ACTS — Room 231
The ACTS class consists of couples and singles in their late
20's to early 40's. They enjoy curricula that deal with the foundations of our faith and Presbyterian heritage, as well as video, Christian book, and Bible studies. The class is currently studying the Gospel of Mark, having recently concluded studies on Romans, and First and Second Corinthians. The style of this class is traditional with
lecture,but offers time for questions and discussion. The class also participates
in service projects such as helping with
the St. James Lunch Ministry and visits to assisted living
homes. Teacher: Dr. Bob Stephens.
Adult Bible Study #1 — Room
052
This mix of older and younger adults, dedicated to Bible study
and its application to daily life, uses a lecture/discussion
format. They cover the entire Bible every five years. The current study is Deuteronomy. Members
enjoy fellowship with casual get-together's and service projects including visitation at Shoreham of Marietta helping with lunches at MUST. Teachers: Cheryl
Davenport, Warren Herron, Steve Walters, Steven Kelley and Les Saunders.
Chapel Class — Room 049
A friendly, thoughtful, and caring group of older adults,
this class enjoys singing hymns of praise and thorough Bible
studies, along with prayer and support for those with special needs.
This class is currently studying the lives of Israel’s kings Saul and David. Recent studies have included the Gospel of John and C. S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. The class provides an enjoyable worship and study experience and welcomes newcomers. Service projects have included Shoreham visitation and sack lunches for St. James. Teachers: Allan Rainey and Dan Valentine.
Explorers — Room 230—232
Comprised of adults of various ages, the Explorers are committed to in-depth Bible studies and contemporary topical studies. The class has used a variety of video as well as web-based curricula and more traditional book studies. They are currently studying the development of Old Testament in a video series done by Vanderbilt Divinity School Professor Amy Jill Levine. Teachers: Bill and Carol Callaway, Doug Carter, Lucy Cooley, Jill and Bill Fogarty, Susan Kuebler, Denise Lobodinski, and Gail Meacham.
Good News — Room 056
This class welcomes people of all ages who enjoy sharing their Christian faith in the study and discussion of Scriptures. The class occasionally uses stimulating video studies with well-known Christian teachers. They enjoy a high level of interaction. The class is currently studying the book of James. They enjoy social gatherings and doing a service project together. Teachers: Bob Bomar and Bill York.
Mamas and Papas — Room 050
This class began as a group of parents with children, but now includes a much broader cross section of members. They provide support for one another through prayer and friendship. This group welcomes anyone interested in Bible study and spiritual growth. Currently, the class is studying contemporary ethical issues such as the immigration crisis, using the e-mail curriculum The Thoughtful Christian. Recent studies included the Book of Confessions and the Ten Commandments. Teachers: Fred Beloin, Gary Bridges, John Howland, Bob Smith, and Dwight Wingo.
Faith Builders — Room 053
This class is made up of couples and singles mostly in their 30's and 40's. They enjoy alternating between study of Bible books and thought-provoking Christian books or video series. The current study is on biblical concepts of faith. They participate in several service projects throughout the year and enjoy occasional social gatherings as a class. Teachers: Bob Hunt and Jeff Plowman.
New Directions — Room 051
This class consists of both longtime church members and newcomers to the church. They enjoy each other's company both in the class and in activities outside the class. Using biblically based curriculum, the class seeks to identify how God calls us to express our faith today. The class is currently studying the book of Hebrews, using a study guide by John MacArthur. Other recent studies have included the books of Esther and Job, the Parables of Jesus, and a study of American church history. Teachers: Mike Beasley, Meg Hartin, Scott Hoffman, Wilkie Schell, and Paul Sherwood.
The Seekers — Room 055
Members of all ages in this group seek the meaning of God’s Word for their lives. The class studies a variety of in-depth materials and video studies. They are currently looking at the meaning of being Presbyterian, using the book Presbyterian Questions, Presbyterian Answers. They enjoy service projects together, as well as social events. Teachers: Mike Madden and Red Suhr.
