Have you ever wished that you could see God in your “Monday through Friday” life — in the humdrum of everyday life? Have you ever felt like God got left in the church on Sunday? Have you been looking for that next “stepping stone” to deepen your faith? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” “maybe,” or “tell me more,” then consider EfM as an opportunity for adult Christian education.
EfM is a spiritually-oriented small study group. Small study groups are about connecting with self, God and others. EfM seeks to equip us in integrating our faith lives with our daily lives, which benefits us individually as
well as our communities and the Church.
What makes EfM unique? What makes it worth your time, consideration and participation?
EfM is:
- NOT about books … although there are books.
- NOT a Bible study … although the Bible is studied.
- NOT a prayer group … although there is prayer and worship.
The answer has more to do with the program’s process than its content. Through discussion and guided reflection, EfM provides an opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of the reading materials, especially
the Bible in years One and Two.
As important as the reading materials is the development of skills in theological reflection. The goal is that we learn to think theologically. By examining our beliefs and their relationship to our culture and the tradition of our
Christian faith, we can learn what it means to be effective ministers in the world. We also reflect on ourselves, by telling our spiritual autobiographies.
Group participants are given weekly lesson assignments to study with the help of resource guides. Each is responsible for setting their own learning goals; most spend between two to four hours in study and preparation each week. In the weekly meetings we have the opportunity to share insights and discoveries as well as discuss questions which the study materials raise.
Fr. Bob Harvey frbobh@q.com, 744-7810 is available to answer any questions you may have about EfM.
Last update 12/5/2010