Adult Formation

Pastor Larry Hayward shares the people and writers who have influenced him in his Christian Formation.

Engage John Calvin’s "Institutes of the Christian Religion," that lengthy and often argumentative exposition of our faith by our tradition’s seminal theologian and leader. Join us as Patrick reflects on his pilgrimage of reading and reflection and shares some of the inspirations and astonishments he encountered along the way. Come to discover how this book, so foundational to our historically held beliefs, can challenge and re-orient our contemporary faith, opening us to a more grounded and wonder-filled living of the gospel today.

Engage John Calvin’s "Institutes of the Christian Religion," that lengthy and often argumentative exposition of our faith by our tradition’s seminal theologian and leader. Join us as Patrick reflects on his pilgrimage of reading and reflection and shares some of the inspirations and astonishments he encountered along the way. Come to discover how this book, so foundational to our historically held beliefs, can challenge and re-orient our contemporary faith, opening us to a more grounded and wonder-filled living of the gospel today.

Rev. Frank Wade, former interim dean of the Washington National Cathedral and rector of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, will lead this four-Sunday series. The ancient Jewish practice of ‘midrash’ (to enquire, to seek) is a unique way to explore the common threads of the humanity we share with our biblical ancestors. Christianity has not fully claimed the harvest midrash provides. Frank Wade’s latest book is an attempt to reclaim that part of our religious heritage. Most of us have never met, much less learned from, the wives of Moses and Peter, Paul’s sister, Jesus’ brothers or the man behind the dark story of Judas. This forum series will talk of the practice of midrash and its access to some of the people found on the Bible’s edges.

Rev. Frank Wade, former interim dean of the Washington National Cathedral and rector of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, will lead this four-Sunday series. The ancient Jewish practice of ‘midrash’ (to enquire, to seek) is a unique way to explore the common threads of the humanity we share with our biblical ancestors. Christianity has not fully claimed the harvest midrash provides. Frank Wade’s latest book is an attempt to reclaim that part of our religious heritage. Most of us have never met, much less learned from, the wives of Moses and Peter, Paul’s sister, Jesus’ brothers or the man behind the dark story of Judas. This forum series will talk of the practice of midrash and its access to some of the people found on the Bible’s edges.

Rev. Frank Wade, former interim dean of the Washington National Cathedral and rector of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, will lead this four-Sunday series. The ancient Jewish practice of ‘midrash’ (to enquire, to seek) is a unique way to explore the common threads of the humanity we share with our biblical ancestors. Christianity has not fully claimed the harvest midrash provides. Frank Wade’s latest book is an attempt to reclaim that part of our religious heritage. Most of us have never met, much less learned from, the wives of Moses and Peter, Paul’s sister, Jesus’ brothers or the man behind the dark story of Judas. This forum series will talk of the practice of midrash and its access to some of the people found on the Bible’s edges.

WPC member Curt Powell and and his team will be speaking on the Kairos Prison Ministry he chairs for Sussex I State Prison. The session will include an overview of the program, how we at WPC can help, open discussion and powerful testimony from a former inmate whose life was turned around by finding Christ through Kairos.

Rev. Frank Wade, former interim dean of the Washington National Cathedral and rector of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, will lead this four-Sunday series. The ancient Jewish practice of ‘midrash’ (to enquire, to seek) is a unique way to explore the common threads of the humanity we share with our biblical ancestors. Christianity has not fully claimed the harvest midrash provides. Frank Wade’s latest book is an attempt to reclaim that part of our religious heritage. Most of us have never met, much less learned from, the wives of Moses and Peter, Paul’s sister, Jesus’ brothers or the man behind the dark story of Judas. This forum series will talk of the practice of midrash and its access to some of the people found on the Bible’s edges.

Ruth Everhart, author, speaker, pastor for more than twenty PC(USA) churches talks about her recent book, The #MeToo Reckoning: Facing the Church’s Complicity in Sexual Abuse & Misconduct. Publisher’s Weekly recently said of Ruth’s book, “Each chapter focuses on a particular issue (patriarchy, purity, culture, and clericalism) that leads to complicity with institutional sexual abuse, and features relevant to contemporary and biblical stories.” Ruth argues that “we must examine the system that allows predators to thrive and hide” and calls “churches to develop formal systems for victims or witnesses of abuse to come forward.” As pastor and survivor, Ruth can shine a light on abuse and tell stories highlighting damage done to individuals, families and communities that gives hope for change and deliverance from more violence.

