Posted April 9th, 2026

This spring, twelfth grade students in Lancaster Mennonite School’s Spiritual Formation class are doing more than learning about faith—they’re practicing it.

Taught by Mrs. Annali Topf, this dual-enrollment course invites students to explore Christian spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, Scripture reading, simplicity, and paying attention to God’s presence in everyday life. Through readings, journaling, conversation and shared experiences, students are learning how to engage their faith in both personal and communal ways.

A key part of the class is table group discussions, where students reflect together, ask questions, and learn from one another’s perspectives. These small groups have become spaces for meaningful conversation, vulnerability, and growth.

“Having deeper conversations and building deeper relationships… we can talk about controversial topics respectfully and learn from one another,” shared senior, Ella Binkley.

Practicing Faith in Everyday Life

Throughout the semester, students have explored a variety of spiritual practices, often discovering new ways to connect with God.

For some, practices like meditation and silence have been especially impactful.

“Meditation… helped me experience where I see God,” said senior, Brennan Kauffman.

Others have been drawn to the discipline of paying attention—intentionally noticing God’s presence in daily moments.

“Paying attention forces you to see God in your life,” shared senior Nolan Parsons.

Students have also explored Scripture in new ways, including the practice of Lectio Divina.

“I liked reading Scripture… everyone has something different to bring to it,” said senior Allie Doutrich.

Learning to Grow—Together

Beyond individual practices, students emphasized how much they value learning in community.

“I like that we’re learning the spiritual disciplines—how to practice being Christian, not just believing it,” said senior Bill Rothwein.

“It’s nice meeting new people and hearing different perspectives,” added senior Landon Nyveldt.

For many, the class has also reshaped their understanding of prayer.

“Prayer feels less rigid and more like a conversation with God… it’s an ongoing learning process,” shared senior Renee Davis.

Students even bring creativity and personality into their groups—like one table’s lighthearted mascot, a small duck named “Mt. Tab,” symbolizing their shared journey.

A Foundation for Lifelong Faith

The Spiritual Formation course is grounded in the belief that God is always active in our lives, and that spiritual disciplines help us become more aware of God’s presence. Through practices like solitude, simplicity, prayer, and study, students are learning to slow down, reflect, and respond to God’s work in the world around them.

Students Tony de la Rosa Ruark and Bill Rothwein shared, the class is not just about knowledge—but transformation:

“It makes me want to learn and give that effort back.”

At Lancaster Mennonite, this kind of learning reflects a deeper goal: helping students grow roots in Christ that will guide them far beyond the classroom.