Growing in the Knowledge and Love of God
Lifelong Formation at Church of the Nativity
Formation Is Lifelong
One mark of the Christian life is ongoing growth in the knowledge and love of God. Our own spiritual formation does not end at confirmation or graduation — it continues for as long as we live. Nativity seeks to provide a variety of settings to nurture that growth, from Sunday morning study to shared meals with our neighbors across Greenwood.
A Note About Adult Sunday School
For several years, our Adult Forum met on Sunday mornings at 9:30 AM, engaging a rotating series of offerings. Past programs included an in-depth study of the Book of Exodus, facilitated conversations on the challenge of church security, a historical survey of the first four centuries of Christianity, a six-week sprint through the Book of Acts, and a group reading of Alister McGrath's The Christian Theology Reader.
In recent years, that gathering has lapsed, and we have not yet found a consistent rhythm for adult formation on Sunday mornings. We miss it, and we believe the parish is ready for it again.
We are looking for someone to help revive it.
This does not require a seminary degree or a teaching gift — it requires someone with a heart for gathering adults around Scripture and good conversation. Whether you would like to lead a study yourself or simply organize the logistics and invite others to teach, we would love to talk with you. A short-term series, a book study, or a seasonal offering like Advent or Lent would all be wonderful places to begin.
If you feel called to this, or if you are simply curious about what it might look like, please reach out to Fr. Don or the church office at (662) 453-7786.
Monthly Formation & Fellowship Opportunities
While we work on rebuilding Sunday morning formation, two ongoing gatherings already offer regular opportunities for learning, prayer, and relationship — alongside Christians from across our community.
Greenwood Ministerial Association Lunch
First Wednesday of the month | 12:00 PM
The Greenwood Ministerial Association is a group of ministers in Greenwood, striving to serve God together in our community. The Association gathers monthly for a luncheon and a time of fellowship and shared ministry.
Members of Nativity are welcome to attend.
Mission Mississippi Lunch July 2026
Mission Mississippi Lunch at Locus Benedictus
Second Thursday of the month | 12:00 PM | Locus Benedictus
Mission Mississippi is a Christian organization that promotes unity in the Body of Christ through prayer, across racial and denominational lines. Our members participate in the Leflore County Chapter, which meets monthly at Locus Benedictus.
We gather for a meal, hear a word of encouragement from the host pastor, then break into small groups to share what is on our hearts and pray for one another.
These gatherings are one of the most meaningful ways our parish connects with the wider Church in Greenwood. All are welcome.
Cursillo
Nativity is part of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi, and many of our members have found the Cursillo weekend to be a powerful experience of spiritual renewal. Cursillo is a three-day immersive retreat that offers a "short course in Christianity," designed to strengthen and renew the faith of Christian people.
The Cursillo movement in Mississippi is active and vibrant, with weekends typically held each spring and fall. While these retreats were historically held at the Gray Center, they are now hosted at Camp Bratton-Green, also located in Canton, MS.
If you are seeking a deeper experience of prayer, community, and renewal, Cursillo is a wonderful entry point.
What's Next?
We would like this page to grow. If you have an idea for a study, a guest speaker, a book discussion, or a retreat, please share it.
Contact:
Fr. Don Chancellor
Church of the Nativity
(662) 453-7786
office@nativitygreenwood.org