Miri Bernovsky Tibon returns to present how the Bible is taught in secular schools in Israel, and how many secular Jews in Israel view the Old Testament – not only as a religious book, but also as a unique historical and cultural document. We will focus on an event from the “recent” past of the Jewish people: the biblical story of King David and his son Absalom, who tested his father’s hold on power. By reading and discussing this fascinating story in small groups, we will be able to address current news stories from our own day and age, and ethical and moral questions that were relevant 3000 years ago – and remain just as relevant in our own times. Are there any moral boundaries in the fight for political power? What makes a ruling government legitimate? And should the family of those who hold power be exempt from the rules that apply to others? This discussion will give participants a small taste of how biblical stories are often taught in secular schools in Israel, through a modern-day perspective.

What is it like to live your life inside an active war zone? How do people raise families under the constant threat of rockets? And is there any hope for a better future for the millions of people living in Gaza, one of the most troubled areas in the world? Miri and Amir Tibon, our guest speakers from Israel, will return to Westminster for a very personal presentation and discussion about the place they call home: Kibbutz Nahal Oz, the closest place in Israel to the Gaza Strip. They will talk about daily life in the shadow of an ongoing conflict, about the human price paid by people on both sides of the border, and about ways to overcome the current situation. Hear about their life in one of the most beautiful, but also most tense, areas of Israel. Miri, an “Israel emissary,” is working at the nearby Agudas Achim synagogue and is in charge of all Israel-related programs and education at the synagogue, working on behalf of the Jewish Agency. A clinical social worker before moving to the United States, she worked with foster families in southern Israel, mainly from the Arab-Israeli community. Miri has a B.A. in Social Work, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and an M.A., Tel Aviv Univ. Amir, a Washington correspondent for Haaretz, a leading Israeli newspaper, is in charge of covering the U.S.-Israel relationship and the American Jewish community. His writing on Israel and the Middle East has appeared in leading U.S. publications including The Atlantic, Foreign Affairs, The New Yorker and others. He is the co-author of “The Last Palestinian,” a biography of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, published in 2017.

Did you know that annually over 300,000 people from around the world complete the journey to Santiago de Compostela in Western Spain? WPC members Dave & Amy Donselar will share their stories about these ancient pathways. Hear about the remarkable people they’ve crossed paths with; the people with whom they’ve shared meals and common experiences that slowly broke down their differences and helped form a global community of pilgrims. Join in for some light-hearted lessons learned on the Way of St. James across France, Spain, and Portugal.

A common criticism of today’s society is that we live in our own particular bubbles and often fail to understand those who have very different beliefs and aspirations than our own. This 3 week interactive course with WPC member Dr. Jim Muyskens is designed to provide us a better understanding of other major religious traditions as we compare & contrast the basic tenets of Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism with those of Christianity. The hope is we’ll gain greater understanding of other traditions as well as gain a deeper appreciation of our own. Where do various traditions align, and where do they differ from our own? We’ll end with a discussion of effective means for confronting inter-faith conflict and for advancing inter-faith dialogue. Part 3 of 3.

A common criticism of today’s society is that we live in our own particular bubbles and often fail to understand those who have very different beliefs and aspirations than our own. This 3 week interactive course with WPC member Dr. Jim Muyskens is designed to provide us a better understanding of other major religious traditions as we compare & contrast the basic tenets of Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism with those of Christianity. The hope is we’ll gain greater understanding of other traditions as well as gain a deeper appreciation of our own. Where do various traditions align, and where do they differ from our own? We’ll end with a discussion of effective means for confronting inter-faith conflict and for advancing inter-faith dialogue. Part 2 of 3.

Elder Gordon H. Smith has served as member of Sixth Quorum of the Seventy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In addition to his two terms in the U.S. Senate from Oregon, he’s practiced law at Covington & Burling, and has served as a stake high councilor, bishop, public affairs director and full time missionary in New Zealand. An hour you won’t likely forget, learn from a life-long Mormon, as passionate about his faith as his country and his service.

A common criticism of today’s society is that we live in our own particular bubbles and often fail to understand those who have very different beliefs and aspirations than our own. This 3 week interactive course with WPC member Dr. Jim Muyskens is designed to provide us a better understanding of other major religious traditions as we compare & contrast the basic tenets of Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism with those of Christianity. The hope is we’ll gain greater understanding of other traditions as well as gain a deeper appreciation of our own. Where do various traditions align, and where do they differ from our own? We’ll end with a discussion of effective means for confronting inter-faith conflict and for advancing inter-faith dialogue.

What can we learn from the Old and New Testaments about some of the issues and structures that vex us today? Pastor Larry Hayward will lead us to take a look at government/politics, class differences, legal traditions, the military and the family and challenge us to think about these structures through the lens of the Old and New Testaments. Week Four: Family.

What can we learn from the Old and New Testaments about some of the issues and structures that vex us today? Pastor Larry Hayward will lead us to take a look at government/politics, class differences, legal traditions, the military and the family and challenge us to think about these structures through the lens of the Old and New Testaments. Week Three: Legal Traditions.

