Adult Ministries

As you consider the many options available to you as an adult through Christ Church, you might ask yourself, “What kind of shape is my faith in?” What is it that you most need right now to help move you closer to God; to help you more fully experience God’s presence in your life? A growing faith shows evidence of deepening discipleship: a life of public worship and private prayer; of learning about God and study; of serving others and working to bring about God’s justice in the world. If any one of these aspects of discipleship is neglected, our faith can grow out of balance and be underdeveloped. Christ Church is intentional about leading each of us toward an ever-growing faith, whether we are beginners or far along the way.

At Christ Church, we believe that being part of a small group is one of the best ways to belong and to keep growing in the faith. Listed below are current opportunities in the following areas:

Short-Term Studies and Small Groups

Sunday Morning Traditional Classes

On-Going Spiritual Growth Groups

Fellowship and Service Groups

Support Groups

If you need help finding a group, contact:

Jennie Weeks, Director of Adult Discipleship

Sue Tongberg, Chair of the Adult Discipleship Team

Sunday Morning Traditional Classes

We have a large variety of adult classes at Christ Church, beginning at 10:10 am each Sunday. They strive to build a sense of community for members through study, mission projects, special activities and social events throughout the year. Given the variety of size and format, we encourage visitation to several classes in order to choose which one best meets your needs.

Adventurers – Room 156 (Ages 70's to 90's)
This class began in the 1960’s. Average class size is 50. The class is taught by a variety of teachers, focusing on Bible study and topical discussion. Members gather for social events at various times throughout the year and are involved in a variety of mission projects.

Bible Study – Room 012 (Ages vary)

We invite you to join this Bible study group which studies various books of the Bible and what these books teach us about living the Christian life in today's world.

Cana – Room 154 (Ages 40's to 60's)
Singles and married couples share in fellowship, study and worship of Jesus Christ. Study is on a scripture-based theme and is led by various church members. We laugh, cry, share the love of God and enjoy refreshments during our time together each week. Outside social activities, including picnics, dinners, ball games and mission projects are all part of the activities of this active and enthusiastic group. We are a friendly group who genuinely cares for one another and welcomes others to share in our Christian walk together.

Christian Homebuilders – Room 253 (Ages 30's to 50's)
Designed to meet the needs of busy families, this class strives to gain a greater understanding of what it means to be a Christian in this complicated world. Discussions are led by a wide range of informed. Our average class size is 30-40 and attendees have children ranging in age from infancy to young adulthood.

Covenant – Room 159 (Ages vary)

This class is taught by Keith Hedrick and averages 25-30 in attendance. The class focuses on studying a specific book of the Bible each quarter. The class is involved in a variety of service projects. Adults of all ages are invited to attend.

Daily Bread – Room 260 (Ages 30 to 50)
Daily Bread is a strong and growing class with a variety of opinions and healthy discussion based on Bible study. Come join class members who unite around weekly Bible study, group prayer, class retreats and support of each other in their family life. Class members participate outside the Sunday morning class as small group leaders, in mission outreach and in youth activities. You will find a strong sense of belonging, new friendships and fulfillment in Daily Bread.

Explorers – Room 251 (Ages vary)

This class is open to all who are interested in exploring the Bible and growing in their Christian faith in a relaxed and informal setting. Class members vary in age and the average attendance is around 12. Class discussion is led by class members and guest teachers.

First Things First – Room 001 (Ages 20's to 40's)

First Things First is a group of young families, with and without children, who come together to grow spiritually through prayer, study, fellowship and service while loving and supporting each other through life's joys and trials. This class averages 30 to 40 in attendance. Biblical and topical subjects are covered each week and are led by class members and guest speakers. The class also sponsors social gatherings, retreats and service projects.

Friendship – Room 250 (Ages 50's to 70's)
Adults of a broad age range, both married and single, make up this class with average attendance of 45. Classes are taught by class members and outside speakers on biblical topics as well as other topics relevant to the class. A strong mission outreach includes Gulf Coast Disaster Relief, Portland Promise Center, Fourth Avenue UMC Open Door Ministry, Wesley Manor, Ronald McDonald House and Luci Center. To promote fellowship, the Friendship Class organizes monthly social events such as dinners, Bats games and trips to museums and fairs.

