Adult Formation
Part of growing deeper in Christ is committing to personal study and spiritual conversations with others. Our Adult Formation ministry gives you opportunities to take what you read, learn, and hear in worship and turn it into a faithful and compassionate way of living.
We know getting across Charlotte during the week can be difficult, so we use a combination of virtual and in-person gatherings to make it easy for you.
Classes and Studies
Rather than just providing information, our classes and programs create experiences that engage and transform our hearts and actions. Time together as a community nurtures us personally and encourages us to pour out the love of Christ to all.
During the school year we offer classes that focus on scripture, theology, and/or discipleship every Sunday morning at 9:45 a.m. You can join these classes in-person at our church or online via Zoom.
During the week, Bible studies and small groups meet weekly at various times and places. Pathways to Discipleship, an online database of resources, provides materials to further your studies and recordings of past classes.
Passages Sunday School
Join the warm community in this class for biblically and theologically based lessons and discussions to help adults of all ages respond to the call to live faithfully in the world today. Topics include scriptural study, theology, church history, mental wellness, and outreach. View the fall 2025 syllabus here. Register for Zoom: fpc.tiny.us/passagessundayclass
January 4 – February 1 | The Book of Isaiah – led by Becky and John Hart
In this series on the Book of Isaiah, we will visit its promise of new beginnings in the midst of a chaotic world. The prophet Isaiah paints vivid images of a time of both grief and glory, conflict and compassion, and sends out promising shoots of hope for the coming of the long-awaited Messiah. Join to discover anew your favorite passages and promises.
February 15 – March 15 | Poetry and the Language of Faith – led by Lewis Galloway
Explore the theological insights that are revealed in the imagery and metaphors of weekly poems.
If you would like to view recordings of First Presbyterian’s Sunday School Classes since 2020, visit Pathways to Discipleship at fpcpathways.com
The Bible Jesus Read
This weekly overview of the Hebrew Bible (traditionally called the Old Testament by Christians) brings together head and heart. Participants explore the story of God’s relationship with God’s people, learn about interpreting diverse genres of biblical text, and gain an appreciation for the startling variety and moving depth of sacred writings that Jesus knew and lived by. Open to all ages.
Led by Parish Associate Rob Spach.
Join via Zoom
Passcode: TBJR
Spiritual Direction
Are you longing for a deeper connection with God? Curious about where God may be leading you? Spiritual Direction can help you deepen your relationship with God or discern God’s calling in your life. Sessions are guided by a trained spiritual director and may include prayer, conversation, and silence, offering an unhurried space to share freely without fear of judgment. If you have questions about spiritual direction, contact Rob Spach at rspach@firstpres-charlotte.org, or scan the QR code to schedule your first session online!
Frequency: Once a month
Length: One hour per session
Duration: Up to six sessions available per individual
Location: In person at the church or virtual
Cost: No cost for First Presbyterian Church members and staff
Tuesday Morning Bible Study
Resumes September 17th.
Inspired by writers such as Richard Rohr, Amy-Jill Levine, Barbara Brown Taylor, Greg Boyle, and Jonathan Sacks, this group seeks a profound awareness of God’s presence and revelation in Jesus Christ that leads us to greater compassion for others. Book topics include scriptural study, theology, ethical living, and spirituality. All are welcome.
Bread for the Journey
Join to engage in questions and responses that flow from reading a weekly Gospel passage together. No preparation is needed. Bring your lunch if you’d like.
Rob Spach, Parish Associate, will provide the text and guide the conversation each week. This offering is open to all ages.
Thursday Morning Men’s Bible Study
Resumes September 5th.
This is a Bible study in the purest sense of that word. Our primary focus and the question that guides our scriptural reading is how a particular passage shapes our daily living. New participants are always welcome.
“Pathways to Discipleship” | Additional Resources
We offer a database of additional resources so you can continue your education whenever it’s convenient for you. Resources include recordings of past classes and resources to read or listen to.
The Willard is an annual event that engages our faith tradition with relevant issues including justice, human dignity, and inclusion. It is sponsored by The Willard Endowment of First Presbyterian Church, a fund that was established in memory of Charles R. Willard, Jr.
The Willard Lecture with Dr. Sherry Turkle
March 1, 2026 | 5:30-7 PM | First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary
What is special about being human?
What do we forget when we talk to machines?
What are practical steps to maintain human connection in a digital world?
Dr. Sherry Turkle, founding director of MIT's Initiative on Technology and Self, is one of the first scientists to examine AI as it was being created. She argues that over-reliance on devices is harming our ability to have valuable face-to-face conversations. In her lecture, she will guide us to consciously reclaim and nurture empathy in our workplaces, communities, schools, and homes as we mindfully integrate the digital into our lives. She will help us think carefully and hopefully about AI and will invite us to imagine how we might use technology in ways that enhance, rather than erode, the sacred work of being present with one another.
Dr. Turkle is the Abby Rockefeller Mauzé Professor of the Social Studies of Science and Technology in the Program in Science, Technology, and Society at MIT. She’s also the author of “Alone Together: Why We Expect More from Technology and Less from Each Other” (2012), "Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age" (2015), and "The Empathy Diaries: A Memoir" (2021), and several others.
Dr. Andrew Zirschky, Director of the Master of Arts in Youth Ministry program at Austin Seminary, and author of Beyond the Screen: Youth Ministry for the Connected But Alone Generation, will join Dr. Turkle for conversation in the Q&R portion of the event. He will expand on Dr. Turkle’s lecture and help identify practical ways we can maintain empathy and humanness in a digital world.
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