Adult Education and Learning

At First Church, we are committed to our ongoing learning and growth on all kinds of topics. The Ministry of Adult Education and Learning meets monthly to discern what topics would be of use to the congregation’s adult members. The primary format for adult learning programs in the life of our church is Learning Hours, which take place on Sundays after the service.

We also strive to offer periodic longer opportunities to learn in the format of workshops (part-day, full-day, or weekend), series-style courses with multiple sessions, book groups, etc.

The current members of the Adult Education ministry are Willem VanderKamp, Christina Hutchins, Jim Alnas-Benson, and Zhekun Luo. Rev. Kelly is the pastor-liaison to the group.

Important topics that we often cover include:

  • Anti-racism and racial justice
  • LGBTQ issues, especially trans allyship
  • Environmental justice
  • Arts programming, notably photography and poetry
  • Health topics
  • Current events and news
  • Theology and philosophy
  • Our denomination
  • Immigration and migrant justice

Recordings of Adult Education Programs

Previous adult education programs that have been recorded are available for learning at your convenience!

Queer Theology for Everyone – June 6, 2021 – Rev. Kelly Colwell
Global Ministries of the United Church of Christ – October 10, 2021 – Marcy Gansler
Food Justice for Essential Workers – October 17, 2021 – National Farm Workers Ministry