Advice needed on how to start a Bible Study in my Parish

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Prairie_Rose

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Hello all…

I’ve been so “thirsty” for a Bible Study in our Parish, but our Priest does not have time to lead one. (He has to pastor to 3 different Churches within our Parish, so he really does NOT have time) I feel he’s overworked enough as it is - poor guy!

Do any of you belong to a “Laity led” Bible Study??

If you do, is it a structured program??

Do you use a specific Bible Study guide??

Any opinions or suggestions would be most appreciated.

Especially on how to make it attactive to my fellow parishioners!

Thanks,
~~Prairie Rose
 
Prairie_Rose said:
Hello all…

I’ve been so “thirsty” for a Bible Study in our Parish, but our Priest does not have time to lead one. (He has to pastor to 3 different Churches within our Parish, so he really does NOT have time) I feel he’s overworked enough as it is - poor guy!

Do any of you belong to a “Laity led” Bible Study??

If you do, is it a structured program??

Do you use a specific Bible Study guide??

Any opinions or suggestions would be most appreciated.

Especially on how to make it attactive to my fellow parishioners!

Thanks,
~~Prairie Rose
Click to expand...
I don’t belong to a laity-led Bible study, but I have heard of them. In fact, all you would probably need to do is get the okay from your priest about starting it.

Since I can’t really give you advice on your other questions (sorry about that :o) To make it attractive to parishioners, after getting the priest’s permission, I would have him make an announcement in church about interest in a Bible study and/or have it placed in the bulletin. You could also potentially make a survey that parishioners could fill out. If you even want the younger crowd involved you could have the DRE (Director of Religious Education) or whoever is in charge of the religious education program mention it to their high school students.

Once you have an idea of how many are interested, you could begin to plan it. And I would make sure once you decide on the program you use, you advertise, advertise, advertise.

Good luck! 👍
 
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Prairie_Rose said:
Hello all…

I’ve been so “thirsty” for a Bible Study in our Parish, but our Priest does not have time to lead one. (He has to pastor to 3 different Churches within our Parish, so he really does NOT have time) I feel he’s overworked enough as it is - poor guy!

Do any of you belong to a “Laity led” Bible Study??

If you do, is it a structured program??

Do you use a specific Bible Study guide??

Any opinions or suggestions would be most appreciated.

Especially on how to make it attactive to my fellow parishioners!

Thanks,
~~Prairie Rose
Click to expand...
For several years in my area several Catholic churches are presenting the Jeff Cavins Bible Studies. It is presented by Ascension Press. I love it! It requires some organizing, and is lay led. If a priest has time he might want to come in and give a talk, but it isn’t necessary. It comes with workbooks, questions, some homework to do, and a 45 minute DVD to watch at each meeting. Some of the studies are ten weeks long, and some are as long as twenty-four weeks. They meet once a week for two hours. The same study is presented more than once a week, with a different facilitator, in case one cannot make one of their required days.(there is more than one class formed.)

Facilitators are provided with books to show them how to lead the group. They do not have to be bible experts to lead the group, just be a facilitator for the meeting to run smoothly and finish up all the parts on time so that the study is finished in two hours.

This study started at the Cathedral here, and then was picked up by another parish. Many are going to these parishes for the study, even though they do not belong to the parish. Registration starts prior to the beginning of classes, and materials are ordered that are used. I think it is an excellent study, and those who go to the first one offered usually want to attend more. I think there are about ten different studies available for adults.

Google Jeff Cavins “The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation”. It is a 24 part study, and there is a break for Christmas and New Year holidays if it starts in the fall. Of course, the pastor has to approve the purchase of the DVD’s for the study.

I’m attending another one in the fall. It will either be the 24 part study on Matthew, or an 11 part study on the Book of Revelation. There is about 12 in a class.

I live in the south and called up a friend of mine in the north to tell her all about it, and she said they were already having those studies in their parish, and they were well attended.
 
I was a bible study leader in my old parish for 10 years.

We used the Little Rock series, which I really liked. It has a question book that goes along with the Collegeville Commentary for that particular book of the bible. It has an answer guide for the objective questions, but many questions are focused on applying it to your own life and don’t have a “right or wrong” type answer. It was easy to facilitate, we just went around the circle discussing the questions. It was a no pressure group, so if someone hadn’t had time to read the materials or do the questions beforehand, they still felt they could come and get something out of the class.

There are so many more options now. There is the Jeff Cavins series and also the “teen” timeline (which I’ve found suitable for adults)-- TONS of stuff from Ascension Press. Epic would be awesome to do. Fr. Barron’s Catholicism series also has a question/facilitation guide. There is also the Ignatius Bible, tons of stuff from Scott Hahn, and it just goes on and on.

There are SO many Catholic bible studies now it would be super easy to do one.

