We further Christian education through our many programs for adults, youth, and children. We carry forth our learning into the world through our actions and relationships with others.
The education hour on Sunday mornings is offered throughout the program year, September-May from 9:15 am until 10:15 am. Generally, offerings are different for different age groups. Occasionally, St. Matthew’s offers an intergenerational family program (eg. palm weaving on Palm Sunday) or event (eg. men’s breakfast) during the education hour.
Sunday Forum
The Sunday Forum meets in the Fellowship Hall in the Hayden Building, lower floor. Topics for discussion range from ancient history to current events.
Adult Bible Study
The St. Matthew’s Bible Study group welcomes everyone to participate in learning more about the books of the Bible.
Education for Ministry (EfM)
6:30 p.m. Monday evenings (September-June); The Rev. Hugh Tilson, Mentor
A four-year course of study and reflection for lay people, to deepen their engagement with core theological subjects and to strengthen their sense of ministry in daily life. Classes begin on September 16. Registration required.
Racial Justice and Reconciliation Book Discussions
Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.; Jane Clunie, RJR Committee Chair
The Racial Justice and Reconciliation Committee (RJR) is hosting a series of book discussions during the 2019-2020 program year focusing on African American authors. The first discussion was on September 24, 2019 when we discussed White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk about Racism by Robin DiAngelo.
Intergenerational Worship
Faith Formation for the St. Matthew’s Family continues this year with monthly intergenerational programming at 9:15 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. FFF often offers Eucharist as well as musical accompaniment. We invite all members of our parish family – not only those with young children – to join us for worship. On these Sundays, classes are combined (Godly Play, Growing in Christ, Youth, and Sunday Forum). The schedule for 2020/2021 is below:
- October 3: St. Francis Animal Blessing in Downtown Hillsborough
- October 31: All Saints’ Eve
- December 5: St. Nicholas’ Feast Day
- January 9: Epiphany
- February 13: Secret Pals
- April 10: Palm Sunday
Youth Formation
Youth Sunday School meets weekly at 9:15 a.m. in the Youth Room. We use the “re:form” curriculum, tackling questions about the Bible, creed, discipleship, Jesus, other belief systems and hot topics. The goal of “re:form” is to provide a foundation for lifelong faith formation by giving youth the tools for critical thinking, faithful reflection, and discovery. Each lesson begins with an animated short video that introduces the days topic, followed by guided discussion and other activities designed to challenge students to think deeply. Each student receives their own workbook.
Youth Group meets most Sunday evenings from 5-7 p.m. for dinner, worship, community building, and exploration of issues at the intersection of faith and daily life for teens. Other youth group activities include service projects, fall and spring retreats, Christmas and Super Bowl parties, the annual Youth Service and an end of the year celebration.
Children’s Formation
St. Matthew’s offers multiple Sunday morning programs for children based on age ranges. Sunday school classes are held in the Education Building. Other activities for children and families are offered throughout the year.
Nursery
Children five and under are invited to stay in childcare. Care is provided Sunday mornings from 7:55 am-11:45 am as well as during special services such as the early Christmas Eve service.