Adult Faith Exploration

Adult Faith Exploration

Fall Adult Faith Exploration

Plan to join us on Sundays
in September & October

Gatherings in room E-204
from 9:00am to 10:00am

SEPTEMBER
Our Earth Justice Team invites you to a three-part discussion of the book, CLIMATE WAYFINDING, Healing Ourselves and the Planet We Call Home.  The author, Rhodes Scholar, Dr. Katharine Wilkinson, begins the book with her sixteen-year-old self on a ridge in Pisgah Forest, NC. The book focuses on us, not green house gas emissions and includes stirring poetry and personal essays from a variety of voices. If you haven’t the time or inclination to read the book, please don’t let that stop you from coming to the class and being in community with us.  
At this link https://www.climatewayfinding.earth/resources, you can view the 8 dynamics of climate engagement which will be the focus of class, plus you can access many of the resources from the book as well: meditations, poetry and music playlists. Here’s two of the 8 dynamics to wet your whistle: 1.) I have a sense of possibility, authentic power, and joy in the work. 2.) I feel connected to Earth and kindred community. During one of the classes we will watch a short TED talk titled, 3 Questions To Build Resilience, by Sister True Dedication, a student of Thich Nhat Hanh. We look forward to seeing you in September!
 
Currently, Malaprop’s has 5 copies on their shelf or you can order from your favorite book seller.  

Contact outreach@uccasheville.org with any questions.







 

Since the Sunday schedule will start out with a discussion of two excellent books, I wanted the following initial Thursday evening sessions to use more video-based content.

“Spiritually Thirsty” Thursday Schedule:

Zoom Link for All Thursday events: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89280049388

Summary:  This graduation speech covers numerous life lessons which will help spark a lively and engaging conversation.  More specifically, after listening to the speech together we will discuss our reactions and impressions and how it touches upon spiritual and theological topics relating to: our “default settings” of self-centeredness; one definition of true freedom; and the importance of paying attention and demonstrating compassion for others.

Summary: This interfaith and international interview and photo portrait project is an inspiration for us all and well-worth our close inspection. 

In preparation for our gathering, please review the Portraits in Faith website generally, and then focus on the following:

1) Since there are over 500 interviews in the Portrait Series, please review the various categories listed on the website; scan at least 10 interviews; and be prepared to share which two (2) you found to be the most meaningful and why.

2) Review the following questions that were posed to each person being interviewed, and be prepared to share your answers with the group. What is your concept of God or a Higher Power, if you have one?
– What is your concept of God or a Higher Power, if you have one?
– What does it mean to you to have faith and what is your earliest memory of having faith?
– What was the first time in your life you felt like you had to, or chose to, rely upon God (as
you understand God)?
– Tell me about a time you doubted your faith, and what happened?
– What are you most grateful for?
– What is your greatest wish?      

  • 10/1/26:           A Justice-Oriented Primer on the Midterm Elections – Ron Katz and Alice Martin-Adkins

Summary:  In the midst of social, economic, and political upheaval, the right to vote allows us to express ourselves, to live out our faith, and to support candidates who are most closely aligned with our values and commitment to social justice. During this interactive gathering, Ron Katz will draw upon his background in community organizing and non-profit leadership in Asheville to share import and educational insights on our electoral choices.

  • 10/15/26:         A Fresh Look at Prison Ministry – Pete Anderson & Ed Clark

Summary:  One clear and unambiguous command of Christ is to visit and care for those who are imprisoned (Matthew 25:31-40).  During this session, we will discuss prison ministry from a variety of perspectives, including the historic, academic, personal – as well as how you can get involved in volunteer opportunities.

  • 11/5/26 & Remaining Sessions in 2026 – (Book: “Holy Envy” – Barbara Brown Taylor)

Summary:    Apart from reading and discussing this insightful book, these sessions will also involve hearing from guest speakers and attending local worship services in synagogues, mosques, etc. (Limit: 12 people).