The goal of adult religious education at Fountain Street Church is to help adults further their own spiritual journeys through programs that address the head, the heart and the spirit.
Click here to view or download the Winter/Spring 2009 course brochure.
We believe that lifelong learning and spiritual growth are hallmarks of liberal religion, and we encourage everyone to become a student of life for life. Our aim is to enhance the spiritual journey of each participant no matter their age or background.
In keeping with the Fountain Street Church mission statement, our classes will not shun controversy or lively discussion, and they will build on the artistic, cultural, intellectual and spiritual traditions of the world in a spirit of open inquiry.
THE CURRICULUM:
Adult Religious Education courses are divided into three main types, and each course listed
below contains one of the following designations:
Foundation Courses:
Courses in the Foundations area are intended to introduce participants to the tradition of
liberal religion as practiced at Fountain Street Church. The goal of these courses is to give
students a comprehensive understanding of the liberal tradition and, in particular, of the
history of Fountain Street Church. These courses will normally be taught by ministers of the
church in a fairly regular rotation so new members of the church can join them at any time.
Designated in schedule as (F).
Spirit and Society Courses:
Courses in this area will concentrate on world spiritual traditions and contemporary social
issues. Courses will explore the Hebrew, Christian and Humanist traditions, as well as other
world religious traditions and their art, music, and ritual. Other classes will explore social issues of interest to the Grand Rapids and larger community. Designated in schedule as (SS).
Inner Life Courses:
Offerings in this area will foster the inner life of participants through experiential learning.
Courses in the Inner Life category may include spiritual practice such as meditation or yoga.
They may also include intensive retreat experiences or circling/small group ministry activities
that will vary in format. Designated in schedule as (I).