Pastoral Care We are very concerned that the pastoral needs of everyone are met whatever the circumstances. The rector will visit you at home, in rehab, in the hospital. She is supported by the Eucharistic visitors who will bring you Holy Communion if you are unable to come to church.
If you experience the death of a loved one please contact the rector anytime (908) 879-7208 or email at messiahchester@earthlink.net
We are offering Lay Pastoral care training as a series. Contact the rector if you are interested in this training.
Adult Education Sunday Adult Forums Offered every Sunday between the 8am and 10am services. They offer presentations followed by discussion time on a variety of topics. They have been suspended for the present time.
Bible study Every Monday and Thursday we offer Bible study. The Monday group meets in the lower hall from 2 -3:30 pm. The Thursday group currently meets by free conference call (contact the church for the access code) from 11am - 12 noon. Participants bring the version of the Bible they prefer, and both groups welcome new members. Currently the Monday group is studying St John's Gospel and the Thursday group is studying 1 Samuel (2 Samuel will be next.) Sr. Victoria Michelle leads the discussions.
Wednesday Lunch and Book Group Our next meeting will be Wednesday, July 20 from Noon-1 p.m. in the lower level of the church. Lunch is BYO; coffee, tea and water are available. We will meet again in August, date to be determined.
Book and Movie nights Currently on hiatus for the summer Held one Tuesday a month starting at 6:30 p.m. We have a bring-your-own supper, during which we discuss the designated book. The movie follows around 7:30 p.m., with free popcorn. See the News and Events page for the current book, and call the office for the movie title.
The Lent Program Held weekly during Lent and comprises a simple supper, worship using "Stations of the Cross" and a discussion program.
Education for Ministry Education for Ministry begins in September, Wednesdays first group at 2-4pm and the second group at 7 -9 p.m. This college level class invites the participants to study the Bible in depth and to think reflectively and theologically. Anyone can enroll in the program and you do not need to be a church member to belong. The first year includes an in-depth study of the Old Testament. The Rev. Lorna Erixson, rector of St. Mark's Mendham, will lead EfM in September.
Pastoral Care Training This training was offered last year and will be available again as requested. Training is available for anyone wishing to offer pastoral care to those in any need. Lay pastoral training gives a person skills and tools to be a good listener and support for people dealing with any of the problems which are encountered in daily life. Lay pastors support the clergy; they do not replace them.
The Inquirer’s Class Meets in the fall and spring. This is a series of six sessions which are designed for instruction and discussion with the participants on any and all matters relating to Christianity, to the Episcopal church, to the Anglican Communion and to our own church. For details contact the office at messiahchester@earthlink.net