The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) promotes that Catholics take an intelligent and spiritual approach to the Bible. With this call at the forefront, the Leadership Formation Institute for Biblical Studies is designed to help lay leaders develop a deep understanding and love for sacred Scripture. Providing the necessary tools to lead Bible studies (e.g., facilitating small groups) this formation program seeks to develop joyful bearers of the Good News, sharing the Word with the world.

The Institute provides the opportunity for both personal growth and ministry formation. Participants are well formed in how to read and pray with the Bible as a person of faith who is willing to share the Word with others. Participants are equipped with the knowledge and skills for facilitating small group Bible study. On completion of the program, participants will be ready to start (or strengthen) a Bible study ministry in their parish or their lay association.

The Catholic Information Center’s Biblical Formation Institute is designed to help you:

• Develop a deep understanding and love for sacred scripture
• Explore scripture with biblical experts
• Grow as a Bible study leader in your parish
• Improve leadership and facilitation skills
• Earn a Biblical Formation Certificate and/or Catechist Certification Credits
• Become a joyful bearer of the Good News, sharing the Word with the world

2024 Schedule

Sessions are Wednesday evenings, 6 – 8:30 p.m.

October 2 – Learning to Read the Bible as the Word of God

The Bible is God’s Word – “living and effective” (Hebrews 4:12) – addressed to each of us in our own unique situations. If Scripture remains just words on a page, our work is not done.

October 9 – Revelation: It is God who Speaks

The Bible is the story of God’s relationship with the people he has called to himself. It is not intended to be a history text or political manifesto. This session includes learning how to lead small group prayer with Scripture.

October 16 – Encounter: The Word Became Flesh

In Saint John’s Gospel we read, “the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” (1:14) Growing in our knowledge of Scripture, we allow God’s word to come to life in us. This session includes an introduction to communication skills in small groups.

October 23 – Faith: It is the Church who Listens

You do not read alone. We read the Bible within the tradition of the Church to benefit from the  holiness and wisdom of all the faithful. This session includes an exploration of how to organize a small group ministry at your parish.

October 30 – Discipleship: Abiding in the Word of God

Daily reading, study, and prayer with Scripture, we enter more fully into our life in Christ. Confront the difficulties in reading Scripture. This session includes further exploration of how to organize a small group ministry at your parish.

November 6 – Mission: Accompanying Others in Encountering the Word of God

God calls, forms, and sends us to others so that they to can “share in our joy and our joy may be complete.” (1 John 1:4) This session includes exploring the role of a facilitator and best practice in small group ministry.

Enroll Now 

(Updated 5-10-24)

For more information please contact: Mark Mann by email or phone at 616-459-7267.

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