Studies and Workshops
St. Paul's offers spiritual formation journeys through studies during Lent and Advent and often in the summer. Workshops also are offered periodically.
Event: Advent Study
Text: From Holidays to Holy Days, A Benedictine Walk through Advent by Albert Holtz, O.S.B.
Time/Dates: Thursdays, December 3-23, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Text Description: Rather than criticizing the ‘holiday’ season, this book looks at it from the point of view of Christian contemplation, once aptly described as “a long, loving look at the real.” The author, a Benedictine monk who lives in the center of downtown Newark, New Jersey, invites the reader to join him on his daily walks during the season, as he points out dozens of often unnoticed connections between our ‘holidays’ and the spiritual meaning of Advent and Christmas. In a string of colored lights, a crowd of shoppers, or the window of a toy store he uncovers such traditional Advent themes as watchful waiting, repentance, and selfless love. On the bustling sidewalks he introduces us to Isaiah, John the Baptist, and Jesus himself — all speaking their ancient Advent and Christmas messages of peace and hope and good will.
Cost: Approximately $20 for text purchased at the first session or bring your own.
Event: Lenten Study
Text: Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace, Living in the Spirit of the Prayer of St. Francis by Kent Nerburn.
Time/Dates: Thursdays, February 18 through March 25, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Text Description: Kent Nerburn’s Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace immerses us in the spirit of one of the most universally inspiring figures in history: St. Francis of Assisi. The Prayer of St. Francis boldly but gently challenges us to resist the forces of wrong and negativity with the spirit of goodwill and generosity. And Nerburn shows, in his wonderfully personal and humble way, how we each can live out the prayer’s prescription for living in our everyday and less-than-saintly lives.
Cost: Approximately $20 for text purchased at the first session or bring your own.
Interested in a Spiritual Book Club?
For more information about Spiritual Formation journeys through studies at St. Paul's, please contact Rev. Gail Williford.
Current Spiritual Formation Brochure