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We believe that our faith can be continually nourished and renewed by study and reflection and by sharing ideas with one another. We believe that studying scripture can renew us and empower us for faithful service to God and the Church. This renewal can be fueled by groups coming together and exploring the Bible and faith-related topics in depth. At New Hope, we offer countless learning opportunities for everyone.
SUNDAY SCHOOL classes for Preschool to Adult meet each Sunday from 10:00-11:10 A.M. Children's classes meet from September to May. Children’s Sunday School is blessed to have 16 very dedicated teachers providing education to 50-60 children and teens each Sunday.
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL meets throughout the year. Topics have included the Lutheran Book of Faith, a summer-long study of the Sermon on the Mount, a review of Muslim and Jewish holy days, and Christmas and Easter-related topics during the holiday seasons. The current topic is part of an on-going study of the history of the Christian Church with in-depth studies of the foundations and principles of our faith, including the Trinity, the Eucharist, the Holy Spirit, Salvation, and other mysteries, and with a special focus on the Reformation.
CONFIRMATION continues as a vital mission of our church. There is a two-year program of study: year one is Bible study and year two focuses on the Small Catechism and Lutheranism studies. Service projects and retreats are a vital part of the study. We use the “Here We Stand” curriculum published by Augsburg Fortress. The program is supported by a host of instructors, guides for small group instruction, senior high school youth guides, and many parents.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL is held for a week each summer. This past year, over 60 children and 40 volunteers played and learned together.
FAITH HOME is an inter-generational group for families, couples, and singles to study together and share experiences and faith issues and to share a meal. It meets on Friday evenings most of the year.
SMALL GROUPS meet regularly in the church and in one another's homes to study scripture and share fellowship. These include a Friday Bible Study, a Wednesday Morning Bible Study, a Book Group, a Sunday Afternoon Women’s Bible Study, and a Young Adults Bible Study. Other small groups have met this past year to study various topical themes, including Genetic research and evangelism in the church.
A SENIOR BIBLE CAMP will have its third season this year for our "young at heart" friends over 50, who join together for education, discussion, exercise, crafts, song, and friendship.
The fully staffed NURSERY is open every Sunday between services.
Written DEVOTIONALS for both Advent and Lenten seasons are developed each year, allowing contributions from all age groups within the congregation.
WORKSHOPS AND LECTURES in neighboring churches and other venues are publicized regularly in the weekly bulletins.
The LIBRARY is stocked with books on Christian topics, Bible study, worship, prayer, and life issues, and is open to all. We also have a large collection of the works of Martin Luther.
Please feel free to email the Education Ministry Team with any questions or concerns.
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