It's back to school for Redeemer!

Aug. 29, 2013 / Sarasota, Fla. — Each fall, the Church of the Redeemer kicks off a plethora of educational and faith-formation opportunities, most of them free and open to the public. Overseen by Associate Rector, the Rev. Richard C. Marsden; Director of Children’s Christian Formation Jacki Boedecker and Deacon in Charge of Ministry to Youth David Bumsted, a full spectrum of classes, study, prayer and fellowship activities take place each week.

Drawing from its 1,900-member parish, Redeemer taps the talents of clergy, staff and parishioners to plan, teach, lecture and lead its diverse curriculum. The church augments its own roster of teachers and facilitators by inviting noted spiritual thinkers, authors and clergy from across the country to visit Sarasota and preach or speak. In November, for example, the church will host Center for the Eucharist (St. Louis, Mo.) founder and executive director, the Rev. Ralph McMichael, Ph.D., during its annual All Saints’ Institute — a series of worship services and fellowship gatherings held Nov. 1-3.

In addition to offering Sunday School during the traditional academic year for toddlers through 12th grade students, Redeemer offers LOGOS, a once-weekly after-school program especially for children in grades K-5, providing Bible study and games, as well as exposure to worship through art and music. The LOGOS program is particularly focused on connecting young children with older members of the parish and each week’s program ends with a themed dinner where conversation across generations yields rewards for all ages. This year, a special study for LOGOS will include "Sticky Faith,"  which will focus on nurturing long-term faith in children and youth.

The Episcopal Youth Community program offers youth in grades six through 12 the opportunity to gather weekly in a variety of events and classes. Offerings include before-school Bible study on Friday mornings, community service activities and projects, mission trips and weekly group meetings with Deacon in Charge of Ministry to Youth David Bumsted to discuss and work through the challenges and opportunities of life as young Christian adults.

For college-age, working and retired adults, Redeemer offers a wide range of fellowship and educational offerings designed to deepen an understanding of faith and provide thoughtful context for lifelong spiritual journeys. Beginning in September, there are multiple morning and evening classes offering prayer groups, Bible studies, and courses covering topics such as “Inquirers Class,” “The Hebrews: Faith & Culture,” “Christian Leadership Concepts” and a study of St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians.

The Church of the Redeemer is located at 222 S. Palm Ave., in downtown Sarasota. To learn more, visit redeemersarasota.org, or call 941-955-4263.