Christian Spirituality At Saint Matthew’s
The Christian life is a journey of growth, transformation, ministry and
discovery. It begins from the moment of our baptism and turning to Christ,
and lasts throughout our lives. Scripture encourages us to “grow
in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ”
(2 Pet. 3:18). Saint Matthew’s offers a wide range of programs and
activities to allow our parishioners of every age and season of life to
“grow in grace and knowledge.”
 For
Children and Youth
For children and youth, Saint Matthew’s Church School provides
a safe and nurturing environment for children of all ages to explore their
faith and their place in our church community. Grade-level Sunday classes
are taught by a team of dedicated lay leaders under the leadership of
The Reverend Julie Bryant. For further information about our programs
for children and youth, contact Julie at 310/573-7787 ext. 129, or via
email.
The Emmaus Small Group Ministry
 Our
parish’s Emmaus small group ministry offers a wide range of opportunities
to meet with other members of our parish to share our spiritual journeys,
worship together, deepen our knowledge of Scripture, and offer ourselves
in service to the wider community.
More information about Emmaus small group
ministry.
More Opportunities for Adults
The Sunday Morning
Adult Christian Formation Series
The Sunday Morning Adult Christian Formation Series meets at 9:10 am
on Sunday mornings in Founders’ Living Room. Presenters include
our own parish clergy and a variety of guest scholars and presenters who
discuss a range of Biblical, spiritual and contemporary issues. The atmosphere
is relaxed and conversational and everyone is always welcome.
More information about Intelligent Discipleship.
The Rector’s Bible Study
Our Rector, The Reverend Canon David Walton Miller, leads a weekly
Bible Study each Wednesday in the Music Room at 9:00 am. This group study
gathers
week by week with the Rector for informal study and discussion of Scripture.
You don't need any special background or expertise to attend and enjoy
this study - all are welcome, and the only things you need to bring are
a Bible and an open mind.
A Silent Retreat for Lent 2007
On the weekend of March 23-25 2007, join The Rev. Michael Seiler and
a group of Saint Matthew’s parishioners for a silent retreat at
the Episcopal convent of the Sisters of the Holy Nativity in Santa Barbara.
If you’ve been on a silent retreat before, you know how powerfully
a time of shared, intentional silence can open one’s spiritual vision
to God’s presence. If you haven’t, here’s a great opportunity
for a unique and profound experience.
The 2007 Stern Lecture With Martin L.
Smith
Each spring, Saint Matthew’s invites a nationally recognized scholar
and teacher to deliver The Stern Lecture, in memory of Elizabeth Naffziger
Stern, a long-time member of our parish. The 2007 Stern Lecturer will
be The Reverend Martin L. Smith. Father Smith is the author of a number
of books, including The Word is Very Near You and Reconciliation. He is
a leading authority on Christian spiritual practice and the Christian
mystical tradition. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear one of the
Church’s most brilliant preachers and teachers. The 2007 Stern Lecture
takes place April 20-21, 2007.
 Baptism
for Adults
From the very first days of the Christian faith, persons seeking new
life in Christ received the sacrament of Holy Baptism as a sign of their
sharing in the death and resurrection of Christ and their new and full
participation in the glorious company of Christ’s redeemed people,
the Church. In our own day, preparing for and receiving the Sacrament
of Baptism as an adult is still an extraordinary way to deepen and bear
witness to a commitment to Christ, and to be open in new ways to God’s
love and grace. If you haven’t been baptized and you would like
further information about being baptized at Saint Matthew’s, feel
free to contact The Rev. Michael Seiler in the Parish Office at 310/573-7787
ext. 123 or by email at mseiler@stmatthews.com. |
