100% of all donations go to the mission of TCN - We are an all volunteer organization!

Personalized Theological Questions and Answers Forum

(Answers will be scholarly in nature rather than promoting a particular denomination.)

Typical questions some people ask:

What are arguments and evidence for the existence of God?

Is the Bible really true?

Have you ever wondered what the Holy Trinity really means?

What is free will in religious thinking?

Does God control everything that happens in my life?

Why does God allow evil to happen?

What is the purpose of the universe?

Is there one true religion?

What are your questions?


Receive a completely confidential response to your theological questions from the staff and faculty of TCN.

Just email your question to Rev. Sam at: info@aaopp.org


Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Goal – Deliver curriculum that clergy are exposed to in seminary to the person in the pew

Goal – Deliver curriculum that clergy experience in seminary to the person in the pew.  Princeton, Harvard and Yale were all founded by churches and have highly regarded seminaries to this day.  My own denomination is heavily connected to Princeton Theological Seminary and the current pastor at Moorings is a Princeton graduate.  Attempting to provide a postgraduate seminary curriculum to the congregation might seem impossible but Theological Center in Naples has been doing just that for at least two decades.    


Modern Biblical scholarship uses all of the modern sciences.  Archeology, astronomy, physics (carbon 14 dating, creation myths and astrophysics), linguistics, history, critical literary analysis, numismatics, biology including DNA analysis of scrolls made out of animal skins.  I will keep the focus and the academic rather than the religious which is what the subject is really all about. 

Monday, October 5, 2015

Bible Scholarship Class Kickoff a Success!

 Dear Fellow Seekers!

We are excited to be teaching Biblical Scholarship again, and it is a delight to share this curriculum with such eager, well educated adults!

For those of our class who did NOT make it today, including our snowbirds who have yet to make their annual autumn paradise pilgrimage from the chilly north, handouts are available via email. 

Bring your favorite study bible, and your handouts folder, invite those who may also enjoy this exploration as we dig more deeply into HOW our scriptures were assembled, and their relevance for us today.

Feel free to call or email us in between classes with questions which may arise.
Looking forward to being with you again next Sunday.

Blessings! Bunny<>Sam Sewell

591-4565

Friday, September 18, 2015

Biblical Exploration Class - Free Adult Education Opportunity



  

Free Adult Education Opportunity
beginning Sunday October 4th
11:15 to noon – Q and A After
(childcare provided)

The Theological Center in Naples and Moorings Church
invites you to attend a Sunday Morning
Ongoing Biblical Exploration Class
starting with Genesis, led by Sam and Bunny Sewell
TCN is an educational institution not a church

What is Biblical Exploration? It is not a devotional Bible Study,
but rather an academic study of the historical writings of various theologically diverse biblical scholars  (evangelicals, Catholics, mainline protestants, Jewish academics and secular historians.)

What Text is used for this study? The primary source for this extensive curriculum is the twelve volume Interpreter’s Bible. Each volume of this series, used for study/discussion, covers two or more books of the Old and New Testaments, and is a study resource found in the Moorings Church Strozier Library. Bring your Bible.

Facilitators Sam and Bunny Sewell have offered their training and knowledge to the public for more than two decades. Rev. Sam is President of the Theological Center in Naples. 


Classes (open to the public) are held each Sunday at Moorings Church Campus in the Strozier Library, 
791 Harbour Dr, 1 block west of 41

        Register by contacting the Sewells
239/591-4565  or  bunnysam@bestselfusa.com

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Biblical Exploration at Moorings Church

Biblical Exploration at Moorings Church
Click for full view!

Monday, August 17, 2015

18th Annual Lenten Soup for the Soul Luncheon Series.

Theological Center in Naples

Colleagues

The Theological Center in Naples would like to invite you to participate in the 18th Annual Lenten Soup for the Soul Luncheon Series. These community wide gatherings continue to be an inspiring time of fellowship for congregants of the greater Naples area, during which we have the opportunity to break bread and pray together, share ideas with members of other congregations, and hear inspiring messages from area pastors.

This year we are attempting to allow more lead time, so churches can mark these dates on their church calendars for the upcoming season.

The 2016 Passion Season for many churches begins on Ash Wednesday February 10,
culminating in the Easter Celebration on Sunday, March 27th, 2016.

Lenten Soup for the Soul will again assemble for a midday bowl of Soup and a message for the Soul on the six intervening Wednesdays-
          February 17th
          February 24th
          March 2nd
          March 9th
          March 16th  (Collier Co Spring Break-No School)
          March 23rd  

We would like for churches who have the capacity to host a luncheon (our attendance has been running @ 70-90) to be able to schedule a date that fits into your calendar. Those churches who wish to participate but do not have dining room facilities may wish to partner with host churches in providing a pot of soup or a platter of cookies.

