Sunday morning learning

Deep roots in faith

On Sunday mornings, you’ll find a variety of presenters and topics for adult classes, 10:15-11 a.m. Meet up with God’s word, some riveting ideas, and interesting people. No need to register in advance. Grab your cup of coffee and settle in.

February 1
Seeing Beyond the Screen: How films make meaning
Francis Agnoli, film scholar and professor
Like all artforms, films create and communicate meaning; film scholars seek to understand how and by what means those meanings are created and communicated. This presentation and discussion will provide an overview of film studies and what the discipline offers us as filmgoers. Through this field of study, we can better recognize how films link to the past, introduce us to new worldviews, and generate empathy for others. By becoming more active readers and listeners, we are able to develop a clearer understanding of the world around us.

February 8
Congregational Annual Meeting (no regular adult learning)

February 15
Meet St. Paul intern, Sarah Yotter 
Sarah Yotter, St. Paul intern with Pam Garrett, pastoral residency administrator 
Gather for a fireside chat with Sarah Yotter, who serves St. Paul as a pastoral intern for the coming year. Pastoral residency administrator Pam Garrett leads a conversation that offers a chance to get to know Sarah and her journey. Guests will have time to ask questions and connect with Sarah personally. This gathering is a wonderful opportunity to welcome Sarah into the life of St. Paul.

February 22
Project Renewal
Ann Schwickerath, Executive director
Through educational programs, recreational activities, and positive mentorship, Project Renewal helps children build strong foundations for healthy, productive lives while serving as a stabilizing force in the community. Learn how this impactful organization creates opportunities for youth and families, and discover ways you can support their mission.

March 1 – From light to Lent: music for the Lenten Journey
Chris Nelson, director of music ministries and organist, St. Paul 
As the church turns from Epiphany’s light toward Lent’s reflective path, the music of worship shifts with it. Together, explore the musical character of the Lenten season—how melodies, harmonies, and textures help shape a more contemplative, penitential space. Through conversation, listening examples, and moments of shared singing, experience how music accompanies the church’s journey into Lent. 

March 8 – Finding faith, and even joy, in times of sadness
Steve Pressly, funeral director, Wheelen-Pressly funeral home and crematory
Serving families as a funeral director for nearly 50 years, Steve Pressly experienced the sadness, humor and even joy in the families he assisted. Steve shares his insight in how faith has sustained him during his career and might even share a story or two. 

March 15 – Live from the Chapel: Sorta Sacred podcast Asks The Pastors
Mark Niethammer, Jessica Taylor, Sara Olson-Smith, Katy Warren
Join the Sorta Sacred podcast (hosted by Mark Niethammer and Jessica Taylor) for a live recording in the St. Paul chapel. Mark and guests Pastors Katy and Sara tackle your biggest (and smallest) questions about faith, life, and everything in between, moderated by Jessica Taylor. This special episode will be recorded in front of a live audience and later edited for release wherever you listen to podcasts. Submit your questions now to jessica@stpaulqc.org and be part of the conversation with humor, honesty, and a whole lot of heart. 

March 22 – From stigma to hope: Understanding addiction and recovery
Jenny Halupnik, director of engagement, One Eighty
Nearly half of Americans have a family member or close friend who has struggled with addiction. Jenny Halupnik offers an insightful look at addiction and how One Eighty’s whole-person recovery approach, which addresses mental health, trauma, spirituality, and workforce development, helps rebuild lives. Hear directly from a One Eighty graduate about their journey from addiction to a life of freedom, purpose, and hope. 

March 29 – Guiding principles: Curating art in the hospital setting
Anna Villareal, Collections coordinator, UI Health Care
Explore University of Iowa Health Care’s extensive art collection of over 7,000 pieces, designed to create aesthetic, contemplative, entertaining, and visual thinking experiences for patients and staff. Anna Villareal discusses how the department’s guiding principles for artwork selection are informed by their mission and input from patient representatives and medical staff to ensure thoughtful placement throughout healthcare spaces. The presentation showcases diverse artworks ranging from whimsical and storytelling pieces to works focused on rehabilitation, resilience, and reflection, including those in non-denominational meditation spaces and specialty areas like orthopedics, neurology, and pediatrics. Villareal also addresses the unique considerations for installing artwork in behavioral health spaces, which require different physical installation requirements for safety.