Our HIKING TRAIL metaphor is here! Perhaps you have heard it from the pulpit that we will be traveling along the “Hiking Trail” to help us all visualize and understand the path to ever-deepening spirituality and discipleship. At PCHUM we recognize that each one is walking in a different place along the path of our faith journey. Nonetheless it is important to our personal faith formation, and that of the whole community that we all engage in active Christian discipleship. It is our hope that with each season of Christian education you will find a class or a small group that meets your spiritual need wherever you find yourself along the journey, and that you will join this faith community in active Christian discipleship. See you along the trail!
**Check out our Sunday School Schedule and join one of our current small group offerings.**
Scenic Overview (identify the desire)
New to the faith? The United Methodist Church? or more specifically Portage Chapel Hill UMC? This may be a good place for you start!
A Casual Stroll (check out the terrain)
Classes may include Social Principles of the United Methodist Church, or some introductory Bible classes. Some casual stroll classes will explore Christian practice, and spiritual development.
A Day Hike (Deepening connection)
A little more involved and a little deeper in spiritual development. Short term, yet in depth Bible studies may be offered, as well as some classes and small groups that push us towards action, expand in Christian practice as spiritual formation.
Wilderness Trail (Challenge of Radical Faith)
The wilderness trail is that point on the journey in which we take our discipleship to a place of deep commitment. This is where you will find discipleship/small group opportunities such as
- Disciple one and three – 34 week commitments to in depth Bible study and personal spiritual growth
- Home Covenant Groups - home based small groups focused on prayer, Bible study, and accountability for an indefinite period of time.
- Financial Peace University – “The program is a biblically based accountability curriculum…teaching you to eliminate debt, build wealth, and give like never before.” (Ramsey, 2008).
- Companions in Christ – A 28 week exploration in the spiritual disciplines.
Become a Trail Guide (sheep becomes shepherd)
Pastors Barry and Gini will be offering opportunities for folks who have really been working on spiritual development and a deepening discipleship to become group facilitators, teachers, and other spiritual leaders in and for the congregation. Watch for opportunities! In the meantime, listen for God’s Spirit calling you to places where your passions might be put to use in discipleship. If you need help listening or discerning, give Barry a call.
