UMC - Chicago Temple

Rev. Dr. Cheryl Magrini
cheryl@chicagotemple.org
312-236-4548, ext 122
Minister of Christian Education and Spiritual Formation

You are welcome to begin a class anytime or visit a class for a particular topic that interests you. Should you want to purchase your own copy of the book please check with the church office (2nd floor) for availability and a suggested donation. Scholarships are available from a clergy.

Christian Education Sundays at 9:30am

Aldersgate Sunday School: 420C, 4th floor, end of the hallway on the right. Alternates between Scripture study and topical study.
CAFÉ (Contemporary Adults in Fellowship and Education): Pierce Hall, room 3
College Age: 2nd floor, Rev. Magrini’s office
Deep TALK (Theologizing About Life and Knowing): Pierce Main Auditorium
Dixon Bible Study: Dixon Chapel, 2nd floor
Mabuhay Sunday School: Pierce Hall, room 1
Parents of Infants and Toddlers: 4th floor crib nursery, first Sundays, meeting only the first Sunday of the month in the crib room, organized by Dr. Cheryl Magrini, guest speakers most Sundays.
Parents of Young Children: 420A conference room, 4th floor
United Methodist Women: Heritage Room, 2nd floor

In-Depth Opportunities for Christian Education

Disciple I is an overview of the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament that requires daily Bible reading, regular attendance at a 2 hour class for 34 weeks. The class meets on Mondays, beginning Sept. 10, from 6-8pm in Pierce Hall room 2.

Disciple V focuses on two theological themes and two in-depth books of the Bible. The theological themes are “transforming discipleship” and “grace.” The books of the Bible are Genesis and Romans.

The cost of each course is $45 and confidential scholarships are available from Dr. Magrini.

Additional Opportunities for Study

Women’s Book Group: meets on the first Sunday of the month at 12:15pm in room 420A, 4th floor conference room to discuss books relating to women and faith. Oct 7: Riding the Bus with My Sister by Rachel Simmons. Nov. 14: Leaving Church: A Memoir of Faith by Barbara Brown Taylor, and Loosing Faith in Church by Barbara Brown Taylor. Books can be purchased at the church office, or the book can be found at the local library. The book will be discussed on the first Sunday of November.

Faith Writers: meets the fourth Thursday each month in the Heritage room, 2nd floor. This group shares writings, ideas, and will have guest speakers throughout the year. New writers and readers are welcome anytime.

Opportunities for Spiritual Formation

In spiritual formation a person looks more deeply at one’s relationship with God in prayer and meditation. Following are reflective and prayerful opportunities for this type of spiritual formation.

Thursday, 5:15pm Evening Prayer Service. Meet at the 2nd floor elevators to be taken to the Evening Prayer in the Chapel in the Sky.

Taizé worship, first Fridays of the month, from 6:30-7:15pm in the Dixon Chapel, 2nd floor. A service of light and darkness, reflective music and meditation.

Prayer study group and the discipline of prayer: an in-depth commitment group that will begin approximately in January, 2008. Studying prayer and committing to engage in the discipline of prayer.

Adult Pre-Baptism
Taught by Dr. Phil Blackwell and Dr. Cheryl Magrini. Three sessions for adults who have not been brought up in the church or adults who have been in the church but not previously baptized. Through discussion on the baptismal vows, the meaning of God's grace in baptism, biblical references, and connecting into the church today, participants prepare for the sacrament of baptism.

Arthur Dixon Bible Study
This group is one of the oldest continuous Bible study classes in the nation. The class studies the Gospel Scripture for that Sunday’s lectionary reading.

Baptism For Infants and Toddlers
The parents meet with Dr. Cheryl Magrini for parent information about the meaning of baptism.

Book Discussion for Women
The group reads a variety of secular and religious literature, gathering every other month on the first Sunday of the month at 12:15pm to discuss the book and for fellowship. Most books are available at the public library or in paperback for minimal purchase. Led by Dr. Cheryl Magrini.

CAFÉ (Contemporary Adults in Fellowship and Education)*
For adults in the 21-35ish age range, the class engages in weekly biblical study, theological reflection and examination of social justice issues. Led by Kwang Oh for education and Beth Williams board chair.

Deep T.A.L.K (Theologizing About Life and Knowing)*
Designed for those who enjoy tackling difficult faith questions within a biblical and theological context.

Disciple I Bible Study*
A 34-week study, Disciple I draws on biblical scholarship, biblical language and images, and personal experiences. The participant reads significant portions of Scripture each week in preparation for class. Taught by Dr. Cheryl Magrini.

Exploring Membership
Would you like to know more about the ministries of the Chicago Temple and the beliefs of the United Methodist Church? Whether you are exploring membership or are ready to join the congregation, you are welcome to attend. Contact the church office for the next class date and to sign up for attending the class.

Faith Writers
Faith Writers is a lay led new group that meets on the third Thursday of the month in James Parlor. Writers share original works, determine guest speakers, and what the group would like to do at each meeting.

Mabuhay Fellowship
This group of inclusive Asian-Pacific Americans welcomes all who wish to engage in Lectionary Bible study, peace and justice concerns, fellowship and mission work. Taught by Rev. Cerna Castro Rand.

Parents of Young Children
Through fellowship and study on topics that rotate between Bible study and parenting issues from a Christian perspective, parents will find support in the life phases. Led by Sherri Dusky-Rinker.

Spiritual Formation
Retreats that focus on Scripture, prayer, and meditation on connecting with your life.

Weekday Class is offered Mondays, from 12:00pm to 12:50pm. Each section is self-contained so you may come anytime and be able to fully participate. Bring your lunch too! Meets in Pierce Hall room 2. Press “B” on the elevator or walk down the stairs and turn right into the hallway.