Once you decide what you want to present, you need to decide how to present it. Some ideas are best discussed in a large class format on Sunday morning; others are better dealt with in small groups and in private homes; still others deserve the extended reflection of a workshop or retreat. Match the content to the time parameters and pick a style that mirrors the content.

You might also present the same idea in several venues. For example, during Lent 2002, my congregation studied Christian practices. We approached the subject in different ways:

1. a guest speaker presented a single practice at a large Sunday morning Adult Gathering;
   
2. we sold the book, Practicing Our Faith, at the book table;
   
3. we directed parishioners to www.practicingourfaith.org for further resources;
   
4. we offered small group study of the book on Wednesday evenings following dinner and Eucharist; and
   
5. we hosted a Saturday workshop on the practice of hospitality.

In addition, the clergy began to self-consciously use the language of "practice" in conversation, committee meetings, and sermons.

Because of the variety of offerings, parishioners could learn about practices with differing levels of depth and commitment. And we created a congregation-wide conversation about faith practices—which furthered the church's understanding of its own identity and mission.

Work across your template to provide a number of opportunities for spiritual formation. Recognize that Sunday morning is (probably) the least effective education time. It will usually serve to introduce an idea or issue—but can create enough interest to draw some people deeper into faith. Sound content presented at alternative times (midweek, weekends, or retreats) allows for deeper reflection and commitment.

Questions to consider:

• How can you coordinate a congregation-wide conversation around theology or spirituality?
• How can you create a "seamless garment" of adult formation throughout the parish?