If you would like to reserve one of these dates, please contact Bunny Sewell, bunnysam@bestselfusa.com or call 591-4565 for more information. Once the dates are confirmed, we will be able to announce the speakers, and send more details.

We thank those churches and speakers who have participated in the past, and covet your prayers as we look forward to another season of blessings!

In His Service
Rev Sam Sewell, President
Theological Center In Naples

The Theological Center in Naples
is committed to religious education and outreach among communities of faith

while fostering dialog, tolerance, and harmony.

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Biblical Scholarship Course ~ Open to the Public - Mooring Presbyterian


Do you miss Adult Sunday School?
JOIN US – beginning Sunday October 4th, 2015
   
For an ONGOING, FREE ADULT EDUCATIONAL 
Biblical Scholarship Course ~ Open to the Public

Moorings Adult Christian Education Committee, in conjunction with the Theological Center in Naples, is pleased to announce that Sam and Bunny Sewell have again volunteered to lead a Sunday Morning Biblical Exploration Class. Here is your opportunity to grab a cup of coffee after the 10AM service, then join Sam and Bunny in the Strozier Library from 11:15 to Noon, to discover how our Bible was written, how scholars reconcile apparent inconsistencies,  to strengthen your faith by learning how the Bible applies to us today, and still have time to meet your friends for brunch afterward!

Biblical Scholarship is not the same thing as Bible Study. This Biblical Scholarship Program aims to provide a curriculum similar to that which is taught to clergy at accredited seminaries. This unique adult education opportunity was attended  last season by Moorings regulars as well as several others from our community at large. It will include an optional Q/A period after the class, for those who are interested.  The Sewell’s have been teaching Biblical Scholarship in Naples for more than two decades. There is no tuition for this class, however free will offerings are appreciated.


The primary resource for this extensive curriculum is the twelve volume Interpreter’s Bible. Obviously, participants will not be required to provide their own text books. Just show up with
 your own Bible, a note pad, pen or pencil, and highlighters. Sam and Bunny own the digital software of the Interpreter’s Bible, as well as the twelve volume set. The Interpreter’s Bible is also available in the Moorings Presbyterian Church Library. The contributors to the study materials are leading Biblical scholars who bring a wealth of fresh perspectives to Biblical interpretation. The contributors are also theologically diverse, reflecting a wide range of Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish backgrounds. Join us each Sunday to grow in your faith & knowledge of God’s Word.

Register in the foyer at Moorings Presbyterian, 791 Harbour Dr (1 block west of 41)

or contact Sam and Bunny  bunnysam@bestselfusa.com  239-591-4565

Thursday, April 2, 2015

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE - The seventeenth Lenten Soup for the Soul series is complete. Thanks to the members and staff of Theological Center in Naples.


Friday, March 27, 2015

ONGOING Biblical Scholarship Course ~ Open to the Public


Revs Bunny or Sam Sewell                                               
 CONTACT:
239-591-4565
FREE ADULT EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY
ONGOING Biblical Scholarship Course ~ Open to the Public
Hosted by MOORINGS PRESBYTERIAN

The Biblical Scholarship Class presently being taught by Revs Sam & Bunny Sewell and sponsored by the Theological Center in Naples and Moorings Presbyterian Church is finishing their exploration of the book of Genesis on Palm Sunday, March 29th, and will resume their weekly classes by beginning the book of Exodus on the Sunday, April 12th, at 11:15AM.

Biblical Scholarship is not the same thing as Bible Study. This Biblical Scholarship Program aims to provide a curriculum similar to that which is taught at accredited seminaries.

The Sewell’s have been teaching Biblical Scholarship in Naples for over two decades.

This unique adult education opportunity is being offered in the Strozier Library on the campus at Moorings Presbyterian Church, 790 Harbour Dr. This is a great time to learn more about how the Bible was written, and how scholars reconcile apparent inconsistencies. Bring your questions, and strengthen your faith by learning how the Bible’s lessons apply to us today.

There is no tuition for this class, however free will offerings are appreciated. 

Please register by contacting Sam & Bunny. bunnysam@bestselfusa.com 
239-591-4565

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The primary resource for this extensive curriculum is the 12 volume Interpreter’s Bible, but students need only show up with their own Bibles, a note pad, pen or pencil and highlighter. Sam and Bunny own the digital software of the Interpreter’s Bible, as well as the twelve volume set. The Interpreter’s Bible is also available in the Moorings Presbyterian Church Library.  You will also receive additional resources via email and in printed form to enhance your learning experience.


