Next year promises to be an exciting time in the life of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens (FBCLG). One of the most ambitious and impactful initiatives slated for 2023 is the revamping and relaunching of what we have traditionally called Sunday School or Christian Education.
An Emphasis on Faith Formation
FBCLG is challenging disciples of Christ to think about Christian education as well as anything that supports their spiritual growth as faith formation. Theological conversations, fellowship, bible study, formal training, missions work, and life events are activities that shape a person’s faith.
This concept of faith formation is so critical that FBCLG, under the leadership of Senior Pastor Rev. Danté R. Quick, Ph.D., hired Rev. Carol Lynn Patterson, D.Min., as the associate pastor of Faith Formation and Discipleship. A major aspect of her role is to look holistically at a disciple’s journey from cradle to grave and intentionally create opportunities along the continuum of life that will develop and fortify one’s faith.
“There will be something for everyone,” says Dr. Patterson. “Scholarly options will be available for students who would like to delve deeper and there will always be practical offerings for those looking for relevant ways to apply their faith in their everyday life.”
“So many churches think of Sunday School as something that is just for children. However, at FBCLG, we believe in lifelong learning,” says Dr. Patterson. “If we call ourselves disciples of Christ, imitators of Christ or learners of Christ, then there should never be an age or a stage where we stop trying to deepen our discipleship.”
A Nod to Freedom Schools
In February, children and adults will have the opportunity to matriculate in FBCLG’s Freedom School.
Rev. Dr. Carol L Patterson, associate pastor of Faith Formation and Discipleship (Photo: Brian Branch-Price/Thefotodesk)
In the spirit in which Freedom Schools were developed in the 1960s, FBCLG will build upon its strong foundation of theological instruction to also include Black history and culture. Traditional bible lessons will dig deeper to better understand the people of the bible, including the presence of Africans.
Last summer, adult students in Vacation Bible School were introduced to this concept when guest instructor Dr. Will Coleman, associate professor at the Interdenominational Theological Center, taught The Bible: The Lands, the People, the Languages. In his class, images of hieroglyphics and other ancient art depicted a dark-complexioned Jesus that contradicts and corrects most common Western European portrayals today.
“There will be something for everyone,” says Dr. Patterson. “Scholarly options will be available for students who would like to delve deeper and there will always be practical offerings for those looking for relevant ways to apply their faith in their everyday life.”
Technology Upgrades to Every Classroom
“Another delightful aspect of the curriculum revamp is that each classroom will be outfitted with a video camera, smartboard and stronger WiFi signals to ensure we can serve our virtual community,” says Dr. Patterson.
The technology upgrades will not only help FBCLG extend its reach to more students, but it will also offer greater options to bring in virtual guest speakers in the areas of academia and entertainment.
Dr. Patterson adds that FBCLG is exploring ways in which children can interact with their counterparts in other countries for enhanced learning opportunities.
Instruction for Every Stage of Life
“The possibilities are endless. For example, one day we may eventually offer a class for expectant parents to help them develop spiritual goals for their child. There is so much that can be done to enrich the lives of our disciples,” says Dr. Patterson. “Since there will be offerings available for everyone, my hope is that families will discuss together what they are learning and what they can do to make a difference.”
Ultimately, the goal of the FBCLG Freedom School is to help disciples of Christ think critically about their faith as well as Black history and culture to position them to thrive and boldly advance God’s Kingdom on earth.
“2 Corinthians 3:17 says it all,” states Dr. Patterson. “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
