St. Thomas discussion group to explore Pope's ideas on 'The Joy of the Gospel'
There's an old Bible camp song that begins, "I've got that joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart …" and its upbeat music and lyrics could well be Pope Francis' theme song as he says simply but honestly, "The love of Jesus is down in my heart to stay."
You, too, can join the Pope in this experience by learning about it and making it your own during a six-week discussion program, "The Joy of the Gospel," that will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville. Sessions will meet from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, Sept. 16, 23 and 30, and Oct. 7, 14 and 21.
"The discussion group will look into the heart of Pope Francis' 2013 Apostolic Exhortation 'Evangelii Gaudium - The Joy of the Gospel.' Since the word 'gospel' means good news, we will talk about what the Good News was that Jesus gave us to rejoice in and share," explained Chari Rosales, director of St. Thomas Adult Faith Formation & Spirituality (S.T.A.F.F.S.), who will facilitate the group. She added, "Through the give-and-take of lively exchange, we will explore what it means to have that joy, how to recognize it and embrace it, and use it in our daily lives."
A $10 fee covers the cost of materials. Those encountering financial difficulties also may make alternative arrangements regarding the fee.
Reservations are requested by Thursday, Sept. 10. For reservations and additional information about "The Joy of the Gospel," contact Marge Coronado, religious education assistant, at mcoronado@stapostle.org or (630) 355-8980, ext. 118.
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.
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