Grace Church on Canal Street in New Orleans

St. Paul In The Desert

Via Media

St. Paul In The Desert

 

Have you ever found yourself wishing for a spiritual home? One in which community matters, intellectual inquiry is honored, and diversity is valued? Do you seek a place where worship is meaningful and beautiful and does not require you to "check your mind" at the door? If so, the Episcopal Church may be something you want to know more about.

 

The Episcopal Church is a member of the worldwide Anglican Communion, the confederation of churches that descend from the missionary activity of the Church of England. ("Anglican" means "English.") Classical Anglicanism teaches an "All may, some should, none must" philosophy that centers our life as a church together in worship, community and outreach rather than rigid confessional statements or strict moral codes. The "Via Media," or "Middle Way," has been a hallmark of Anglican theology, spirituality and worship for centuries and holds that choosing the broad middle path between extremes is a deliberate choice to further God's purposes in the world. Scripture, Tradition and Reason are all valued in the Anglican tradition and are used as counter-balancing sources of authority.



Whether you are a Christian looking for a different church, an agnostic wanting to know more and discuss spiritual matters, a seeker looking for a place to "put down roots" or if you are none of the above, The Episcopal Church welcomes you where you are, and Grace Church invites you to a series of informal presentations and discussions on the Via Media of Classical Anglicanism.

Q. So what is the Via Media Program?
A. The Via Media program is an nine-week series of meetings that explores the basics of Christian faith and specific aspects of the Anglican way. Each session includes a video presentation that features a round table discussion on the subject of the night by noted Anglican pastors, theologians and lay people with a wide diversity of ethnicity and backgrounds, and small-group time where questions are welcomed and discussed.
Q. So what are the topics discussed and when?
Preview: September 15th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
How can the parish support Via Media?
Session 1: September 22nd - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Via Media: Grace Church - About us
Session 2: September 29th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
God and Creation: The Abundance of God's Goodness
Session 3: October 6th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
God in Jesus: An Incarnational Faith
Session 4: October 13th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
God the Holy Spirit: The Breath of New Life
Session 5: October 20th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
The Bible: The Word of God for the People of God
Session 6: October 26th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Sin: Roadblocks to Abundant Life
Session 7: November 3rd - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Thy Kingdom Come: The Promise of Christian Hope
Session 8: November 10th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
So, What?
Session 9: November 17th - 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Via Media: The Anglican Way of Doing things
Q. What if I can't make them all?
A. Come to whatever portion you can. Each unit is somewhat self-contained.
Q. I'm concerned - I don't know much about church or the Bible or Jesus.
A. That's fine! The program is designed to let you experience what the Episcopal Church has to offer in a non-threatening, educational and entertaining way.
Q. Will I be pressured to "Convert?" 
A. The Anglican ethos is one that emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit over our own work. If you are drawn to join us, we are glad to have you. If not, we hope that this program will strengthen you in whatever faith journey you decide upon. Absolutely no pressure will be applied - you can participate at whatever level you are comfortable with. There are no "Altar Calls."
Q. What does it cost?
A. It's absolutely FREE! (You may make a donation for supper, if you wish.)
Q. Where is this going to be held?
A. Macfarlane Parish Hall at Grace Church.
Find directions here.
 

I have other questions....
That's great. Please
click here to send us an E-mail. You can also call our church office at (504) 482-5242. We hope to see you at Via Media at Grace Church - Canal Street.

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