Progressive Christianity is an open, intelligent and collaborative approach to the Christian tradition and the life and teachings of Jesus that creates a pathway into an authentic and relevant religious experience.
We are a 501c3 non-profit organization that offers thoughtful and practical resources for individuals, families, and communities to explore and affect progressive Christianity, spirituality, community life, social and environmental justice.
Looking for a little inspiration to share with the young hearts in your life? Download this beautiful Christmas lesson, designed for in home or group use for kids 6-10 years old.
Excerpt:
Lesson 34 from Year One of A Joyful Path: Experiencing God as Light
God can be experienced as light, visible to the physical eyes and as a universal inner reality.
Religious festivals all over the world include light in some form. Light represents truth to us because as we experience the reality of God’s presence, hope and understanding awaken within us. Darkness and confusion recede from our consciousness as the light of joy grows stronger. Inner light is just as real to our consciousness as visible light is to our eyes.
We can help children understand that Christmas lights and candles are more than pretty; there is a deeper reason why we respond to their beauty. Christmas lights are often the first sign that the Christmas season is upon us. Start the season by welcoming the light that is Christ into your heart and sharing it with all.
Affirmation: That light that was in Jesus shines in me and around me.
progressivechristianity.org/resources/a-joyful-path-year-one-lesson-34-experiencing-god-as-light/
We are called to stand at the edges, alongside those that are neglected and oppressed. We are committed to actively listening, doing our best as allies, healing ourselves and others, and linking arms with all people who are dedicated to radical equality, radical inclusion, and the dismantling of a broken system and theology. - mailchi.mp/progressivechristianity/the-progressive-christian-movement-is-growing-and-we-are-leadi...
PATHWAYS Theological Education
An Online Institute for Progressive Christian Theology
Up-coming courses for continuing education include:
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L1.3 Variety of Beliefs Within Christianity Today (6-weeks)
Jan. 9 to Feb 19
Ministry in the 21st Century is characterized by bridging sometimes wide and subtle differences in beliefs, languages of faith, and individual experiences. This course allows participants to explore the evolution of differences within their own experience while also considering other differences encountered in ministry today.
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L1.4 The Stories of Christian Saints and Sinners (6-weeks)
Mar 6 to April 16
This course provides an overview of the 2000 plus year history of the Christian church in chronological order and in themes or patterns within the history.
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L1.5 Spiritual Care of Self and Others (6-weeks)
May 1 to June 11
This course is an opportunity for participants to explore their understanding of self as members of a Christian community and to develop skills to teach and support others about specific aspects of the Christian tradition that support self-care.
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L2.6, 2.7 UCC History and Polity (12-weeks)
January 9 to April 2
The purpose of this course is to explore the history, polity, theologies, and practices of the United Church of Christ and its predecessor denominations. Successful completion of this course will fulfill the history and polity requirement for authorized ministry in the United Church of Christ in many associations and conferences.
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L3.6 Professional Boundaries and Ministerial Self-Care (6-weeks)
February 27 – April 9
In this course, we will explore ethics and their application for professional pastoral ministers. We will consider the boundaries that define the relationships between professional pastoral ministers and congregants.
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L3.9 Practicing Our Faith in the Public Square (6-weeks for 4 CEU’s)
January 9 – February 19
This course examines the why, how, and direction of faith-based engagement in the political life of our communities and nation.
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progressivechristianity.org/events/pathways-theological-education-course-practicing-our-faith-in-...
How intimate are you willing to get?
This week at Progressing Spirit, Rev. Lauren Van Ham invites us to get intimate with our world, what we buy, and how we engage.
