In studying the Scriptures, the group reflects on and discusses:
Typically, the entire group gets together to decide which book of the Bible to study for a particular session. Members then split into smaller groups of approximately 8-10 members and meet biweekly to discuss the chosen book.
We use study guides and commentaries from Little Rock Scripture Study to assist in the discussions. The small groups come together again at the end of each session for a “wrap-up meeting” with one of the Friars.
In learning about and becoming more aware of the political, socioeconomic and religious environments that existed at the time the books of the Bible were authored, members of the Scripture Study group find that the Gospels, the Epistles and the Old Testament readings during Mass have "so much more meaning". They see the "inspiration of the Holy Spirit in these writings and the plan of God for our salvation through Jesus, our Savior."
More details about the Scripture Study are below. If you'd like to join or learn more about this ministry, please contact Mark Chasse at [email protected].
SPRING 2025 SCRIPTURE STUDY - Women of the Old Testament
Our study groups have been involved in scripture study at St. Paul for over 12 years and we’d love to have you join us. We have it organized well and utilize the commentaries and study guides from Little Rock Scripture Study Program. Check them out at www.littlerockscripture.org.
Our next study will be a “themed study” entitled, “Women of the Old Testament”.
In Scripture we encounter God and come to know God’s people.
Women in the Old Testament, Part One, will take us on a journey through Israel’s beginnings, Israel’s captivity and freedom, and Israel’s tribal period from the perspective of the earliest women of salvation history, such as Sarah, Deborah, and Ruth.
In Women in the Old Testament, Part Two, we will explore stories of women of the Bible such as Judith and Esther, whose complexities and gifts broke stereotypes and continue to reveal God to us.
Participants will use the commentary from Little Rock Scripture Study and have access to on-line summary lectures. We will begin this study the first week of February, 2025.
Please join us and learn more at an Informational Meeting at the Parish Center on Thursday, January 16 at 7pm. The readings at Mass take on a whole new perspective as we come to know the books’ authors, their intended audience and the connections between the Old and New Testaments. Please contact Mark Chasse at [email protected] with any questions or call the Parish Office at 860-828-0331.
WHAT’S THE PURPOSE?
The foundation of our Catholic faith is in the scriptures. The Bible is the book of the Church. The more we know the Bible, the better we are able to understand the readings at Mass, explain our faith to others, teach it to our children and use it to form our lives.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
We use Little Rock Scripture Study Program—an improved way to study the Bible with fellow Catholics which consists of:
WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW THAT MUCH ABOUT THE BIBLE?
The manner in which this program is designed will appeal to those who have never studied the Bible before, as well as those who have been reading the Bible for quite a while. You do not need to worry if you lack understanding or experience. We will all be learning together and supporting one another in this holy endeavor.
HOW CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS AND HOW DO I SIGN UP?
Please email Mark Chasse at [email protected] with any questions.
Go to littlerockscripture.org for resources and information on studying the Bible.