Participants will be introduced to the story of Jesus in a way that helps to make his life and teachings more relevant to who we are as justice-seeking people of a free faith. The curriculum focuses on an interpretation of the historical Jesus based on contemporary biblical research, principally from the Jesus Seminar.

Students will experience an unfolding narrative of a Jewish reformer who saw through the hypocrisy and elitism of first-century Roman Palestine. This itinerant sage brought a message of affirmation and egalitarianism to oppressed and powerless Galileans and described a kingdom of love, not in the future but already present in the hearts of people. 

Drama, simulations, crafts, songs, social service initiatives, and other creative hands-on activities reinforce values concerning such teachings as respect for all, sharing worldly goods, conflict resolution, friendship, and forgiveness.

Class for teens in 8th Grade

Youth who participate in this class will end the year equipped with accurate, age-appropriate information about human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view, comprehensive sexuality education helps class members clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, social, and political aspects of sexuality.

Participants in this class must covenant to attend on a regular basis. Parent participation at the orientation sessions and signed parent-permission forms are required in order to enroll 8^th-graders in this course. Should an 8^th-grader choose not to participate in OWL, or should they register for classes after October 1^st, they may join the class for 6th, 7^th and 8^th graders that meets at 10:00 or 11:30.