Walking with Purpose: Bringing Parish Women Together in Faith and Friendship

Our women’s Bible study group, Walking with Purpose, discovered that the current study guide, Reclaiming Friendship, has been just what the group needed as we stepped out of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions from the past year.

The relieved feeling of coming out of isolation was the consensus when the group resumed inperson meetings in early November. During the past year, the group’s meetings took place on Zoom, and they met outdoors in early autumn.

“These were the thoughts the people shared,” says Becky Dearworth, who coordinates Walking with Purpose. “It definitely impacted all of us in the way we behaved, and how we interacted with each other.”

Walking with Purpose meets from 6:30-8 p.m. each Wednesday in Immaculata Hall. All parish women are invited to take part. Currently, 11 women are participating.

During the gatherings, the group has been introduced to the four fruits of intentional friendship — loyalty; comfort in sorrow; support; foretaste of eternal friendship with God.

“In six lessons, the group will explore the biblical definition of friendship, barriers we set for ourselves that prevent strong bonds, and becoming a great friend,” Becky says. “In the group time, we will explore the different types of friendship ranging from acquaintances, good friends to intimate friends.”

By looking at what makes a strong friendship, the women can compare their relationship with Christ.

“It’s very insightful to me,” Becky says. “Women tend to have more shallow relationships, and this challenges us to dive deeper into friendship, and carry it to our relationship with Christ.”

The group works from a study guide, Reclaiming Friendship, and its cost is the only expense necessary.

“The study guide has five areas that encourage you to do five days of homework,” Becky says.

“But we’re working on it together as a group. There will be some catechism and some Scripture readings. At the end of the chapter, there are reflections and a challenge of how to take the lesson to our personal lives.”

According to the Walking with Purpose website at www.walkingwithpurpose.com, Reclaiming Friendship is for women who desire lasting friendships; need to know and understand what it means that God created each of us in His image; and crave an authentic community, the kind in which we experience His joy and goodness. “The group is very casual, very laid back,” Becky says. “There are people from all walks of life, and it’s generational, with women in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. There is no age restriction, just all women. I love it! We all are friends in the group. People feel comfortable and are open to talking. This is what we need.”

Anyone who would like more information about Walking with Purpose may call Becky Dearworth at 501-231-4372.

The group works from a study guide, Reclaiming Friendship, which offers reflections on building lasting friendships, understanding that we are created in God’s image, and being part of an authentic community.