Scripture study at St. Thomas the Apostle promises to be adventurous experience
No, it's not a plot for the latest TV drama series but is, instead, a broad description of the new season's "Spread the Word" weekly Scripture study that will meet on Thursdays and Fridays, beginning next month at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville.
Thursday sessions, meeting in the morning and evening beginning Sept. 8, will consider "1 & 2 Samuel," while Friday morning sessions will study "The Acts of the Apostles," beginning Sept. 9.
Casual in approach, "both series are interactive and will be a mix of study, prayer and discussion," said Chari Rosales, director of Adult Faith Formation at St. Thomas, adding, "There's even been known to be some lively discussion during some sessions."
"No previous Bible knowledge is necessary," continued Rosales, "and together we will explore the books of Samuel and Acts. Everyone is encouraged to check your calendars and to make a full-time commitment, drop in whenever you can, or just come and see what goes on. Bring a friend or make new ones throughout the season," she added.
Registration by Thursday, Sept. 1, is encouraged to assure adequate seating is available, and a $15 fee applies to Thursday and Friday sessions. Those encountering financial difficulties also may contact Rosales to make alternative arrangements regarding materials fees.
Thursday Bible Study: "1 & 2 Samuel"
"Most people recognize the names of Samuel, Saul and David; these are the towering names of kings in the history of God's Chosen people," commented Rosales. "But, towering over them all is God - and the question, 'Who is King over Israel?' Our discussions will look into timeless stories of faithfulness and betrayal … obedience and all manner of mayhem … and love and war," Rosales said.
Participants may choose to meet from 9:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. or from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. on Thursdays, Sept. 8 through May 25, 2017. People are welcome to alternate between the morning and evening sessions.
An engaging and knowledgeable speaker who enlivens her subject matter with clarity, vivacity and a sense of humor, Rosales will facilitate these sessions. Long active in church ministry, Rosales' areas of specialty include Scripture study, liturgy, and religious history. She has studied at Loyola University Chicago, Dominican University in River Forest, and the Universite de Fribourg in Switzerland.
Friday Bible Study: "The Acts of the Apostles"
This New Testament book, written by St. Luke about 70 - 75 C.E., describes the faith and way of life of early Christians, and the origin and spread of Christian communities in the early decades following Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. Luke's major concern is with the action of God in history, especially through the preaching of the apostles and how the Church adapted in order to carry out its mission to other places and cultures.
Discussions will be led by Audrey Easton, a graduate of the Bible Institute of the Diocese of Joliet, and a team of facilitators. Study sessions will meet from 9:15 - 11:15 a.m. on Fridays, Sept. 9 through May 10, 2017.
Registration
To register for either Scripture study series, contact Marge Coronado at (630) 355-8980, ext. 118, or mcoronado@stapostle.org.
Additional information about either Scripture study program is available from Rosales at (630) 355-8980, ext. 138, or crosales@stapostle.org.
St. Thomas the Apostle, a parish of the Diocese of Joliet, strives to bear the Good News of God's unconditional love to all generations through worship, faith formation, witness and service. Organized in 1984, the St. Thomas faith community numbers more than 3,700 households of more than 11,200 people. Complete news and information on parish events, guest speakers and special programs is available at www.stapostle.org. For general parish information please call (630) 355-8980.