Christian Formation: Growing in Faith Together at Emmanuel
When browsing the shelves of used bookstore recently, I came across several Sunday school guidebooks printed in 1936. They were only $2.00, so I tossed them into my cart. And I have gotten a kick out of reading about the way things were done nearly 100 years ago.
Suffice it to say, expectations for Sunday school lessons have changed quite a bit between then and now. I laughed aloud reading one recommendation: “Assign 20 minutes of daily homework for ages 10-12.” Imagine telling a child in 2026 to return to church next week with their homework complete!
In 1936, culturally speaking, attendance at Sunday school was more common. Adults and children came to class every week, and Christian education was woven into the expectations of church life. Of course, the world has changed, but our need to grow in faith has not.
Today, we often use the term Christian Formation rather than simply “Christian education” or “Sunday school.” And Christian Formation is much broader than gathering in a classroom to learn information about the Bible.
Christian Formation is the lifelong process through which we are continually being formed into the people God calls us to be. Formation involves learning the Biblical stories and theology of our faith, but it is also about prayer, worship and service. We don’t have to have all the answers. And questions, doubt, and the challenges of life are not avoided, but invited. In that way, Christian Formation is an on-going process in our lives. Formation is not simply about what we know. It is about becoming more like Christ and following him as disciples.
At Emmanuel this fall, we are offering opportunities for people of all ages and stages of faith. Some are designed for learning, while others are for conversation. Some of our classes explore Scripture, while others help us think about how faith shapes our relationships, families, and everyday lives. Whether you have been an Episcopalian your entire life, are new to Christianity, or are simply curious and wondering, there is a place for you in the life of formation at Emmanuel.
Below you’ll find descriptions of the programs we have this fall for children, youth and adults. Take a look and find a place to learn, connect and grow. For more information on any of these programs, contact the Rev. Sara Arnette at sarnette@emmanuel-parish.org.
Children’s Formation at Emmanuel Episcopal Church
At Emmanuel, we believe children are full members of the Body of Christ, and we strive to build a foundation of faith for all ages. Our programs invite children and youth to grow in the knowledge and love of God and to ask the questions that deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ.
Our Programs
Nursery Infants through age 3
Sunday 9am am-11:30am
Emmanuel’s Nursery is a joyful nurturing space where our youngest children become comfortable in their church community. Bible stories and age-appropriate art projects provide a foundation for understanding the Gospel message.
Children’s Chapel
Sundays during the 10:00 am service
Age 3-2nd grade
Children sit with their families for the beginning of the service, then follow the Children’s Cross and their teachers to the Parish House. Emmanuel uses the Godly Play curriculum, a Montessori-based approach that invites children to hear the sacred Bible stories, to wonder about their meaning, and explore the stories through art and play. Each session helps children develop their natural spiritual curiosity and to form their language of faith from a young age.
Teachers walk children back into church before the Eucharistic Prayer.
Cherub Choir
Ages 4–7 | Rehearses Wednesday at 4
Chorister Choir
Grades 3 and up | Rehearses Wednesdays at 5 The Cherub Choir, for grades K-2, and the Chorister Choir, for grades 3-8, allow the young singer to nurture their voice, learn the importance of music within the context of worship, foster leadership skills, and develop deep and meaningful friendships with other young Christians.
Acolyte Program
Ages 5 and up
Serving as an acolyte gives children and teens an important role in the worshiping life of the church, helping them understand that they are not simply observers but active members of the Body of Christ. Through participating in worship, learning its rhythms and traditions, and serving alongside others, young people grow in faith and deepen their sense of belonging in the Christian community.
Youth Group
6th grade and up
Meets Wednesday at 6pm
Emmanuel’s Youth Group, commonly called EYC, engages kids in their middle school and high school years. Our goal is to provide a safe space for your child develop a personal relationship with God and their church. We prioritize bible study, prayer, curiosity, food, and fun!
Adult Christian Formation
Sunday Forum
Beginning September 13, Sundays 9-9:45
Fall Topics:
· Sept. 13 and 20 God, Life, You and Me
o A discussion on the important topics of life in faith: Gratitude, loving ourselves, hope in suffering, and dealing with doubt. Led by Bishop David Bane. Meets in the Guild Room.
