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Bible Challenge 2005

January is right around the corner and it will soon be time to compile your annual list of New Year�s Resolutions. Often the list will detail:

After January 1^st , I will:

1. Exercise
2. Lose ten pounds
3. Eat more fruits and vegetables
4. Stop smoking
5. Read the Bible from cover to cover�

Look familiar? Many of us start the New Year with resolutions but within a short period of time our commitment begins to fade from memory, and old habits push aside our good intentions.

For some, the motivation to �turn over a new leaf� might prevail, often with the help of a personal coach. A coach can help motivate and direct a new plan of action.  A personal fitness coach can outline and encourage an exercise plan. A nutritionist can design and monitor a diet. And a church can inspire and educate a parishioner in Bible reading.

In January, Christ Church will encourage you to read the Bible from cover to cover within a year. We will offer you a manageable daily/weekly plan to help you achieve your goal to read the entire Bible in 2005.

Have you read the Bible in its entirety before? If so, we encourage you to read it again, and again, and again� What is the benefit to you?

A brief, daily commitment of faithful Bible study will help you:

1. Deepen your understanding of Scripture
2. Enhance your prayer life and worship
3. Solidify your faith in Christianity
4. Equip you to share the Gospel with others
5. Experience a source of comfort in difficult times
6. Enjoy and share biblical wisdom and stories
7. Enter into a full relationship with God and each other

Our pledge:

1. Each week we will outline and guide you through Old and New Testament passages.  We will remind you of your daily/weekly readings in our Sunday bulletins, the monthly newsletter, and our weekly e-mail updates.
2. Each month, our newsletter The Link, will feature a �Bible Essentials� article to enhance the readings and strengthen understanding.
3. Throughout the year, we will offer additional opportunities for study and fellowship with the Men�s Bible Study, Kerygma Bible Study groups, and Adult Education classes. Small group discussion can enrich and encourage biblical reading and fellowship within our church community.
• The Kerygma Bible Study group is a 30-week introductory class to explore the Old and the New Testament (15-week study for each Testament). Small groups will be formed in January and will meet in members� homes. Sign-up today in the Narthex or in the church office.
• The Men�s Bible Study is held every other Saturday from 8:30-10:00AM in the church library. New members can join at anytime. Coffee and a light breakfast are offered.
• Alpha, An Introduction to Christianity is a 7-week program which combines video and discussion opportunities for those who wish to explore Christianity and reaffirm their faith. A session is offered at least once a year.
• Adult Education classes will continue to be offered regularly between the 8 and 10AM Sunday services. The class topics will be varied and will be designed to enhance our biblical journey and worship.
4. To enhance your Bible study, we will try to answer your questions about a difficult passage from your daily/weekly reading. You may e-mail or drop off a question at the church office. The complexity and the volume of the questions will determine the response time.

One of the hard won privileges of the Protestant Reformation was that laity gained access to the richness of Scripture. Bible study is very much a part of our Anglican heritage.

We want you to discover the richness of Scripture-each and every day. Our desire is for you to develop a deeper understanding of the Gospel, and discover how the Word of God can be applied to your life. We are committed to help you achieve this fruitful and meaningful goal throughout 2005.  

 All inspired scripture has its use for teaching the truth and refuting error, or for reformation of manners and discipline in right living, so that the man of God may be capable and equipped for good work of every kind. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (REB)

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