The Wednesday Afternoon Faith Group: Going Deeper into God’s Word
W
e often hear phrases that emphasize the importance of becoming a “lifelong learner.” It’s a concept that we can take to heart in different areas of our lives. But do we apply this idea to grow in our faith? As Catholics, our faith journey lasts our entire lives, with each day being an opportunity to grow closer to God, and to deepen our understanding of His Word and the faith that He’s given us. Here at St. John Before the Latin Gate, a group of women gathers each week to do just that. “The Wednesday Afternoon Faith Group was a result of a conversation I had with a quilting friend who was a recent convert about whether, after RCIA, she would still be interested in continued study,” says Nancy Dykstra, who coordinates the group. The group typically spends time every Wednesday afternoon reading and reflecting on the Mass readings for the upcoming Sunday. According to the women
Each week, a group of women gather to read and reflect on the upcoming Sunday’s Mass readings.
who are involved, it’s a great way to deepen your understanding of and love for Scripture. “What I have found is that even as I reread the same Scripture, I have a deepened understanding of its meaning and how it applies in my life,” Nancy says. “I am continually finding something new in the Gospels I have heard for decades.”
“I’m better prepared for Sunday Mass as we’ve studied the weekly Gospel,” adds group member Julie Health. Of course, one can certainly read Scripture at home. However, for the members of this group, there is something special about the social dynamic of studying Scripture together, even when limited to a socially continued on back cover
“What I have found is that even as I reread the same Scripture, I have a deepened understanding of its meaning and how it applies in my life. I am continually finding something new in the Gospels I have heard for decades.” — NANCY DYKSTRA 7
