| SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES |  |
 | Sundays 9:45am
Children, youth and adults share in a time of fellowship and personal growth. The church school program attempts to provide age-level development of Christian foundations, and to clarify and support the need for involved study, fellowship, and service. - The children's church school program focuses on Christian education and study.
- The youth church school program is dedicated to bringing youth to a closer relationship with God and one another.
- Several adult church school classes offer group fellowship, study of the Bible and other writings, and discussion of Christian living in today's world. Visitors and new members are always welcome in each group. Below are brief descriptions of activities provided by each group:
- Newcomer Class - The real name is“Genesis” (Hebrew for- “In the beginning”)! Anyone who would like to know more about Benson Memorial, the ins and outs of United Methodism, and what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ will be more than welcome! Also in the four-week period, an opportunity to briefly
meet the major church leaders will be offered. Classes will be held in the pastor’s office unless the number is too large, and will meet as follows: August 8, 15, 22 and 29; October 10 17, 24,31. There is no requirement to join Benson upon completing the class, and long-time Benson members are welcome! For questions and/or attending, contact the pastor 787-0789 or swilliams@bm-umc.org
- Benson Discussion - Our studies focus on diverse issues that relate to our day-to-day lives. Most study materials come from Cokesbury and are Biblically-based. Topics are suggested by class members who are encouraged to participate in discussion as well as lead if so inclined. We have class social events a couple of times per year as well as 5th Sunday Caring and Sharing classes throughout the calendar year. New members and visitors are always welcome.
- Pathfinders - Our class purpose is the growth and understanding of our Christian beliefs as applied in a secular world. To achieve this goal, we study the Bible as it applies to our daily lives and everyday issues from a Christian point of view. We support various charities, missions of the church and those in need with our Sunday offering, and as volunteers. We maintain a casual and welcoming atmosphere into which all are invited.
- Something More - Meet in the Administration/Classroom Building – Downstairs - Room 207. Wide range of ages. Benson’s newest ongoing Sunday morning group. Using a casual, newcomer-friendly approach, the group spends time connecting daily life experiences to foundational topics in the Bible. Seekers and searchers welcome!! Contact Ken Barnhouse: kbarnhouse@nc.rr.com
- Flamekeepers - This class is a group of 40 to 50 somethings with children of all ages. Diverse topics,chosen by the class, have included: stress management, difficult bible verses, Lenten study, beliefs of the Methodist Church, World Religions, questions raised by The DaVinci Code, and even a look at Christianity in the movies. Discussions are informal with honesty, laughter and spiritual growth. The class gets together outside the church at least twice a year for food, fun and fellowship. We welcome any and all newcomers with open arms and hearts.
- Thrillseekers - Adults (both single and married) meet each week during the Sunday school hour in the spirit of Christian fellowship. The curriculum is usually a topic (chosen by the class) studied through a workbook and/or video series, in conjunction with applicable verses from the Bible. The class will then have an open discussion regarding the material covered. The Thrillseekers also engage in fellowship activities throughout the year. These activities have included: a Christmas dinner party, an outing to a Durham Bulls game, picnics, and bowling.
- Hank DePuy Bible Class - This class has undertaken a cover-to-cover study of the Bible, currently focused on the General Letters of the New Testament. Weekly discussions are lively, sharing members' understanding and questions, their faith, journey, and the application of the Bible's message in daily living.The class has a service project each year and group social events.
- Brightsiders - The class is a diverse group of individuals with two things in common -- a strong love of God and concern for one another. The group selects its curriculum of study. Activities include a quarterly group dinner, a yearly retreat, and a Christmas party.
- Hunt-Sharpe - Adults and older adults engaged in prayer, hymn singing, fellowship, and Adult Bible Studies based on the Cokesbury International Lesson Series. Classes are taught on a rotation basis by class members. Annual group activities include a Christmas Party and quarterly outings.
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