On most Sundays, our adult learning forum meets in Johnson Hall at 9:00 am.

May 10: Heaven: Beyond Clouds and Harps

What is heaven, really?

For many of us, the images are familiar—clouds, pearly gates, a place we go when we die. But the biblical story, and the history of the Church, offer something far more layered and, I think, far more compelling.

This Sunday, we’ll explore how the idea of heaven has developed over time—from early Jewish thought, to the teachings of Jesus and Paul the Apostle, through the evolution of Christian doctrine, and into the wide range of perspectives held today.

Together, we’ll ask:

Is heaven a place, a state of being, or something else entirely?
What did Jesus actually say about it?
And what does it mean to speak of “eternal life” beginning now?

Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between, you’re invited into the conversation.

Previous series:

Confirmation, Reception, & Reaffirmation of Faith Series

In January we offered an Adult Forum series designed especially for those preparing for Confirmation, Reception, or Reaffirmation of Faith—and also as a great opportunity for anyone wanting to reconnect with the heart of our Episcopal tradition. These sessions were less about having all the “right answers” and more about grounding our faith in prayer, practice, and lived discipleship.

Richard Rohr’s “Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life”

Rector Greg led us in exploring Richard Rohr’s book Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life. Rohr invites us to consider how the first half of life is about building our “container”—identity, success, belonging—while the second half is about discovering the “contents”—wisdom, compassion, and the True Self God has always seen in us.

“Growing in Cultural Competency” with Rev. Franklin Morales

A foundational look at Latino cultures in the U.S. and their evolution, with a focus on ministry within the Episcopal Church. The first three sessions explore Latino Ministries at the national level, while the final two highlight communities and experiences in the Diocese of North Carolina. Traditions, faith practices, and histories that shape Latino communities, including the central role of immigration and the rich diversity of ages, and cultures, are covered. Ideal for those seeking to grow in cultural awareness and ministry readiness.

Rev. Morales is the Missioner for Hispanic Ministries of the Diocese of North Carolina.

For all YouTube recordings linked below, turning on captions is recommended when viewing.

Session 1 on YouTube (Some technical issues caused this recording to start late. PowerPoint slides are also available from Session 1.)

Session 2 on YouTube , Sessions 3 and 4 on YouTube , Session 5 on YouTube