Sunday School is a time-honored tradition that is new every Sunday! There is a class for everyone, from the youngest child to the oldest adult. Our church family is a large one, and Sunday School offers everyone a special place to be. Sunday School is the place where people learn about the Christian faith in a loving, supportive environment. All groups meet at 9:45 a.m. Information about the classes is listed in our Sunday School brochure and on this page of our website. If you would like a more personal introduction, please contact Kathleen Jones, at kathleen@fumcaustin.org or 478-5684 (ext. 216).
Children’s Class
First Church provides a class for all children, from toddlers through the fifth grade. Each class uses a Bible-based curriculum appropriate to the age level, taught by a team of dedicated volunteer teachers. Our primary goal is to give children a sense of what it means to live in a Christian community, along with a basic knowledge of the foundational stories of our faith. Children’s classes meet on the first floor of the Education Building. For more information about children’s classes, please contact Interim Director of Children & Family Ministries Lara Greene at laraleegreene@gmail.com or (512) 478-5684, ext. 211.
For more information on programs for children, see the “Children’s Ministry” page.
Youth Classes
Youth ministry is a top priority at First Church, providing youth with opportunities for fellowship, leadership, spiritual growth and mission. Four classes meet on Sunday mornings: 6th-7th grade, 8th grade Confirmation preparation, 9th-10th, and 11th-12th. All classes meet upstairs in the Family Life Center. For more information about youth classes, please contact Director of Youth Ministry Cathy Stone at (512) 478-5684, ext. 215.
For more information, see the “Youth Ministry” page.
Adult Classes
Our Sunday School classes offer adults a wide selection of age groups, study topics, and learning styles. Most adult classes are mixture of single and married people. Study topics range from the Bible and Christian beliefs to personal growth issues, family relationships, and current social concerns. A strong emphasis on fellowship and support makes these groups a vital part of the church community.
Adelphi
A Reconciling community of couples and singles in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. A common interest in building Christian fellowship, healthy relationships, and Christ-centered families has been the focus of this lively group since its beginning in 1986. In addition to Sunday classes, Adelphi members have annual men’s and women’s retreats, semi-regular Movie Nights, and other social activities that contribute to our growth and community. For more information, please contact Rick Russell, 347-7777; Mark Morris, 328-3038.
Family Life Center, Room 103, 10:00 a.m.
Reconciling Ministries Network is a national grassroots organization that exists to enable full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life of the United Methodist Church, both in policy and practice.
Bible Study Class
This class combines men and women, single and married, all ages. Each Sunday they study and discuss the lectionary Scripture passages on which pastors base their sermons. For more information, please contact Steve Tackett at (512) 327-6275.
Family Life Center, Room 109, 9:45 a.m.
Cross-Section
Family Life Center, Room 102, 9:45 a.m.
Couples and singles in their 40s and 50s, united by common social beliefs and a continuing need to grow as Christians. The class plans a variety of lesson topics (always with discussion), social activities, and service projects. For more information, please contact Linda Thomas.
Drop-In Class
The Drop-In Class welcomes all adults, all ages, all who can drop-in on any or all Sundays, and of course, any who have to arrive late or leave early to attend to other responsibilities. We meet at 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary Parlor located directly behind the choir loft through the door on the right side of the pulpit. Our lively discussions enhance our study and lead us to a better understanding of our own personal faith journey.
Call Jerry Heare at 512 328-3175 or just “Drop In”.
Downtowners
Single and married, in all ages and stages, Downtowners enjoy a wide variety of lesson topics, led by class members and guest speakers, with emphasis on social issues as well as spiritual growth. Lively discussion prevails. The Downtowners Class is a member of the Reconciling Ministries Network. For more information, please contact Nancy Lewis at (512) 444-5968.
Sanctuary Building, Room 213, 9:45 a.m.
Reconciling Ministries Network is a national grassroots organization that exists to enable full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life of the United Methodist Church, both in policy and practice.