The contributors to the study materials are leading biblical scholars from theologically diverse backgrounds, bringing a wealth of fresh perspectives to biblical interpretation from a wide range of Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish backgrounds. 

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Rev. Michael Harper "WOWS" the audience!

PLEASE NOTE LOCATION CHANGE!!
We are pleased to announce that, NEXT WEEK, on Wednesday, April 1st, the First United Methodist Church, 388 S 1st Ave, at 3rd St, will be hosting our final 2015 Lenten Soup for the Soul Luncheon.


 W
  

The Theological Center in Naples ~ SEVENTEENTH Annual
Lenten Soup for the Soul  ~  2015
A Luncheon Series for the Greater Naples Community  
Sponsored by the Theological Center in Naples

“The Activity of the Holy Spirit”

From Creation to Pentecost, in our everyday lives and activities-even unto the present time, the Spirit makes itself known, inspiring our thoughts and actions, from the miraculous, to physical healings, to life changing, soul-shaking, Metanoia  personality transformations. Explore with us how the Spirit blesses our lives on a daily basis. This season our speakers will share their thoughts and experiences on the activity of the Holy Spirit.
We invite you to join us from Noon-1PM each Wednesday during Lent for a simple  meal and reflection offered by spiritual leaders in our community.
Your donations to cover expenses and to support the mission of The Theological   Center In Naples are appreciated. There will be signing for the hearing impaired each week.

     February 25
    Presenter:            Rev Diane Scribner Clevenger (Unity of Naples)
       Location:               St Paul’s Episcopal (3901 Davis Blvd, East of Airport)

     March 4
     Presenter:           Dr Kirt Anderson (Naples Community Church)
Location:           Vanderbilt Pres (1225 Piper Bv-off Immokalee-opposite Sam’s Club)

      March 11
    Presenter:            Dr Jack Haberer (Vanderbilt Presbyterian)
       Location:                 Mayflower Congregational UCC (2900 County Barn - off Davis)
                       
    March 18       
    Presenter:            Deacon Mark Leonard (San Marco Catholic)
       Location:               St John the Evangelist Catholic (625 111th Ave N-West of 41)

    March 25          
    Presenter             Chaplain Michael Harper (Naples Community Hospital)
       Location:               Trinity-by-the-Cove (553 Galleon Dr-off Gordon Dr)

           April 1   (NOTE, LOCATION CHANGE!)
    Presenter:            Nicole Partin, Certified Celebrant (Hodges-Josberger Funeral Home)
       Location:             First United Methodist  (388 S 1st Ave, at 3rd St)
            Luncheon provided by:  Celebration Community Beach Church
           
THE THEOLOGICAL CENTER IN NAPLES IS COMMITTED TO RELIGIOUS EDUCATION   AND OUTREACH AMONG COMMUNITIES OF FAITH,
WHILE FOSTERING DIALOG, TOLERANCE, AND HARMONY

Rev. Michael Harper "WOWS" them at Lenten Soup for the Soul




Leslie Harper - Rev. Michael Harper - Rev Sam Sewell - Rev. Bunny Sewell - Registrar Carolyn Mattioli

PLEASE NOTE LOCATION CHANGE FOR LAST SESSION!


We are pleased to announce that, NEXT WEEK, on Wednesday, April 1st, the First United Methodist Church, 388 S 1st Ave, at 3rd St, will be hosting our final 2015 Lenten Soup for the Soul Luncheon.
 W

The Theological Center in Naples ~ SEVENTEENTH Annual
Lenten Soup for the Soul  ~  2015
A Luncheon Series for the Greater Naples Community  
Sponsored by the Theological Center in Naples

“The Activity of the Holy Spirit”

From Creation to Pentecost, in our everyday lives and activities-even unto the present time, the Spirit makes itself known, inspiring our thoughts and actions, from the miraculous, to physical healings, to life changing, soul-shaking, Metanoia  personality transformations. Explore with us how the Spirit blesses our lives on a daily basis. This season our speakers will share their thoughts and experiences on the activity of the Holy Spirit.
We invite you to join us from Noon-1PM each Wednesday during Lent for a simple  meal and reflection offered by spiritual leaders in our community.
Your donations to cover expenses and to support the mission of The Theological   Center In Naples are appreciated. There will be signing for the hearing impaired each week.

