ADULTS

Sunday Forum

Join us on Sunday mornings at 9:15 am for Sunday Forums, enriching presentations and discussion exploring our community and faith. You can also select and watch our recorded Sunday Forums.

SEPTEMBER 14

Legends, Lies & Loot: The Story of Relics and the Church

Come hear the tales of ancient relics, pieces of the “true cross,” locks of martyrs’ hair, or their personal devotional items. All of these drove pilgrimage and its accompanying profit to churches and cathedrals over the centuries. But how much of these stories are rooted in fact and how much is simply legend, and does it matter?

SEPTEMBER 21

Gen Z - Opening the Door to The Next America

Generation Z is the most historic generation this country has seen in over 400 years. Why? Because it’s the last generation where white people (non-Hispanic) will be the majority of the U.S. population. We are now at an historic moment in our demographic history. No country has ever undergone the historic demographic change the USA will undergo in the next 20 years. How did we get here?

OCTOBER 12

DR Team

Our mission team from this summer’s trip to the Dominican Republic will share stories from their time with the people of San Gabriel in Consuelo. This year we took our biggest team ever to lead vacation bible school and do work on the buildings and grounds. Hear more about the thriving relationship between our two congregations.

OCTOBER 19, NOVEMBER 2, 9, AND 16

Wisdom of the Mystics

Throughout Christian history, individuals have had experiences and revelations of Christ that transformed them and unlocked deep insight into the nature of God. Join the Rev. Andrew Moore as we explore the lives and writing of some of these saints, including John of the Cross, Teresa of Avila, Julian of Norwich, and more. How can their wisdom change how we relate to God and live our daily lives today?

DECEMBER 7

The Meaning is in the Waiting

Advent is a season of waiting, intentionally preparing for Christmas. How can the spiritual practice of waiting offer vitality and depth to our spiritual lives? Join us for a meaningful time of pause and reflection in this busy time of year. 

Watch Recorded Sunday Forums

Wednesday Hybrid Bible Study

Wednesdays from Noon to 1:00 pm

In Person (Smoot Conference Room) AND on Zoom


The stories of Genesis lay the foundation for the entirety of Christian life and practice. But how did this complicated book come together and how have different interpretations of it changed over the centuries?


Join us as we explore these questions and more using Peter Enns and Jared Byas’ book Genesis for Normal People: A Guide to the Most Controversial, Misunderstood, and Abused Book of the Bible. Copies of the book can be purchased from the Parish Office for $15.


Even if you haven’t read the book, you are always welcome to join us for lively and engaging conversation. For the Zoom link, watch your email on Wednesday mornings or contact the Parish Office.

Women in Faith (WIF)

Tuesday, October 14 at 6:30 pm in Brooks Library

Our topic will be "Faith and Works." Join us for an exploration of how we manage the tension between knowing that we are saved by faith as we are called to do good works. We'll look at some of the examples we find in the Bible and how they can inspire us. All women are welcome! Questions? Contact the Parish Office or Susan Symington.

RESERVE BY OCTOBER 16

Day Trippers Excursion: Great Country Farms

Snickersville Tpk, Bluemont VA

Friday, October 24

This Trip is a Fall Treat. We will visit the corn maze. There are pumpkins to pick, hayrides and mini golf. We begin with individual lunches at their Henway Cider Barn at 11:00 am, then spend the afternoon touring the Farm. Reservations for the first twelve Trippers should be made by October 16 by sending $12 admission fee to Tim Barwick in the Parish Office with “Farm” on the memo line. Carpools will leave the St. John's Church parking lot at 10:00 am. Qestions? Contact Greg Dole or Deborah Page. See more excursions HERE. Excursion schedule subject to change.

Fourth Sunday Study

Sunday, October 26 from 9:10 to 10:00 am; In Person in Smoot Conference Room AND on Zoom

Join us for a new formation offering on the fourth Sunday of the month. Led by parishioners and using resources from the Yale Bible Study series, Women in the Bible will “shed new light on familiar characters like Mary Magdalene, Sarah, and other characters who are less well known to many Bible readers.” There is no required preparation, and you are welcome to attend any or all of the discussions. If you would like to join on Zoom, please watch your Wednesday email, or contact the Parish Office.

Series Syllabus

Booklovers Discussion

Tuesday, October 28 from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Zoom

Join us for a discussion of David Guterson’s Snow Falling on Cedars. Against the background of a murder mystery, a community must confront memories of the fate of its Japanese American residents during World War II. Contact. For questions or the Zoom link, contact the Parish Office or Nancy Simon .


Additional Booklovers Discussions:

  • Nov. 20: Time of the Child by Niall Williams

Faith & Film - Stories of Faith

2nd Wednesdays at at 6:00 pm in Shears Hall

This fall we are excited for the return of our Faith & Film series. Meeting at 6:00 pm in Shears Hall on the second Wednesday of the month, we have a lineup of outstanding documentaries that explore the stories of remarkable people and the events that were turning points in their life and faith. You are welcome to bring your dinner or snacks as we enjoy and discuss these films together.


  • September 10: The Philadelphia Eleven
  • October 8: Weapons of the Spirit
  • November 12: I Am Pauli Murray

Caring Close Knit Crafters (CCKC)

Thursday, November 13 at 10:30 am AND 7:00 pm in Smoot Conference Room

CCKC is expanding hours to enable working folks to enjoy the fun and fellowship while working on projects like knitting, crocheting, needlepointing, painting, and mending. In addition to our regular group meeting at 10:30 am on the second Thursday of each month we’re introducing a second opportunity at 7:00 pm. We hope you will mark your calendar and join us. Bring a friend! Questions? Contact the Parish Office or Martha High.