This is a story of redemption based on a famous parable found in Luke. A young man from a wealthy and comfortable background abandons his life of privilege determined to forge a new life on his own. Demanding an early inheritance from his father, he sets off on a journey to "a far land" where the grass is sure to be greener on the other side of the fence. His dreams and aspirations are not realized as hoped and he ultimately returns home a broken man. He is redeemed by his father's loving embrace.
Apologetics is the study of the defense of one's beliefs. There are apologists in diverse fields, among them Christian apologists defending the Bible. This class delves into their defense in several areas: support from documentation of ancient manuscripts, archaeology, corroboration of secular historians and accuracy of historic Biblical prophecies. Food for thought- whatever your view of the Bible.
Islam is the world's second largest religion, but is often subject to misconceptions. This course will present a historical and social introduction to Islam's founding and key principles. This course seeks to provide an unbiased perspective, suitable to learners from any, or no, religious background. It will consider Islam's origins, but provide a practical connection to current practices and issues. It will address key issues, such as the difference between the Bible and the Qur'an; the unique role of the Prophet Muhammad, and how Judaism and Christianity are addressed in Islam. It will also address diversity in Islam, acknowledging that many interpretations and opinions on these issues exist in the Muslim world.
Although much Colonial literature came from New England ministers, religion in early America was far more diverse and complex. Beyond the well-known European struggles of the Protestant Reformation, the colonies faced their own conflicts shaped by slavery, Native American presence, and competing faith traditions. This course explores the religious tensions and cultural forces that influenced colonial life and literature, offering a deeper understanding of how faith shaped the American experience.
Instructor:Dr. Ron CooperMembers: $8; General Public: $13
Course #:REL136 | Room:Room 4
Day of Week | Date | Time: Tu | 1/27/2026 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Seats Available:19
Reading the Bible critically is needed to understand ancient writers and why they wrote. In one session, this class introduces basic concepts in the unique work of Genesis, like the quality of texts, source theory, reflecting on fact vs. truth, literalism vs. storytelling, etc. This isn’t school at church or synagogue. While being faith affirmative, the class is not seeking to affirm doctrines, traditions, or personal beliefs. If you believe in the inerrancy of scripture, you will NOT find this course helpful.
Instructor:Bruce SeamanMembers: $5; General Public: $10
Course #:REL124 | Room:Room 3
Day of Week | Date | Time: Tu | 3/17/2026 | 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM Seats Available:17
Reading the Bible critically is needed to understand ancient writers and why they wrote. In three sessions, this class introduces basic concepts about gospel editors and their sources, exploring other movements of the 1st century as well as who Jesus thought he was and what he intended to do. This isn't church school. While being faith affirmative, the class is not seeking to affirm doctrines, traditions, or personal beliefs. If you believe in the inerrancy of scripture, you will NOT find this course helpful.
Instructor:Bruce SeamanMembers: $8; General Public: $13
Course #:REL125 | Room:Room 3
Day of Week | Date | Time : Tu | 4/7/2026 - 4/21/2026 | 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM This class meets 3 times Seats Available:15
This is a story of redemption based on a famous parable found in Luke. A young man from a wealthy and comfortable background abandons his life of privilege determined to forge a new life on his own. Demanding an early inheritance from his father, he sets off on a journey to "a far land" where the grass is sure to be greener on the other side of the fence. His dreams and aspirations are not realized as hoped and he ultimately returns home a broken man. He is redeemed by his father's loving embrace.
Apologetics is the study of the defense of one's beliefs. There are apologists in diverse fields, among them Christian apologists defending the Bible. This class delves into their defense in several areas: support from documentation of ancient manuscripts, archaeology, corroboration of secular historians and accuracy of historic Biblical prophecies. Food for thought- whatever your view of the Bible.
Islam is the world's second largest religion, but is often subject to misconceptions. This course will present a historical and social introduction to Islam's founding and key principles. This course seeks to provide an unbiased perspective, suitable to learners from any, or no, religious background. It will consider Islam's origins, but provide a practical connection to current practices and issues. It will address key issues, such as the difference between the Bible and the Qur'an; the unique role of the Prophet Muhammad, and how Judaism and Christianity are addressed in Islam. It will also address diversity in Islam, acknowledging that many interpretations and opinions on these issues exist in the Muslim world.
Reading the Bible critically is needed to understand ancient writers and why they wrote. In one session, this class introduces basic concepts in the unique work of Genesis, like the quality of texts, source theory, reflecting on fact vs. truth, literalism vs. storytelling, etc. This isn’t school at church or synagogue. While being faith affirmative, the class is not seeking to affirm doctrines, traditions, or personal beliefs. If you believe in the inerrancy of scripture, you will NOT find this course helpful.
Reading the Bible critically is needed to understand ancient writers and why they wrote. In three sessions, this class introduces basic concepts about gospel editors and their sources, exploring other movements of the 1st century as well as who Jesus thought he was and what he intended to do. This isn't church school. While being faith affirmative, the class is not seeking to affirm doctrines, traditions, or personal beliefs. If you believe in the inerrancy of scripture, you will NOT find this course helpful.
