No matter where you find yourself on your personal faith journey, First Christian has an 
opportunity for you to broaden your horizons and expand your spiritual depth. Classes and small group discussion groups happen at various times throughout the week, and it is not difficult to get “hooked up” with a focus that will appeal to your tastes. Although offerings change, from time to time, the list below is representative of the sessions we regularly feature.
Financial Peace University (FPU)
This class teaches people how to beat debt, build wealth, and practice generosity with others. Get control of your money by putting together a spending plan that really works. You’ll meet each week to watch a video lesson and participate in discussion and accountability groups that will change your whole attitude about money. At First Christian, we offer FPU on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. It is unknown if this group is still currently meeting. Call Lucy Morgan for more information at 970-219-0105.
To learn more about FPU, click on this link: www.daveramsey.com/fpu/
Disciple Bible Study
The DISCIPLE Bible Study program is designed to develop strong local churches through the in-depth study of Scripture. Through DISCIPLE, persons are strengthened in their faith and guided into service and ministry. First Christian has offered all four years of the Disciple Bible Study program. It is one of the best Bible study curriculum available for a comprehensive review of the Bible. Its format uses a workbook, weekly reading, and an in-class video to enhance student discussions. Watch for upcoming sessions in the “Happenings” section of our website.
For more information, click: www.cokesbury.com/forms/dynamiccontent.aspx?id=17&pageid=202
Bible 101
This is a Bible-oriented discussion group. This class has provided a source of study 
and fellowship for over 20 years at First Christian Church. Participants use a variety of material sources and members of the group share in class leadership. The class meets on Sunday mornings after the 9:00 AM combined service in the Stepping Stones room. Starting on September 9, 2012, this class will be studying the books of Timothy I & II. Contact Lyle Hinkle for more information.
To Be Decided
Bev Reeves is offering a class every Sunday after the 9:00 AM combined service which meets in the Fireside Parlor next to the office. This class will begin on September 9, 2012. Contact Bev Reeves for more information.
Video Series “That the Lord may Know” by Dr. Ray Vanderlaan
This short video class is being led up by Harvey Ruegsegger and meets up in Minnerly Hall after the 9:00 AM combined service on Sunday. VOLUME 1: PROMISED LAND Begins with Genesis 12 on September 9, 2012.
This begins a study of the people and events of the Bible in their geographical, historical, and cultural contexts. The goal of this study is to help us better understand the message of the Bible. Once we know the who, what, and where of a Bible story, we will be able to better understand the why.
1. Standing at the Crossroads
2. Wet Feet
3. First Fruits
4. Confronting Evil
5. Iron of Culture
Dr. Vanderlaan is the special guide through the land of the Bible. His focus is on the historical, geographical, and cultural content of the sacred Scriptures. These 20 – 30 minutes videos will be shown in Minnerly Hall from 10:15 to 11:30. Get a cup of coffee and join Harvey in gaining a greater understanding of the Sacred Scriptures.
Mary Circle
Mary Circle will meet at the home of Merlyn Jenkins on Tuesday, September 18, 2012 at 7:00 PM.This circle invites any woman in the church to come join us in fun, study and service. We recently sent 30 bags to Africa through Church World Service. These bags were handmade and were filled with lots of school supplies. For more information, please call Bonnie Ruegsegger, President at 669-5513.
GriefShare
GriefShare is a regular and ongoing feature at First Christian. It is offered for those in need of grief processing and for those who may be living or working with those who are experiencing a time of grief. GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone. GriefShare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable GriefShare resources to help you recover from your loss and look forward to rebuilding your life. Classes are offered on Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m.
To learn more about GriefShare, go to the following link: www.griefshare.org
ARK (Adults Relating to Kids)
The ARK class uses a program developed by the ARKGroup. It is a breakthrough parenting and teaching skills course. The ARKGroup conducted cutting-edge research that establishes the primary connection between a child’s sense of self-esteem and the quality of his relationships with the primary adults (parents and teachers) in his life. The ARK Program was developed in response to this research. ARK teaches adults to relate to kids in caring, supportive ways that enable youngsters to feel valued an loved and that elevates children’s self-esteem. Classes are offered on Wednesdays, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. when youth group sessions and younger child care is available.
For more information, go to: www.childrenscenter.com
Boundaries
Boundaries is an 8-week home study class. The Boundaries class is dedicated to our spiritual and personal growth. You will enjoy the dynamic video teaching of Drs. Cloud and Townsend, and benefit from the group environment and loving connections made between the facilitator and participants. Boundaries define who we are and who we are not. Clear boundaries are essential to physical health as well as personal and spiritual formation. Learn how loving people set boundaries, the nature of legitimate boundaries, how to respond to those who challenge your boundaries, how to discern between selfishness and true boundary, and deal with guilt or fear about keeping boundaries. This class is currently taught in a small group on Thursday evenings (home study).