I would like to share what we are doing in Biblical Ministry at O.L.G. Every Tuesday morning after Mass we used to offer a bible sharing program called “Biblia y Café”. We would have breakfast together and then study the bible. They were beginners and at first it was all about getting to know the basics. But it was great fun and when the word got out, the group kept adding on more and more participants. Then the virus came and the door shammed shut ending it all.
Then, after a few weeks of obligated vacation and trying to figure out what to do, we discovered the great possibilities for ministries offered by the internet. With the help of some knowledgeable parishioners we were able to launch our first ZOOM Lectio Divina. We offer this on Tuesdays from 11AM to 12:15 pm. So far we have about 20 regular participants but it is growing. I am amazed at how much they are learning and it is a great blessing to see how their new understanding is having an effect on their lives. I am amazed that they are actually living with the word of God. When we learn about Sacred Scripture together, immerse ourselves in it, and pray together it brings us closer together. Some of them have had Covid-19 and share their experience of their sickness.
Some of the parishioners were talking among themselves about the pandemic. They became fearful and were asking whether it might be a sign of the last days. So, we decided to read the book of Revelations and study it thoroughly. This has led to another regular Zoom gathering on Thursdays from 11AM to 12PM when we examine the book of Revelation from a pastoral viewpoint. So far we have 20 regular participants, but the word is out and very soon we expect more to come.
At first we didn’t know what to do. But the pandemic has actually made it possible for many more to attend our Church functions, and to learn and grow together in Christ, than was possible before the pandemic. What we are doing in O.L.G you also can do in your parish. People like it, enjoy it and it is a good way to share the Word of God and reach the people we serve.
Roberto C Flores, SVD,
USW Biblical Coordinator