What can we learn from the Old and New Testaments about some of the issues and structures that vex us today? Pastor Larry Hayward will lead us to take a look at government/politics, class differences, legal traditions, the military and the family and challenge us to think about these structures through the lens of the Old and New Testaments. Week Two: Class.

What can we learn from the Old and New Testaments about some of the issues and structures that vex us today? Pastor Larry Hayward will lead us to take a look at government/politics, class differences, legal traditions, the military and the family and challenge us to think about these structures through the lens of the Old and New Testaments. Week One: Government.

A conversation with an award-winning Israeli journalist about the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the potential for Israeli-Palestinian peace. Amir Tibon, the Washington correspondent for Haaretz newspaper, Israel’s paper of record, will speak about his work covering the conflict on the ground, and what he has learned about America’s role in the conflict here in Washington. Why has this conflict been so difficult to resolve? How is the United States affecting the situation? And what can be done to create a better future in the region? In his role as Washington correspondent for Haaretz, Amir covers the U.S.-Israel relationship, the Middle East peace process and the American Jewish community. His reporting on Israel and the Middle East has appeared in The Atlantic, Foreign Affairs, Politico Magazine, The New Yorker, The New Republic and other leading U.S. publications. In 2015, he was nominated for a National Magazine Award for a story on the last round of Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations. His first book, a biography of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, was published in 2017.

Trauma lies at the heart of the Old Testament, and its many books offer a range of models for embracing potentially traumatic transformations. Two quite divergent models can be found in the book of Psalms and Job. The Psalter builds a temple in space and in time that envelopes and moves through trauma toward praise. The book of Job places trauma at the beginning and moves simultaneously into the dark reality defined by trauma and out of that darkness into a world after trauma, at once more free and mysterious than the world it attempts to leave behind. We will consider the impact of trauma on the formation of the Bible generally and the two particular responses in the Psalter and Job as models for resilience. Dr. Paul K.-K. Cho holds a B.A. in comparative literature from Yale University, an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School, and a Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible from Harvard University. He serves as Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible at Wesley Theological Seminary. He is author of Myth, History, and Metaphor in the Hebrew Bible and is currently working on a book on The Dead Give Life: Willingness to Die in the Hebrew Bible.

Trauma lies at the heart of the Old Testament, and its many books offer a range of models for embracing potentially traumatic transformations. Two quite divergent models can be found in the book of Psalms and Job. The Psalter builds a temple in space and in time that envelopes and moves through trauma toward praise. The book of Job places trauma at the beginning and moves simultaneously into the dark reality defined by trauma and out of that darkness into a world after trauma, at once more free and mysterious than the world it attempts to leave behind. We will consider the impact of trauma on the formation of the Bible generally and the two particular responses in the Psalter and Job as models for resilience. Dr. Paul K.-K. Cho holds a B.A. in comparative literature from Yale University, an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School, and a Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible from Harvard University. He serves as Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible at Wesley Theological Seminary. He is author of Myth, History, and Metaphor in the Hebrew Bible and is currently working on a book on The Dead Give Life: Willingness to Die in the Hebrew Bible.

What does it mean to “follow Jesus,” to “practice” Christian faith in an increasingly post-Christian culture? What makes us uneasy about claiming Christian faith in the current climate? Is there a difference between being a good Christian and just trying to be a good person? Does being a Christian mean we have to reject other religions? This 5-week Lenten series explores these and other questions as a way of helping us name in new ways our sense of Christian identity in contemporary culture. This week's topic is "Christian Spiritual Maturity." Please note: part 3 is not available due to technical difficulties. Dr. Kathy Staudt works as a teacher, poet and spiritual director at a number of institutions, including Virginia Theological Seminary and Wesley Theological Seminary.

What does it mean to “follow Jesus,” to “practice” Christian faith in an increasingly post-Christian culture? What makes us uneasy about claiming Christian faith in the current climate? Is there a difference between being a good Christian and just trying to be a good person? Does being a Christian mean we have to reject other religions? This 5-week Lenten series explores these and other questions as a way of helping us name in new ways our sense of Christian identity in contemporary culture. This week's topic is "Jesus: The Heart of Christianity." Dr. Kathy Staudt works as a teacher, poet and spiritual director at a number of institutions, including Virginia Theological Seminary and Wesley Theological Seminary.

What does it mean to “follow Jesus,” to “practice” Christian faith in an increasingly post-Christian culture? What makes us uneasy about claiming Christian faith in the current climate? Is there a difference between being a good Christian and just trying to be a good person? Does being a Christian mean we have to reject other religions? This 5-week Lenten series explores these and other questions as a way of helping us name in new ways our sense of Christian identity in contemporary culture. This week's topic is "Christians in a Secular Culture: A spiritual path." Dr. Kathy Staudt works as a teacher, poet and spiritual director at a number of institutions, including Virginia Theological Seminary and Wesley Theological Seminary.