Contact your diocesan offices of catechesis, they may have some of the video based studies in a DVD library available for check out. Then you just have to purchase the workbooks.
 
Thank You everyone for responding! The suggestions were terrific and I’m inspired to pursue this even further!
Yes I will definitely get Father’s permission before I do anything, but I really want to do this - I know I need something “more” and I’m sure there are others in my Parish that feel the same!

God Bless all of you!
~Prairie Rose
 
Prairie_Rose said:
Hello all…

I’ve been so “thirsty” for a Bible Study in our Parish, but our Priest does not have time to lead one. (He has to pastor to 3 different Churches within our Parish, so he really does NOT have time) I feel he’s overworked enough as it is - poor guy!

Do any of you belong to a “Laity led” Bible Study??

If you do, is it a structured program??

Do you use a specific Bible Study guide??

Any opinions or suggestions would be most appreciated.

Especially on how to make it attactive to my fellow parishioners!

Thanks,
~~Prairie Rose
Click to expand...
I’ve led and am leading a “Laity led” Bible Study. I don’t like the canned programs of which there are many - they don’t seem to lead to what I think is essential to a good Bible Study, which is personal encounter with Jesus Christ.

The Navarre Series of commentaries are very good as a resource. For example, the one on Matthew’s Gospel (see HERE) would be excellent as a resource for a study on that book of the Bible. As for a schedule, either one chapter a week OR simply follow the pace that the sessions allow, going as far as seems right week by week.
 
I went to my first Catholic Bible Study recently. Our parish also shares the priests with others so they are very busy too. Even though we’re small there is quite an active bible study schedule. I took the ‘short’ Cavins one on the bible timeline which seems like a good place to start and run by a lay person. I would think, to start with, a ‘canned’ program would be good and then branch out from there.
 
WildeKurt said:
I went to my first Catholic Bible Study recently. Our parish also shares the priests with others so they are very busy too. Even though we’re small there is quite an active bible study schedule. I took the ‘short’ Cavins one on the bible timeline which seems like a good place to start and run by a lay person. I would think, to start with, a ‘canned’ program would be good and then branch out from there.
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Even the “canned” programs have a time for group discussion and sharing.
 
WildeKurt said:
I went to my first Catholic Bible Study recently. Our parish also shares the priests with others so they are very busy too. Even though we’re small there is quite an active bible study schedule. I took the ‘short’ Cavins one on the bible timeline which seems like a good place to start and run by a lay person. I would think, to start with, a ‘canned’ program would be good and then branch out from there.
Click to expand...
It is to our shame, but there are precious few laity with the knowledge needed to lead a Bible study well. As a result, some have published programs and so on to make something possible in parishes with no knowledgeable leaders. But where is the heart-felt desire to grow in Word that would make knowledgeable leaders who could then help others to grow? It is not enough to bask in the light of well-known leaders and teachers via video or audio tapes, or booklets or DVDs. Catholics need to find Christ in His words - the Word in the words of Holy Scripture! Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ because there, in His words, we find Him. Faith comes through hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

If more Catholics would even read Scripture with true openness, listening with the humble ears of a disciple, we would see radical changes in our Church.
 
fide said:
It is to our shame, but there are precious few laity with the knowledge needed to lead a Bible study well. As a result, some have published programs and so on to make something possible in parishes with no knowledgeable leaders. But where is the heart-felt desire to grow in Word that would make knowledgeable leaders who could then help others to grow? It is not enough to bask in the light of well-known leaders and teachers via video or audio tapes, or booklets or DVDs. Catholics need to find Christ in His words - the Word in the words of Holy Scripture! Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ because there, in His words, we find Him. Faith comes through hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

If more Catholics would even read Scripture with true openness, listening with the humble ears of a disciple, we would see radical changes in our Church.
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I totally “get” what you are saying!! 👍
I wish I were more knowledgeable of Scripture myself, which is partly why I want to get something started in my Parish. It’s too easy for me as an individual to put off daily Scripture study, but if I knew I had to be at “X” place at “X” time to lead or facilitate a Bible Study, I’d be more disciplined and stay on track.
Plus, as a newcomer to the Catholic faith, I’m not always sure the conclusions I draw from what I read is the proper “take” - and I like hearing others opinions, and at the very least the opportunity to think about a certain passage differently. 👍
 
Prairie_Rose said:
Do any of you belong to a “Laity led” Bible Study??

If you do, is it a structured program??

Do you use a specific Bible Study guide??
Click to expand...
We use Ascension Press’s studies, as well as, Catholic Scripture Study. We have facilitators (fellow students): they prepare the class room, set up audio/visual equipment, sometimes, make handouts on the material for clarification, or to encourage more discussion.

Last year:
Ascension Press:James. In the Fall.
Psalms- The School of Prayer. In the Spring.
Both good-short studies–only 10 weeks.

