At Saint Paul’s various opportunities support formation in Christian faith, both for beginners and those who are continuing on their spiritual journey:
The mission of Faith Formation Ministries is to support formation in faith through learning and experience,
equipping and empowering individuals and the community for a life of ongoing transformation in Christ.
Events & Offerings
Episcopalianism 101: An introduction or refresher course on the beliefs, sacraments and rich traditions of the Episcopal Church that was born of the Church of England and continues to spread the light of God’s love known in Christ in a rapidly changing word.
Mezzanine: At 9:30 on some Sunday mornings, we gather in the Parish Hall to reflect on our faith and support each other’s ongoing transformation in Christ. During the past year these sessions have included discussions on the Sunday gospel readings, a series on Saint Paul (after whom our parish is named), and presentations by individuals in the congregation on their previous experiences in other Christian faith traditions.
Saturday spirituality retreats: Guided quiet mornings are offered at the church every other month on Saturdays. These contemplative retreats focus on seasons of the church year, such as Advent and Lent, as well as the spirituality of a variety of saints and mystics, such as Julian of Norwich, Oscar Romero, Ignatius of Loyola, and Brigid of Kildare. For announcements, check our weekly newsletter (subscribe on the home page or visit the “Newsletter” tab on the homepage for the newsletter archive.
Lent: During Lent we share daily online scripture reflections written by members of our faith community and we study the Lenten gospels together during Mezzanine on Sunday mornings.
Seasonal festivals: For various seasons of the church year, the parish gathers to celebrate in special ways. For example, an Advent Festival offers opportunity to construct Advent wreaths for home observances, and a festive dinner and live jazz music bring the congregation together on Mardi Gras, the eve of Lent, concluding with burying the Easter “Alleluia” (until Easter Sunday morning) and burning last year’s palms from Palm Sunday for use in Ash Wednesday rituals.
Spiritual direction: Several trained spiritual directors within the congregation offer individual or group spiritual direction. In these settings, we pay attention to God’s presence and action in our lives so we can respond in a growing relationship. For more information about this ministry, click here.
Spiritual friendship groups: Small groups of 6-8 people meet regularly to share their faith journeys, support one another in daily discernment, and pray for each other. For more information about becoming part of a spiritual friendship group, call the church office at 360-385-0770.
Women’s spiritual growth group: Open to all women, this group meets every Monday afternoon from 3 – 4:30 pm in the Pollard Room (church office building) to discuss a current book and to pray together. For announcements and updates, sign-up for our weekly newsletter or check the newsletter “Archive” on the home page.
Men’s Bible study: Open to all men, this group meets every Thursday morning from 7 – 8:30 at a local restaurant for scripture study and lively conversation. For more information, get in touch with John Austin (360-301-0833) or Stanley Kropf (360-344-2021).