Classes will not meet on Easter Sunday, April 20.
April 27
EXPLORING THE FAITH
Museums and Forgiveness:
Beyond the Pretty Pictures​
Speaker: Brad Taylor
Host: Sid Smith
Beyond their ability to dazzle and amaze, museums also teem with stories about our complicated collective past. This talk will examine a problematic inherited history and suggest ways to atone for--and set right--our troublesome societal shortcomings.
Brad Taylor has worked in and around museums for 50+ years, has led museum travel for over 10 years for First Pres seniors.
EXPLORING THE BIBLE
​The Parables of Jesus
Host: Ed Koster
Through in-depth study and group discussion, we’ll delve into the cultural context, spiritual meanings, and contemporary relevance of Jesus' parables. This class offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Scripture and discover new insights into the teachings of Christ.
FIRST FRIENDS
Christianity and World Religions:
Islam
Host: Carole Pawloski
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In session five titled Islam, Adam Hamilton discusses the beginnings of Islam with a focus on the life of Muhammad. He describes the main beliefs and practices of Islam, including its sacred text, the Quran, and shows its similarities and differences with Christianity.
FOLLOW ME
Honor God’s Diversity!
Center Voices from the Margins (Matthew 15: 21-28)
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Follow Me is an engaging adult discipleship class that explores biblical themes and spiritual practices to help deepen your faith. Each session encourages discussion and reflection on how we can actively follow Christ in our daily lives.
May 4
EXPLORING THE FAITH
When Faith Takes Form
Speaker: Mark Borst
Host: Jane Dutton
What does it mean for a church building to have architectural and liturgical integrity? And why does it matter in a post-denominational, post-Christian era? Join us for an in-depth look at four architecturally significant West Michigan churches, and what they teach us about design stewardship and corporate worship.
EXPLORING THE BIBLE
​The Parables of Jesus
Host: Ed Koster
Through in-depth study and group discussion, we’ll delve into the cultural context, spiritual meanings, and contemporary relevance of Jesus' parables. This class offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Scripture and discover new insights into the teachings of Christ.
FIRST FRIENDS
Christianity and World Religions:
Christianity
Host: Carole Pawloski
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In session six titled Christianity, Adam Hamilton gives a broad overview of the Christian faith using John 3:16 as a “gospel in miniature” that contains the good news of Christianity in a simple, straightforward, yet powerful statement. He shows how Christianity’s teachings are similar to other religions in some ways, but differs in others, most significantly in the Christian teaching that Jesus is the son of God, fully human and fully God.
May 11
EXPLORING THE FAITH
Christian Nationalism in Modern America (Part 1)​
Speaker: Rick Ostrander
Host: Sid Smith
Christian Nationalism is a widely discussed and controversial movement in modern America. For some it is a call to moral renewal, while for others it represents a fundamental threat to American democracy. This first session will define Christian Nationalism, explore its historical roots, and attempt to explain its current revival in modern America.
EXPLORING THE BIBLE
​The Parables of Jesus
Host: Ed Koster
Through in-depth study and group discussion, we’ll delve into the cultural context, spiritual meanings, and contemporary relevance of Jesus' parables. This class offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Scripture and discover new insights into the teachings of Christ.
FIRST FRIENDS
Flowers
Host: Carole Pawloski
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Consider the Lilies of the Field as inspiration. The purpose of creation is the revelation of God. Flowers are just one piece of this revelation.
FOLLOW ME
Honor God’s Diversity!
Work for Liberation While Challenging Oppression
(Numbers 27 1-11; Luke 6:20-31)
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Follow Me is an engaging adult discipleship class that explores biblical themes and spiritual practices to help deepen your faith. Each session encourages discussion and reflection on how we can actively follow Christ in our daily lives.
May 18
EXPLORING THE FAITH
Christian Nationalism in Modern America (Part 2)
Speaker: Rev. Bob Lynn
Host: Sid Smith
Christian Nationalism is a widely discussed and controversial movement in modern America. For some it is a call to moral renewal, while for others it represents a fundamental threat to American democracy. This second session will assess the theological merits of the movement, explore the extent of its influence in modern America, and consider its future prospects.
EXPLORING THE BIBLE
​The Parables of Jesus
Host: Ed Koster
Through in-depth study and group discussion, we’ll delve into the cultural context, spiritual meanings, and contemporary relevance of Jesus' parables. This class offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Scripture and discover new insights into the teachings of Christ.
FIRST FRIENDS
Planning for Fall 2025
Host: Carole Pawloski
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Join us as we plan for the Fall 2025 session of First Friends! This meeting will focus on selecting the curriculum and shaping the direction of the class to ensure a welcoming and meaningful experience for newcomers. All are invited to contribute ideas and help create a thoughtful and engaging journey in faith and fellowship.
