The World's Most Dangerous Book

The last two years have been rough to say the least. The pandemic shuttered our lives in unimaginable ways. Schools, churches, small businesses, all closed. Then the social unrest of protests and riots in our major cities ensued. Everything seemed to be burning. As if we needed more, a contentious presidential election put us at each other’s throat. Friends ceased to be friends. Family relationships hardened like an artery of someone who ate slabs of bacon for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So in the beginning of 2021, in the cacophony of chaos seeming to crescendo, I heard about a podcast project that was about to begin by one of my favorite Catholic speakers—Fr. Mike Schmitz. He had the audacious plan of reading the entire bible in a year, offering small chapters each day and a reflection. Simply titled, he called it The Bible In A Year. For many of us, myself included, reading the Bible can be an intimidating endeavor. There are funny sounding names, events, and places that are completely unheard of. Reading Scripture can feel like walking into the middle of a foreign film already in progress. Yet the Bible is not someone else’s story. It is ours. In fact, our entire civilization in built upon this book. Yes, our civilization, our country, our way of life is founded upon these ideas. As I spent last year listening to the Bible In A Year, I noticed a profound interior peace in my heart. God’s voice pierced through the noise of the media, the politcal pundits, the raging fear and frustration that surrounded us. The more I listened, the clearer God became. The more I pondered His word, the more I loved. Studying the Bible last year reinvigorated my faith. Somehow, I wanted to offer this same opportunity to all of you, my dear parishioners . That is when I received a text a message from one of our families. They too had the desire to study God’s word and share it with the wider community. I’m happy to announce, in the beginning of Lent we invite you to a parish based Bible study. If you ever wanted to know the Bible better, this is for you. If you no longer want to feel intimated by the Bible, this is for you. If you want to grow deeper in your relationship with God, this is for you. If you want to know your story, this Bible study is for you. Join us. For more details about our upcoming Bible Study, please email the parish [email protected]. We will send you updates and resources etc.  --- Help Spread the Good News --- Father Brian’s homilies are shared freely thanks to generous listeners like you. If his words have blessed you, consider supporting this volunteer effort. Every gift helps us continue recording and sharing the hope of Jesus—one homily at a time. Give Here: https://frbriansoliven.org/give