Adult Education 
and each of us is at a different place in our learning curve.
First Presbyterian Church on Orange Street has a wonderful history of Adult Education. The current program allows you, the learner, to discern what your needs are in the area of your own spiritual growth. Here are some of the opportunities for you to pursue.
The Gathering Class
with different outstanding speakers who address tough contemporary topics. Some speakers come from Lancaster Theological Seminary; Others, many of whom are church members, are involved with projects inside and outside the church. There’s dialogue with these leaders who share their thoughts.
Past topics included: A Comparison of the various Protestant traditions: Lutheran, Reformed, Anglican and Anabaptist (three sessions) , A Lenten study of the Sabbath, Three Troublesome Statements in the Apostle’s Creed, and The Sinners: Jesus and His Earliest Followers
- November 2 - Youth Mission Trips Q & A
- November 9 - Greg Carey - "The Bible and Contemporary Decision Making" Session II
- November 18 - Dr. Bruce Wittmaier - “A Psychologist looks at Faith” Session I
- November 23 - Dr. Bruce Wittmaier - “A Psychologist looks at Faith” Session II
George Mann Class
is a foundational component of the church’s worship. A 10:00 lesson is preceded by fellowship and music at 9:30 a.m. Men and women come together for fellowship, music, and to open Scripture and study God’s word. We follow a professionally-prepared series of lesson plans by Cook Communications Ministries, Colorado which takes us through the Bible in three years. We never do politics or current events and have followed that format for more than 75 years.
It includes the text of the day’s sermon with suggested spiritual exercises upon which to reflect during the week.
Early Word
This open group discusses the scripture which will be featured in the sanctuary services the following Sunday. It’s an opportunity to dig deeper into the meaning and relevance of the Bible verses. Discussion runs for one hour, followed by a (optional) 30-minute worship service in the chapel.
Exploring Contemplative Prayer:with leadership provided by Bob Webber, retired New Testament professor of Lancaster Seminary and Tracey Marx, a spiritual director. Each month focuses on a different prayer method, like Centering prayer, Lecto Divino and the Prayer of Examen. Participants will be encouraged to use the prayer method throughout the month and will be given resources to assist them.
How to Study the Bible:covers in some detail the content of the entire Bible, as well as suggestions for its interpretation and use. It is taught by the Rev. C. Vincent Wilson, Parish Associate at FPC, who has taught this in many church settings and authored a companion book, “The Westminster Concise Handbook for the Bible,” by Westminster Press. Register with Don Hackett at don@fpclanc.org or call the church office, 394-6854.
Women’s Bible Study:uses Beth Moore’s: A Woman’s Heart – God’s Dwelling Place”. Child care is available upon request ahead of time. For more information contact the church office, 394-6854.
10 Great Dates:This series uses a short film drama to set the stage for couples to use a guide for their dinner discussion. As a part of Community Nights, child care is available as well as programs for children and Youth, For more information email Janet Ressler.
