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Inside Our Parish Bible Study: Sharing in a Faith Adventure with Fellow Parishioners
When it comes to studying Scripture, as Bible Study organizer Terry Cromwell points out, it’s not about knowing “all of the answers.”
“We are all simply on an adventure of knowing Jesus better,” Terry says.
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Nearly two years ago, Mike and Terry Cromwell saw a need for a Bible study at Annunciation, so they worked with Fr. Steve Macedo, our pastor at the time, and received the approval to start one. They’ve gone through several different studies ever since, from the Gospel of Matthew to Acts.
“Holy Scripture was recorded to teach and inspire mankind through the ages,” Terry says. “Being in a study gives us the opportunity to take time and be serious about examining the Word while infusing our Lord’s teaching deep into our hearts in order to live out His will.”
When the COVID-19 pandemic precautions were put in place, the group transitioned from meeting at the mission parish in Puako to meeting via the Zoom videoconferencing platform. This has been very convenient for members. The group meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday nights. About four to six hours is required per week, in order to be fully prepared for each session. There are weekly reading assignments, along with questions and a 50-minute video with Jeff Cavins, in addition to the 90-minute Thursday session. The last few studies have been through Ascension Press. continued on back cover
Bible Study participants attend a session via Zoom in mid-March
Mike and Terry both enjoy helping lead the Bible Study. Learning more about Scripture has helped them grow in faith and knowledge of the Lord.
“I enjoy the family-like relationship that we have built with the faith-filled members of our group,” Mike says.
“If our goal in this life is to live according to God’s will and plan, then what could be better than studying Scripture with likeminded parishioners?” says Bible Study member Cindy Kennedy. “It’s helpful to follow these studies to increase our knowledge of our Lord’s teachings and admonitions, not only for ourselves but to share with all along this journey of life.”
“If you’ve ever thought about joining a Bible Study group, don’t wait,” add Bible Study participants Bill and Sandy Price. “It has enriched our faith to share our learning journey with others, especially during the 2020 pandemic.”
A study on Paul’s New Testament Letters begins in July. The first session will group three studies over 24 weeks, including Romans, Galatians, and Ephesians. The session will be immediately followed by an 11- week study on First Corinthians. Mike and Terry say it is best to start with The Bible Timeline study, but parishioners are welcome to join at any time, as each study stands alone.
Mike and Terry would like to find a parishioner to lead an ongoing study on The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation, which will help set the stage for parishioners to take part in more Bible Study programs.
“One of the beauties of our faith is that it contains mysteries and paradox, so one will never know all, but a lifetime of study opportunity awaits,” Terry says.
