Each of us is unique physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Each encounters temptations, challenges, and problems as we travel the spiritual pathways of our lives. Each has unique limitations and gifts, qualities and requirements. Each has a need to grow in the loving companionship of God.
WHAT - Christ promised "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them-" (Mt 18:20). St. Edward offers several opportunities for small faith based groups to gather and explore pathways to a closer relationship with God. Groups range from introductory scripture study to comprehensive in-depth studies. These groups take joy in the fact that Christ, Himself, is there with them
WHY - Sunday liturgy is not enough. Perpetual spiritual infancy is insufficient. Pathways and Companions provides a vehicle to grow in commitment to faith, prayer and closeness to God.
Group meetings provide a time and place for retreat. They foster study, discussion, explanation, learning, and support as together we seek the Holy Spirit to guide our prayer arid understanding.
WHERE - Some meetings are held at group members' homes in a quiet, relaxed atmosphere for approximately ninety minutes. Others are held in the Parish Center and are two hours in length.
WHEN - Usually meetings are held weekly in conjunction with Advent and Lent. However, some groups may feel a need to expand on these periods and meet more frequently or even throughout the year. Some groups meet once a month.
HOW - Small group meetings (usually six to ten participants) present opportunity and structure. They encourage making spiritual growth a priority in our busy lives. All group members are encouraged to have a Catholic Bible for study and reference. Meetings begin and end with prayer.
WHO - Adults, young or older, couples or singles who seek a closer relationship with God.
Some are unable to commit to an ongoing group. If so, consider enriching your understanding and appreciation of the readings proclaimed from the altar each Sunday by attending one of the weekly one-hour gatherings. These sessions are posted in the weekly calendar of events in the Sunday bulletin, and are led Father Don and Deacon Jim Greer throughout the year. Come once or as often as you choose
Following are highlights of seven programs (Pathways) to choose from. Some provide group synergy, scripted outlines and prayer. Some reflect on spiritual books. All can be tailored to the spiritual needs and interests of the group. Some groups are already ongoing and can be joined. You can create your own group or St. Edward will assist in forming a group for you. However, the availability of some or all of these programs is dependent on the responses received for each individual program.
Denver Bible Study Program - examines the books of the Bibles over a four-year period. Both the participant's workbook and the facilitator's guidebook blend simple, down-to-earth explanations with enthusiasm for the Bible and respect for the participant's adult life experiences. Participants must be willing to put in a few hours each week in study and preparation and weekly written assignments.
God's Word Today - This program uses an individual commentary booklet and an answer guide for each of five themes. (The Mass and the Eucharist, Reparation and Forgiveness, The Holy Spirit, The Fruit of the Holy Spirit, and The Love of the Father). A theme could be split into two sessions such as Advent and Lent. – This program uses materials that have been tested by time and are easy to use. Each book of the Bible is divided into eight or nine lessons, and a video is shown at the end of each lesson. Attention is paid to the variety of forms found in the bible, such as history, prophecy, wisdom, poetry, and letters.
The Little Rock Scripture Study
Renovare - This course in spiritual renewal is based on the Renovare program founded by Richard Foster and uses a text workbook. Participants study and practice the Holiness, Contemplation, Charismatic, Social Justice, Evangelical and Incarnational traditions of the Christian faith.
RENEW - This is a re-offering of the program that originally spurred the growth of small faith-sharing groups at St. Edward five years ago. Participants read Scripture, consider brief commentaries on Scripture and reflect and apply God's Word to their daily lives. This program is especially suited to those who have not previously participated in small group study and faith sharing.