Introduction
Our parish Bible Study Group, which has been in existence for over seven years now, was set up in response to a perceived need to explore more deeply the riches of Scripture. Today, more than ever, people are searching and hungering for the spiritual nourishment of God’s Word. Though written thousands of years ago God continues to reveal his love to us through his all-powerful Word.

   “In the sacred books the Father who is in heaven comes lovingly to meet his  children…Therefore let them go gladly to the sacred text” (Dei Verbum).

*To find out more about the group click on History

What approach to Bible study does the group use?
Our aim is to allow participants be drawn more deeply into the Scripture passage so that it connects in fresh and meaningful ways with their daily lives.
Where necessary the two group leaders, Msgr. Alex Stenson and Helen English provide some relevant background information and study notes for home use.
The sharing of responses is an important dimension of our approach. We learn from each other and a dynamic of sharing and listening strengthens the cohesion of the group. Our approach is now structured around study questions and participants are invited to complete these worksheets at each meeting. This has proved to be a successful venture as can be seen from the following quotes.

Some feedback from participants about this approach
“The question worksheets make me concentrate and pay more attention”.

“I learn more this way. I would like to continue using this format”

“The worksheets prompt alertness, a need to pay attention. I would favour this approach”. 

“The worksheets help me remember the stories”.                            

“I had to think more and the information stayed in my head”.

“This approach sends me off to read more”.

“By listening and writing, it lodges in my brain. It becomes very alive”.

“The use of questions makes me more alert and I listen to what is being said”.

“By writing down the answers it is easier to remember”.

“It makes you interact more personally with the Scripture piece”.

“The approach is really helpful. It makes me stop and think”.

“I enjoyed the discussion that followed from the questions – each person has such a different way of seeing things”.

Again, following our recent course on “Women in Genesis” the following feedback was received.

Some feedback about “The Women In Genesis” course
“I never realised till now how little I regarded the role of women in Scripture as opposed to say Moses or Abraham etc” 

“I’ve learnt so much”

“I was able to identify with these women. They became living characters…they were courageous, very decisive and very strong. I do not know who coined us the weaker sex”.

“It not only changed my whole perspective on the role of women in Scripture but my opinion of the Old Testament. The readings became more accessible as I was given the historical and genealogical background. I never really understood the Old testament before. I am also glad that the women weren’t half as oppressed as I had imagined!!!”

“Before this course I was not aware of the important role women in Scripture played. I had a very limited understanding of Ruth, Rebecca etc. This has made me curious enough to continue reading”.

“I found the course most informative. These women are strong role models…women to be admired”.

We usually have two six-week courses each year – one in February-March and another in June-July.-

*For information about our next course click on News page.

*To view photos of the group click on List of members page

For further information about the group contact:

Helen English   tel: 01-6285865

Msgr. Alex Stenson   tel: 01-6286220
 

“Easy access to Sacred Scripture should be provided for all the Christian faithful”.

                                                                                                                  (Dei Verbum)