Between 1820 and 1850, the U.S. contended with a set of urgent problems: how to reconcile the ideal of liberty with the reality of racial slavery; how to square Christian belief with the removal of Native tribes from homelands coveted by white people; how to interpret the principle of “equality” vis a vis women, free people of color, and Catholic immigrants; how to invent a national identity and a robust nationalism in the face of conflict, demographic diversity, and geographical immensity. Underlying these conundrums—as we see in the literature of the era—was an unresolved contradiction about citizenship: were you an “American” because you pledged allegiance to the nation and its laws or because your ancestry connected you to the first colonists, those in the vanguard of “Anglo-Saxon Civilization?” And complicating it all was the righteous (but possibly self-serving) belief that God had destined Americans to be a new “Chosen People” and America to be a “city on a hill,” a nation exempted from the historical inevitability of rise and fall. The author of "Strange Nation" and the Boyd Professor of English at Louisiana State University, Dr. J. Gerald Kennedy has a Ph.D. & Master’s from Duke University. He has published over 14 books on American Literature, short Fiction, literary nationalism and modernism and received countless awards and honors for his works on Edgar Allen Poe. He has been a Member of the Hemingway Society, President of the Poe Studies Association, and on various English advisory Boards. At Westminster, he is even better known as “Ben’s dad.”

A three-part series with Dr. Diana Bermudez, a psychotherapist specializing in early childhood who helps young children, parents, educators and administrators to enhance emotional health and decrease challenging behaviors. In this session, Dr. Bermudez discusses the transformation of parenting from the traditional generic/authoritative style to a more responsive/nurturing style.

German pastor, theologian, and anti-Nazi dissident, Dietrich Bonhoeffer has achieved iconic status as one who epitomizes what it means to struggle and resist tyranny and fascism and how one acts in faithful witness as a religious and political commitment. Dr. Victoria Barnett, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, will guide us through his faith journey, with an emphasis on how he engaged with the issues of his times and how that in turn led to some new theological insights. Part 4 of 4.

A three-part series with Dr. Diana Bermudez, a psychotherapist specializing in early childhood who helps young children, parents, educators and administrators to enhance emotional health and decrease challenging behaviors. In this session, Dr. Bermudez discusses how brain research has transformed our understanding of early childhood mental health and the role of parents.

Westminster members Matt Viser, Dan Judy, and John McArdle team up again to bring us up to date on the implications of the 2018 midterm elections. Matt is National Political Reporter with the Washington Post, Dan is Vice President at North Star Research, and John is Producer and Host at C-Span. Hear their insights and analysis of the midterms, just as the new Congress is getting started.

German pastor, theologian, and anti-Nazi dissident, Dietrich Bonhoeffer has achieved iconic status as one who epitomizes what it means to struggle and resist tyranny and fascism and how one acts in faithful witness as a religious and political commitment. Dr. Victoria Barnett, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, will guide us through his faith journey, with an emphasis on how he engaged with the issues of his times and how that in turn led to some new theological insights. Part 3 of 4.

German pastor, theologian, and anti-Nazi dissident, Dietrich Bonhoeffer has achieved iconic status as one who epitomizes what it means to struggle and resist tyranny and fascism and how one acts in faithful witness as a religious and political commitment. Dr. Victoria Barnett, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, will guide us through his faith journey, with an emphasis on how he engaged with the issues of his times and how that in turn led to some new theological insights. Part 2 of 4.

German pastor, theologian, and anti-Nazi dissident, Dietrich Bonhoeffer has achieved iconic status as one who epitomizes what it means to struggle and resist tyranny and fascism and how one acts in faithful witness as a religious and political commitment. Dr. Victoria Barnett, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, will guide us through his faith journey, with an emphasis on how he engaged with the issues of his times and how that in turn led to some new theological insights. Part 1 of 4.

Advent is a time of hope & expectation. We celebrate the miraculous birth of a child whose life, death and resurrection is the anchor of the Christian message. How are we to understand this first century message today as we come to it with very different cultural mores and practices, ethical understanding, scientific knowledge, and philosophical and religious insights? Questions we’ll explore include how to square our current scientific outlook with the Biblical account, how to understand the nature of miracles, and how faith is to be understood in this Post-Truth era. With Dr. Jim Muyskens.

Advent is a time of hope & expectation. We celebrate the miraculous birth of a child whose life, death and resurrection is the anchor of the Christian message. How are we to understand this first century message today as we come to it with very different cultural mores and practices, ethical understanding, scientific knowledge, and philosophical and religious insights? Questions we’ll explore include how to square our current scientific outlook with the Biblical account, how to understand the nature of miracles, and how faith is to be understood in this Post-Truth era. With Dr. Jim Muyskens.