     February 25
    Presenter:            Rev Diane Scribner Clevenger (Unity of Naples)
       Location:               St Paul’s Episcopal (3901 Davis Blvd, East of Airport)

     March 4
     Presenter:           Dr Kirt Anderson (Naples Community Church)
Location:           Vanderbilt Pres (1225 Piper Bv-off Immokalee-opposite Sam’s Club)

      March 11
    Presenter:            Dr Jack Haberer (Vanderbilt Presbyterian)
       Location:                 Mayflower Congregational UCC (2900 County Barn - off Davis)
                       
    March 18       
    Presenter:            Deacon Mark Leonard (San Marco Catholic)
       Location:               St John the Evangelist Catholic (625 111th Ave N-West of 41)

    March 25          
    Presenter             Chaplain Michael Harper (Naples Community Hospital)
       Location:               Trinity-by-the-Cove (553 Galleon Dr-off Gordon Dr)

           April 1   (NOTE, LOCATION CHANGE!)
    Presenter:            Nicole Partin, Certified Celebrant (Hodges-Josberger Funeral Home)
       Location:             First United Methodist  (388 S 1st Ave, at 3rd St)
            Luncheon provided by:  Celebration Community Beach Church
           
THE THEOLOGICAL CENTER IN NAPLES IS COMMITTED TO RELIGIOUS EDUCATION   AND OUTREACH AMONG COMMUNITIES OF FAITH,
WHILE FOSTERING DIALOG, TOLERANCE, AND HARMONY

http://tcnaples.blogspot.com   239/591-4565

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Lenten Soup For The Soul

March 18, 2015
Contact: Rev Sam Sewell, President
The Theological Center in Naples
News Release
For immediate release
Lenten Soup For The Soul

Rev. Sam Sewell – Rev. Bunny Sewell - Deacon Mark Leonard 

(Naples, FL) – The 17th Annual Lenten Soup for the Soul Series was enjoyed on Wednesday March18th by attendees from many Naples area congregations. The guest speaker for this fourth in a series of six events was Deacon Mark Leonard (San Marco Catholic, who blessed us with an exceptional presentation on the activity of the Holy Spirit at noon Next Wednesday, March 25 the guest speaker will be Chaplain Michael Harper of Naples Community Hospital who will be speaking at
Trinity-By-The-Cove (553 Galleon Dr-off Gordon Dr)

We invite you to join us from Noon-1PM each Wednesday during Lent for a simple meal and reflection offered by spiritual leaders in our community.



“The Activity of the Holy Spirit”

From Creation to Pentecost, in our everyday lives and activities-even unto the present time, the Spirit makes itself known, inspiring our thoughts and actions, from the miraculous, to physical healings, to life changing, soul-shaking, Metanoia personality transformations. Explore with us how the Spirit blesses our lives on a daily basis. This season our speakers will share their thoughts and experiences on the activity of the Holy Spirit.
We invite you to join us from Noon-1PM each Wednesday during Lent for a simple meal and reflection offered by spiritual leaders in our community. There will be a signer for the hearing impaired at each luncheon.
Your donations to cover expenses and to support the mission of The Theological Center In Naples are appreciated.

              February 25
    Presenter:            Rev Diane Scribner Clevenger (Unity of Naples)
       Location:               St Paul’s Episcopal (3901 Davis Blvd, East of Airport)

   March 4
     Presenter:           Dr Kirt Anderson (Naples Community Church)
Location:           Vanderbilt Pres (1225 Piper Bv-off Immokalee-opposite Sam’s Club)

              March 11
    Presenter:            Dr Jack Haberer (Vanderbilt Presbyterian)
       Location:                 Mayflower Congregational UCC (2900 County Barn - off Davis)
                       
    March 18       
    Presenter:            Deacon Mark Leonard (San Marco Catholic)
       Location:               St John the Evangelist Catholic (625 111th Ave N-West of 41)

   March 25          
    Presenter             Chaplain Michael Harper(Naples Community Hospital)
       Location:               Trinity-By-The-Cove(553 Galleon Dr-off Gordon Dr)

         April 1
    Presenter:            Nicole Partin, Certified Celebrant (Hodges-Josberger Funeral Home)
       Location:               Hodges University-  (2655 Northbrooke Dr- North at light off Immokalee Road)
                                         John White Community Room  (2647 Professional Ln, 34119) 

THE THEOLOGICAL CENTER IN NAPLES IS COMMITTED TO
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AND OUTREACH AMONG COMMUNITIES OF FAITH,
WHILE FOSTERING DIALOG, TOLERANCE, AND HARMONY

 The Rev. Sam Sewell

 President, TCN