SMALL GROUPS

Learning how to apply biblical teachings to daily life is a vital part of Christian education. On Sunday mornings at Rome First UMC, several adult Sunday school classes are available to choose from. Some classes focus on studying Scripture and discussing its relevance to everyday life, while others engage in topical studies and Christian-themed books. All classes value meaningful fellowship and provide space to share both the joys and challenges of life together.

Sunday Morning Groups

The Cornerstone Class The Cornerstone adult small group meets in the Wilder Center dining room area. A team of leaders guide discussions around God’s Word and its life-changing impact on everyday life, work, and relationships. Fun and laughter are part of each gathering. The group is currently studying Ken Berlin’s book, Six Decisions That Will Change Your Life, which focuses on building a new life through Jesus.

Contact - Steve Autry- sautry1091@aol.com

NoMads meets in room W01 on the walking track area @ 10 a.m. – This multigenerational discussion-based class chooses various topics to read/study and discuss.

Upper Room Fellowship Class meets in A-203 Education Building @ 9:45 a.m. – This lecture-based class uses the Adult Bible Study Curriculum. Each study lasts three months.

The current study runs through February 28, 2026. The winter quarter theme is Light. Life. Salvation. Bible lessons explore two central questions: Who is Jesus? and Who are we? Through Scripture and the theme of Light, Life, and Salvation, the study builds faith and deepens relationships with God as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. The student book is written by Betsy Haas.

The next study begins March 1, 2026. The spring quarter theme is Lament. Confession. Rebirth. Bible lessons follow the theme Exclusion and Embrace, offering a series of lessons in two units during Lent and the weeks that follow. These lessons encourage reflection on what must be released and what must be embraced as followers of Jesus.

Link to Adult Bible Studies Curriculum: Adult Bible Studies & Curriculum | Cokesbury This is a year-round study, with a hiatus in June and July.

Grounded – This class consists of adults at diverse life stages. Discussion-based studies focus on a variety of topics and do not include homework. Classes are not linear, allowing participants to join at any time without feeling lost in the discussion. The group emphasizes community building and creating a village both within and beyond the classroom, and holds monthly social gatherings outside of the church. The class motto is “Not Retired, Just Tired.”

The current study is Methodism 101, which will transition into a Lenten study.

Contact: Emily Cochran - eamartin321@gmail.com - (434) 579-2377

Youth Class (Grades 6-12) meets on the Second Floor of the Wilder Center in the Youth Room @ 10 a.m. Current Topics and Discussions are led each Sunday Morning.

Children’s Class (Grades 1-5) in the Wilder Center in the Children’s Ministry Space @ 10 a.m.

Nursery: available 9 a.m.-noon for children 0-5 years and is located on the first floor down the “Kidz Connection” hallway.

Study Groups

Dr. Gil’s Bible Study – Studying the book of Ezekiel. Meets in the Wilder Center Dining Room Wednesdays at noon.

Rev. Dr. Valerie Loner– Studying the book Disarming Leviathan: Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbor by Caleb E. Campbell. Meets in the Wilder Bible Study Room on Tuesdays at 12 - 1 p.m., Jan. 13 - Feb. 17.

Rev. Tim Galloway– Studying the book The Heart of the Psalms by James C. Howell. Meets in the Wilder Bible Study Room on Tuesdays at 6:30 - 8 p.m., Jan. 13 - Feb. 17.