Advent is a time of hope & expectation. We celebrate the miraculous birth of a child whose life, death and resurrection is the anchor of the Christian message. How are we to understand this first century message today as we come to it with very different cultural mores and practices, ethical understanding, scientific knowledge, and philosophical and religious insights? Questions we’ll explore include how to square our current scientific outlook with the Biblical account, how to understand the nature of miracles, and how faith is to be understood in this Post-Truth era. With Dr. Jim Muyskens.

Hear firsthand who we are here at Westminster through the eyes, ears and hearts of your staff. Patty Chamberlain talks about Children’s Ministry and how she plans and thinks about bringing God’s word to the littlest among us.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead meant that everything first disciples of Jesus had thought they understood was now to be re-thought in the light of God's surprising action. They experienced various kinds of change: individual and communal, mind and heart, circumstance and vision or point of view. Sometimes change brought struggle, even conflict; more often, it brought joy and a new appreciation of God's providential care for them. With with Dr. Katherine Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead meant that everything first disciples of Jesus had thought they understood was now to be re-thought in the light of God's surprising action. They experienced various kinds of change: individual and communal, mind and heart, circumstance and vision or point of view. Sometimes change brought struggle, even conflict; more often, it brought joy and a new appreciation of God's providential care for them. With with Dr. Katherine Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead meant that everything first disciples of Jesus had thought they understood was now to be re-thought in the light of God's surprising action. They experienced various kinds of change: individual and communal, mind and heart, circumstance and vision or point of view. Sometimes change brought struggle, even conflict; more often, it brought joy and a new appreciation of God's providential care for them. With with Dr. Katherine Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead meant that everything first disciples of Jesus had thought they understood was now to be re-thought in the light of God's surprising action. They experienced various kinds of change: individual and communal, mind and heart, circumstance and vision or point of view. Sometimes change brought struggle, even conflict; more often, it brought joy and a new appreciation of God's providential care for them. With with Dr. Katherine Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead meant that everything first disciples of Jesus had thought they understood was now to be re-thought in the light of God's surprising action. They experienced various kinds of change: individual and communal, mind and heart, circumstance and vision or point of view. Sometimes change brought struggle, even conflict; more often, it brought joy and a new appreciation of God's providential care for them. With with Dr. Katherine Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead meant that everything first disciples of Jesus had thought they understood was now to be re-thought in the light of God's surprising action. They experienced various kinds of change: individual and communal, mind and heart, circumstance and vision or point of view. Sometimes change brought struggle, even conflict; more often, it brought joy and a new appreciation of God's providential care for them. With with Dr. Katherine Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead meant that everything first disciples of Jesus had thought they understood was now to be re-thought in the light of God's surprising action. They experienced various kinds of change: individual and communal, mind and heart, circumstance and vision or point of view. Sometimes change brought struggle, even conflict; more often, it brought joy and a new appreciation of God's providential care for them. With with Dr. Katherine Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary.

As Christians, we struggle with ways to listen for God’s call and to act where our faith leads us. With this class, Elder Kathy Harkness will consider the challenges of being called and how we can act faithfully and in attentive ways to when, where and how God calls us. (1 of 3)

Karen has done extensive research on contempt & mockery in our political culture, as well as the moral value of having faith in our fellow human beings. Timely topic for a time such as this. She will talk about the boundaries of civility, ways of expressing political disagreements, and how having faith in our fellow human beings just might transform the political discourse. (2 of 2)

Julie has a reputation for building dynamic partnerships. But her experience raising children of color in our society gives her a unique perspective on how to start a dialogue about race in this country. Julie adopted two daughters from Ethiopia. How do we raise more socially & faith conscious children? Expand your mindset to understand how bias informs your decisions. Gain insight on how to start the much-needed conversation about race with your children and yourself. (2 of 2)

Julie has a reputation for building dynamic partnerships. But her experience raising children of color in our society gives her a unique perspective on how to start a dialogue about race in this country. Julie adopted two daughters from Ethiopia. How do we raise more socially & faith conscious children? Expand your mindset to understand how bias informs your decisions. Gain insight on how to start the much-needed conversation about race with your children and yourself. (1 of 2)

Karen has done extensive research on contempt & mockery in our political culture, as well as the moral value of having faith in our fellow human beings. Timely topic for a time such as this. She will talk about the boundaries of civility, ways of expressing political disagreements, and how having faith in our fellow human beings just might transform the political discourse. (1 of 2)

The author of the best-selling “Nourishing Traditions” brings expertise to young mothers and children on the vital factors of one’s diet. Sally has helped change the national conversation about what constitutes a healthy diet. Learn about the dangers of certain foods, as well as what are the nutrient-dense foods. How does your diet effect your growth and the function of your brain?