· Sept 27 Ministry Fair. Get connected and meet new folks. No Forum.
· October 4, 11, 18 & 25 What is stewardship? Beyond the pledge campaign.
o Led by Fr. Morris & Mtr. Sara. Meets in the Parish Hall.
Emmanuel 101
September 13 & 20 with Ministry Fair on Sept. 27
9-9:45 am Parish Hall
For newcomers and anyone who has questions about Emmanuel, the Episcopal Church, or the Christian faith. Then, get involved at the Ministry Fair on Sept. 27
Confirmation Classes
Exploring the Christian Faith and The Episcopal Church
Sundays beginning September 13 at 11:30
For adults who are interested in a deeper exploration of the Christian faith and The Episcopal Church. Everyone is welcome, and the class is required to be confirmed, for reaffirmation, or being received into The Episcopal Church. Our bishop visit is in February 2027. Lunch provided. Please register with Mtr. Sara (sarnette@emmanuel-parish.org)
Book Groups
Tokens of Trust by Rowan Williams
September 8–October 16
Tuesdays 11:15am–12:30 pm Guild Room
Read and discuss Rowan Williams’ Tokens of Trust, an accessible and thoughtful exploration of Christian faith and what it means to place our trust in God. Led by Diana Turner-Forte.
The God You Need to Know by Margaret Feinberg
Beginning Sept. 16, Wednesdays 11 am-12 pm Guild Room
Spend time exploring Margaret Feinberg’s invitation to know God more deeply and discover how our understanding of God shapes the way we live. Led by Laurie Holden.
Bible Studies
Forward Day-by-Day Bible Study
Beginning Sept. 14
Mondays at 11am in the Guild Room
Start the week by reflecting together on Scripture and the daily readings from Forward Day-by-Day. Led by Laurie Holden.
Zoom Lectionary Study
On-Going, Tuesdays 1-2 pm on Zoom
Our Zoom Bible Study offers conversation and reflection on the upcoming Sunday lectionary readings. Open to all. For the link to join, please contact the church office.
Clergy Lectionary Study
Beginning Sept 15
Tuesdays 3-4 pm in the Guild Room
Join Fr. Morris and Mtr. Sara for a casual discussion of the upcoming Sunday’s lectionary readings.
Small Groups
The Big Relief: The Urgency of Grace for a Worn-Out World by David Zahl
Sunday Evenings 5:30–7pm -OR-Monday Afternoons 2–3:30pm
September 20–October 25
What if grace really is the answer to the exhaustion, pressure, and expectations of modern life? Join this six-session book study exploring David Zahl’s The Big Relief and its invitation to rediscover the freedom of grace. Choose either the Sunday evening or Monday afternoon group. Pre-registration required. When registering, indicate your preferred meeting time. Click here to register.
Faith at Home
Raising Faithful Kids: A Four-Week Conversation for Parents
Wednesdays, September 23, 30 & October 7, 14
6-7:00pm Guild Room
Raising children is full of joy, wonder, and some really big questions. Join us for a relaxed conversation about raising faithful kids in the real world. Together, we’ll explore practical ways to incorporate faith into everyday family life from the dinner table, to bedtime, to moments of conflict and uncertainty. Bring the family for Wednesday dinner and then join the discussion. Childcare provided.
Men’s Group
Starting in October, the Men’s Group will meet on Monday evenings at 7pm in the Guild Room.
Education for Ministry (EfM)
Education for Ministry (EfM) is a program created by the School of Theology at the University of the South-Sewanee. It has been in existence for 50 years, and there are thousands of participants and graduates around the world. The program consists of study of the Hebrew Bible and New Testament; church history; and ethics, spirituality and theology. Much more than a Bible study, however, EfM students learn how to reflect theologically on their lives in the world as people of faith.
Registration for Emmanuel’s EfM group for Fall 2026 class is closed. Look for registration for Fall 2027 in the spring. For more information see