ADULT FORUM - "The Gown Speaks First: What the Church Hears BEFORE a Sermon Begins"

Before a preacher reaches the sermon's first sentence, a congregation is already learning whom to trust. A Geneva gown. A rhinestoned stole. A preacher's voice breaking into song. Each can teach a room what authority is supposed to look and sound like-and who seems strangely out of place. Drawing on his recently published article in the Journal of the American Academy of Religion, Brett McKinley Pardue brings Christian vesture into conversation with drag performance and the visual and sonic life of worship. What does preaching communicate before words-and what if faithful authority arrives dressed differently than we expect?

The Congregation's weekly Adult Forum offers a variety of guest speakers, presentations and discussions on a wide range of thought-provoking topics, including Biblical studies, current social issues and the work of mission agencies. Adult Forum aims to deepen the faith and understanding of adults through shared learning experiences. Classes include programs and discussions on contemporary issues in light of Christian teachings.