FORMATION + FELLOWSHIP
CHRISTIAN FORMATION
We know that Christian education is more than acquiring knowledge; it is about helping one another discover God’s presence in and purpose for our lives. Christian Formation provides opportunities for learning and growing together in our faith, as well as in our relationships with one another.
SUNDAY ADULT FORUMS
Prophetic Practice & Prophetic Witness
Sundays at 9am, May 3 — May 31
Gathering in the Parish Hall
Facilitated by Dr. Esther Brownsmith, Christ Church parishioner and Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible at the University of Dayton.
In the Bible, prophecy is God’s most democratic method of communication. Male or female, rich or poor, educated or illiterate: anyone could be called to speak on behalf of God. In this series, we will use gender, embodiment, and social status to explore the stories of five biblical prophets, in order to understand their lessons for today. How might God be inviting you to speak up and speak out?
May 3 — Deborah
Prophetess, judge, and military leader: Deborah’s triumphs have made her one of the most admired women of the Bible. In her famous Song, which draws on the mythic triumphs of the past to affirm God’s continuing relevance, we see an enduring model for prophetic expression today.
May 10 — Miriam
Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, was celebrated as a prophetess when she led the Israelites in song. But when she dared to speak up against Moses’ leadership, she was punished with a repulsive reminder of her second-class status. Miriam’s prophetic witness teaches us to trust the wisdom of our bodies and the spaces that they occupy, even when those spaces are not made for us.
May 17 — Amos
Amos was an illiterate agricultural worker when God called him to prophesy social justice to Israel’s elite. His vision of a world where “justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like an everflowing stream” is still compelling, and his courageous indictment of the wealthy and powerful has never been more needed than today.
May 24 — Huldah
Huldah’s pivotal prophecy may be the only biblical text recording the actual words of a historic woman. A close reading of her story reveals her as an eloquent political realist, and someone whose gender and migrant history did not hinder her authority. What would happen if we, too, heeded the voices of immigrant women?
May 31 — Jeremiah
Jeremiah, the “weeping prophet,” predicted and then witnessed the shattering of his society and surroundings. In an era of ecological devastation, war, and global injustice, how can we—like Jeremiah—maintain our faith and our witness?
WEEKDAY FORMATION GATHERINGS
The Path: 2025/2026 Bible Study
Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
Wednesdays at 10:30am gathering in the Parlor
An opportunity for our congregation to read the Bible together is about to begin. “The Path” bible study will be a combination of individual and small group study. Sign-ups for the groups will be on a first-come/first-serve.
- Zoom Sign-Up, Click here
- In-Person Sign-Up, Click here
We’re excited to be offering a new bible study series using The Path. Walk in the footsteps of faithful men and women who have done their best to follow God’s call. The Path is the story of the Bible, excerpted from the New Revised Standard Version so that it is clear and easy to read. The Path can be purchased online in either paperback or e-reader versions.
Independent Study Option
Can’t join the small group sessions? Those who are reading The Path at home can engage with others in weekly discussion online! Click here to join our private Facebook discussion group for The Path.
DIOCESAN FORMATION OPPORTUNITIES
The Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio has a variety of Christian Formation opportunities throughout the year.
To learn more about their current formation programs, click here.
FELLOWSHIP
Coffee Hour
Coffee Hour is held most Sundays after the 10:30 worship service. This weekly time for fellowship is hosted by parishioners who sign up to make coffee and bring light snacks to share. Hosting is a breeze when you sign up with your family or a friend! Contact the church office if you’d like to learn more about hosting Coffee Hour.
Downtowners Lunch Group
Friends from Christ Church, “Downtowners,” gather once a month for lunch at some of our favorite restaurants in the Dayton area. It’s a time to get to know each other and share a meal. You’re invited to come and enjoy!
Upcoming gatherings are posted to our News page.
Young Adult Gatherings
Friends in their 20s & 30s are invited to meet monthly for fun, fellowship, and to grow in their faith together.
Gatherings are typically held at local business & parks around downtown Dayton. Upcoming events are posted on our News page.
Labyrinth Writing Walks
Walking a labyrinth is a very personal experience, though some folks find sharing that time with like-minded souls mighty worthwhile, too. Labyrinth Writings Walks occur on a seasonal basis, typically in the spring, summer and fall. Small groups gather to share a short reading or two about Life, then one by one head into the labyrinth to discover what it holds for each on a contemplative afternoon.
Check back in 2026 for spring & summer dates!
Sundae Sundays
A favorite gathering for kids and adults alike, Sundae Sundays are a summer hit! Typically held once a month from May – September, Sundae Sunday is filled with ice cream and smiles following the 10:30 worship service.