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A variety of classes and groups meet throughout the year to meet the needs and interests of as many members and friends as possible. These include bible studies, book groups, and classes that cover topics such as social issues, environmental concerns, problems at in the U.S. and around the world, preparation for church trips, and other topics that merit our attention. A connection with our faith, though not always explicitly stated, is always implied.
Sunday Morning Adult Education
Our Faith and the World
These classes focus on social issues and U.S public policies to discover the connections we as persons of faith can make among the issues, politics, and spirituality. Recent classes have included such diverse topics as questions regarding the use of torture, food production and hunger in light of global warming, sustainable living, and alternative energy. The class meets on most Sunday mornings at 11:00 a.m. during the academic year. Sessions for fall 2010 include:
September 19: Maureen Fiedler, host of public radio’s Interfaith Voices, leads a discussion of “Women's Growing Leadership in Religion: An Interfaith Phenomenon,” drawing on material in her recently released book, Breaking Through the Stained Glass Ceiling: Women Religious Leaders in Their Own Words. Signed copies will be available for purchase.
Maureen has been involved in interfaith activities for more than three decades as an active participant in coalitions working for social justice, racial and gender equality, and peace. She is a Sister of Loretto and holds a PhD in Government from Georgetown University. Interfaith Voices is heard locally at 4:00 p.m. on Sundays on WAMU-FM.
Monday Morning Bible Study
The Monday morning bible study class bases its weekly discussion of the bible and related bible topics on excellent materials from the Teaching Company’s series of Great Courses by noted college lecturers and other similar sources. The varied backgrounds of the class members contribute significantly to the discussion.
Young Adult Bible Study
Little River's Young Adults have joined with young adults from other churches in Pathfinders: Progressive Christian Young Adult Ministry for Bible study and fellowship on second and fourth Tuesday evenings, mission projects, and retreats.
Lenten Study
A series of classes takes place during Lent, usually on Tuesday evenings, preceded by a supper of homemade soups and bread. Each series focuses on a theme appropriate to Lent.
Women's Ministry
The character and scope of the offerings of this group change over time depending upon the suggestions from women of the church and the planning team's discernment. Some of the offerings of the group are:
The Covenant Group - A group of eight women who gather on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. to share their lives and gain a perspective on their faith and practice as they wrestle with and celebrate life. The group reconfigures each fall and is facilitated by a pastor.
The Women's Book Group - A gathering of women who meet approximately every other month on Sundays following worship to discuss books of mutual interest. Leadership is volunteered. All women are invited and encouraged to attend whether the book has been finished or even opened! Participants are invited to bring a bag lunch to the discussion. Upcoming books include:
September 26, 2010: "Little Bee" by Chris Cleave
The Little River Women's Book Group will discuss the highly acclaimed novel "Little Bee" by Chris Cleave at 12:15 p.m. in room 7. All are welcome.
"Little Bee" is about two women who meet unexpectedly on a beach. Little Bee is a Nigerian refugee and Sarah is a British magazine editor. They have profound effects on each others' lives. If that sounds like something of a cliche, Cleave's story defies cliche. "Little Bee" is about the power and vulnerability of ties between people, about the choice between self-protection and sacrifice.
November 14, 2010: "The Secret Scripture" by Sebastian Barry.
Annual Retreat - A half-day to day long experience with a wide range of foci depending on the input of the women of the church. The group often enjoys an outing to a regional location such as the National Cathedral for such retreats.
Book Study and Discussion
On one or two Sundays in June, Verne Arens leads discussions of a book that deals with an aspect of our faith.
Sermon Talk-Backs
During the summer months, when there is only one worship service, a sermon talk-back takes place at 11 a.m. on many Sundays. People who wish to explore the ideas presented in the sermon meet with the day’s preacher for discussion.
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