Education
The United Church of Christ has a long history of educational excellence. We believe that life-long learning is important and offer a variety of educational opportunities for all ages.
ADULT EDUCATION
Faith Explorations – Mondays at Noon
Led by the Rev. Dr. Douglas Lobb, this group explores contemporary biblical scholarship, ethics, and new discoveries in archaeology and history as they pertain to progressive Christianity. They use books, DVDs, and articles to help learn about the newest research into the life and times of Jesus. You are welcome to join this group if you enjoy being challenged by diverse ideas about religion and faith. The group meets for approximately 90 minutes each Monday at noon at the church.
Contemplative Prayer & Communion - Tuesdays @ 5pm
The Tuesday evening Contemplative Prayer Group has started reading “Pastrix: The Cranky, Beautiful Faith of a Sinner & Saint” by Nadia Bolz-Weber. Nadia is a heavily tattooed (she has the entire liturgical year in tattoos) Lutheran pastor who likes to swear a lot. She also writes of a faith so deep that there is a home for everyone within it. We invite you to join us!
We begin our weekly prayer service by listening to each other’s spiritual moments that have happened in the past week. We follow this by discussing the current book we are reading. We then engage in Lectio Divina, a contemplative prayer practice that quiets the mind and opens the heart. We then offer prayers for the community and finish by sharing Communion.
Our sessions have helped deepen our relationships with both Christ and each other. We hope you can join us on Tuesdays at 5 PM!
Contact Nikki Leonard with any questions nikkiblue1@mac.com.
Bible Study - Wednesdays, 6 to 7pm
Join Pastor Rob on Zoom for Bible Study, as we dive into the Book of John, the historical context, the scriptural analysis, and a light touch of modern application. We will talk, ask questions, discuss, and grow together! The Zoom code is the same as Sunday's service. So tune in, learn something new, and keep plugging into the word and the community! https://zoom.us/j/301957411
JAWAM Social Justice Book Study - Thursdays, 10am
You’re welcome to join our Social Justice Book Study of Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. The study of this new book begins on May 26th.
We meet on Zoom Thursday mornings at 10:00 am to discuss the book a few chapters at a time. We are willing to change the time of the discussion if anyone has a conflict at 10:00 on Thursdays.
Meeting ID: 301 957 411
Special Study Opportunities
Throughout the year there are special study opportunities available, such as a Lenten Study, Bible Study and thematic studies connected to current events. Please check the “What’s Happening” page on this website or our Facebook page, You can also subscribe to our church updates and newsletters which will keep you informed of all our church events.
EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH
Nursery Childcare (Sundays from 9:45-11:15 am for infants-2 yr olds)
Our Nursery Childcare room is a safe and loving environment staffed by a Nursery Teacher and faithful members of the Boise First Community. Age-appropriate comfort, play and gentle learning is tailored to meet the needs of each child. All members of our childcare team are loving and kind, well known in our church and have passed our denomination’s background checks.
Sunday School (Sundays from 10 am-approximately 10:50 am – all Sunday during the program year except the 1st Sunday of the month)
Children of all ages are welcome in our various programs.
Infants and children up to age 4 are welcomed in the nursery. Our nursery is a joyful place for children to play and interact between 9:45 and 10:15 on Sundays.
Preschool children and early elementary school children have summer activities June through August. In September Sunday School classes are offered using the Godly Play curriculum to help introduce our children to the stories of the Christian faith. Children join their families for Communion on first Sundays.
Youth aged 12 and above worship with their families on Sundays. Youth and family seasonal activities are planned throughout the year. Children of any age are welcome to stay with their families for worship when parents prefer to have them stay in the sanctuary.