Learning Opportunities
Learning opportunities and courses at St. Paul’s are numerous and well attended. Our objective is to offer courses that attract people with diversified interest and knowledge levels and present them in a variety of settings including in-church and in-home locations. As well, efforts are made to provide learning opportunities for a wide age spectrum from children to youth to singles, couples and older adults.
Courses that are featured include:
The Alpha Course - an introduction to basic Christianity. The course in an opportunity to explore the meaning of life and has been presented worldwide. (Fred and Cathy Fleming were course leaders)
The Marriage Enrichment Course- the course, while based on Christian principles, is very helpful for any couple with or without a Christian faith or church background. (Dave and Connie Collins were course leaders)
Peru/Bolivia Mission Training- the course was open to those interested in learning more about missions and was an introduction to Spanish, history, geography, and a cultural introduction to Bolivia and Peru. (Canon Kim Beard was course leader)
2nd Peter- Precept Upon Precept Study- this course was a continuation of a previous study of Peter's letters and involved lively discussion and a DVD each week, bringing a clearer picture of the wonderful future that God has planned for us. (Rhona Bradbury was course leader)
Daniel: Lives Of Integrity, Words Of Prophecy, by Beth Moore- this study dealt with Daniel's life as he faced the kinds of pressures and temptations that Christians encounter today. (Brenda McCawley and Barb Thompson were course leaders.)
Knowing the Bible 101, Old testament and Knowing the Bible II, New Testament- these two courses were perfect for anyone who wished to widen their knowledge of the Bible and to familiarize themselves with the "big picture" in an enjoyable, friendly environment. (Owen Murray led both courses.)
The Painting Course - the course was of interest to both beginner and experienced persons. Fundamental techniques were explored by participants painting still life objects and later, encouraged to work on personal projects. The course was open to both children and adults. (Alpheus Jones was course leader)
Foundations - this course was a mid-week program for children ages 4-8 providing opportunities to make new friends, try new things, and draw closer to Jesus. (Lisa Wedlake, Sherri Everitt and Susan Scott were course leaders)
FBI (Firm Believers In Christ) - this was a mid-week program for young people ages 9-14 who were interested in meeting others, developing their relationships with Jesus, and impacting their world through a wide variety of activities. (Claudia Fryer and Tanya Lamb were course leaders)
CSI (Christ Somewhere Inside) - this course was open to youth aged 9-13 to study scripture and relate it to our lives today. There were opportunities to learn to worship musically with voices and instruments as well as participation in outreach events. (Tanya Lamb was course leader)
Drama - the course was designed for youth ages 8-16 and explored various styles of drama and improve as well as worship movement, all in a Christ-centered environment. Included were opportunities to prepare plays and skits to be performed within St. Paul's as well as outreach activities. (Tanya Lamb was course leader.)
Vertically Inclined: Climbing Higher With God, by Mary Kassian- this Bible study course challenged individuals to scale seven spiritual summits that would take them to new heights in their spiritual relationships with God. (Brenda McCawley and Barb Thompson were course leaders)
The Book of James (Precept Upon Precept)- participants studied and drew from scripture an understanding that strengthened their daily walks with the Lord. (Rhona Bradbury was course leader.)
Grief Share- is a 13 week seminar and support croup for men and women who have experienced bereavement. It's a place where participants can be around people who understand what they are feeling. It's a place where each can hear valuable information about ways to heal from grief. Each session included a video presentation and small group discussion. (Jan Couto and Rev. Paul Scuse were facilitators.)
The Way of The Cross- this course was a basic introduction to the major theological pillars of the Christian faith. Sessions were written by outstanding Christian leaders and were designed to help each participant discover the riches of scripture and the joy of following Jesus. (Geoff Cox and Canon Kim Beard were course leaders)
Young Singles, Couples and Families Home Group - the group is currently exploring Colossians. The intent was to become an ongoing group for fellowship and further Bible study. (Ken Johnstone (Jr.) and Ian Scott were group facilitators.)
Advent Bible Study Course- this course emphasized fellowship and included a dinner and celebration of Epiphany. (Bruce Hampson was course leader.)
Divorce Care - this is a support group for those recently separated or divorced. This is the second time we have run this course. The 13 weeks consists of time to listen to videos of experts in the field of divorce recovery and some time of sharing and support. This year the group is composed entirely of people who are not connected to St. Paul's. It is a form of outreach into the community. (Susan Kimberley and Rev. Paul Scuse were facilitators)
Members of the congregation are encouraged to suggest topics of interest for inclusion in future courses offered. Contact Ken Johnstone (Sr.) at (905) 683-8726 or
ken.johnstone73@sympatico.ca