Formation

Mary Davis, Melissa Irby, Debi Taliaferro, Vestry Liaisons

Through our Formation Ministry, we provide a variety of opportunities for education, exploration, discussion, and practice as we continue to grow in Jesus' Way of Love. We take seriously Jesus' teaching to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. We also experience that a community can discern God's presence through science, politics, art, music, fun, nature, and other religious traditions.

Children & Youth

At Holy Comforter, children participate in the fullness of our worship and community life. We have a children's sermon at every service, after which children are invited to go to a side chapel to work on a craft or art project. They return to the church to receive communion with their families. Children occasionally read scripture and lead prayers during worship. Little ones are welcome to enjoy the comfortable area at the back of the church where there are quiet toys and activities just for them. 

In past years, we had vibrant Sunday School, Youth Group, and Vacation Bible School programs that met the needs of families of the time. We look forward to growing our children and youth programs in new ways that meet the current needs of younger ones and their families.

Adult Speaker Series ~ We offer monthly presentations on topics that are important to the life of the congregation as we gather after church during Connections Time. In recent months, we have hosted our local Congress member and an immigration lawyer, among other people. 

Book Groups ~ Two book groups, one in the evening and one in the morning, offer opportunities for reflection and discussion of fiction and non-fiction works. 

Group Spiritual Direction ~ Group Spiritual Direction for all who are interested is offered one Sunday a month by a trained and credentialed facilitator. The group gathers for an hour after worship. 

Lenten Programs ~ We come together for a meal, worship, and a program during the weeks of Lent. We focus on preparing our hearts and minds for the wonders of Easter. 

Annual Parish Weekend at Shrine Mont ~ We join with members of St. Mark's Church, Richmond, for a parish weekend in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. This time away at "A Place Apart" includes basic accommodations, good food, time to hike and nap and read, time together to learn and grow, and worship. 

Men at the Movies ~ Men gather once a month to watch and discuss a movie together. The event provides a great sense of community and stimulating conversation about spirituality and faith as reflected in the movie. 

You can find specific details about these offerings in the Weekly Messenger.