Looking for Session Two? October 12 - November 16, register here.
Ephesians: Christ Faith, Christ Life
Instructor: Rev. Pem Cooley
William Barclay referred to the Epistle to the Ephesians as "the Queen of the Epistles." Others have been even more lavish by referring to it as "the crown of St. Paul's writings," or "the divinest composition of man." Let us gather together to experience this summary of Pauline thought, allowing Paul to remind us of Jesus' impact on our lives and to motivate us to respond accordingly.
Faith, Film and Theology
Instructor: Mike Eby
We will look at a variety of full length movies and shorts in search of Biblical representations and principles. Both English-based and foreign films will be introduced, including some popular and ob-scure titles. Our time of questioning and discussion will emphasize 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22. Films and Faith is open to all adults.
Financial Peace University (Dave Ramsey)
Instructors: Lee Pence and Kitty Kendrick
August 24- November 16
Special Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Class Fee: $85/family unit
Among the things Jesus talked about, money was mentioned often. This course is designed to increase savings, reduce and avoid debt, and provide participants financial peace by following biblical principles. More than one million families have attended Financial Peace University with amazing results. On average, these families paid off $5,300 of debt and saved $2,700 in just the first 90 days! Stop worrying about money, and start your journey to financial peace today!
There are 13 weeks, including the first lesson which is free to anyone. After Lesson one, participants must purchase the member's kit. Married and engaged members may attend as one unit. Contact
for questions or more information.
Grilling 101
Instructor: Mike Clotfelter
This class is a beginner's class in cooking on an outside grill. We will be cooking exclusively on charcoal, but techniques can be adapted to gas. A meal that we cook will be served at each session.
Introduction to French
Instructor: Leanne MacLeod
Are you planning a trip to a French-speaking country or would you simply like to learn something new? Whatever the reason, this class will teach you some basic phrases in French and will give you resources for further study. I can try to tailor the session to your needs as well. All that's required for class is pen and paper if you'd like to take notes. À bientôt j'espère!
Marriage Issues
Instructor: Rev. Keith Gunter
5-week class beginning on August 31
All couples who are engaged, newly married, or veterans of marriage are invited to join this open atmosphere where we will address the joys and challenges of marriage. This discussion-based class will invite attendees to share their experiences. Time together will allow for learning from each other about such common pitfalls of marriage as financial struggles, children, work, and major transitions in life. Various follow-up resources will be suggested for each couple to consider as they discern what they need to focus on beyond the group time. There will be an opportunity for an overnight experience. (The overnight is optional and will have a fee to be determined at the time).
New and Interested FPC Member's Class
Instructor: Matt Burnham
If you are a new member, or are interested in becoming a member, come learn about the life of First Presbyterian Church, Marietta (FPC). Participants will get to know others who are new to FPC, learn about the church and its ministries and missions, and find out how to actively participate in church life. The class leader and guest speakers will lead discussions on what it means to be a part of FPC and to make a meaningful contribution as a new member.
Orphan Crisis in America
Instructors: Patricia Sprinkle and Team
The orphan crisis in America is a silent crisis, but very real nevertheless, even in Cobb County. Scripture is very explicit that caring for orphans is one thing God requires of us. Therefore, this class will explore the scope of the crisis in our own community, put faces to the crisis, and explore practical ways First Presbyterian individuals and families can care for these orphans in our midst. Open to anybody with a big heart and a curious mind.
Personal Fitness
Instructor: Jeff Cain
Let's get in shape! We'll work together on various strength, mobility, and endurance exercises as we run, jump, lunge, and challenge our arms and legs with rapid movement. Students should expect elevated heart rates, heavy breathing, and sweating for 45 continuous minutes. Please arrive at the first class dressed in conservative exercise attire and running shoes, and bring drinking water, hand towel, and an exercise mat. Most importantly, don't forget a "can-do" attitude!
Photography: How to Take and Use Digital Photos
Instructor: Al Eckford
Hundreds of people in our church and community have thousands of pictures either stored on their computers or sitting in a box in a dark closet. All of these pictures are sitting, patiently waiting to be viewed by friends and family. We will explore techniques for taking better digital pictures, and also some new ways of storing and sharing them. Come and let's find your inner Artisan! Bring your digital camera and laptop (not required) if you have one.
Reading with Spiritual Eyes: Contemporary Fiction from a Faith Perspective
Instructor: Jeff Plowman
Class fee: $10.00 for book (loaners available)
12-week class
This class offering is for readers who have an interest in discovering what it means to uncover and explore the spiritual depths and dimensions of a selection of contemporary short stories. The authors are widely known as secular writers, and many are considered to be among the best American writers of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. A few of the authors include James Baldwin, Alice Munro, Flannery O'Connor, John Updike, and Eudora Welty. We will use an anthology entitled God: Stories (edited by C. Michael Curtis), and will follow a fun and meaningful discussion format, looking at one or two stories per class. Explore how your reading can better fit into a life of faith.
Scrapbooking and Card-Making
Instructor: Sandy McClain
Do you love scrapbooking your photos and memories, or are you a beginner who needs help getting started? Maybe you'd like to learn how to create handcrafted greeting cards, or if you're already an avid card-maker, perhaps you'd enjoy working on your projects in the company of other enthusiasts. Whatever your skill level, let's share some time of mutual inspiration and fellowship! Our room will be available for scrapbooking and card-making from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Come anytime after dinner, and let’s have fun together!
Tai Chi (Taiji) for Health and Well-being
Instructor: Kalila King
Class fee: $50.00
Time: 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
10-week class
Begins Wednesday, September 7
Join us for a Chinese system of slow, meditative, physical exercise designed for relaxation, balance, and health.
Things to Know When Trying to be a Caregiver
Instructor: Trina Cain, Zack Barfield, Laura Underwood and Debbie Wells
This class is intended for those who may be in a position of providing or overseeing the long term care of a loved one. We will give you financial information to assist in decision-making, and guest speakers will join us to discuss both home and residential care options. We will offer some practical advice to keep you spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically well so that you're able to take care of yourself while you take care of another.
Yarn Works for Prayer Shawls
Instructors: Elizabeth Creagh, Anne Fowler and Mary Ella Nunn
Participants in this group will work on individual knitted or crocheted Prayer Shawls. Lessons, help, and/or support are available to all skill levels. We will provide friendship among ourselves and ministry to those who receive our shawls. Join us!
Young Career Women's Bible Study
Instructors: Erin Eby and Amy Gunter
Class Fee: $10.00 for the book
This Bible study is geared toward single and married working women in their 20s and 30s who want to grow in their relationships with the Lord. We study Scripture together through a book and talk about ways to apply it to our lives. We enjoy fellowship together and laugh a lot. Our studies only take about 10 minutes of preparation per week. The Bible Study met all last year but we are open and welcoming to new members.
