Bible study continues to be an important component of our adult faith formation offerings. Typically, two studies are offered each year, occasionally complemented by a book discussion on a related topic. Our purpose is to provide an opportunity to foster deeper understanding of sacred scripture. Pope Francis is a strong advocate for Catholics to take up reading the Bible for study and personal spiritual enrichment.
People choose to participate in Bible study for a variety of reasons. Attendees have told us some of the ways in which they have found these studies helpful:
• Learning what the Bible is, where it came from, and what it means in the Catholic context
• Encourages personal reading of the Bible for prayer and study
• Better understanding of scriptures when hearing them proclaimed at Mass
• Feeling a closer relationship to God
• Greater confidence when speaking to other people about the source of their faith
The 2019 Fall collaborative Bible study will be: Acts of the Apostles
• The Little Rock Scripture team describes this study as follows:
“Acts tells the story of the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the early church from its beginnings at Pentecost, following the ascension of Jesus. The Holy Spirit empowers the preaching of Peter, Paul, and the other disciples to take the faith from Jerusalem, to Judea, throughout Samaria and ultimately to the ends of the earth. It records the conversion of Paul and the momentous decision of the early church to welcome Gentiles as well as Jews into the church. Acts is the second volume of the literary work begun in the Gospel According to Luke.”
• The style of Acts is narrative and an easier study to engage than some other Biblical texts. It would make a great starting point to begin study of the Bible. While it would be helpful to have some experience with Bible study in a Catholic setting, it is definitely not a requirement.
• The study begins Tuesday evening September 10th at 7:30 pm in St. Elizabeth’s Parish Center and meets for ten weeks. The cost of the study guide and commentary will be $20. Please enroll via email with Steve Ryan. The enrollment deadline is August 27th to allow sufficient time to order materials and organize small discussion groups.
• Anyone interested in starting Bible study who has no experience may find it helpful to join me for a brief introduction to the Bible on Tuesday evening, September 3rd. Time and place will depend on the number of people taking part. Please let me know of your interest by August 27th as well
To learn more about Bible study, enroll in a program or ask questions, please contact Steve Ryan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.