A study group meets monthly to read and discuss Paul’s Letter to the Romans, via Zoom. Being part of the group will require a level of commitment to read the relevant parts of Paul’s letter before each monthly meeting. The study group began in February 2023 and will meet via zoom over a period of six months on the third Tuesday of each month from 1.30 – 3.00 pm
If you wish to participate and can commit the time, please contact Clare McArdle claremca@bigpond.com
Purpose
To further our own spiritual growth by improving our understanding of St Paul’s messages. St Paul is quite a controversial figure whether fairly or unfairly described. Participants will be in a better position to decide for themselves after reading and discussing Paul ourselves.
Our approach
This will be a study group of equals in that it will not be led by an “expert”. All participants will be expected to read the relevant section before each meeting and may undertake their own research and be prepared to share that research with others. The Carmelite Library in Middle Park has a number of resources and commentaries to help.
As the intention is to further individual’s spiritual development, the text will not be critiqued as in an academic exercise. However, reading commentaries from learned scholars such as Brendan Byrne, would be helpful. A summary of his commentary will be provided to all participants via email prior to each meeting, as an aid, but not in place of our own reading and reflection.
Jackie Tidey and Clare McArdle will moderate the sessions (but others can do so if they wish). The role of the moderator will be to keep us to the time limits and to keep the discussion moving along, but not as ‘experts’ with all the answers. However, Fr David Hofman OCarm will attend when he can. There will be others in the group who may have a greater understanding of Paul which they can share.
