Programs for Adults
Sure the kids are covered, with all sorts of activities from Sunday School to Picnics, to Youth Group meetings, to Ski and Beach Trips and what all; but what about the not-quite-so-youthful? What about us grown ups!?
At First Reformed there are many activities for adults as well (and we have them from 20-somethings to 90-somethings). For one thing, contrary to what the kids may think, the adults run the place! They serve as Consistory members, Committee chairs and worker-bees, Sunday School Teachers, Youth Group leaders, Nursery tenders, and in various other important roles.
Much of that is hard, serious work; but some of it is fun, too. And here are some things, specifically for the adults, that are mostly about sharing fun experiences:
Adult Sunday School:
For many, learning more about our faith, the Bible, Jesus and the church, is about as fun as anything could possibly get. Others are just curious about the issues surrounding our religion. This group meets each Sunday morning during the Sunday School hour to discuss all these things, usually under the guidance of the pastor, but often taking turns leading the study. Any adult is welcome to attend, whenever they can. Back to list
Women's Ministry:
The Women's Ministry of the RCA is one of the better organized and longest standing groups within First Reformed.
Any adult women members and friends can meet monthly on the 2nd Monday at 7:00pm.
In the past, meetings were normally held in the home of a member.
Now that we're in our new building the group has its own designated room, but meetings might still be held at members' homes from time to time.
The gatherings have two elements: a study section followed by fellowship.
The study part is usually Bible related. And of course the fellowship part usually involves scintillating conversation -- and FOOD!
The Women's Ministry has several projects during the year, including making Chrismons for our Christmas tree and the preparation of a dinner meal for the sponsors and family participants of the Carying Place, a community-wide endeavor for the homeless or near-homeless. Trips have also been organized to attend the annual RCA Women's Conferences at various interesting locations around the country. Back to list
Empty Nesters:
This group meets once a month, usually on the 1st Tuesday evening, for dinner and camaraderie at various local restaurants. Participants order whatever they like from the menu and pay their own way. The name comes from the fact that most of those attending have reached that delightful stage of life when the last of their kids has left home for college or career, and the otherwise sad and lonely parents are looking for "things to do" (read that: "A way to celebrate!!"). However, the group is non-exclusive and there is no active verification of those "credentials." And by the way, we're just kidding - we very much love our kids, but it is nice to know that they're making their own way in the world. Back to list
Music Groups:
The primary music groups currently active are the Chancel Choir and the Bell Choir. Although these choirs work hard to produce fine sounding music for Sunday morning and other services, there is a lot of conversation, camaraderie and satisfaction involved as well. Other fun musical opportunities are also available. Click the Music link for further details. Back to list
Fellowship Outings:
Activities are often organized to get together and share an interesting, fun time. This may include things like bowling, golfing, a Durham Bulls game, a museum trip (most recently to see the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit in downtown Raleigh), a game night, a men's breakfast at the Church. Click the Fellowship link for further details. Back to list
Ad Hoc Groups:
Groups of individuals with common interests may choose to get together to share those interests. Back to list