The Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields is an Episcopal parish in the Diocese of Pennsylvania that is centered on the worship of God, the ministry of all baptized persons, and the call to be agents of Christ’s love in the world.
Contact
Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields
8000 St. Martin’s Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19118
215.247.7466

The Reverend Robert L. Tate, Rector

ONGOING ADULT FORMATION EXPERIENCES

Education for Ministry (EFM) This four-year course from the School of Theology of the University of the South offers a comprehensive program for those who desire more intense study. The emphasis is on examining solid biblical and theological material and apply- ing it to one’s own life and ministry in the world. About 2-4 hours of work each week, outside the weekly seminar
sessions, are required in order for participants to take maximum advantage of the course. The group will meet on Thursday mornings at 9:30 am in the Parish Library, beginning on September 27th. The cost for the program is $340 per year. Please call Cathy Cowling, 215.247.7466, with questions about EFM.

The Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke
If you have had any curiosity about the Gospels, this is the course for you! The reading of the texts picks up where the group left off last spring; however, you need not to have previously attended in order to participate this fall. The an- cient text of Mark, read along side Matthew and Luke, unfolds in a parallel format using the translation of the Revised Standard Version. This approach to the Gospels makes possible an unusual opportunity to experience and appreciate the full and powerful scope of the Gospels. Each session is complete, with its own text-centered value. Though de- sired, attendance at every session is not required to participate in the series. By design, all work is done in class; there is no homework or outside reading. This class is led by Helen White and Pat Pregmon and meets on Saturday mornings in the Parish Library, beginning on October 6, 9 – 10.15 am.

Exploring the Apocrypha
The Thursday morning Biblical studies class will begin the fall with a survey of all the books of the Bible, taking a
little time to rediscover how the books are organized canonically. The survey will eventually lead to the Apocrypha, the additional wisdom writings to the Hebrew Scriptures. These books contain some of the most beautiful, profound, and informative encounters with God that have ever been written. This class is led by Helen White and welcomes all who wish to be early risers (there is always coffee and treats!) and are curious about scripture. You need not have been part of the class before to join us now! There is no additional preparation outside of class. This group meets on Thursday mornings, beginning October 4, 7.30 – 9 am in the Parish Library.

Making Inquiries: A Newcomer’s Introduction to St Martin’s Are you new to St Martin’s? This Saturday morning session, repeated twice during the program year, is designed to give you a brief overview of the life and ministry of the Church of St Martin-in-the-Fields. Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church and have questions about why we do things the way we do or would like to learn about specific pro- grams, this session is geared toward helping you feel at home at St Martin’s. Saturday morning, 9 am to noon, in the parish house; offered January 26, and April 26. Child care will be provided.

Ministry Discernment: Finding Where Your Passion Meets the World’s Needs If you are feeling a sense of restlessness with your life, wondering what to do next, or are searching for meaningful ways to live out your faith, you may wish to take part in a discernment group. This small group process, generally lasting for several months, is centered around prayer, reflection, silence, and conversation as persons attend to the challenges of vocation and to the voice and movement of the Spirit. If you are interested in beginning such a process, please talk to the Director of Christian Formation.