Scripture study of Revelation, Gospel of Luke begins this week at St. Thomas

“Spread the Word” weekly Scripture study will begin its new season next month at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville. In these trying times, participants may choose to delve into “The Book of Revelation:  Hope for All” during morning or evening sessions, beginning Thursday, Sept. 5. Also emphasizing hope is “The Gospel of Luke:  Raising up the Lowly,” that will be studied on Friday mornings, beginning Sept. 13, with an orientation session held the week before.

The purpose of both study groups is to answer the question, “What’s the good word?” a familiar form of greeting still used occasionally among friends, according to Chari Rosales, director of S.T.A.F.F.S. (St. Thomas Adult Faith Formation & Spirituality). And the Good Word for trouble-weary 2013 is that the Bible remains ever ancient but its answers also are ever new.

“No previous Bible knowledge is necessary,” said Rosales, “and everyone is encouraged 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 also encouraged.

Casual in approach, “both series will be a mix of study, prayer and discussion,” Rosales said, adding, “There’s even been known to be lively discussion.”

Registration for Scripture study is preferred to assure adequate seating is available, and a nominal fee for either day’s meetings covers the cost of materials. Those encountering financial difficulties also may contact Rosales to make alternative arrangements regarding materials fees.

Thursday Bible Study, “The Book of Revelation:  Hope for All”

This last book of the Bible is fascinating, mysterious and misunderstood because it is laden with symbolism and allegorical language, a communication style unfamiliar today but very popular some 2,000 years ago. Yet that ancient world of fear and uncertainty, encouragement and hope is very much like today’s world and the Thursday Bible series will provide a gateway to understanding these similarities.

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. 5, through May 2014. They also are welcome to alternate between the morning and evening sessions.

Rosales said questions that will be addressed include why the Book of Revelation was written, is it really about the end of the world, and the meaning of the symbols plus other questions that may arise.

An engaging and knowledgeable speaker who enlivens her subject matter with clarity, vivacity and a sense of humor, Rosales will facilitate these sessions. Active in church ministry for three decades, 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 Gospel of Luke:  Raising Up the Lowly”

Luke’s Gospel was written to and for ordinary, everyday people. This perspective on Jesus shows him as gentle healer, friend to women and champion of the outcast and oppressed – a man of deep prayer filled with the Holy Spirit.

Recognized as the Gospel most favorable to women, Luke’s Gospel also is referred to as the “Gospel of Compassion” or the “Gospel of Prayer.” It contains some of the best-loved stories in the Bible, including the stories of the prodigal son and the Good Samaritan. Following Jesus can be as simple as the way portrayed by Luke.

An orientation meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 6, for new members and study sessions will meet from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. on Fridays, Sept. 13, through May 2014. It is not necessary to attend the orientation meeting.

St. Thomas parishioner Audrey Easton, who holds a certificate from the Biblical Institute of the Diocese of Joliet, will facilitate the Friday morning discussions.

For registration or more information about Scripture study, contact Rosales at St. Thomas the Apostle, (630) 355-8980, ext. 138, or at 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 3,300 households of more than 11,000 people. Complete news and information on parish events, guest speakers and special programs can be viewed at www.stapostle.org. For general parish information, call (630) 355-8980 or visit www.stapostle.org.