Adult learning

Intentional faith formation

At St. Paul, we take lifetime faith formation seriously. We’re lifelong learners who delight in growing our relationship with God. We ask the right questions rather than presuming to have all the answers, especially on complex issues. There are all kinds of ways to grow in faith.

Bible studies

Fed on Scripture-Lunchtime Series
Mondays, 12 noon, Library Commons
Spend your lunchtime in conversation about Jesus and his teachings. Using a contemplative practice of Bible study called Lectio Divina, we read, share and pray through Jesus’ words from the Gospel of John. No experience necessary, just an open heart and your own lunch if you want it. Each week covers a new passage, so come when you can! Mondays, 12 noon. Library Commons Contact: Sara Olson-Smith, sara@stpaulqc.org. 

Bible Study: Heart|Soul|Mind 
Thursdays, beginning Sept. 17, 9:30 a.m., Fellowship Hall  
Dr. Lisa Powell explores the book of Genesis to discover how God is a God of covenant. From creation and the garden to Abraham and Sarah, from the flood to the captivity of the Hebrew people, explore what God’s promises and relationships teach us about faithfulness, trust, and belonging to God’s story. Whether you’re familiar with these stories or encountering them for the first time, this study invites you to ask questions, engage deeply, and encounter the God who calls us into covenant relationship. Contact: Lisa Powell, PowellLisaD@sau.edu  

Sacred landscapes: God of gardens and wilderness
Sundays, Sept. 13-Oct. 18, 10:15-11 a.m., Luther Loft
Nature imagery is bountiful in the bible, but two settings provide the backdrop to some of the most well-known stories in the biblical narrative. Join intern Sarah Yotter in Luther Loft over the next six weeks to dive into the Gardens and Wilderness of scripture, exploring the themes of each and their relationship to one another. Beginning in the garden of Eden and ending in the garden city of Revelation, we will explore wandering the wilderness, the prophets, Jesus’ baptism and temptation, and the Garden of Gethsemane and the tomb. Contact: Sarah Yotter, sarahyotter@stpaulqc.org 

Learning Groups

Cinema and Spirituality
Guided by the book Films for All Seasons by Abby Olcese, explore themes of waiting, celebration, revelation, sacrifice, resurrection, and growth through cinematic storytelling.
Third Tuesday of the month, 6:30 p.m.,
The Last Picture House, Davenport
Each month of 2026 screen a film from the book Films for All Seasons by Abbey Olcese. Upcoming films include:
▶ Sept. 15: Labyrinth (Imagination and stories)
▶ Oct. 20: Coco (Legacy)
▶ Nov. 17: The Bishop’s Wife (Faith)
▶ Dec. 15: Children of Men (Hope)
Sign up online at stpaulqc.org/signups. Sign ups go live the first Thursday of each month. $5 tickets (cash preferred). Contact: Tim Suddarth, timsuddarth@yahoo.com

Conversations of faith and culture 
On the first Thursday of each month, come together with Pastor Mark to discuss select articles from the Christian Century magazine and similar publications and blogs. Articles will be available in the library two weeks prior to each gathering. Contact Mark Niethammer, mark@stpaulqc.org. 

Theology Pub
Third Thursday of the month, 6 p.m., 
Location TBD
Word has it that some of the best theology has been fashioned over tables loaded with good food and drink, and an atmosphere of strong friendship. Come to enjoy a rich mix of people and perspective, as we informally explore the many ways in which our faith intersects with our lives and the world. Contact: Justin Marquis, justin@stpaulqc.org. 

Chapel learning

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. Sunday morning learning resumes on Sunday, Sept. 13.

Sept. 13 – Healthcare at a crossroads
Tom Bowman, CEO, Community Healthcare, Inc.
Major federal healthcare legislation passed in July 2025 including the One Big Beautiful Act carries real implications for how our communities access and afford care. CEO of Community healthcare Tom Bowman explores what’s changing and why it matters.

Sept. 20 – An introduction to artificial intelligence
Ben Driscoll, Director of AI, Twin State Technical Services
Curious about AI but it all feels very daunting? Learn what it is, why its use has grown rapidly, and practical ways to use it in your everyday life. 

Sept. 27 – Meet St. Paul intern Justin Marquis
Justin Marquis, St. Paul pastoral intern and Pam Garrett, Residency and community programs administrator
Join a fireside chat (without the fire) to meet Justin, St. Paul’s Collaborative Learning Placement student from Wartburg Theological Seminary. Ask questions, connect with him, and hear about his faith journey. It’s a chance to welcome Justin into the St. Paul community. 

Oct. 4 – When grief arrives
Pastor Sara Olson-Smith and Deacon Joel Moore
Loss touches all of us, yet grief often feels isolating. Join Pastor Sara and Deacon Joel to explore how faith meets grief, what supports matter most, and how community carries us through loss. Learn about the upcoming Walking the Grief Journey sessions St. Paul holds twice a year. 

Oct. 11 – Gray Matters Collective
Haley DeGreve, Founder and CEO, Gray Matters Collective QC
When we encounter someone struggling with mental illness, we often don’t know what to do or say. Haley teaches practical skills to recognize mental health needs and respond with confidence. These tools help support others and advocate for our own mental wellbeing.