FALL Studies

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Disciple Fast Track: Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study - New Testament

Mondays, 6:30 - 8 p.m.; September 8 - December 1

Facilitators: Rev. Becky & Pat Wallace

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the New Testament? This 12-week adaptation of the beloved Disciple Bible Study is designed for busy people like you who want to dive into a comprehensive Bible study without a long-term time commitment. This fall, Katy First is offering the Fast Track New Testament. You do not need to have taken the Old Testament study to participate!

Participants will explore the overarching themes, stories, and lessons of the New Testament. Each week, you'll prepare by reading 3-5 chapters of the Bible a day alongside the curriculum guide, setting the stage for engaging and thought-provoking discussions during class.

This enriching and exciting experience provides a unique opportunity to study scripture alongside fellow disciples, deepening your faith and understanding of God’s Word.

*Study book is required and can be purchased through Cokesbury, Amazon (paperback or Kindle), Bookshop.org (ebook), or Barnes & Noble.

The Social Principles of the United Methodist Church

Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8 p.m.; September 16 - October 21

Facilitator: Rev. Randy Smith

The Revised Social Principles is a vital update to our toolbox as United Methodists seek to live out our faith in relevant and loving ways.

"This has been just an amazing journey involving so many voices in a way that we believe really reflects who we are as United Methodists today,” said John Hill, Church and Society’s interim top executive, said in a recent United Methodist News article. The revision “gives us a strong social statement for who we are to be as we move forward out of General Conference.”

Join the conversations of the value of the social principles on our fulfilling our vision of Katy First UMC to be a welcoming and serving church that embraces the diversity of our community and the inclusion of all God's children, mobilized to address the specific needs of families, neighborhoods, and schools.

*Study book is required and can be purchased through Cokesbury.

"Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White" by Adam Hamilton

Tuesdays, (Two Options) 9:30 - 11 a.m.  OR  6:30 - 8 p.m.; September 16 - October 21

Facilitator: Rev. Shelli Williams

In a time when conversations around faith, morality, and politics often divide, this study invites us to approach difficult issues with thoughtfulness, humility, and compassion. Together, we’ll explore what it means to move beyond “black and white” thinking to discover the deeper truths that can be found when we listen, learn, and engage with one another in love.

Through guided discussion and video teaching from Adam Hamilton, participants will gain practical tools for navigating tough conversations, grounding their perspectives in the ethics of Jesus, and modeling a faithful “middle way” that reflects both conviction and grace.

*Study book is required and can be purchased through Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or Amazon.

I & II Thessalonians

Wednesdays, 4:30 - 6 p.m.; September 16 - October 21

Facilitators: Carol Minze and Carol Rogers

Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians are filled with encouragement, wisdom, and hope—reminding early Christians (and us today) how to live faithfully in light of Christ’s promised return.

Guided by 1 & 2 Thessalonians by N.T. Wright, this study will help participants dive deeper into the text with accessible commentary and thought-provoking questions. Together, we’ll explore what it means to persevere in faith, build up one another, and live with hope and purpose as followers of Christ.

*Study book is required and can be purchased through Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or Amazon.

Foundations

Sundays, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.; September 21 - October 12

Facilitator: Rev. Mark Kimbrough

Foundations is a new 4-week study designed for those new to Katy First or for those who want to refresh on a few of our essential thoughts and practices as United Methodist and Katy First UMC. We’ll cover a range of topics like United Methodist theology and spirituality, our understanding of scripture, the vision and values of our church, and giftedness and call. Through teaching and discussion, you’ll have a deeper understanding of who we are, how we grow our faith together, and where we can find our place of belonging.

*Materials provided.

LAY SERVANT COURSES

"Shaping the Prayers of the People: The Art of Intercession" by Samuel Wells and Abigail Kocher

Saturday, September 20, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Facilitator: Kay Psencik

This book endeavors to make intercessory prayer central to recognition of our particular human need, our common dependency on God, and our growing expectation that God will bless us and our everyday common practice.  John Wesley’s view of intercessory prayer is deeply rooted in his belief that prayer is essential for maintaining a relationship with God and for personal growth.  He emphasized the importance of prayer for both petition and intercession, advocating for a loving attitude towards God and others.  Wesley’s teachings on intercessory prayer encourage believers to pray for all men, reflecting a universal desire to please God and the importance of prayer for others as an act of love highlight his commitment to prayer as a means of grace and spiritual formation.    