Catholic Scripture Study: 1 & 2 Corinthians-28 weeks
Good study, however, I’m praying for St Paul—he’s so wordy. :eek:

This year:
Ascension Press:James-offered again—we enjoyed it so much, talked about it so much,
we sparked more people’s interest. In the Fall.
Revelations-10 weeks by Jeff Cavins. In the Spring.

Catholic Scripture Study (CSS): Acts of the Apostles-28 weeks
Hebrews-James-28 weeks
Ruth-4 week study offered late spring.

Normally, my parish would offer 1 28-week study program. We wanted more. We have a DRE, but the poor woman has a very full plate. The children, youth, the Christmas play, etc–adult studies suffered. So we took over planning the adult curriculum. Last summer, we had a meeting with Father. We presented him with a list of different studies we wanted to take. He said, “No problem, as long as the programs are approved Catholic studies.”

It is a commitment. It takes at least 3 to 4 hours (sometimes more) reading, answering questions in the study guide–in preparation for the lesson. Ascension Press DVD lessons are an hour–CSS are a half hour. Day of the lesson:discussion of the read material, answering the questions, then DVD viewing–2hours is allotted. We always run over—talking, exchanging ideas, learning–it’s a lot of fun. Many good solid friendships have been formed.

Cost:
Ascension Press-DVD’s are pricey, study guides are reasonable.
CSS -DVD’s are reasonable, study guides are pricey.

DVD’s:
Ascension Press-teachers are Jeff Cavins, Dr Tim Gray, Sarah Christmyer. Those are the people I’ve seen so far.
CSS -teachers are priests:Fr Patrick Winslow, Fr Mitch Pacwa, Fr Scott Courtney. The last two, I haven’t seen yet, they’re doing the studies this year.

The very best to you, and your efforts. If I can answer any more questions–please let me know.
 
Prairie_Rose said:
I totally “get” what you are saying!! 👍
I wish I were more knowledgeable of Scripture myself, which is partly why I want to get something started in my Parish. It’s too easy for me as an individual to put off daily Scripture study, but if I knew I had to be at “X” place at “X” time to lead or facilitate a Bible Study, I’d be more disciplined and stay on track.
Plus, as a newcomer to the Catholic faith, I’m not always sure the conclusions I draw from what I read is the proper “take” - and I like hearing others opinions, and at the very least the opportunity to think about a certain passage differently. 👍
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You are wise to realize your need for strong formation in the Faith. It is necessary to grow in Scripture and in the Catholic Faith together - and each will enlighten the other. It is hard to begin, I know, but one must resolve to begin and to persevere, no matter the cost or difficulty.

I suggest starting a discussion group on the Compendium to the Catechism. The Compendium is a small book, a summary of the full Catechism, with references to the Catechism that will help in understanding. The Catechism has references to Scripture, to help tie it all together. But as you grow in knowledge and understanding of the Faith of the Church, you will be more confident in reading and praying Scripture, more sure of keeping in “the mind and heart of the Church” as you read and pray the Scripture.

In other words, Scripture + Catechism = a path of right formation in Truth. In both Scripture and the Catechism, the object is to hear Jesus, who reveals Himself to us in both and in the “fitting together” of the two. The Holy Spirit does work!
 
fide said:
I suggest starting a discussion group on the Compendium to the Catechism. The Compendium is a small book, a summary of the full Catechism, with references to the Catechism that will help in understanding. The Catechism has references to Scripture, to help tie it all together.
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Wonderful idea! The studies from Ascension Press and Catholic Scripture Study does this quite nicely. As you study scripture, there are CCC references, quotes from saints, quotes from the Holy Fathers’ encyclical letters–all relevant to the scripture lesson. There are historical facts, cultural mores for that time, etc. Information packed!
 
Wow what great suggestions! Here’s one more.

Ask 2-3 friends to get together, bring your Bibles and something to write on. Open to one of the books (Gospel according to John or Hebrews are pretty good places to start). Read Chapter 1, discuss, write down questions and research the answers before the next time you meet. Next time, discuss questions and findings from last week and read the next section.

Voila-you have a Bible study!

Good luck.
 
Not to be a Debbie Downer, but I personally avoid lay-led Bible Studies/Apologetics etc simply because it is all too common for them to stray into heresy. Often this is innocent, but I prefer there to be a priest present to correct any errors as they arise.
 
Prairie_Rose said:
Hello all…

I’ve been so “thirsty” for a Bible Study in our Parish, but our Priest does not have time to lead one. (He has to pastor to 3 different Churches within our Parish, so he really does NOT have time) I feel he’s overworked enough as it is - poor guy!

Do any of you belong to a “Laity led” Bible Study??

If you do, is it a structured program??

Do you use a specific Bible Study guide??

Any opinions or suggestions would be most appreciated.

Especially on how to make it attactive to my fellow parishioners!

