Being curious never gets old! 💡 Tuition is now free! So, come back to School with Elder School! 🏫 Fascinating presentations and topics geared towards Seniors in the Connecticut Area, July 28-29 on the beautiful Camp Bethel grounds. Tuition is free, and a sandwich lunch will be provided. Thank you for all of your enthusiasm for us coming back for another year! Your continued support and donations are welcome at the door.
–
Let us know you’re coming! Register here: https://forms.gle/5k3cHv6oU7vhUttE9
–
Class Schedule:
–
July 28, 2025 – 10:30-11:30 AM and 1:00-2:00 PM
–
“The Power of Vulnerability: Strength in Our Broken Places” – Debra Welkley – Max 30 participants (Preacher’s Stand)
Change is inevitable, especially as we age. Whether one considers the change from infancy to toddler, changes that occur during adolescence, or the many more life changes that occur through different phases of adulthood, our varied lived experiences often result in feelings of being at risk. The Power of Vulnerability will consider life challenges that are often faced during the “third act” of life and their impact. Strategies for dealing with and moving through these vulnerabilities will be presented. This interactive workshop will engage participants in an activity to heighten their awareness of how the vulnerabilities we experience can be used to develop a new narrative through the power that they can instill.
–
“Be a Connecticut Artist Yourself” – Justine Garrison – Max 20 participants (Lounge)
Take time to look at the world around you, even just outside your own window. Think about what you see. You can then record that image through any medium. Be inspired by the beauty of Connecticut as artists have been over the last 150 years. Today we are going to give you an opportunity to begin your first steps toward engaging your own reactions to the beauty you are familiar with around you and creating a bit of personal art. This is a hands-on workshop and materials will be provided.
–
“An Exploration of Connecticut and Southwest Indian Tribes Including Hands On Native Arts Projects” – Christine Becker (No Maximum)
This session will share a brief history of the Wangunk Tribe of Connecticut as well as some background and history of the Navajo, Pueblo and Lakota Tribes of the Southwest. Two hands on Native arts projects will be offered; Hopi coiled pottery and Santo Domingo Pueblo Jewelry.
–
–
–
July 29, 2025 – 10:30-11:30 AM and 1:00-2:00 PM
–
“The Story Behind the Hymn” – Sue Donnelly (No Maximum, Chapel)
As we examine well known hymns, we will learn about the lives of the authors and inspirations behind their heart-felt lyrics. Often written centuries ago, their words still resonate with us today. During our session, we will have an opportunity to sing some of these favorites.
–
“Camp Bethel History and Connections to the Millerite Movements of 1880” – Elizabeth Van Guilder (Max 20 participants, Lounge)
This class will describe the historic Camp Bethel campground, past and present. Who started it? When? What kind of things are there now? The presentation will include photos and stories both past and present and provide a kind of virtual “tour” of the campground.
–
“Tapping Into Your Inner Poet” – Robert Becker – No Maximum, participants (Preacher’s Stand)
You will be asked to write about your own life experiences in the form of a small poem, prose or essay which can be shared with the group if you choose to do that. The trainer will share some personal evaluations or experiences in his own life. This will be a hands-on workshop and writing materials will be provided.