ADULT MINISTRY

The goal of adult ministry is to form mature disciples of Jesus Christ in word and in deed. Through a variety of classes that incorporate a diversity of learning styles, adults at Idlewild come to know Christ’s love, peace, and justice through study of scripture, spiritual practice, literature, fellowship, and critical engagement with contemporary issues. At Idlewild, the questions are as important as the answers, and faith is understood as a lifelong journey.

Sunday School

9:40 AM Each Sunday

Faith & Function

Local scholars help us study the Bible in its historical context, including the stories, the writers, and their significance for Christians today.

Stephen Class

room 301, Jones Building

This semester we continue reading and discussing short stories from God Stories. Class members lead the conversations. There are no prerequisites, just a love of stories. Together we discover how reading in community can open hearts and spirits in meaningful ways.

Christian Parenting

room 304, Jones Building

Parents of littles and school-aged children gather to explore faith at home, share discussion and prayer, and deepen friendships. Facilitated this semester by Whitney Getman, Director of Children’s Ministry.

20/20

Room 302, Jones Building

Through weekly leader-facilitated discussions, we consider what it means to be a Christian in our often challenging, contemporary world.

Tapestry: Contemplative Prayer Experience

Harlan room, sanctuary building

Explore contemplative practices—lectio, visio, musica, and walking divina—through ancient and contemporary texts. Whether familiar or new, all are welcome to come and learn.

Sunday School

Summer 2025 Adult Forums

Sunday Mornings | Montgomery Hall

Join us on Sunday Mornings for our Summer Adult Forums. The speakers will start promptly at 9. Come early for coffee & conversations.

  • June 1: Dr. Patrick Gray: The Canonization of the New Testament
  • June 8 (CHAPEL): Dr. Patrick Gray: The Canonization of the New Testament 
  • June 15: Mary McIntosh and AJ Northrop: Ghana and Cuba Mission Trips
  • June 22: Gwendolyn Woods: Boys and Girls Club of Memphis
  • June 29: Presbyqueerians: The Stonewall Riots and Pride
  • July 13: Update from the MidSouth Food Bank
  • July 20: TBD
  • July 27: Venita Doggett: MICAH Ministries
  • Aug 3: Anti-Racism Ministries Update
  • Aug 17: Keith Cole and Elizabeth Rouse: Legacy Giving at Idlewild
  • Aug 24: Brian Ellison: Covenant Network

Weekday Offerings

Disciple Bible Study

Disciples Bible Study is a comprehensive, participatory study of the Bible in a small group setting. Please contact David Zanca for more information (voice or text 901-484-5920).

Presbyterian Women

This group is for all ages and for those who identify as women. Circles are at the core of our group and are a time for fellowship and Bible study. Small Group meetings are on the first Tuesday of the month, starting in October. Find more information here

Tuesday Morning Men's Group

Tuesdays at 9 AM | Montgomery Hall and on Zoom

In-person friends can enjoy breakfast while discussing the Gospel of Matthew in a small group discussion. If you prefer, you can purchase N. T. Wright’s study guide to assist. The group is small enough to allow for significant dialogue among participants but also large enough to allow for only contemplative participation. 

Email facilitator, Charles Key, with any questions.

The Art of Reading

The class will choose selections for discussion and alternate between fiction and non-fiction. The assignment for each week will be one to two chapters. We have some fun field trips planned for the spring. Join us!

Idlewild Book Club

The Idlewild Book Club reads a range of books from all genres. We encourage visitors, friends, and any book lovers to join us each month! We pick our books each month at our meeting. If you are interested in learning more, sign up for the adult newsletter or reach out to Joyce Webber

Parents' Prayer, Bible Study, and Fellowship

Fridays during the school year, 8:30-9:30 AM @ CAFE House (28 S Evergreen)

Join us for a time of group study of the week’s scripture lesson. We’ll also spend some time sharing and praying together. 

Young Adult Ministry

Your twenties and thirties are formational, scary, fun, and full of surprises. The Young Adult Ministry is here to walk with you and be a flexible space for support and encouragement. We provide several educational opportunities including book studies, Bible groups, and weekly Theology on Tap gatherings during the summer. Join the Young Adult Ministry GroupMe here!