Rabbi Jack Moline & Rev. Dr. Larry Hayward present “Pretext”. Rev. Hayward & Rabbi Moline will use various Biblical texts to draw lessons for us. Once again, as only “Larry & Jack” can, they’ll share their biblical and theological wisdom from years of study, pastoring and leading congregations. Be ready for humor, wit, and engagement as we examine together the texts, the pretexts, and the contexts of the Bible. (Part 3 of 3)

Rabbi Jack Moline & Rev. Dr. Larry Hayward present “Context”. Rev. Hayward & Rabbi Moline will use various Biblical texts to draw lessons for us. Once again, as only “Larry & Jack” can, they’ll share their biblical and theological wisdom from years of study, pastoring and leading congregations. Be ready for humor, wit, and engagement as we examine together the texts, the pretexts, and the contexts of the Bible. (Part 2 of 3)

Rabbi Jack Moline & Rev. Dr. Larry Hayward present “Text”. Rev. Hayward & Rabbi Moline will use various Biblical texts to draw lessons for us. Once again, as only “Larry & Jack” can, they’ll share their biblical and theological wisdom from years of study, pastoring and leading congregations. Be ready for humor, wit, and engagement as we examine together the texts, the pretexts, and the contexts of the Bible. (Part 1 of 3)

With Dr. Matthew Taylor from the Reformed Institute. As Turkish armies almost sacked Vienna in the 16th century, Martin Luther helped publish the Qur’an in Latin—how did the possibility of being conquered by a different religion shape Reformer’s minds? (Part 3 of 3)

With Dr. Matthew Taylor from the Reformed Institute. As Turkish armies almost sacked Vienna in the 16th century, Martin Luther helped publish the Qur’an in Latin—how did the possibility of being conquered by a different religion shape Reformer’s minds? (Part 2 of 3)

With Dr. Matthew Taylor from the Reformed Institute. As Turkish armies almost sacked Vienna in the 16th century, Martin Luther helped publish the Qur’an in Latin—how did the possibility of being conquered by a different religion shape Reformer’s minds? (Part 1 of 3)

At WPC for the first time, Betsey will share her wisdom and extensive understanding of “elder law.” The maze of navigating legal, financial and practical questions for every decade can be overwhelming. This dynamic, interactive workshop (Q&A) is designed for all adults and for those with aging parents and allows plenty of opportunity for questions!

With WPC Elder David Roden. Explore why Paul’s letter to the Romans became the key motivation for the reformation. Why do some modern theologians believe the reformers misread Paul? What did Paul say and what was Paul doing in this important letter? Discover how you might interpret Romans differently. Part 3 of 3. (Due to technical difficulties, Part 2 was not recorded).

With WPC Elder David Roden. Explore why Paul’s letter to the Romans became the key motivation for the reformation. Why do some modern theologians believe the reformers misread Paul? What did Paul say and what was Paul doing in this important letter? Discover how you might interpret Romans differently. Part 1 of 3.

With a passion for portraits and faith, artist and elder at Georgetown Presbyterian Cynthia Farrell Johnson talks about the series of portraits she created and why it’s important to her. Her faith formation and her art has continued her journey toward fuller faith and service.

A longtime and favorite lecturer at Westminster, Dr. Tony Tambasco taught theology at Georgetown University for 35 years, specializing in biblical studies and ethics. December 10: “The Spirit of Advent.” Look at biblical characters related to the Advent liturgical cycle to understand our own Spirit-filled call to mission.

A longtime and favorite lecturer at Westminster, Dr. Tony Tambasco taught theology at Georgetown University for 35 years, specializing in biblical studies and ethics. December 3: "Responding in Faith to the Advents of the Lord.” Discuss the past, present, and future comings of Christ and the spiritual life that arises from these. December 10: “The Spirit of Advent.” Look at biblical characters related to the Advent liturgical cycle to understand our own Spirit-filled call to mission.

As we celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, Dr. Bruce Douglass, Director, Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington and Associate Professor, Georgetown University, returns to look at those 16th Century reformations. What is its enduring legacy? How does it impact us and the world we live in today? Fourth in a four-part series.

As we celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, Dr. Bruce Douglass, Director, Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington and Associate Professor, Georgetown University, returns to look at those 16th Century reformations. What is its enduring legacy? How does it impact us and the world we live in today? Third in a four-part series.

As we celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, Dr. Bruce Douglass, Director, Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington and Associate Professor, Georgetown University, returns to look at those 16th Century reformations. What is its enduring legacy? How does it impact us and the world we live in today? Second in a four-part series.

As we celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, Dr. Bruce Douglass, Director, Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington and Associate Professor, Georgetown University, returns to look at those 16th Century reformations. What is its enduring legacy? How does it impact us and the world we live in today? First in a four-part series.

