To Nan and the Moorings Adult
Christian Education Committee,
Last
Sunday, April third, was the final Biblical Scholarship session for the
current semester.
More than two
dozen people attended the class this season, with an average attendance of
about 12; half being regular Moorings attendees, and half visitors or those
coming from outside our congregation.
In October we
began with Genesis, and ended at Exodus 25, with a quick review of Joshua, in
order to fulfill our promise to the class of getting them back into the
Promised Land by spring! Our scholarship curriculum consisted of The
Interpreter’s Bible, augmented with maps, charts, and a plethora of research
documents from a number of reliable seminary and academic sources.
We were thrilled
to observe the excitement and enthusiasm the participants exhibited! We often
emailed the handouts for the coming week to the students in advance, so they
would have the opportunity to review the materials and be prepared to ask
relevant questions. All kept their handouts in folders (one couple even using a
three-hole punch and page dividers in their binder) and most came prepared with
their own research and queries. Several asked substantive questions, eager to
explore more deeply.
The students
remained engaged and involved, expressing
appreciation for the information they gleaned about the various topics covered
from these early, and often ‘difficult-to-comprehend’ portions of scripture,
and for the way in which this background is helping them to understand more of
what they are reading in later passages. We frequently asked them to consider
how the things they are learning are making a difference in their personal lives.
It is a joy to watch sincere students catch on, and
delve eagerly into their own spiritual growth!
We are
considering the examination of Biblical Literature (Job, Psalms, Proverbs,
Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon; although we are drawn perhaps toward also
including Ruth and Esther…) beginning in October. We will of course get
back to you later on in the summer to let you know what we would like to
present in the fall.
Again, Sam and I
want to thank you and all responsible for making possible the opportunity for
us to participate in teaching Biblical Scholarship at Moorings! We are grateful
for your encouragement and support as we share our excitement for the Bible
with our church and our community.
In His Service
Bunny<>Sam
Sewell
591-4565
PS We have Blind
Copied this letter to our students, in order to give them the opportunity to
get back to you and/or us with any comments or suggestions they may wish to
share.
