There are a couple of changes coming up for our midweek Bible Study, which will resume meeting on Wednesday, February 1, when I return from my vacation.
The first change will be trying out being a “Worship Planning Bible Study.” Some of you may be asking, “What exactly is a Worship Planning Bible Study?” I first experienced one at Calvary UMC in Waldorf when Rev. Robert D. Carter was pastor there.
The Bible Study group, led by the pastor, would study the texts the pastor planned to preach a couple of weeks out and if available would even know the sermon title and/or a summary or idea of what the pastor planned to preach. We would then do a deeper dive into the texts, sharing insights, experiences, and reflections. At times we would offer suggestions of hymns, other music, artistic elements, skits, etc. to enhance the worship experience.
Having had the opportunity to lead a study once when preparing a worship service and sermon for Calvary, I found it to be truly helpful from that side of the pulpit. Most of the time as I participated I was sitting in the pew on the Sunday for which we had studied. Either way, I always find this type of study deepens my understanding of the message. Let’s try it out and see how God might use this type of study at Faith. On 2/1, we will compare Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:1-10, and Luke 9:27-36. We will explore the disciples’ reactions to the Transfiguration and what this means in our lives.
Oh, and I mentioned another change. With Lent just around the corner, when Lent begins we will be looking at changing the date or time so that we are able to participate in our traditional Wednesday evening Lenten services with the rest of the 210 Corridor while still studying the Word together. Stay tuned…
Blessings,
Pastor Peggy