Hear a panel of voices presenting our shared work and ministry providing shelter and opportunity to vulnerable children in Moi’s Bridge, Kenya. Rev. Patrick Hunnicutt and others talk about their recent trip and specifics of how we can further support our Kenyan brothers and sisters and to grow in faith through our work with them.

John Lewis, U.S. Representative & Civil Rights Activist, is one of the “Big Six” leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. He was a Freedom Rider, spoke at the 1963 March on Washington, and led the walk that became known as “Bloody Sunday.” John has continued to fight for people’s rights since joining Congress in 1987 and received the Medal of Freedom in 2011. Fred Upton, U.S. Representative, joined Congress in 1987, and became friends with John through their joint work on the Faith & Politics Institute. John and Fred have known one another over thirty years and have been able to respect their differences and yet learn from each other through humility and respect. How have these two public servants tried to understand the views and values of people who don’t share their party affiliation? How has their faith informed their public service? How has their work been driven by their belief in something greater than themselves?

Dr. Sally Satel is an American Enterprise Institute resident scholar, a psychiatrist and a lecturer whose research areas include domestic drug policy, psychological impact of war & disasters, political trends in medicine and transplant policy. Her outstanding speaking style conveys the essential facts and stories of those caught in the web of addiction.

Dr. Dyer is the James Maxwell Professor of Christian Education & Pastoral Theology at Virginia Theological Seminary. She lost her spouse suddenly and will offer insights from her journey of loss. What experiences might you go through adjusting to life without the person they loved? What are some physical, emotional and spiritual ways to help yourself and others to heal from painful loss?

With Doris A. Fuller, Chief of Research & Public Affairs, Treatment Advocacy Center Doris’ story is remarkable. Following the loss of her daughter to mental illness, she has become an international advocate for those dealing with chronic mental illness. Learn from someone who deals with brain diseases about making a difference for someone, somewhere and somehow.

Given the changes in culture, and how such changes have impacted Christianity, what does all this tell us about our ministry here at Westminster? How might we move toward fuller faith and service to God in just such a context? Rev. Dr. Larry Hayward kicks off our 2017-2018 adult ed series. This year’s adult formation theme, "Towards Fuller Faith and Service," is meant to guide us toward praising and serving God more fully and serving our neighbors.

Rev. Dr. Kathryn Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary, concludes her series on the experience of the early church, as described in the book of Acts, in dealing with both personal and social change. This week's theme is "From Fear of Gentiles to Welcoming Gentiles."

Rev. Dr. Kathryn Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary, reflects on the experience of the early church, as described in the book of Acts, in dealing with both personal and social change. This week's theme is "From Church Persecutor to Church Planter." Through May 21.

Rev. Dr. Kathryn Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary, reflects on the experience of the early church, as described in the book of Acts, in dealing with both personal and social change. This week's theme is "From Timid Disciples to Bold Witnesses for Jesus." Through May 21.

Rev. Dr. Kathryn Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary, reflects on the experience of the early church, as described in the book of Acts, in dealing with both personal and social change. This week's theme is "From Private Property to the Common Good." Through May 21.

Rev. Dr. Kathryn Grieb, Virginia Theological Seminary, reflects on the experience of the early church, as described in the book of Acts, in dealing with both personal and social change. This week's theme is "From Saness to Joy and from Easter to Pentecost." Through May 21.

Dr. Victoria Barnett, Director of Programs on Ethics, Religion and the Holocaust at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, challenges our understanding of how the Holocaust radically transformed the relationship between Christians and Jews. She will provide an overview of the role Christian churches played and explore post-Holocaust conversations between Christians and Jews. One session will focus on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s role in this history.

Dr. Victoria Barnett, Director of Programs on Ethics, Religion and the Holocaust at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, challenges our understanding of how the Holocaust radically transformed the relationship between Christians and Jews. She will provide an overview of the role Christian churches played and explore post-Holocaust conversations between Christians and Jews. One session will focus on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s role in this history.

Dr. Victoria Barnett, Director of Programs on Ethics, Religion and the Holocaust at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, challenges our understanding of how the Holocaust radically transformed the relationship between Christians and Jews. She will provide an overview of the role Christian churches played and explore post-Holocaust conversations between Christians and Jews. One session will focus on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s role in this history.

Rev. MaryAnn McKibben Dana, writer and Presbyterian pastor, leads us in Improvising with God. How is God at work in our lives and how do we respond? Examples of God’s improvisation from scripture are explored as we challenge ourselves to see God in creative and surprising ways through music, pop culture, literature and psychology.

Third of a three-class series on world religions and Christian theology that adopts a way of belonging, behaving, and believing for the common good.

Sathi Clarke, Wesley Seminary’s Chair in World Christianity and Professor of Theology, Culture & Mission Second of a three-class series on world religions and Christian theology that adopts a way of belonging, behaving, and believing for the common good.

