Faith and Fellowship

Bible Study at St. Paul of the Cross

For the past ten years, George and Suzanne Kirkland have facilitated one of the Bible Study programs at St. Paul of the Cross Parish, fostering both spiritual growth and a strong sense of community among participants. Since 2014, the Kirklands have facilitated 17 different studies over 173 weeks, helping countless parishioners dive deeper into Scripture. This fall, they launched their latest study on the Gospel of Matthew, utilizing Matthew: The King and His Kingdom, a program developed by Ascension, featuring video lectures by Jeff Cavins and Sarah Christmyer.

How the Bible Study Works

Each session follows a clear structure that encourages participants to engage with the material on multiple levels:

  1. Weekly Preparation: Participants read the assigned Scripture passages and answer questions from the study set, designed to help them explore the readings from a Catholic perspective.

  2. Small Group Discussions: Sessions begin with small group discussions where attendees review questions and share insights and then read the answers, This deepens their understanding of the Bible through dialogue with others.

  3. Video Lecture: Following the discussions, the group watches a video lecture from Jeff Cavins, offering a comprehensive teaching on the readings and connecting them to Catholic theology.

The Kirklands see this structured approach as a way to make the study accessible and deeply enriching for all participants, regardless of their prior knowledge of the Bible. “I was always reluctant,” Sue shares, “I’m not a joiner, but I felt a call to join this and do this when I saw this advertised in the bulletin. When the student is ready, the Teacher will appear.”

The Focus on Matthew

The decision to focus on the Gospel of Matthew this year came from a desire to revisit foundational studies that Bible Study members requested. The study explores Matthew’s portrayal of Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

“Matthew was a Jew addressing a Jewish audience in the first century,” says George. “He’s like a rock Signpost, laying out proof that Jesus is the Messiah. He shows how the promises of the Old Testament were fulfilled by Christ." This connection between the Old and New Testaments is something the Kirklands find particularly powerful. "It makes the Old Testament relevant for people who may not be familiar with it,” adds Sue.

The study also dives deep into historical context, helping participants understand the world of first-century Judaism and the profound significance of Jesus’ teachings. “What was concealed in the Old Testament is revealed in the New Testament,” says Suzanne. “Jesus is the fulfillment of those promises.”

A Growing Community

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Kirklands’ Bible Study is how it has drawn people from beyond the parish. Participants have come from as far as Lake Zurich, Lemont, and Deer Park, often through word of mouth, social media, or flyers in the church bulletin. The program has become a meeting point not just for parishioners but for Catholics across the region.

The age range of participants varies, with most being retired seniors or middle-aged, but there is also a steady group of newcomers eager to join. “We had 108 people enroll when we started,” Suzanne recalls. “Now, we average 80-100 people, and many have been with us from the beginning.”

The sense of community within the group is palpable. “People really get to liking each other and look forward to being together,” says George. The study offers a real social aspect there are coffee breaks, treats, and shared experiences that bind the participants together, week after week. Sue reflects, “This group is socially as well as spiritually enriching.”

Lasting Impact

Over the years, the Kirklands have witnessed the profound effect this Bible Study has had on participants. “Some people have gone on pilgrimages together, others have become more deeply involved in their faith,” says Suzanne. She recalls a couple who, after completing the study, became regular churchgoers and one who eventually entered the diaconate. “It’s wonderful to see people growing their Catholic family,” she adds.

The study has also inspired others to start similar programs in their own communities. One couple brought the study to their Ukrainian Catholic Church in Palatine, while another participant began a Bible Study group after moving to Indiana. “It’s been transplanted all over,” Suzanne says, “and that’s very gratifying.”

For George, leading the study has been a deeply personal journey. Raised in various Christian denominations, he converted to Catholicism in 2008 after going through RCIA and reading the entire Catechism. “I already knew the Bible pretty well,” he says, “but leading this study has made me appreciate Scripture in a whole new way.” The Kirklands’ dedication has enriched the lives of those they lead and also deepened their own faith and connection to God’s Word.

The Next Bible Study

As they continue their journey, the Kirklands are already planning their next study on the Acts of the Apostles, followed by a study on the Gospel of Luke. They remain deeply committed to making Scripture accessible and meaningful for all participants. “I want people to be able to understand Scripture and have it be relevant in their life," says George. "We care that you have the opportunity to enjoy your life and know God.”

For those who may feel intimidated by the idea of joining a Bible Study, Suzanne offers simple advice: “Just jump in with both feet, and you will be with like-minded Catholics seeking a closer relationship with Jesus. It is a welcoming place to learn about and express your Catholic faith.”

The Bible Study at St. Paul of the Cross is held on Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. and Thursday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in the Holy Family Chapel, and new participants are always welcome to join in this enriching journey through Scripture.

Bible Studies Featured at St. Paul of the Cross:

  • The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation
  • Matthew: The King and His Kingdom
  • Acts: The Spread of the Kingdom
  • Hebrews: The New and Eternal Covenant
  • James: Pearls for Wise Living 8 Sessions
  • Follow Me: Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John
  • Romans: The Gospel of Salvation
  • Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come
  • Ephesians: Discover Your Inheritance
  • Psalms: The School of Prayer
  • Galatians: Set Free to Live
  • First Corinthians: The Church and the Christian Community
  • Prophets: Messengers of God’s Mercy

 Catholic Beliefs and Practices Featured at St. Paul of the Cross:

  • Jesus: The Way, the Truth, and the Life
  • No Greater Love: A Biblical Walk Through Christ’s Passion
  • A Biblical Walk Through The Mass
  • Mary: A Biblical Walk with the Blessed Mother