Spiritual Education and Development
Disciple Classes
Disciple Classes are an excellent way to grow your faith in Christ through fellowship with other Christians. At Buford First UMC, we offer classes that aim at transformation, not just information. Our Disciple Classes are a form of disciplined Bible Study aimed at developing strong Christian leaders through transformation, not just information. The classes focus on the disciple as a learner, believer, follower, proclaimer of Christ, and servant while providing a small group fellowship for study, prayer, preparation, support, and servanthood. Are you hungering for the Word of God? Disciple Classes can help transform you into a biblically nourished person that nurtures and encourages others to live as disciples of Christ.
Sunday School and Small Groups
We offer Sunday schools and small groups at 10 a.m. in the CLC each Sunday. No matter your age or interests, there is a group for you.
- The Beacon Class: This Sunday School class consists of mostly retirees, but it is open to all ages! The class is one of our most deep-rooted classes here at BFUMC, and they enjoy good fellowship, fun, and friendship. They reach out to the church and the community with mission projects. The weekly curriculum is taught by a team of teachers in a series of 4-8 lessons. The focus is Bible-based, emphasizing how the lessons from Scripture apply to us today and take with us into our week. There are lively discussions with a lot of laughter as we learn. Please get in touch with Linda McQuaig to learn more about this group.
- The Friends and Family Class: This Sunday School class includes folks of all ages. It is an excellent place for newcomers and long-time church members alike to get together for fellowship and study. They either use a video or book the group has voted on to study what the Bible says about God’s character and who we are as Christ’s followers to help us explore how we can live as Christians in our modern world. Some authors used are Lee Strobel, Max Lucado, and Andy Stanley. The lively discussion and teachings will undoubtedly enrich you on Biblical principles! All are invited to join this group. If you would like more information about this group, contact Eric Lynskey.
- The New Spirit Class: This class is a mix of all ages; those with and without children; longstanding church members and relative “newbies”; regular attendees and welcome visitors; in-person and “Zoomers.” They intersperse Bible study with lessons that address other Christian issues but always aim to relate these to Christ’s teaching and leadership directly. This class will offer great theological discussions and lessons based on Scripture. A common thread of the class is turning our faith into action. Teresa Fowler and a few guest teachers rotate, leading the group for a series that runs for 4 to 6 sessions. For more information about this group, contact Christi Lenz.
- Hallel: This small group will be geared towards young parents, parents with middle schoolers, and everyone in between. If you are not already plugged into a Sunday School class or another group, this may be the group for you! Hallel is one of the most common Hebrew words for praise used in Scripture and denotes praise that is full of energy and joy for what the Lord has done. In this group, participants study and discuss Scripture to see the beautiful and praiseworthy things the Lord has given us despite all of life’s craziness. If you are interested in this group or want more information, contact Sydney Yancey.
Buford United Methodist Men (BUMM)
The BUMM is a creative and supportive fellowship of men who seek to know Jesus Christ, grow spiritually, and seek God’s will daily. BUMM meets occasionally. Watch for announcements in the newsletter and bulletin. This group does some home repair work and other projects as needs arise. They also have fundraisers that help pay for the projects and home repair work. Contact Chris Simonson.
Buford United Methodist Men Retired (BUMMRs)
All retired men are invited to join the BUMMRs every other Monday at 10 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall for coffee, fellowship, and discussion on how to continue making a difference in our church and community. This is an excellent opportunity to meet other retired men in the church and discover common interests. Contact Pastor Jim Buckman.
United Methodist Women (UMW)
The United Methodist Women (UMW) meet in small groups called “circles.” The three circles meet once a month.
- The Carol Scott Circle meets on the third Friday of the month at 10 a.m. in the CLC 201. Childcare is available on request: leader, Becky Grant.
- The Florence Garner Circle meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the CLC, 109. Childcare is available upon request: leader Holly Moreland.
- The Effie Wood Circle meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Leaders Lynne German.
The focus of the UMW is missions. You will notice various fundraising activities throughout the year are conducted by these circles to help missions here and worldwide. UMW ladies host a Christmas Brunch in December and a Spring Tea. All ladies are invited to these special events. UMW Contact Person: Gypsi Alford.
Each year, the UMW recognizes a man and a woman in its congregation for outstanding service to the church, community, and mission work. The awards are presented on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. View the list of Men and Women of the Year since 1989.
The Young at Heart
Those 50 and older have an opportunity for fun and fellowship through the Young at Heart Program! This group schedules an outing every month during the school year and loves to have folks join them! Some recent trips have been to the Tellus Science Museum, the Northwinds Christmas Concert, the Chief Vann House, and many other exciting places! Most outings include a stop for lunch or dinner. For more information, contact Debbie Atcheson.