A direction for bible study?

Each semester, a group of between 10 and 25 students study one of the books of the bible for six or eight sessions, depending on whether the group wants to turn into a group what is intended to be personal study. Last semester we did the book of Tobit and, since I couldn't find a series that would cover this topic, I ended up doing the research all myself. And, while that was good for me intellectually, it did take a lot more time than I really had to devote to such a project.

So, this spring, I was going to put together another Bible study on the topic of one of the deuterocanonical books of the bible (those Old Testament books particular to Catholic and most Orthodox Bibles); either 1 or 2 Maccabees or Judith. But, then I had another idea.

You may remember, faithful readers, that I was very excited about Pope Benedict's book "Jesus of Nazareth." And, while I found it fascinating, I was also sad that I wasn't sure how I could utilize it for my ministry, other than using his insights in preaching. And then I got this idea. I could put together a Bible Study using the passages the Pope does but then use Pope Benedict's commentary to help guide the Bible study. I'm writing to the publishers to hear what they say. Hopefully they'll let me use passages for free...or at least for a decreased cost. Let's hope this happens.

Remembering our soldiers

I got this link from a staff member. It's a video reminding us that the term "troops" is not just a cliche but is, in fact, another term for people. I have four of "my boys" getting ready to go to Iraq and one of my brother priests is already there getting ready to come home. I don't like being in a war and I know I couldn't serve in it. But, regardless, our soldiers deserve our support.

No Preaching

Because I was in Illinois, I didn't have to organize a homily. And I'm kind of glad because I'm not sure what I would have preached about. I don't remember that being a problem when I was a kid. I could always come up with something that I would preach about when I was critiquing.

But, I'm starting this weekend's homily early. Hopefully, I'll come up with a salient point that will make all the parishioners think, to ponder the gospel anew.