Sundays, 10:10 a.m., Dining Room
The forum examines our yearly theme, current issues, the arts, and seasonal offerings for Advent and Lent, seeking to connect our beliefs with our experience. Speakers include St. Paul’s clergy, parishioners, and a wide range of guests, such as leaders from throughout The Episcopal Church and Anglican Communion, theologians, scholars, and community leaders.
Meet the Rector
September 14
For our first forum, join us for a great opportunity to get to know our wonderful new rector, Rev’d T.J. Freeman, hear some of his thoughts about Belonging, and ask questions.
Presented by the Rev’d T.J. Freeman
Belonging: A Community Conversation
September 28
Through this year’s theme of Belonging, we discover a richness of opportunities to explore the importance of our relationships in community with each other, with the church, and with God; to form meaningful connections. What does belonging mean to you? Come share your thoughts and ground yourself in this compelling topic and its value.
Presented by the Rev. Patricia Rose and Kirsten Radivoyevitch
Invite, Welcome, Connect
October 5
“Invite, Welcome, Connect” is a powerful ministry of transformation that teaches congregations to more fully and joyfully welcome visitors and cultivate a sense of belonging among the entire congregation. Mary developed these valuable tools and has presented about them in 70+ dioceses of The Episcopal Church, as well as in Canada and Europe. Mary will also be preaching at all three services, and on, Saturday, October 4, she will be presenting a free workshop at St. Paul’s. Be inspired and uplifted by learning creative ways to nourish a sense of belonging and hospitality at St. Paul’s.
Presented by Mary Parmer
Choir Pilgrimage
October 19
The trip was fabulous and its many gifts live on in the choir. Learn first-hand about the tremendous joys and blessings, including some insights on Belonging, that the choir brought home from their incredible, life-changing journey.
Presented by Kevin Jones and Senior Choir Members
Beyond the Welcome Mat
October 26
We will play a fast-paced board game to gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities we each have in creating a sense of welcome and connection at St. Paul’s. Will your group be the first to progress their player from the first step to the last? Let’s find out together!
Presented by Kirsten Radivoyevitch
Can I Still Belong Here If I Have Doubts?
November 23
Do you have serious doubts and questions about your faith? Some of us may wonder if we even belong in a traditional faith community. Be assured, you are in good company, and all are welcome! Join Bill Hobbs, Spiritual Director and Director of the Jesuit Retreat Center for a thought-provoking discussion about belonging and doubt.
Presented by Bill Hobbs
Youth Pilgrimage
November 30
Our youth shared stories and reflections from their summer mission trip to Boys Home of Virginia. Hear how service, community, and friendship deepened their sense of belonging with each other and with God.
Presented by Lauren Dockery and the Youth Group
Strangers in a Strange Land: 16th – 18th Century Refugee Art of Northern Europe
December 7
Soon after the birth of Jesus, the Holy Family became refugees, facing disorientation and the loss of a sense of belonging as they fled to Egypt to escape King Herod’s persecution. Their journey is significant as we grapple with the plight of refugees today and throughout human history. What does it tell us about our faith and our humanity? Join us for a deeply thought-provoking reflection through the medium of compelling artwork.
Presented by Catherine Scallen
True Belonging
December 14
We intimately belong to life. We are held powerfully and unconditionally in the love of God, no exceptions. Reflect on this as we prepare to celebrate the incarnation of Christ, whose life calls us to know this true belonging in our hearts.
Presented by Rev. Patricia Rose
Belonging to Christ’s Church
January 18
Part of “belonging” is knowing that we are part of a long history of a church that only relatively recently has sprouted many branches. Watch the lively, interactive presentation on the deep connection between the Roman Catholic and Anglican communions. We focused on dialogue over the past 60+ years, especially modern-day contexts from Popes Leo and Francis to present-day local collaboration.
Presented by Dr. Edward Hahnenberg, Ph.D, Department of Theology and Religious Studies, John Carroll University.