursday session. This 13-week study will cover Exodus through Deuteronomy and will take us through December 6 (we’ll skip Thanksgiving). There is a lot of material to cover and it is hoped that all of us can share ourselves in this study.
New Member Class
An educational opportunity for those wanting to know more about the Episcopal Church and St. Catherine’s. This class meets once per year on a series of Sunday mornings in the fall/winter.
Reflections
Booklets Gail McGill, 770.971.8890
Karen
Manno, 770.973.8668
Each year for the seasons of Advent and Lent, parishioners are invited to write a brief reflection on an assignment of Scripture. The reflections, one for each day of the season, are collected and published in a booklet available at church and on our website as the “Reflection of the Day.” Many writers are needed, so please consider this opportunity to share your meditations in our community of many voices. Watch for the announcements asking for volunteers in November and January.
Women’s Bible Study
Friday Morning (weekly) Elizabeth Lopez, 770.514.1482
Join us each week, 10-11:15 AM, as we study the New Testament. We will briefly review all books from Matthew to Revelation over the course of the fall term. Join us as we learn about God’s relationship to humankind through scripture, video presentations by biblical scholars, and lively conversation. For more information or to order the study book, please contact Elizabeth Lopez.
Monday Evening (monthly) Stephanie Yucius, 678.560.0456
Our group meets on the second Monday each month, 7-8:30 PM, and is open to all women who are interested in studying Scripture and its application in our lives today. The group focuses on different parts of the Bible, paying attention to the purpose and mission of God with his people. With the use of study books, DVDs and lively discussion we learn more of God’s word. Many times this opens discussions about our purpose, opportunities and challenges we face in our contemporary world.
Wednesday Night Live(WNL)
A series of Wednesday night suppers and programs, beginning on September 19. Each week a catered meal is provided; afterwards programs for adults, youth, and children attempt to meet the congregation’s expressed need for education and fellowship. We encourage members of the congregation to submit ideas for programming.
Cursillo Carla von Hoffmann, 770.565.4122
Atlanta Episcopal Cursillo is a three-day retreat designed to renew participants in their Christian journey. The three days living together in Christian community, hearing talks given by lay persons and clergy, lively discussions, music, good food and quiet time allows persons seeking a deeper relationship with God a perfect opportunity to do so.
Marriage Encounter Ron & Connie Bergeron, 770.951.1411
Episcopal Marriage Encounter is designed to give married couples the opportunity to examine their lives together. A time to share their feelings, their hopes, disappointments, joys and frustrations and to do so openly and honestly in a fact to face, heart to heart encounter with the one person they have chosen to live with for the rest of their life. This is a weekend experience. which is not a retreat, not a marriage clinic, not group sensitivity or discussion group. It’s a unique private approach at revitalizing a Christian marriage.
Catechesis of the
Good Shepherd Ana Martin, 678.560.9177
Karen
Maxwell, 770.993.0653
Catechesis is our Christian Formation program for children ages v through 12. The emphasis is on presenting God’s Word and liturgy to our children in a way that taps into their needs and capacities at a given stage in development. Great consideration is given to the relationship God has with children from a very young age. The program is presented by our trained catechists and assistants. This fall St. Catherine’s will have four levels of the program during the Church School time: Young Lambs for two and a half to three and a half year olds; Level I atrium for children three and a half through kindergarten; Level II atrium for first through third graders and Level III atrium for fourth and fifth graders. Catechesis also has an ecumenical (multi-denominational) program on Monday afternoons, and its own Wednesday evening portion of our Wednesday Night Live family events. Training of catechists is provided on an on-going basis to those who wish to help children discover their own special relationship to God.
Children’s Chapel Mary Lou Shannonhouse, 770.973.2840
This program provides a time for children to stretch their legs at the Sequence Hymn during the 8:45 AM Sunday Service. The children hear and respond to the Gospel of the day in their own language and skill level. They return to the worship service at the Peace. Children’s Chapel is for all who are interested, usually two to nine years old. Adults and Young Adults are needed to lead this group. Training is available. Materials are provided each week and include the story to be presented along with suggestions for interaction. This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the youngest members of our Community in Christ.
Christmas Pageant Barbara Barrington 770.516.9224
Children of the parish present the Christmas Story this year on December 16 at 4 PM. Parents assist at rehearsals and on pageant day. Volunteers are needed for costumes, props, scenery, and set-up.
Lenten Series
Educational program for children that parallels the adult Lenten Series. Planning team, teachers, and craft helpers are needed.
Nursery Amber Shushan, 770.579.6813
Nursery is provided on Sundays (8:30 AM until the end of the late service) and for special services. St. Catherine’s nursery is staffed with paid adult workers, but on occasion we need assistance from the congregation when one of our regular workers cannot be there. If you have a special place in your heart for wee ones (most often in the 0-5 year-old range) please let us know – we’ll put you on the “can help” list and will call to check your availability.
