Why join Bible Study?

Among the many activities available to all OLMM parishioners is our Bible Study Class. Just as we cannot remain physically healthy by eating food once a week, we cannot remain spiritually healthy by touching base with God once a week. God wants to be an intimate part of our lives and no intimacy can arise out of a one hour a week contact.

The Church urges us to read, study and reflect on Sacred Scripture in which “the Father who is in heaven meets his children with great love and speaks with them . . .” (Vatican II Constitution on Divine Revelation, No. 21). Jesus is not only someone to be studied but someone to be met and lived with every day.

OLMM welcomes anyone who loves God and wants to know more about His Word. We invite you to join one of our Bible Study class on Wednesday Mornings at 10.30 am in the Laboure Center. At the Bible Study Class, we as a parish community will learn to share the very life of Jesus, discover what purpose He has for our lives.

Questions about the Bible

What is the difference between Catholic and Protestant Bibles?

Catholic and Protestant Bibles both include 27 books in the New Testament. Protestant Bibles have only 39 books in the Old Testament, however, while Catholic Bibles have 46. The seven books included in Catholic Bibles are Tobit, Judith, 1 and 2 Maccabees, Wisdom, Sirach, and Baruch. Catholic Bibles also include sections in the Books of Esther and Daniel which are not found in Protestant Bibles. These books are called the deutero-canonical books. The Catholic Church believes these books to be inspired by the Holy Spirit. (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops).

New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

Released on March 9, 2011, the New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE) is the culmination of nearly 20 years of work by a group of nearly 100 scholars and theologians, including bishops, revisers and editors. The NABRE includes a newly revised translation of the entire Old Testament (including the Book of Psalms) along with the 1986 edition of the New Testament.

How to Lead a Bible Study

This guide is published by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) and is used by some of our student bible study leaders at Newman.  It defines facilitator styles, such as the "traffic cop," "trail blazer," etc.  Even though it was designed for university students, there are still several helpful hints for conducting a meaningful group experience.

Ever Ancient, Ever New: The Art and Practice of Lectio Divina

The authors of this site compiled tips and essential information from twenty years of working side by side with Bible study leaders. This guide offers a step-by-step guide to facilitating a traditional bible study, with almost too much detail. The best take-away is that hosts and facilitators be hospitable, organized, flexible, and open; start on time, and end on time!​