Living Proof – Room 011 (Ages 20's to 40's)

Living Proof is a group of young adults and couples who desire to grow in their faith as they deal with life's issues of raising children and balancing home/work schedules. This class averages 25 in attendance. Biblical and topical subjects are covered each week and are led by class members.

Micah 6:8 – Room 104 (Ages vary)

Topical lessons are led by David Stierle. The class meets for Bible and Social Justice studies and averages 10 in attendance. Our focus comes from Micah 6:8, "What does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" Past lessons have included Amos; The Genesis of Justice; Is God Green; Jesus, the Bible and Homosexuality; Misquoting Jesus; The Ten Commandments and Human Rights; Religious Art; and The Letter of James. On each fifth Sunday, we have a music program featuring the fine musical artists of Christ Church.

Mulligans – Room 101 (Ages vary)

This class began as a Disciple Bible Study and many of the members have been through all five long-term Disciple classes. Led by class members and guest speakers, the group studies various books of the Bible as well as topical books. Average attendance is 15 to 20. This class meets from 9:15 - 10:45 am.

Nooma – Room 258 (Ages 18 to 30's)

This class is designed for young adults. Each week, life topics and areas that will push us to grow in our faith are discussed. The class is facilitated by Mark Ray and Lesley Gookin.

Partners With Christ – Room 132 (Ages vary)

Aptly named, Partners With Christ members seek a closer walk with Christ and strive to turn Christian principles into action. The class is organized similar to a small study group and maintains a relaxed atmosphere. The class is not limited by age and is often attended by members and their teenage or young adult children.

Pathfinders – Room 158 (Ages 70's to 90's)
The Pathfinders class originated at Broadway Methodist Church, a predecessor of Christ Church and has continued, uninterrupted to the present. The class includes approximately 100 members including some home-bound members who remain connected to the class. Sunday class meetings are led by class members, other church members, clergy and guest speakers covering Bible and related topics. Every second month, the class meets for a social with entertainment and an extra time of fellowship. Traditionally, Pathfinders have made monthly and/or annual gifts to various selected missions as part of our outreach to help care for others.

Pioneers – Room 252 (Ages 50's to 70's)
The Pioneer Class is a closely knit supportive group of couples and singles who join together to learn from God's word, thank Him for His many blessings, and work to serve in His name. Pioneers are mission-oriented, providing group and individual support to numerous projects. Weekly lessons are taught by a variety of church members and guest speakers.

Seekers – Room 254 (Ages 60's to 80's)
Caring, sharing, and questioning are typical interactions in this class. We seek God’s will for our lives, individually and collectively. Sunday lessons focus on Bible studies, with some related book studies and topical presentations. Social gatherings and outreach efforts happen throughout the year as well as an annual out-of-town spiritual retreat. Average class size is 35-40.

On-Going Spiritual Growth Groups

Monday Morning Book Study – Mondays from 9 to 10:30 am in Room 252

On Monday mornings, we offer a group that studies various books of the Bible and other topical book studies. Led by Jennie Weeks. Click here to see the current study

Walk to Emmaus

For those who have attended an Emmaus weekend. Contact Jodi Holley for information 326-0527.

Women Specific

Booked For Lunch – 2nd Thursday of each month at 12 pm in Room 252

Interested in a women’s monthly book study group? Bring your lunch and join us at noon once a month as we discuss contemporary books and the themes within these books that touch our lives of faith. Led by Jennie Weeks and Bobbie Larkin. Click here to see the current study

Mom to Mom: Growing together - Wednesdays from 6:15 to 7:15 pm in Room 159

This study is designed for women who desire growth as moms, as well as an opportunity to intellectually, relationally, and spiritually commune. This is the perfect opportunity to be part of a small group while your children are in Psalm Kids. Mom to Mom study will offers a weekly time of support, encouragement and great fellowship. Led by Jena Wheelock.