We will discuss the power of intercessory prayer and have the opportunity to practice it together and think of its implications for us at Katy First UMC.

Note: This is an advanced course that counts toward CLS recertification.

*Study book is required and can be purchased through Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble (ebook), or Amazon.

Certified Lay Servant - Basic

Saturday, September 20, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Facilitator: Derek Spier

The basic course for becoming a Certified Lay Servant in the United Methodist Church, reviews the basic principles and practices of the United Methodist Church and what Christ calls us to do as servants to others.  All those who participate will be renewed by the conversations and energized to consider what God is calling them to do.  Don’t miss out.  All of us at Katy First would be enriched by engaging in this opportunity to learn.

Certified Lay Servant - Advanced

Saturday, October 4, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Facilitator: James Bauman

This approved Advanced Course that counts for all to become Certified Lay Servants is a beautiful study of who we are personally and what God has called us to do.  We will discuss our faith journey, tell our stories of learning and growing in our faith, determine our Spiritual Gifts, and consider what God is calling us to do to further making disciples of all in the world and fulfilling our Katy First UMC vision of being a welcoming and serving church that embraces the diversity of our community and the inclusion of all of God’s children, mobilized to address the specific needs of families, neighborhoods, and schools.

Health Sessions

Pediatric Respiratory Illness

Thursday, September 18, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Facilitator: James Bauman, Certified Lay Minister

Pediatric respiratory illnesses (PRI) such as asthma, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, croup, and influenza are leading causes of pediatric hospitalizations, emergency department (ED) visits, and mortality in children in the United States and worldwide. Join James in a lively discussion when to seek help and treatment and treatment expectations on 9/18/25. He will be discussion croup, epigtottitis, pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, whooping cough, asthma, what their symptoms are and the best choices for parents to keep their children both safe from these diseases and what to do if you suspect they have one of them.

Gratitude & Self-Affirmations to Improve Mental Health

Thursday, September 25, 9 - 9:40 p.m. (virtual)

Facilitator: James Bauman, Certified Lay Minister

Gratitude is linked to greater emotional and social well-being. Regularly expressing gratitude can lead to improved mood, increased happiness, and reduced feelings of depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that individuals who practice gratitude report higher levels of life satisfaction and overall happiness. Join James in exploring strategies for strengthening your emotional health by finding greater joy and gratitude in your life.

Fall Prevention

Thursday, October 16, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Facilitator: Kay Sword, EMT, RN, BSN, CEN, TCRN, FCN

Falls are a leading cause of injury and death in the home, especially for older adults. Most falls can be avoided by simple common sense approaches that remove possible obstacles we are unaware of since we live in our homes. Join Kay in a great session on things to do at home to keep us from falling.

Meditation for Self-Awareness

Thursday, October 23, 9 - 9:40 p.m. (virtual)

Facilitator: James Bauman, Certified Lay Minister

Meditation is a powerful strategy for calming and stilling the mind which gives us time and space to move toward greater self-awareness. When we are self-aware we have better opportunities to scan our bodies, check our emotions, and reflect on how our attitudes and thoughts are affecting our lives. Join us for this wonderful session that will bring you greater peace.

Mindfulness in Activities

Thursday, November 13, 9 - 9:40 p.m. (virtual)

Facilitator: James Bauman, Certified Lay Minister

One of the great benefits of being mindful is that we become fully present in our lives. Our minds are often thinking of what we must get done tomorrow, or dwelling on some thing in the past. Consequently, we miss out on the only real moment we have; this one. Join James in experiencing mindfulness to live well in the present.

Walk into Wellness

Saturday, October 4 - October 25, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. at Peckham Park

Facilitator: Whitney Koch

Start your weekend with fresh air, movement, and fellowship! Join us on Saturday mornings in October at Mary Jo Peckham Park for a time of walking together, building community, and caring for both body and spirit.

This is a relaxed, come-as-you-are opportunity—walk as much or as little as you’d like. All ages are welcome, and the park offers public restrooms and play structures for children. Whether you’re looking for exercise, conversation, or simply time outdoors, you’ll find a warm and welcoming group to share the journey.

SOCIAL Well-being

Pumpkin Patch Craft

Time & Date TBD

Facilitator: Jeanna Meek