At BUF, we believe that there is always room for exploring, questioning and learning. Our lifelong learning programs for adults has included study groups on the Bhagavad-Gita, Buddhism, the Bible, and theology as well as many other opportunities to challenge perceptions and expand knowledge bases. Opportunities for spiritual growth in Chalice Circles are a part of our Small Group Ministry.

Adult Religious Education Calendar 2025-26

FALL

October                    Great Questions facilitated by Bonnie Phinney and Emmie Schlobohm

5 sessions: Sundays, October 5 – Nov 2, 12:15pm to 2:00pm, Flex Room (Top Floor)

This 5-week class will explore our varied answers to some of religion’s biggest questions: What does religion mean to you? Who or what is in charge? What happens when we die? What is the nature of evil? What does it mean to be human? With an emphasis on discussion, we will make use of provocative questions, quotations, music and art to stimulate your thinking. Some (minor) preparation and journalling will be expected of participants. Register here.

November                 The Thomas Jefferson Bible facilitated by Rod Haynes

1 session: Sunday, Nov 16, 12:15 – 2:00 pm

Through guided discussions and examining Jefferson’s annotated Bible, participants will explore how Jefferson’s rational approach to Christian principles— emphasizing Jesus’s morality while removing supernatural elements of Christ’s biblical life—and reviewing Jefferson’s groundbreaking work establishing religious freedom in colonial Virginia’s government, was a precursor to the Constitution’s 1st Amendment. How does the Jefferson Bible touch our lives today? Register here.

Annual Women’s Retreat

Each Spring, BUF women have the opportunity to attend a weekend retreat where they engage in social interaction, learning and self-exploration, and spiritual enhancement. Information on the next retreat will be shared in 2026.