St. Nicholas Celebration Ana Martin, 678.560.9177
December 9 will be our celebration of St. Nicholas Day. On this Sunday morning, our children will hear the story of who St. Nicholas really was (a Bishop in Myra, Asia Minor). And St. Nicholas himself will come to visit the children (and adults) with special treats. You’ll recognize him in his Bishop’s Miter and Cope of red velvet.
Vacation Bible School Susanne Muckerman, 678.560.0488
One week each summer for elementary school-age children. Adults and youth (Rite-13 and older) are needed to help as directors, classroom teachers, art teachers, snack helpers and musical leaders. A nursery is available for our teachers’ younger children.
Wednesday Night Live (WNL) Shelly Taylor, 770.579.1351
Educational program for children that parallels the adult WNL series. Planning team, teachers, and craft helpers are needed.
For all questions regarding the Youth Program please contact Youth Director Amelia Snider, 770.971.2839, ext. 210.
Youth Ministry Committee
Comprised of adults in the parish, this team, in conjunction with the Youth Director, focuses on the vision and goals of the Youth Program.
Youth Christian Education with the J2A Curriculum
The Journey to Adulthood Curriculum (J2A) is used to teach 6th-12th grade youth. The curriculum falls into three distinct phases, each of which is two years in length. For 2007-08 the groups are Rite-13 (6th & 7th grade youth), J2A (8th & 9th grade) and Young Adults (10th & 11th grade). A Senior Church School Class (12th grade) meets on Sundays as well as other times during the school year.
The Journey to Adulthood Curriculum focuses on Rites of Passage: the Rite of Passage from Childhood to Manhood and Womanhood, and the Rite of Passage into Adulthood. Youth learn how to struggle with the major topics that have always confronted teens (Self, Society, Sexuality, and Spirituality) within the context of in a Christian environment.
Adult Leaders of the Journey to Adulthood Curriculum
Leaders make a two-year commitment to teach the Journey to Adulthood curriculum to a specific age group (Rite-13, J2A or Young Adults). The commitment includes leading Sunday morning lessons and assisting the Youth Director with off-campus youth activities. Parents are invited and encouraged to volunteer, but we ask that they be willing to work with age groups that do not include your own children. Requirements include a background check and a training seminar (see “Adult Leader Training”).
Adult Leaders for Youth Activities
Adult volunteers minister to the youth through their presence and leadership during youth activities (Sunday afternoons and/or Wednesday and Sunday evenings), overnights and weekend retreats and trips. The time commitment is considerably less than that of the Adult Leaders of the J2A curriculum, but the need for these leaders is just as great. Parents are invited and encouraged to volunteer, but we ask that you be willing to work with age groups that do not include your own children. Requirements include a background check and a training seminar (see “Adult Leader Training”).
Adult Leader Training
Training sessions qualify an interested adult to serve as a youth leader. The training is offered twice per year, and covers expectations for youth ministry and training for the prevention of sexual misconduct. Adult Leader Training is required to go on overnight youth trips, and recommended for anyone who will serve in a ministry capacity with students. Look for forthcoming announcements of training dates.
Wednesday Night Live Youth Meetings
This element of our programming for youth brings all groups together on Wednesday evenings for fellowship and spiritual formation. Wednesday night fellowship will include music, discussion, and fun, with an emphasis on relevance for all three age groups.
Youth Activities
Youth participate in various off-campus outings during the year! From ski trips, to beach trips, retreats and urban adventures, we try to weave spirituality into outings that challenge the skills our youth will need for adulthood. To participate as a leader in youth activities, see Adult Leaders for Youth Activities.
Diocesan Youth Council (DYC)
Sponsored by the Diocese of Atlanta, this camp-like retreat is at Camp Mikell and is a weekend of fun and fellowship. Jr. DYC is designed for middle school youth and is scheduled for December. Sr. DYC is designed for senior high youth and is scheduled for January. Come take a journey and explore your personal beliefs and faith. Adults and youth may apply to be Council members in February for the DYC retreat weekends.
Episcopalooza
Each year the Diocese, along with a local parish, hosts a lock-in. The night is filled with music, singing, art and drama put on by the youth of the Diocese. Episcopalooza is held in April for high school youth.
Happening is a retreat for spiritual renewal designed for high school youth. Happening is the high school version of the greater Cursillo movement that was brought over from Spain in the 1940’s, and similar retreats exist in the Catholic, Methodist and Lutheran churches. The weekend consists of talks, small group times, singing, and praying. Happening is November and March at Camp Mikell and is available to students in 10th through 12th grades. Dates and applications may be found on the Diocesan website at www.episcopalatlanta.org.
New Beginnings is a younger version of Happening and is designed to respond to the issues, concerns and needs of teenagers in 6th through 9th grades. New Beginnings offers an opportunity for teenagers to explore and develop their faith in a safe and fun environment. This year’s retreats are October and February. Dates and applications may be found on the Diocesan website at www.episcopalatlanta.org.
Winterlight
A December conference for grades 9-12 at Kanuga Conference Center, North Carolina. This is a time to create, to celebrate, to worship, to explore your thoughts and beliefs and to rest and reflect—all while being in Christian community.