Formation

Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday—the start of the season of Lent—is just around the corner. We thought it might be helpful to continue our series on the different liturgical seasons and major feasts with a course called, “What Is Ash Wednesday?” Led by Rob Courtney, an Episcopal priest serving as Canon to the Ordinary in the Diocese of Eastern Tennessee, the class provides historical context, liturgical understanding, and practical guidance to the observance.

Rob has a great way of teaching on the subject, providing insight and information for both newcomers and longtime churchgoers. This course is a helpful tool for individuals who are gearing up for Lent and for groups who want to prepare together.

Click here or on the image below to watch the first session.

Lent

We also have a bevy of classes for your Lenten journey. They include:

• Introducing Lent with Maggi Dawn: Lent is a holy season of devotion that offers wonderful opportunities for life transformation. Theologian and author Maggi Dawn unpacks the wonder of this season.
• Lent for Families with Kim Baker: This course is filled with practical tips from long-time educator and former canon to the Washington National Cathedral Kim Baker who tells us how Lent offers an unparalleled opportunity for families to grow in Christ.
• A Spring in the Desert by Frank and Victoria Logue: Over the course of five classes, Bishop Frank and Victoria Logue examine the 7 Christian virtues of purity, moderation, charity, diligence, patience, kindness, and humility. The curriculum includes 20 video lectures and 60 opportunities for in-depth discussion. Perfect for groups!
• With Gladness: 5 Weeks of Holy Practices for Disciples with Christopher Martin: Learn about building your life around God’s call with priest, author, and public speaker Christopher Martin. The curriculum includes 20 video lectures and 60 opportunities for in-depth discussion with other students who care about this topic. Perfect for groups.

Lost Art of Kindness

One of our recent classes has received a lot of attention and participation. You might be interested too! Mariann Budde, the Episcopal bishop of the Diocese of Washington who preached at the national prayer service, teaches a ChurchNext class on the Lost Art of Kindness.

She explores the idea of civility as a Christian calling by delving into the powerful theme of kindness. She also examines the importance of standing firm in our convictions while respecting the dignity of others, even during moments of strong disagreement. (Here’s a link to the “sermon heard ’round the world” if you’d like to watch and listen to it in its entirety.)

The course shares strategies for approaching conflicts with grace and clarity, encouraging mutual respect in both personal and public interactions. Click the video below to watch the first session. The course also works well for Sunday School and study groups.