The curriculum is being run, for it's second year, at St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Brentwood, California.
St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Brentwood is asking the public to "Come and See!" a fresh approach to understanding the
Gospel.
The unique "Come and See!" program, which starts Sept. 19th, will address many of the questions and concerns
of non-believers, believers and those who are unsure. It is free, with a meal and childcare provided.
The program boldly states many of the negative beliefs out there about Christians and faces them head on. Sections confront
the cultures that face modern religon, including stereotypes such as: "Christian are hypocrites; God is for people who need
a crutch; churches only want my money; I will be the only one in the room that doesn't own a bible; it's a joke and I want
proof."
St. Alban's suggests when you have more questions than answers, "Come and See!" for yourself.
The program is designed to spread the word of God, but also recognizes that open discussion of life and religion are
essential for people to learn and grow in faith. One perk of the program is a free dinner and child care will be provided
for those who attend the meetings at the church located on the corner of Birch and Second Street.
St. Alban's is starting early trying to recruit non-believers, believers and those caught in the middle for this unique
event and has garnered the support of the Diocese of California, by winning a grant based on the program outline produced
by Marigrace Williamson and the church's Bishop Committee.
The church filled out the speakers list, was awarded the money and now hopes to get a good blend of people to participate
in the "Come and See!" program set to open Sept.19th
On June 25, 2003, the Episcopal Diocese of California accepted a grant request and awarded St. Alban's with $2,150 in
matching funds for the program. The Diocese told St. Alban's to remain in contact about the program and also asked them to
help in producing a video or other presentation for the church's Creative Ministry Fund initiative of Jubilate Deo.
Among the topics the program will hit over the 9-Sunday sessions are "Science and Religion" with guest speaker, Dr. Neil
Schore, who is a professor at UC Davis and a member of a local Lutheran church. Is there a conflict between science and religion? "Come and See!"
