Introducing Wednesdays@Village: A Fresh Approach to Faith Formation and Community Building at Mission
We believe that a life of faith is well served by more than one touchpoint each week. And, we are listening: after reading hundreds of survey responses, and with great thought, care, and collaboration across ministries, we have completely re-tooled Wednesday evenings at the Mission Campus with families, singles, couples, children, youth—everyone—in mind.
Wednesdays@Village will begin on Sept. 16 and go through Nov. 18—ten weeks of dinners and faith programming for all.
The evening will begin with dinner in Friendship Hall from 5:30-6:30 p.m. with fresh, build-your-own meals that will not require advance registration. Come share a meal with us when you can (suggested donation of $8 for adults).
Programs begin for everyone at 6:10 p.m. Stay for an adult faith formation class. No need to choose between 2-3 options; there will be one topical class offered by Village pastors and other talented teachers. Elementary-aged children (grades K-6) and youth (grades 7-12) will be engaged with dynamic programs planned by our Children’s and Youth Ministry staff. Child care for ages 0-5 will be available downstairs. All programming wraps up at 7 p.m.
“All In” on Third Wednesdays
On the third Wednesday of the month, everyone (children through adults) is invited to stay in Friendship Hall after dinner to participate in fun group activities or service projects led by a Village pastor or staff person. Each third Wednesday will look a little different, but the evening will still conclude at 7 p.m. Dinner is free on third Wednesdays.
Why the change?
- The build-your-own meal model gives people the flexibility to customize dinners according to their individual dietary needs, family practices, and health goals. Diners can adjust portion sizes, avoid particular ingredients, and choose foods that align with their personal preferences, making it easier for groups with diverse needs to share a meal. We also know that remembering to register might have been an obstacle to attending dinners in the past, so we are removing that hurdle.
- Intentionality in the life of faith is part of our response to God’s grace. This new format will allow us all to access time for friendship and faith-building. Families can bring their children and teens with them on Wednesdays for dinner and education, both separately and as a group (on third Wednesdays). Child care will be now be available so parents of younger children can also participate in classes.
- Rather than gathering in separate rooms and multiple faith-formation classes, we look forward to creating a common space for members to connect with one another mid-week. We are so excited to both simplify and consolidate Wednesday classes while nurturing intergenerational, community-building moments.
Mark your calendars for Wednesdays@Village beginning Sept. 16. Let’s eat, learn, and grow in faith together this fall!
Learn about menus, classes, child care, and more at villagepres.org/wednesdays.