Sarah – 4th Tuesday of each month at 10 am in Room 158

A monthly book study led by Rosemary Smith. Contact her at 895-0729

Sisters of Grace – Sundays in Room 251
A book study group for women. Sundays from 5-6:30 pm. Contact Debbie Holladay at 339-7025 for more information.

Tuesday Morning Book Review – 3rd Tuesday of each month at 10 am in Room 158

Led by Nancy Lutz. Contact her at 423-8334

United Methodist Women
This ministry at Christ Church is designed to reflect our denomination's larger purpose for Women's Ministry which is to "be a community of women whose purpose is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive fellowship; and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church." At Christ Church, we offer both traditional United Methodist Women Circles as well as many other small groups, Bible studies, and retreats and events that encourage women to be involved in community, fellowship, and missions.

Women's Bible Study – Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11 am in Room 252

Fellowship, bible study, and support through lessons facilitated by Ricki Ashkettle and Shannon DeWeese. Click here to see the current study

Men Specific

The men of Christ Church have chosen "Ironman Ministry" as the overarching description; the Bible tells us that "Iron sharpens iron, as one man sharpens another". Therefore, we believe that men grow and foster their relationship with Christ as they study and learn together what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. We embrace traditional United Methodist Men's ministries as well as a variety of small group offerings that provide Bible Study, accountability and fellowship.

Accountability Group – Fridays at 8 am at Heine Brothers (Westport Village)

Led by Barry Oxley

Christianity in the Man – Tuesdays at 12 pm at Austin’s Restaurant

Led by Russ Wardlaw and Eric Harden

Downtown Lunch Group – 2nd Friday of each month at 12 pm

Led by Hunter Bates, Scott Dickens, and Keith Spayd

East End Men’s Group – throughout year at Martini’s Restaurant

Led by Lynn Ashkettle. Contact him for scheduled times/dates

Encouragement and Prayer Group – Last Thursday of each month at Cracker Barrel (Blankenbaker Road)

Led by Brian McWaters

United Methodist Men's Breakfast – 2nd Saturday of each month at 8 am in Fellowship Hall
Fellowship, breakfast and guest speakers. Contact Galvin Jones at 523-0012 for more information.

Fellowship and Service Groups

Card Making Group – 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month

Make cards to be sent to members of the congregation who need encouragement. Contact Judy Snively at 426-8530 for more information.

Christian Crafters – Tuesdays from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm

Needlepoint of all kinds including quilting and other crafts. Bring your own lunch and join in for fun, prayer, and devotion. Sale proceeds go to missions. Contact Barbara Curtis 425-8530

Lydia – 4th Tuesday of each month at 10 am

Group meets to conduct community service. Contact Lou Watkins at 895-4613

Needlepoint Group – Tuesdays from 1:30 to 3:30 pm

Contact Judy Snively at 426-8530 for more information.

Open Door Ministry – Daily at Fourth Avenue United Methodist

Serving meals to homeless.

Sterling Silver Tea Ministry – throughout the year

Ministry to women touched by cancer. Contact Trudy Wheeler at 899-7502

Woven Together to Serve – throughout the year

Knitting and crocheting group that creates items for local missions. Contact Linda Ebbs at 894-0726

Support Groups

Alcoholics Anonymous – Tuesdays at 6 pm
This Alcoholics Anonymous Group meets at Christ Church. It is a closed discussion meeting for alcoholics only. Contact Jennie Weeks at 893-2201 x234 for more information.

Divorce Support Group
Open to church members and non-members, this group offers coping support to those who are separated, in the process of getting divorced or already divorced. Facilitated by Dr. Jim Fleming, Counseling Pastor. Contact Jim at 893-2201 x230 for more information.

Grief Support Group
A support group for those experiencing the loss of a significant other. Facilitated by Dr. Jim Fleming, Counseling Pastor. Contact Jim at 893-2201 x230 for more information.

Living Single – 1st and 3rd Tuesdays each month at 7 pm
A gathering of single adults for discussion, guest speakers, activities and fellowship. The group also participates in other fellowship activities and outreach projects. Contact Peggy Muller at 689-0909 for more information.

Other Resources