Groups and Learning

We value curiosity and thoughtfulness. There are a variety of groups, series, and events that study areas of faith, scripture, and the world around us.

LEARN & GROW

St. Stephens offers many learning and spiritual growth opportunities each week in-person and online. Below are some of the options that we offer, some groups meet all year long and other have specific periods for their meetings. Sign-up for our Newsletter, the E-Star, to receive the latest schedule.

A Meditation for People & Place – Wednesdays @ 7:30 PM In-Person or via Zoom.

A Meditation for People & Place invites you to be still and notice what is stirring in you, around you, and what feels holy in the mix. We gather online via Zoom for 30 minutes to light candles, take deep breaths, hear words of wisdom from a variety of traditions, and practice guided silence with Associate Rector, Rev. Ashley.

As our community weighs significant decisions about Mission Real Estate, it will be important to stay rooted in who we are and attuned to what’s possible. The meditation is open to all within or beyond any faith tradition. Join us as we anchor ourselves alongside community or just because you need some quiet space to be.

Rosary Group

(Saturdays at 8:00 AM In-Person and on Zoom)
Gathers to pray the rosary and fellowship together weekly. Open to youth as well as adults.

Adult Forum

(Sundays at 9:30 AM In-Person & Zoom)
Each Sunday we host an Adult Forum with rotating topics and speakers as a way to engage our faith and the world through conversation and learning.

Bible Study

(Mondays at Noon via Zoom)
Every Monday at noon, meet with the Rector and other parishioners to discuss the readings for the upcoming week. No preparation is required. Please join us to reflect and share insights on the upcoming readings.

20's & 30's Group

The 20’s & 30’s group meets different times each month:

March 19 – Art & Salvation – Part 1 – Lunch Meetup @ 12 PM

April 16 – Visit Rothko Chapel & Picnic

April 23 – Art & Salvation – Part 2 – Lunch Meetup @ 12 PM

In-Person Bible Study on Tuesdays

Join us in the Gathering Area at 6:30 PM to study the New Testament, starting with the Gospels this fall.

Faith & Justice Group

Meets weekly on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM via Zoom. Currently the group is discussing the book by bell hooks, Where we Stand: Class Matters.

Join SSEC Faith & Justice weekly Wednesday study group as we continue our dedication and expand our efforts at reconciliation & justice work in our community and beyond. The group welcomes all those interested in authentic study, dialogue and action (via books, articles, videos, advocacy, collaborative community partnerships) in working toward wholesome humanity for every person, both in church and in society.

Men's Spirituality Group

The group is focused on sharing and reflecting on beliefs, concepts, and timeless ideas from a wide range of sources with the objective of promoting the male journey towards spiritual and emotional maturity. This is done thru honoring the other’s experience by being present with each other, listening from the heart, and holding a non-judgmental perspective. The group meets on the 2nd Thursday evening of each month at the Haven Center, at 6:30 PM.

Education for Ministry (EFM)

All baptized Christians are called to be active participants in the church’s total ministry. The EFM program is preparation for the ministry to which we are called. The nucleus of the EFM program – the seminar group – consists of 6 to 12 participants and a trained mentor meeting weekly over a nine month academic year. To register, please contact Laura Thewalt.

The Presence Group

(Sundays at 2:00 PM In-Person & Online)
The Presence Group has been reading and meditating together since 2005. We are a group of contemplative individuals whose purpose is to strive to be continually awake to the certain presence of God in ourselves, in others, and in all living things; to live with intention, and to try to discern God’s desire for our lives. We do this by exploring a variety of sources through group discussion, through active prayer lives, and by engaging in meditation – both group and individual – to “listen with the heart” for God’s voice. We acknowledge that this is a life-long work that requires patience and commitment. We welcome anyone who wishes to join us. Our blog can be found here. Questions? Email Fred Bellido.