Savannah Presbytery’s J. Richard Bass School of the Laity
Since 2020, Savannah Presbytery has offered our program online in response to the pandemic and has committed to continuing our online access ongoing. It is with this in mind, that we invite participants from other presbyteries to register for our March 12-13, 2022 Session. Please note- there are no pre-requisites to take these courses—we welcome first-time learners, folks considering a pathway to becoming a Commissioned Ruling Elder (CRE), and even pastors who may want to experience our program.
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NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY:
Participants will delve into the New Testament scriptures and explore the inspiration, authorship, context, and criteria used to determine which books became part of our canon. This course builds on the Introduction to the Bible and Old Testament Survey courses. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of NT themes and early Christian theology and examine how contemporary Christians interpret Old Testament (Hebrew) scriptures through a Christian lens.
Participants are required to purchase The New Testament, A Student’s Introduction by Stephen L. Harris and read the text alongside the New Testament in their Bibles writing down any questions that come to mind. These questions should be emailed to MSusie1@savannahpresbytery.org by February 25th, 2022 so that they may be incorporated into the course. Rev. Dr. Kaye Nickell, who earned her PhD at Vanderbilt Divinity School, will lead this survey.
ELEMENTS OF WORSHIP:
This course focuses on what constitutes faithful Christian worship and explores the theological underpinnings of the key elements of worship including scripture, confession, prayer, music,
sacraments, and sermon. Participants will learn to think critically about each element of worship, will dive into some tenets within Reformed theology, and will be encouraged to share their diverse experiences of worship. Participants are required to read A Primer on Christian Worship by William A. Dyrness. A second book, A More Profound Alleluia by Leanne Van Dyk is recommended but not required. Rev. Kate Buckley, currently serving as Parish Associate at St. Simons Presbyterian Church, will lead this course.
ELECTIVE COURSE: Gospel of John
The Gospel of John is quite unique in style, language, and content from the synoptic gospels. In this course, participants will discuss John's faith community and context while focusing on personal relationships with Jesus. While special attention will be given to the lectionary readings, the class will engage the book as a whole. Participants are required to read the entire Gospel of John and Dr. Karoline Lewis’ commentary on John’s Gospel (Fortress Biblical Preaching series, 2014). Rev. Cathy Belles earned her MDiv from Union Presbyterian Seminary and a DMin in Biblical Preaching from Luther Seminary in Minneapolis.
REGISTRATION:
Online & Mail-in Registration Forms are available at www.savannahpresbytery.org under Events; School of the Laity - https://www.savannahpresbytery.org/events/christian-education-events/school-of-the-laity-classes/
Registration deadline is February 18th, 2022
Questions? Contact Marty Susie, Savannah Presbytery Program Coordinator, at msusie1@savannahpresbytery.org or 800-616-3671 ext. 7003