Serendipity — Room 057
This large class has a wide spectrum of ages and a teaching team that provides a variety of presentation styles. Class discussion is encouraged as they seek to apply Scripture to today’s life situations. The current study is Fritz Ridenour’s book So What’s the Difference? A Look at 20 Worldviews, Faiths, and Religions and How They Compare to Christianity. The class also enjoys social functions together. Teachers: Estelle Bogle, Charlie Etheridge, Jim Lyle, Nancy MacPherson, Adair Reddock, Mary Martha Scarr, and Harrison Williams.
Summit — Room 034
Comprised of married and single individuals in their 20–30’s, this class covers various topics from discussion of biblical passages to books about our faith. The current study is a web-based curriculum Gospel Christianity (released by Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC.) Previous studies have included The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoffer, Meeting God by J.L. Packer, and the Book of Mark. There are plans for short-term mission trips and work projects. MUST Ministries sack lunches was a recent service project. Teachers: Christie Ashton, Mike Sanders, and David Sweat.
Young Adults — 054
Targeting young adults facing important decisions in life, this class discusses such issues as choosing a career, current events, and ethical dilemmas. They also provide special events for young adults, especially during holiday and summer breaks. They are currently looking at current news events using an e-mail curriculum entitled The Wired Word. Teachers: Scott Hawley, Nate and Sue Marini, Jim Scarr.
Bible Study/Small Groups
A number of weekday studies in various styles and formats
are available. Class offerings and times are listed below.
DISCIPLE I DISCIPLE, a nationally-acclaimed 34-week study with more than 1.5 million graduates in 40 denominations, will be offered on Wednesday evenings from late August to mid-May. What makes DISCIPLE unique is its emphasis on implementing the teachings of the Bible in our lives. Participants read scripture and develop daily study habits. A short video presentation is viewed and insights are shared in weekly meetings. Advance level DISCIPLE courses are also available for those who have completed the first level. While the current study is now filled, watch for another study group beginning next August.
Christian Believer
Developed by the same people who brought the DISCIPLE Bible Study, Christian Believer is a study that focuses specifically on our Christian Beliefs. Over a 30-week period, participants will read the writings of ancient and modern Christian theologians and commentators, recording own their observations and questions in a study manual. Cost: $40 for the study package. Scholarships and/or payment plans available. Just ask. Christian Believer will meet Monday evenings, 6-8 p.m.
Monday, 10:00 a.m. — Women’s
Group; in members’ homes
Group meets the 1st and 3rd weeks. Leader: Jane Dillman
(770) 421-9404.
Monday, 11:00 a.m.—12:00 noon;
Men’s Group; FPC Room 051
Group meets 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month in room 051. They will be studying
“The Purpose Driven Life”. Contact Harrison Williams
at (770) 422-8246 or Phil Medlin at (770) 427-7866.
Monday, 7 p.m. — Women’s
Bible Study; FPC Glover Room
This group meets the first and third Monday evenings. New
members to the class are welcome. The current study is of Paul's letters to the Galatians and the Philippians taught by Rev. Denise Beltzner. Meetings begin September 17.
Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. — Women’s
Bible Study
These weekly studies begin with an optional continental breakfast
at 9:00 a.m. This group is studying the Minor Prophets featuring Atlanta area women in the video study The Amazing Collection. Small group discussion follows the video presentation. Contact:
. Childcare provided
by reservation only.
Wednesday Evening FourthNight Programs / Studies (September through May)
Wednesday evenings are always special times at First Presbyterian from late August through May. A buffet dinner with choice of hot meal or salad bar is served in the Great Hall from 5:30–6:30 p.m. There are special menu items for small children. Cost: $4.00 for adults, $1.00 for children 12 and younger. A brief worship service begins at 6:20 p.m. followed by activities for all ages at 6:30 p.m.
High profile programs are often presented on Wednesday evenings, including special speakers, actors doing Christian plays and musical performances. Classes on a variety of topics are offered three quarters of each year. There are charges for some classes. Some have optional books for sale. Watch for registration brochures on FourthNight dinner tables. Learn more...
Wednesday, 6:30-7:30 a.m. —
Men’s Group; Denny’s Restaurant
Group meets weekly at Denny’s Restaurant near Cumberland
Mall. This group is studying the Letters of Paul. Contact: Pat MacPherson at (770) 655-1711.
