A Bible for you

As part of the adult faith formation aspect of whole parish catechesis  Saint Patrick's Church is offering a free Bible to any parishioner who needs a Bible at home.  Whether you have no Bible or you are in need of an extra Bible in your home, we would like to present you with one.

In order to receive a bible just contact the WPC office and make your request.

It is our hope that you will have a Bible available to you so that you can spend time with the Word of God.  A recommended format for reading the Bible is the "PRIMA" process.  Having an effective strategy for reading the Bible can make the difference between giving up and staying on course.  Prima is the Latin word for "first".  In the PRIMA process, each letter of the word stands for a step in studying the Bible, either individually or with a group:

• Pray.  Begin with a prayer that your time with the Bible will draw you closer to God.

• read.  Read attentively, trying to hear the words as if for the first time.  Reading the passage aloud, even if you are alone, can help with this.

• Imagine.  Imagine being part of the story you just read.  What would you feel, how would you react?  Do you know anything about the background of the story that can help you understand what the author is trying to get across?

• meditate.  Meditate on what you have read.  How does the message of the story fit in with the rest of the bible's teaching?  With the church's teaching?  What do you think God is teaching you?

• apply.  Apply what you have read to your life.  God may be calling you to make a change in your life.  Or you may find encouragement that you need during a difficult time.  Carry God's Word into the rest of your day!