Eklektikos
Couples and singles in their 30s and up, studying varied topics such as Bible studies, Christian art and history, current events, personal development, and mission programs. Open and exploratory classes examine and challenge topics to deepen understanding and faith. All are welcome and encouraged to join the faith journey. For more information, please contact Jim Bowen at (512) 918-1072.
Family Life Center, Room 111, 9:45 a.m.
Epiphany, The Class
Couples and singles in their 40s and up. Spirituality and scholarship combined in lively discussion on a variety of topics, with an emphasis on community service. Epiphany is a member of Reconciling Ministries, which encourages the full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. For more information, please contact Chip Morris at (512) 343-8599.
Family Life Center, Room 104, 9:45 a.m.
Reconciling Ministries Network is a national grassroots organization that exists to enable full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life of the United Methodist Church, both in policy and practice.
Fred Matthys Bible Class
Men and women of all ages are invited to this group with a fifty-year tradition of study, service, and warm fellowship. For more information, please contact Olivia Weldon at 832-9488.
Sanctuary Building, Room 112, 9:45 a.m.
Genesis
A Reconciling group of couples and singles in their 30s and 40s who enjoy spirited discussions. They seek to grow together as they discuss topics of spiritual and social importance. Community service and fun, regular fellowhip are integral parts of this class. For more information, please contact Brooks and Heather Schuelke at 302-4970.
Reconciling Ministries Network is a national grassroots organization that exists to enable full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life of the United Methodist Church, both in policy and practice.
Sanctuary Building, Room 217, 9:45 a.m.
Website: http://www.fumcgenesis.wordpress.com
Honeymooners
Although no longer honeymooners in the true sense of the word, these couples in their 20s and 30s live out its essence through love and devotion. Class members rotate teaching topics that range from the historical Jesus and Bible stories to current events and couples issues, with occasional guest speakers. Beyond Sunday mornings the couples enjoy regular social and mission activities as a class and throughout the church. For more information, please contact Darcy Hamre at darcy_hamre@yahoo.com or (512) 795-8005.
Sanctuary Building, Family Room, 9:45 a.m.
Website: http://fumchoneymooners.blogspot.com
Koinonia
A lively and diverse group of people exploring spiritual, social, and theological issues of faith through extended book studies. Service and fellowship events are also part of group life. Koinonia (Greek for “community”) is a part of the Reconciling Ministries Network. Married and single, gay and straight, all ages welcome. For more information, please contact Caroline Jones at (512) 233-4834.
Sanctuary Building, Room 210, 9:45 a.m.
Reconciling Ministries Network is a national grassroots organization that exists to enable full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life of the United Methodist Church, both in policy and practice.
Open Door Women’s Class
A community of women of all ages, married and single. Programs include Bible study, personal and spiritual growth, and other topics, with an agenda for discussion and sharing. We are a Reconciling Ministries class. For more information, please contact Hellen Sullivan at (512) 773-5801.
Family Life Center, Room 110, 9:45 a.m.
Reconciling Ministries Network is a national grassroots organization that exists to enable full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life of the United Methodist Church, both in policy and practice.
Susanna Wesley Class
Begun as a class for young mothers more than 60 years ago, members are now grandmothers and great-grandmothers, with several young members. They enjoy not only wonderful lessons from their team of teachers, but also a network of support and love. For more information, please contact Dean Cluck at bluebonnetqueen@austin.rr.com.
Sanctuary Building, Room 112, 9:45 a.m.
Wedding Ring
Couples and a few singles, about 60s and up. This lively group enjoys lessons from wonderful teachers. Fellowship includes unusual parties and an annual overnight retreat. Members also participate in service and support missions. For more information, please contact Curtis Higgs at 445-4100.
Family Life Center, Garrison Chapel (Room 100), 9:45 a.m.
Young Couples Class
A new class of couples in their 20′s and 30′s who are meeting together to figure out life. Join us for questions and sometimes even answers.
Contact Michelle Zwick-Cato at thecatofamily@yahoo.com with questions.
Family Life Center, Room 108, 9:45 a.m.