Thursday's Women on the Run, 9:15-11:00 a.m.
This group participates in a run/walk after a Bible study. This group is studying the book Bad Girls of the Bible. Childcare is available by reservation. Contact: Leigh Ann Repp (770)-427-0535.
Thursday Bible Study and Lunch;
FPC Great Hall
The Thursday Bible and Lunch continues each week with a thought-provoking study. This fall the group will be looking at the development, message, and use of the Bible, utilizing lessons from the web-based curriculum The Thoughtful Christian. Associate Pastor of Education Don Esa leads the discussion. Lunch is available for $3 beginning at 11:45 a.m.; the study starts at 12:15 p.m.
Saturday, 7:00-8:30 a.m. —
Men Serving God Small Groups; FPC Holland Hall
Groups meet every other week in Holland Hall. The current study is Regi Campbell’s book About My Father’s Business. Campbell will be the guest speaker at a men’s retreat scheduled for November 3-4. Contact: Pat MacPherson (770) 655-1711. Click here for more information on Men’s
Small Groups.
Community Groups — Members’
Homes
These groups are composed of adults in various stages of life.
They meet bi-weekly in the home of a group member to share
life experiences, grow in faith, pray and connect with Christian
friends. Meeting days and times vary. Call Spencer Lundgaard
(770) 427-0293 for more information.
Church Library Committee
This committee is working to update the selection of books
in the church library and offer computerized search and check-out
services. Volunteers interested in library service are needed.
Contact Martha Farrar at (770) 428-7554.
Wednesday Evening Studies (September through May)
Wednesday evenings are always special times at First Presbyterian
from late August through May. A buffet dinner with choice
of hot meal or salad bar is served in the Great Hall from
5:30–6:30 p.m. There are special menu items for small
children. Cost: $4.00 for adults, $1.00 for children 12 and
younger. A brief worship service begins at 6:20 p.m. followed
by activities for all ages at 6:30 p.m.
Programs for Adults
High profile programs are often presented on Wednesday evenings,
including special speakers, actors doing Christian plays and
musical performances. Classes on a variety of topics are offered
three quarters of each year. There are charges for some classes.
Some have optional books for sale. Watch for registration
brochures on FourthNight dinner tables and in the Gathering
Space.
What FPC Adults Are Currently Studying
Class
Study
ACTS (Sunday School)
The Gospel of Mark
Adult Bible Study 1 (Sunday School)
Continuation of a 5-year study of the Bible, currently in the book of Deuteronomy
Chapel Class (Sunday School)
The lives of Kings Saul and David in 1 & 2 Samuel
Explorers (Sunday School)
Video series on development of the Old Testament by Vanderbilt Divinity School Professor Amy Jill Levine
Faith Builders (Sunday School)
Biblical concepts of faith
Good News (Sunday School)
The Book of James
Mamas and Papas (Sunday School)
Current events from web-based curriculum The Thoughtful Christian (September: Immigration Crisis)
New Directions (Sunday School)
The Book of Hebrews using John MacArthur's study guide
Seekers (Sunday School)
The meaning of being Presbyterian using the book Presbyterian Questions, Presbyterian Answers
Serendipity (Sunday School)
Fritz Ridenour's book So What's the Difference? A look at 20 World views, Faiths & Religions & How They Compare to Christianity
Summit (Sunday School)
Web-based curriculum Gospel Christianity (released by Redeemer Presbyterian Church, NYC)
Young Adults 18 - 24 (Sunday School)
Current events using the e-mail curriculum The Wired Word
Monday Men's Bible Study
J. I. Packer's Knowing God
Monday Christian Believer
30-week study of basic Christian theology using Bible and selected readings from theologians
Monday Night Women's Study (1st and 3rd Mondays)
Philippians and Galatians
Presbyterian Women Today Bible Study (2nd Monday)
The book Hearing God's Call in Jonah and Ruth
Tuesday Ladies' Bible Study
Video study The Amazing Collection: Minor Prophets
Adult
Classes
