Scripture Study – Women in the Torah: Matriarchs and Heroes of Israel

In the near future I am hoping to begin a Scripture study on the above topic of Women in the Torah using the book authored by Stephen J. Binz. I hope to hold the Scripture study on Tuesday evenings after Holy Mass in St. James’, Kinross. We will begin at approximately 7.30p.m. (at least after Holy Mass) and will end around 9.00p.m. Anyone interested in joining the group should e-mail me on stjames@dunkelddiocese.org.uk. I have purchased twelve copies of the book for the use of those who would like to join the group which will centre around a prayerful study and reflection on the sacred texts. Should the interest be great enough I am happy to obtain more copies. Below I give a taste of the nature of the Scripture study and the author and, if you look online at the Amazon.co.uk website (from which this information is taken) you can have a look inside the book itself. God bless, Fr. Martin

Ancient-Future Bible Study incorporates contemporary study of the Bible with an experience of the church’s most ancient way of reading Scripture, lectio divina. This time honored practice consists of five basic movements: biblical study (lectio), reflection (meditatio), prayer (oratio), discernment (contemplatio), and contemplative action (operatio). In six clearly written volumes, bestselling author Stephen Binz helps readers study the Bible in a way that leads to spiritual transformation and brings them closer to God. Binz leads readers in a vivid study of key biblical characters, including Abraham, Paul, Peter, David, the women of the Torah, and the women of the Gospels. He shows all Christians who desire to have a transforming experience with the inspired Word of God how studying Scripture through lectio divina can enrich their discipleship. This ecumenical Bible study, designed for use by individuals or groups, includes questions for personal reflection and suggested action. Each volume includes leader’s notes for guiding a study over the course of six sessions.

Experience Scripture through Lectio Divina

Ancient-Future Bible Study incorporates contemporary study of the Bible with an experience of the church’s most ancient way of reading Scripture, lectio divina. Designed for use by individuals or groups, these guides offer a transforming experience of the Word of God. An introduction to lectio divina and leader’s notes are included.

“Stephen Binz has bridged the gap between contemplative biblical study and practical application. This is a rare achievement that many readers of Scripture will find profound and spiritually formative.”–Thomas C. Oden, general editor, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture

“In the Ancient-Future Bible Study series, Stephen Binz opens our minds, imaginations, and hearts to the experience of Scripture that God intends. In each book he leads us through the movements of lectio divina so that by understanding the Word and meditating on it we are drawn closer to the Lord in prayer and prompted to act on it. I believe that users of this series will encounter the Holy Spirit and find themselves enfolded in God’s love.”–Bert Ghezzi, author, Adventures in Daily Prayer

“The Ancient-Future Bible Study series revives a simple, time-honored framework for listening to God’s voice known as lectio divina. This framework does not so much constrain as bring liberty–liberty to explore, to listen, and to grow. Stephen Binz’s work is carefully considered, richly textured, and solidly grounded. His seed thoughts will help you dwell richly in the Word.”–David Neff, editor in chief, Christianity Today

Ancient-Future Bible Studies Available from Brazos Press

Abraham: Father of All Believers
Paul: Apostle to All the Nations
Peter: Fisherman and Shepherd of the Church
David: Shepherd and King of Israel
Women of the Torah: Matriarchs and Heroes of Israel
Women of the Gospels: Friends and Disciples of Jesus

About the Author

Stephen J. Binz (SSL, Pontifical Biblical Institute, Rome) is a popular speaker and the highly regarded author of over two dozen books. He is the former director of Little Rock Scripture Study, used in churches throughout the world, and founder and author of Threshold Bible Study. He is also the former editor-in-chief of God’s Word Today magazine and is a licensed psychotherapist.

Welcome

Dear parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes,

I am very happy to have been appointed your new Parish Priest by Bishop Robson albeit in sad circumstances after the death of Fr. Colin, something which came, I'm sure, as a blow to you all. As we mourn his loss, let's continue to pray for the happy repose of his soul, asking the Good Lord to reward Fr. Colin for good the work he accomplished in that part of God's vineyard entrusted to him.

I am looking forward to getting to know you and to praying and working with you. As with all changes there will no doubt be learning and challenges for us but approached with faith and love, patience and understanding, and a sense of service to the Lord these will be things that help us to come closer together and to grow as a community of faith.

Some of us may already know each other, many of us will be strangers to each other, but part of the joy of coming to a new parish is getting to know each other and hopefully becoming friends and companions in Christ. I hope for the first weekend to give you a little introduction to who I am and my background and to have the opportunity to meet you and become acquainted with you better after Holy Mass.

You will be aware that because of my other responsibilities (in St. James', Kinross and at Kilgraston School) that I have had to make adjustments to the Mass times some of which overlapped between the two parishes, and I believe Fr. Ian Evans has made you aware of these changes this weekend. On your behalf I want to thank him for everything he did to assist Fr. Colin and everything he has done to keep things going since Father's death. Fr. Ian has also been a tremendous help to me already in terms of making this transition so much smoother.

With immediate effect then, the weekend  Mass times in Our Lady of Lourdes will be:

Saturday Vigil Mass - 5.00p.m.

Sunday morning Mass - 11.00a.m.

I will issue a newsletter next week (available in the Newsletter Section) which will also include weekday Mass times, times for Confessions, etc. and will also include the Mass times and so on for St. James', Kinross. Please be so kind as to keep me in your prayers. I am very much looking forward to meeting you all this coming weekend.

This is the first parish under the patronage of Our Blessed Lady to which I have been appointed as Parish Priest - and for me this is something very special!

God bless you and keep you,

Fr. Martin Pletts