Adult Education

When we think of "education" some imagine a class led by an expert who communicates to those who are learners.  However in truth, we all know that true education takes many forms.  Each group that gathers as part of the Christian Community has five characteristics:

    study ~ prayer ~ faith-sharing ~ support ~ outreach

Some focus on one aspect, others on another.

Here at St. Edward's, there are several ongoing groups which gather together to study and to share faith around a particular topic or book.  Others are organized with a focus on service and outreach.  Still others gather primarily for faith-sharing and support.  On a regular basis there are workshops for training and ongoing formation of liturgical ministers: lectors, cantors, Eucharistic ministers.  Adults who lead the Children's Liturgy of the Word each week gather to be nourished by the Word of God, to nourish each other and to prepare to break open the Word with the children. The many catechists in our Religious Education program are involved in adult education in an ongoing way through workshops, basic teacher training, 
regular meetings according to grade levels as well as their own personal preparation.

Besides these means of ongoing formation, there are periodically scheduled gatherings open to all parishioners with a focus on one aspect of our Faith Tradition: scripture, theology, ways of prayer, etc.  These gatherings are publicized in the bulletin.  If there is a particular need or desire you have, please let one of the staff know.  If we cannot provide for you here with other parishioners, we can lead you to one of many valuable programs in nearby parishes, retreat houses, schools of theology.  In particular, we recommend the Archdiocesan Institute for Ministry which offers a variety of courses in many places throughout the Archdiocese.  These courses are on basic and advanced levels in both theological foundations and ministry development in several specialty tracks: religious education, health care ministry, parish leadership, etc.  Copies of the catalogs are available in the office.

Of course, one of the greatest schools for our faith is the Liturgy. Besides Sunday Eucharist, we also offer daily Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours during some seasons.

So watch the bulletin for meetings of interest to you!