“They are in a transition period from a structured life in college to structuring their own lives” and deciding their career paths, he said. They are “taking more responsibility for what they’re going to study. They have a lot of answers but are not sure which ones they really believe.”

The class chooses its own course of study by voting, but Eggert limits the options. “It is very important to me to study the Bible,” he said, so all studies have a scriptural connection.

Members typically study a book of the Bible, focus on a topic, or choose books such as The Divine Conspiracy. Studies have included series on sin, Christian doctrine, the Gospel of John, 2 Peter and the Apocrypha.

Formerly known as Transitions Class, Crossings became the new name last summer to reflect that its members are not just transitioning from college to careers but also crossing into other new chapters in their lives, said Mollie Menton.

Liz Yarbrough, a member for three years, is eager for the class to continue growing but enjoys the intimate group, which includes both old-timers and newcomers.

“The leadership is great,” Eggert said. “Mollie is willing to tackle anything and has a wonderful spirit of hospitality. Liz is caring and has a deep spirituality and understanding of her faith (but) is willing to be challenged.” Lauren Martin, the third “backbone,” is a strong, capable pragmatist, he added.

As tri-directors, Martin, Menton and Yarbrough rotate leadership responsibilities monthly, and the three of them plan social and missions events.

Yarbrough volunteered to be a director because “the class was very small, and I wanted to help nurture and grow it,” she said. “It’s also a good way to serve the church.”

Chris Gordon began attending Crossings about a year and a half ago and has become a regular in the last nine months. He now encourages visitors to come back.

He was steered to the class when he first visited Wilshire, but what eventually hooked him was Eggert’s teaching style.

“After sitting in Mark’s class a few times, I realized the intellectual challenges he put you through,” Gordon said. “That drove me to attend more regularly and eventually join the church.

“Mark really challenges people to know what they believe,” he added. “The class has strengthened my faith and created a home for me spiritually.”

“He makes you think outside the box,” Yarbrough agreed. “I enjoy knowing that I can go to Sunday School and not hear the same thing over and over.”