Central United offers many different opportunities to learn about and grow in your Christian faith.

Alpha  |  Nooma  |  Bethel  |  Marriage Preparation  |  Baptism Orientation   |  New Members Orientation  |  Lenten Studies  | Men's Studies

Alpha

Ever wondered what it's all about?

Alpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The Alpha course includes ten meals and an amazing weekend getaway that comes halfway through the 10-week course.  The course meets once per week.

Alpha has become a worldwide phenomenon, now in 164 countries, where millions of people have come to explore the meaning of life.

Each session people enjoy great food, laughter and learning in a fun and friendly atmosphere where no question about life and God is seen as too simple or too hostile…questions like—Is there a God? Why am I here? Where did I come from? Where am I going?

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Nooma

Looking to figure our how relevant your Faith is in today's world?

Is your life so busy that you never have time to think?  

Do you wonder what the purpose of your life is?

We live in such a fast moving environment that it’s easy to be swept along, day after day, following established routines, or being driven by the demands of work and family.   The days fly by, but we have no sense of direction; no control over where we are going.

Central United Church is offers a new format for getting a Christian perspective.  It’s called ‘Nooma’.  It’s a series of short films with communicators that really speak to us.   Each film touches on issues that we care about, and would like to discuss with others.  It will help us to see God in places and ways that we least expected.

Come and join us.  We’ll begin with refreshments and a time for fellowship; then view the film, and conclude with small group discussion.  The total time commitment will be approximately 1 ½ hours and you’ll leave with a message that’s both stimulating and relevant. 

For information on our next Nooma study group please visit our Events listing. 

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Bethel Bible Study

The Bethel Bible Study series is broken into six segments of seven weeks each with a recess between each segment. It is spread over 2 years; so 21 weeks each year. The first year looks at the Old Testament, and the second year looks at the New Testament.

The overall two year registration fee is $100, payable in two yearly installments of $50 each. The fee covers the cost of the materials for each participant of the Bethel Study Series. Taught on a volunteer basis, all you need to bring to class is your Bible, a notebook, a pen, and lots of enthusiasm.

Each study (class) is between 2 and 2 ½ hours investment and very participatory and interactive in nature. With group discussions and fun activities this study series is a great way to make new friends while learnig more about the bible. 

As a part of most learning opportunities you get out of it what you put in. That is to say you will gain more value from the study, and have more confidence to participate in the session if you investing time in preparation. We believe that this greater interaction between you and us (the trainers) will lead to greater learning and understanding.

There are check-points, okay, tests, throughout the series to evaluate participan progress and provide opportunities to celebrate accomplishments.

For more information on when Bethel will be offered at Central, and when you can join a session, even it if already in progress, please contact the church office.

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Marriage Preparation

Marriage is a big step. And like most life events a little preparation can go a long way. At Central we offer couples via the Marriage Preparation course the opportunity for discussion and investigation into what marriage birngs, as well as information and education to enhance their readiness to have a healthy marriage. We will look at;

• the importance of commitment
• how to recognise and appreciate your differences
• the art of communication
• resolving conflict
• spending time together
• nurturing your friendship
• making each other feel loved
• the importance of talking about your goals, values and dreams

We look forward to preparing you for your journey through life together.

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Baptism Orientation

Baptism is the beginning of the journey of faith for your child. Through Baptism, your child becomes part of our faith community in the their Christian faith. Through your teaching example, your child will grow to become a follower of Christ and an active member of the church. This is why we have a special program to prepare parents to help them raise their consciousness about this important responsibility. Godparents are welcome, and encouraged to attend as well.

Two or three session times are offered prior to Central's baptism services in January, May and November.

New Membership Orientation

Central welcome's all who wish to join and grow in their faith with our congregation. The mission of our New Member Orientation sessions is as follows: 

• It gives the new member a clear understanding of the significance of having the Christian faith as a part of their daily life.
• It explains the responsibilities inherited because of the Christian experience.
• It defines what it means to become a member of God's Church.

Each new member is required to attend 'New Member Orientation' prior to making their commitment of faith during the membership service.  

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Lenten Studies

Lent is the forty days, not including Sundays, that lead from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday. Lent is an appropriate time to renew your commitment to Christ and to move deeper in your relationship with Him. Moving devotionally through the period of Lent is the best way to truly prepare yourself for the joyful celebration of Easter morning.

Central offers its congregation and community the opportunity to learn more about this holy time during its annual Lenten Study Group. The group meets Wednesdays starting from Ash Wednesday to the Wednesday preceeding Easter Sundy.

Men's Studies

A new men’s ministry programme is being launched at Central for our men and men of the community. Men’s Fraternity provides an opportunity for men to gather for learning and fellowship as we journey together to become who God intends us to be. The 24 week programme meets Tuesdays mornings September through March from 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM at Central.

You can choose to drop in to the opening session before deciding to commit to the program. Or you can drop in to any of the weekly sessions. While there is continuity from week to week, each session is also self contained. Plan to join us Tuesday mornings and bring a friend or a group of guys. A brochure and registration form is available at the Church. If you would like more information please contact Rev. Jim Clubine or Doug Stirling.

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