Dear Congregation,
“The B.I.B.L.E, Yes, that’s the book for me.
I stand alone on the Word of God. The B.I.B.L.E.
The B.I.B.L.E, Yes, that’s the book for me.
I read and pray, and then obey. The B.I.B.L.E. ”
Some of you may remember this classic Sunday School/ Vacation Bible School song from your youth, and/or from your children’s and grandchildren’s Christian Education experiences. It is indeed, an oldie but a goodie!
This song came to my mind as I look forward to beginning Bible study with you on Monday, September 10th from 6 to 7 p.m. in the sanctuary. I’m calling this time of looking at scripture together “Faith and Life” Bible study because most of us come to these sacred texts asking the question, “What do these words mean for my life?” In addition, we each bring our own life experiences to scripture, which impact how we receive and relate to the texts.
One of the neat things about the Bible is that it’s a book like no other—a living book. Christians believe that one of the ways God continues to communicate with humanity is through scripture—hence our United Church of Christ motto, “God is still speaking”.
I understand that you have a rather large group here at CCC who have been previously involved in Bible study, which is great! I also want you to know that even if you’ve never been part of a study group and don’t know much about the Bible, you’re very welcome to come and join us. As I look back at Bible studies I’ve been a part of over the years, they’ve all been good experiences of learning, asking questions, sharing, growing in faith, and, sometimes, laughing together. Bible study is truly life-long learning, because there’s always more truth to uncover and more light to break forth.
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Candy Thomas
Interim Pastor
Christ Congregational United Church of Christ