Where faith intersects with the world

Class meets in person and via Zoom on Sunday mornings at 9:00 am. If you would like to join on Zoom contact the church office 913-649-0438 or worship@lcrpv.org to receive the Zoom link.

2026 - 2027 Academic Year

Christian Mysticism

Sept 13 & 20
Mysticism is a faith experience that many Lutherans have never explored because it is all about the experience of God rather than the knowledge of God. The irony, of course, is that experience itself leads to knowledge. This two-week study will look at what mysticism is as well as discuss some spiritual practices that foster mystical experiences. Led by Pastor Keith Hohly

Clare of Assisi

Sept 27
In this presentation, we’ll discuss medieval mystic Clare of Assisi. We’ll focus particularly on her context in the 12th century church and how her religious life developed in response to these conditions, as well as what meaning we can find in the lives of saints today. Led by Joanie Saltzman

Walking With Others

Oct 4 & 11
In these two sessions, we will learn skills and tips for making spiritual care visits in hospitals, in homes, and with those who are grieving or coping with loss. There will be exercises to help identify the presence and authority you have. We will discuss listening and conversation techniques, sympathy vs. empathy, emotional agility, and other helpful skills.
Led by The Rev. Ashley Huber Manager of Patient Experience at The University of Kansas Health System

The Gospel of Mark - A Beginner’s Guide to the Good News

Oct 18 - Dec 6
The new church year, which begins in late November, will focus on Mark. We are going to be taking a close look at Mark using the book, DVD, and study guide prepared by Amy-Jill Levine. AJ Levine is a professor, author, and Jewish scholar specializing in New Testament studies and Christian-Jewish relations. While it is not necessary to purchase her book to participate in the class, the text contains a wealth of information. It is available through Amazon, Christianbook.com and other sources. Led by Sharon Johnson & Pastor Susan Langhauser

The Four Agreements

Dec 13- Jan 10
Published in 1997, The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by don Miguel Ruiz is a popular self-help book rooted in ancient Toltec spiritual wisdom. It offers four core principles to break free from fear and find inner peace. This four-week study will look at each of these principles and explore the ways in which we might benefit from them. Led by Pastor Keith Hohly

Building Blocks

Jan 24 - Feb 7
Whatever we learn of the Bible usually comes in bits and pieces. A “patchwork quilt” with the squares that we receive from different teachers, friends, relatives, experiences. How can we make sure that there are no big pieces missing, and look at our Bibles with a broad range of knowledge, devotion and understanding? Did you ever realize that Abraham was Joseph’s great-grandfather? Do you know why it is important to read the Gospels with a basic take on the Old Testament? I’d like to check in on your “quilt” and fill in the blanks or missing squares, for an integrated context that will help you enjoy that quilt this winter! BYOB (Bible.) Led by Pastor Susan Langhauser

Lent

Feb14 - March 14
Lent has always been the best and deepest devotional time of year for me. This year we will have themes for each Sunday in Lent so that you can intentionally set apart your 40-day journey as a special time of the church year. Each week’s theme will be explored in Sunday and midweek worship texts, along with additional activities. Let’s start with the heart of Valentines Day/Ash Wednesday and really mark the season as we travel with Mark and John from mortality to the Cross and Resurrection. More information on each week’s theme will be available as we get closer to embarking together. Led by Pastor Susan Langhauser

Sundays without specific topics will be reserved for Bible text study using the scriptures for the day.