ORDI^nation

^semiNARY

^{<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<}

^{an equipping ministry of Christchurch}

What is Ordinary?

Ordinary is Christchurch’s attempt to provide a context where participants can be Biblically and theologically equipped at a level normally reserved for ordination candidates and seminarians.

What is the purpose of Ordinary?

Ordinary is for all who want to “lay hold of the deep truths of the faith” (1 Tim. 3:11). It is a context where even the most studied and well-learned saints can continue their growth and development. Ordinary will also serve as an ongoing leadership development community where present and future Deacons, Elders, Pastors, church planters and missionaries can prepare themselves for future ministry opportunities.

Who can participate in Ordinary?

All men and women are welcome to attend if they are willing to invest the time and energy necessary to truly be an active participant in the Ordinary community. Disciples in Christchurch are, of course, encouraged to attend. Ordinary is also available to others who don’t attend Christchurch.

Who is expected of people in the Ordinary community?

The primary gathering for those involved in Ordinary is on the second Sunday evening of each month, from 6:00 – 9:00p at Christchurch. Participants are also expected to engage in a break-out group that meets in between Sundays for accountability and shared discussion. Personal study each month will consist of an applied study of a book of the Bible, and the reading of a significant piece of Christian literature. In time some Ordinary students may be asked to give a presentation, or lead a class period.

What if I can’t come on Sundays, or can’t be in a breakout group?

Then Ordinary is not for you. You are, of course, free to do personal study of the same passages and books we are going through. But what makes Ordinary truly profitable is the collegiality of the learning community.

How long does Ordinary last?

Rather than trying to finish a class, we are trying to build a community. Since the study of God and His Word is an endless pursuit, our projection is that Ordinary will continue indefinitely. There is no “graduation”. In five years together, we hope to have studied the entire Bible, and read as many as 60 great works of theology. In the next five years, we will revisit the entire Bible, and read 60 more books!

Who will be teaching Ordinary?

Bill Hartley, pastor of Christchurch, will be the facilitator for Ordinary. Our primary teachers will be the authors we read each week. Other local teachers will be incorporated along the way, based on their areas of expertise.

How much does Ordinary cost to attend?

There is no fee to be a part of Ordinary, but you will need to purchase, borrow or check out a copy of whatever book we are going through together.

Ordinary 2010 Sundays: June 13, July 11, August 8, September 12, October 10, November 14, December 12

The Ordinary Class blog can be found at  ccordinary.wordpress.com.