Sathi Clarke, Wesley Seminary’s Chair in World Christianity and Professor of Theology, Culture & Mission This is a three-class series on world religions and Christian theology that adopts a way of belonging, behaving, and believing for the common good.

Peter Wehner, Senior Fellow at the Ethics & Public Policy Center, speaks to us about how many orthodox and evangelical Christians feel increasingly marginalized. How should we think about engagement in a culture that is both effective and faithful, and what is the political role in all of this?

The decades-old conflict between Israel and Palestine is at a critical impasse. What will American diplomacy be in the days and year ahead? Ambassador Wilcox talks about this tragic conflict between Israel, who aspires to be a democratic and Jewish state, and Palestine, whose people live under unjust occupation and want a state of their own. Ambassador Wilcox served in the U.S. Foreign Service for 31 years, his last post as Chief of Mission and U.S. Consul General in Jerusalem.

Dr. G. Wilson Gunn, Jr., General Presbyter, National Capital Presbytery, speaks to us about adaptive change and leadership in posts where we seek to lead, about changes at the presbytery level, and answer any questions members might bring to the session concerning our presbytery.

A follow-up to their fall discussion on Christian-Muslim engagement, at this session Salih speaks to the challenges of fostering interfaith dialougue in America. His wife, Dr. Zeyneb Sayilgan, brings a Muslim woman’s perspective to the conversation. Salih Sayilgan is a teaching fellow at the Catholic University of America where he teaches courses on Islam and World Religions.

How do we extend brotherhood and sisterhood to those with whom we disagree? What are our own misperceptions of people of other faith? Imam Zia and his wife, Fatimah, have spent a decade working in this field. They have much to share with us. Learn more about our Muslim brothers and sisters and hear first-hand how we can bridge our divides with selfless service and compassion.

Presbyterians are part of a world-wide movement, commonly known as "Reformed," which traces its roots back to the Protestant Reformation. This series of four lectures by Dr. R. Bruce Douglass, Director of the Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington, is designed to provide a fresh interpretation of some of the key elements of that view. To conclude this series, we look a central theme of the Reformed tradition, the idea that we are saved by "faith alone." What does that mean? How is it related to the idea that Christians are known by their (good) works? Why have critics sometimes accused Reformed Christians of excessive emphasis on "works"?

Presbyterians are part of a world-wide movement, commonly known as "Reformed," which traces its roots back to the Protestant Reformation. This series of four lectures by Dr. R. Bruce Douglass, Director of the Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington, is designed to provide a fresh interpretation of some of the key elements of that view. This Sunday, we look at Humanism: Calvin said the Bible is a source of wisdom about the human condition; and even though he believed much of that wisdom had do with human sinfulness, he still thought it was ultimately "good news." Why?

Presbyterians are part of a world-wide movement, commonly known as "Reformed," which traces its roots back to the Protestant Reformation. This series of four lectures by Dr. R. Bruce Douglass, Director of the Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington, is designed to provide a fresh interpretation of some of the key elements of that view. This Sunday, we look at "The True God?" The beginning of wisdom, Calvin said, is the knowledge of God we derive from Scripture. But that knowledge often conflicted, he said, with the things human beings think they know about God. What exactly does the Bible tells us about God's nature, purposes, etc.?

Presbyterians are part of a world-wide movement, commonly known as "Reformed," which traces its roots back to the Protestant Reformation. This series of four lectures by Dr. R. Bruce Douglass, Director of the Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington, is designed to provide a fresh interpretation of some of the key elements of that view. This Sunday, we look at Why the Bible? Why Only the Bible: The Reformation began with an insistence on the unique authority of the Bible in matters of faith. But what exactly does it mean in practice, and how is it affected by the way we interpret Scripture?

Dr. Muyskens concludes his series on healthcare.

Dr. Muyskens, a WPC member, has written and taught on religion and medical ethics and was President of Queens College, the City University of New York, from 2002-2013. At this second session, we have a philosophical discussion looking at whether access to a basic minimum of care is a right—can a society be called just if many have no access?

Dr. Muyskens, a WPC member, has written and taught on religion and medical ethics and was President of Queens College, the City University of New York, from 2002-2013. His first session will focus on how the American health care delivery systems works—or doesn’t. At the second, we’ll have a philosophical discussion looking at whether access to a basic minimum of care is a right—can a society be called just if many have no access? The third session will involve active audience participation, talking about how we navigate these seas of changes.

Dr. Peter Stearns, Professor of History and Provost Emeritus at George Mason University, talks with us about fear. An obvious factor in contemporary life, how has American fear been changing since the 1970s? What is our response to excessive fear? Part 2 of 2.

Dr. Peter Stearns, Professor of History and Provost Emeritus at George Mason University, talks with us about fear. An obvious factor in contemporary life, how has American fear been changing since the 1970s? What is our response to excessive fear? Part 1 of 2.