Thanks,
~~Prairie Rose
Click to expand...
We started one a few years ago. Since the original interest group was all women we did a couple of the Courageous Women Bible studies to begin with. They are short (about 6 sessions) and are easy as a starting point. Then we did a Threshold study - these are nice since they incorporate Lectio Divina into the study. We moved on the the Great Adventure series. We also did a nice Lenten study - Disciples on the Journey - that is put out by the Diocese of Victoria(TX). We stick close to the script and meet at Church. When we have questions, Father comes over from the rectory and helps us sort things out. This works well for everyone. Father get the reassurance that we are doing orthodox studies but he doen’t have to commit full-time.

As for attracting parishioners, we wanted to start small so we just spread the word through some of the existing parish groups. When we started the second round, we put it in the bulletin.
 
Hello If you still need a guide for a a guide and topics let me know. I work in my parish with missionary sisters who give Bible Studies and the lay can also give the classes. I could send you the texts and explanantions that go with each topic.🙂
 
Deo_Gratias42 said:
Not to be a Debbie Downer, but I personally avoid lay-led Bible Studies/Apologetics etc simply because it is all too common for them to stray into heresy. Often this is innocent, but I prefer there to be a priest present to correct any errors as they arise.
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Debbie, I sincerely hate to be the one to tell you, but heresy is not limited to the laity. There are priests, deacons, monks and nuns who can teach error as wrongly as any misinformed and malformed member of the laity. When the laity are subject to such false teachings, the problem is compounded, and made much worse, by such simple trust on the part of laity who do not know the difference between the Faith of the Church and whatever “Father (or Sister) says.” This problem is also made much worse when such clergy consider their own personal (and thus fallible) opinions to be as weighty and necessarily binding as actual infallible teachings! They can come to believe that they personally are “the Church” as far as the laity is concerned - and this is not true.

What is called “clericalism” (“Clergy must be right because they are clergy”) is common among both clergy and laity, and it is very dangerous and injurious to everyone involved. The only solution is real, substantial and authentic adult catechesis so that laity can begin to know the Faith of the Church well enough to discern truth, mere personal opinion, and downright falsity, no matter what or who the source.
 
fide said:
Debbie, I sincerely hate to be the one to tell you, but heresy is not limited to the laity. There are priests, deacons, monks and nuns who can teach error as wrongly as any misinformed and malformed member of the laity. When the laity are subject to such false teachings, the problem is compounded, and made much worse, by such simple trust on the part of laity who do not know the difference between the Faith of the Church and whatever “Father (or Sister) says.” This problem is also made much worse when such clergy consider their own personal (and thus fallible) opinions to be as weighty and necessarily binding as actual infallible teachings! They can come to believe that they personally are “the Church” as far as the laity is concerned - and this is not true.

What is called “clericalism” (“Clergy must be right because they are clergy”) is common among both clergy and laity, and it is very dangerous and injurious to everyone involved. The only solution is real, substantial and authentic adult catechesis so that laity can begin to know the Faith of the Church well enough to discern truth, mere personal opinion, and downright falsity, no matter what or who the source.
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Dear Deo Gratias,

I would second the comments by fide, since I have personally been very saddend by some priests, deacons and religious who not only knew less than some well-formed Catholic laity, but they have in fact “lorded it over them”. To me that is a wound to the Heart of Christ and to His Church.

While I understand your point also, for I have had the experience listening to lay persons who have been put in charge of RCIA, for instance, by pastors or they volunteered to teach, despite the fact that they have had little or no training or read much solid Theology. Their classes have been more “opinion” than doctrine. People like Nancy Pelosi and Joe Biden are definitely a scandal as are those priests and nuns who espouse pro-choice positions. The dumbing-down of America is a reality which I have watched in my lifetime. Our Catholic Universities as well as our Seminaries, Convents and parishes are needing renewal. The recent Vatican investigation of the LCRW is a case in point.

There is much confusion, nevertheless, a Bible Study can be free from heresy if those in charge stay very close to Scripture, Tradition and The Magisterium of the Church. There are good commentaries like the Navarre Bible Series, which can be used and trustworthy theologians like Pope Benedict XVI and Bl. John Paul II whose works can be consulted as well. The internet can be a great help in providing supplementary materials from the Fathers and Doctors of the Church.

I agree with you that the Pastor should take a very active role, in working with lay people. so should the Bishop. The ideal for me is to see the Body of Christ – every member working properly – building up the Body in love. (Ephesians 4:16)
 
I’ll guarantee incorrect thoughts will be brought up. That’s ok, it’s part of the process. As we grow in faith we have trial and error. It’s the nature of the learning process. Just because we know a child will make a mistake on a test, we don’t choose to not send them to school… The benefit will far outweigh the negatives in most situations.

I want to fully commend the OP for searching out a means to grow their faith. Keep at it!!!
 
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