– Worship & Spiritual Life –
Growing and deepening Christian discipleship, a core element of our church’s purpose, is a journey we all travel in varying ways throughout our lives. That journey, however, is one that is inspired and enlivened when it is shared with others. Through prayer, Bible studies, book groups, and more, we seek to learn from one another, support one another, and grow together as a faith community.
All are welcome, at any time, to join us!
Centering Prayer
Centering Prayer is a weekly gathering for the purpose of prayerfully reflecting on the focal Scripture of the Sunday service, as well as other prayers and needs brought before the group.
A time of meditative prayer is followed by a reading of the Scripture and a time of sharing words or thoughts that were inspired by the Scripture. This blend of meditation, prayer and reflection leads to powerful fellowship and meaningful dialog among the participants, and new individuals are always welcome and encouraged to join.
If you have an hour to spend, and a heart to open to God, Centering Prayer will be a blessing to you (and you, a blessing to the group!).
If you would like to know more, please speak to one of our Ministers or visit the Library on Sunday morning to speak to one of the participants.
When & Where
Prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic, Centering Prayer gathered between our services on Sunday mornings. Throughout the pandemic, the prayer group has gathered on Zoom on alternating Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. If you would like more information, see the regular Monday email or contact the church office.
Book & Discussion Groups
Tuesday Morning Book Group
Every Tuesday 10 – 11 am (Zoom from 9-10)
A rich and thoughtful conversation erupts every week as part of our Tuesday book group. From 10-11am, participants gather to discuss a book on discipleship, religion, the Bible or another faith-related topic. Some books are selected by the Rev. Julie Sheridan-Smith, while others are recommended by members of the group.
While the Tuesday book group has historically been primarily composed of women, the group is open to all adults of the church. Men have attended in the past and would be welcome to attend again.
For more information, contact Rev. Julie at juliesmith@northshorecongl.org.
Recommended Reading:
Tattoos on the Heart by Gregory Boyle
Nine Essential Things I’ve Learned About Life by Harold S. Kushner
Speaking Christian and Convictions by Marcus Borg
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
The Faith Club: A Muslim, A Christian, A Jew – Three Women Search for Understanding by Ranya Idliby
Friday Men’s Breakfast
Every Friday 6:45 am
A group of men gather by Zoom, followed by and in-person breakfast at the Family Table Restaurant (6598 W Brown Deer Rd, Milwaukee) for a time of fellowship, study and reflection. Their morning breakfast is accompanied by the reading of a book (typically recommended by one of the group participants) and conversation about faith, life and Christian living.
The Friday Men’s Breakfast is a decades-old ministry of the church that is about both genuine fellowship and thoughtful conversation. Weekly attendance is roughly 7-10 people, and people are welcome to attend as frequently (or infrequently) as they are able.
To learn more, contact Rev. Marty at martinhall@northshorecongl.org.
Recommended Reading:
The Victory of Reason: How Christianity Led to Freedom, Capitalism, and Western Success by Rodney Stark
They Found the Secret: 20 Transformed Lives That Reveal a Touch of Eternity by V. Raymond Edman
Bible Studies
Thursday Morning Bible Study
Every Thursday from 9:30 – 11 am
Meeting every Thursday from 9:30 – 11 am, the Thursday morning Bible Study group gathers to focus on a particular section or book of the Bible. The conversations and reflections are insightful and inspiring, and the Fellowship is truly uplifting. Each week, participants are thrilled to come together to study, and they are always excited to welcome new members into the group. During the Covid-19 Pandemic, individuals have been participating both in-person and via Zoom.
Sunday Afternoon Bible Study
1st, 3rd and 5th Sundays at 3pm
This study group meets 2-3 times each month, in our Friendship Lounge, to discuss a particular book or section of the Bible. More participants are always welcome.
For more information on either of our Bible Studies, contact Rev. Julie at juliesmith@northshorecongl.org.
Short-term Studies & Programs
From Lenten programs to seasonal Bible studies, various short-term study and discussion opportunities are made available throughout the year. These programs and opportunities are often perfect for those who want to explore faith, but are unsure of making the commitment to a long-term study group.
To learn more, or to be notified of upcoming studies, please contact Rev. Marty at martinhall@northshorecongl.org.
Some of Our Past Studies
Images of the Church in the New Testament:
A fall study, incorporated into the worship and study life of the church, focusing on images used to describe the Church in the New Testament and what those images have to say about the role of the Church in 21st century society.
Congregationalism 101 with Rev. Dr. Martin Hall:
A 10-week survey of the history and nature of the Congregational Way.
Resurrection Appearances of Jesus with Dr. John Perry:
A series focused on the moments in which Jesus appeared to his disciples and friends after his resurrections.
Parables of the Bible with Rev. Dr. Martin Hall:
A six-week exploration into the nature and meaning of some of the classic Parables of our faith.
