Sunday School & Small Group Classes
There’s a Seat Saved for You
The Christian faith is grounded in the love and grace of God, experienced through Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Christian life is our response to God’s love and grace. The church calls our response to God; Christian discipleship. Discipleship focuses on actively following in the footsteps of Jesus. As Christian disciples, we are not passive spectators but energetic participants in God’s activity in the world.
AGAPE:
A multi-generational class with an emphasis on diversity of membership and warm fellowship with a variety of discussion and study topics.
ALPHA:
A warm-hearted class of couples and singles. Class format is to have presentations by class members and guest speakers on a variety of topics that include Bible study, Community issues, and Christian practices. Visit us online at alphaclass.org. Ages: 65-80.
APOSTLES:
A supportive class for couples and singles, focused on prayer, biblical teaching, and caring for one another. We enjoy socials and actively serve missions within the church and community. Ages 50-75.
ASBURY:
A diverse group of married and single friends, primarily in their 50s to 70s, who support each other through fellowship, service, and education. We value all opinions, creating lively, respectful discussions. Fun-loving and active in church projects, we meet in The Cottage, offering close parking, ground-floor access, a kitchen, and a quiet space. All ages are welcome!
CELEBRATION:
A class of couples and singles, some retired, some still working, offering diverse, Bible-based programs with engaging discussions. We provide a caring, supportive community and actively participate in various ministry and mission projects. Fun-loving and welcoming, we invite anyone to join our small group at GUMC. Ages: late 50s to mid-70s.
EMMAUS:
A warm, friendly class focused on studying God’s Word, prayer, and fellowship. Led by a rotating team of teachers, we center discussions on Christian life’s challenges. Our mission efforts, like First Works, Kenya Mission Trip, and Room in the Inn, double as social events, fostering friendship and commitment. Ages: 60+.
FELLOWSHIP FORUM:
As the name suggests, we are a lively discussion group focused on contemporary issues within a Christian fellowship. Discussions, led by class members and guest speakers, welcome a wide range of opinions. Ages: 75+.
FISER COVENANT:
Our class is a warm, compassionate group of couples and singles. We explore a chosen book of the Bible together, guided by the teacher. Join us for meaningful study and supportive fellowship. Ages: mid 70’s to 80+
FOUNDATIONS:
A class of couples and singles dedicated to deepening our relationship with God through study, prayer, fellowship, and community service. We select studies that inspire conversation and have real-life application. Ages: 35-50
HORIZON:
A friendly, inviting group of couples and singles dedicated to spiritual growth. We engage in various mission-focused activities and enjoy fellowship, social events, and group activities. Our programs feature Bible studies, current church issues, and societal concerns, led by class members or guest speakers. Ages: 70s – 85
LAMPLIGHTERS:
Our supportive fellowship of couples and singles is active in serving the church and community. We study both biblical topics and contemporary family and social issues, with a strong emphasis on service. Our social calendar is filled with fun outings and fellowships almost every month.Ages: 68-90+
SEEKERS:
An accepting and welcoming Christian community of couples and singles, where everyone quickly feels at home. We study a range of biblical topics alongside contemporary social and family issues. Service to others and sharing our time, talents, and gifts are core to our activities. Monthly social events provide opportunities for fellowship and relaxation. Ages: 70-90+
TRINITY:
A group of adults with school-aged children (from elementary to college) who engage in current events and issue-based discussions grounded in spirituality. Our varied curriculum includes topics like Christian parenting, relationships, and studies of biblical figures. Singles and couples are welcome! Ages: mid-40s to 60s
WESLEY 2.0:
Wesley 2.0 fosters an atmosphere of love and acceptance, focusing on teaching God’s word and promoting personal growth within a supportive community. We encourage outreach through witness and service while increasing opportunities for connection. Our discussion-based class features thought-provoking lessons led by talented teachers. Couples and singles with children from infants to teenagers are welcome as we support each other through prayer, fellowship, fun socials, and service opportunities. For more information, contact us at [email protected]. Ages: 30s-50s.
Please check out the list of lessons and teachers below for November 16 and join us!
The Message of Jesus by Adam Hamilton (Don Rhoads). Agape meets in Room 132, Chapel Building.
The Backpack Project (Barbara Schanson). Alpha meets in Room 136.
Reclaiming Our Unity (Tim Wise). Apostles meets in Room 131, Chapel Building.
Martin Luther (Dave Thompson). Asbury meets in The Cottage.
Come Thou Long Expected Jesus (Class Member Led). Celebration meets in Room 232, Chapel Building.
Over the Rainbow (Donna Haley). Emmaus meets in the Chapel.
Frustration (Kathy Bost). Fellowship Forum meets in Room 338.
The Gospel of John (Class Member Led). Fiser Covenant meets in Room 233, Chapel Building.
Organizing RITI Supplies at the Cottage. Foundations will meet at The Cottage.
In ____ We Trust (Richard Stewart). Horizon meets in Room 2, Adult Education Building.
Thomas the Disciple (Anita Lotz). Lamplighters meet in Room 342.
The Liberating Love of Jesus (Shirlee Clark). Seekers meet in Room 1, Adult Education Building.
Person of Interest by J. Warner Wallace (Class Member Led). Trinity meets in Room 145, Chapel Building.
The Revelation to John (Liz Wilds). Wesley 2.0 meets in Room 339.
While worship is central to Germantown United Methodist Church (GUMC), it is only part of the “disciple making” experience of following Christ. Small group studies enhance the worship experience by providing opportunities to learn more about the Bible, discuss current issues, develop close personal friendships, grow in faith and learn how to apply the Christian faith in real life situations. Below is a list of our upcoming small group studies. For more information contact Mary Groh at [email protected]
To register for classes, please click here.
The Marvel and Miracle of Advent – Recapturing the Wonder of Jesus Living With Us
Wednesdays, November 19 – December 17 (skipping Nov. 26); 9:45-11:45 am; via Zoom. Facilitator: Chesley Porteous; Cost: $16.00.
Join authors Christine Caine and Lisa Harper this Advent season for a four-session video Bible study like no other. Your hope and spirit will be revived as you recapture the wonder of Jesus’ obvious love for you. You’ll discover that Advent is not only a season of waiting and preparation, but also, it’s a season of action to share the hope of Jesus with everyone.
The Marvel and Miracle of Advent study is a wake-up call to wonder and to a fresh experience of the gospel and the miracle of Immanuel-God with us.
The First Advent in Palestine – Reversals, Resistance, and The Ongoing Complexity of Hope
Tuesdays, November 25 – December 16; 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm; No cost. Facilitators: Rev. Linda and Rev. Brad Gabriel
Those who experienced the first Advent had to travel through great darkness to reach the hope that the shining star announced.
Reading the Advent narratives of Luke and Matthew anew, in their original context, changes so much about how we see the true story of resistance, abusive rulers and systems of oppression, and God coming to earth.
We will explore the economic hardship of Nazareth and Bethlehem, concerns about daily bread, crushing debt, and land loss that ring a familiar echo to our modern ears.
Author Kelley Nikondeha will take us back, to where the landscape of Palestine is once again the geographic, socioeconomic, and political backdrop for the Advent story.
Monthly Book Group
Fourth Monday of Every Month
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Room 338
There is no need to register, just purchase the book (or check-out from the library) and join us for a spirited discussion!
Nov. 24 Beasts of a Little Land Juhea Kim
January 26 Persuasion Jane Austin
February 23 The Frozen River Ariel Lawhon
March 23 Adventures of the Thunderbolt Kid Bill Bryson