In the near future I am hoping to begin a Scripture study on the above topic of Women in the Torah using the book authored by Stephen J. Binz. I hope to hold the Scripture study on Tuesday evenings after Holy Mass in St. James’, Kinross. We will begin at approximately 7.30p.m. (at least after Holy Mass) and will end around 9.00p.m. Anyone interested in joining the group should e-mail me on stjames@dunkelddiocese.org.uk. I have purchased twelve copies of the book for the use of those who would like to join the group which will centre around a prayerful study and reflection on the sacred texts. Should the interest be great enough I am happy to obtain more copies. Below I give a taste of the nature of the Scripture study and the author and, if you look online at the Amazon.co.uk website (from which this information is taken) you can have a look inside the book itself. God bless, Fr. Martin

Ancient-Future Bible Study incorporates contemporary study of the Bible with an experience of the church’s most ancient way of reading Scripture, lectio divina. This time honored practice consists of five basic movements: biblical study (lectio), reflection (meditatio), prayer (oratio), discernment (contemplatio), and contemplative action (operatio). In six clearly written volumes, bestselling author Stephen Binz helps readers study the Bible in a way that leads to spiritual transformation and brings them closer to God. Binz leads readers in a vivid study of key biblical characters, including Abraham, Paul, Peter, David, the women of the Torah, and the women of the Gospels. He shows all Christians who desire to have a transforming experience with the inspired Word of God how studying Scripture through lectio divina can enrich their discipleship. This ecumenical Bible study, designed for use by individuals or groups, includes questions for personal reflection and suggested action. Each volume includes leader’s notes for guiding a study over the course of six sessions.

Experience Scripture through Lectio Divina

Ancient-Future Bible Study incorporates contemporary study of the Bible with an experience of the church’s most ancient way of reading Scripture, lectio divina. Designed for use by individuals or groups, these guides offer a transforming experience of the Word of God. An introduction to lectio divina and leader’s notes are included.

“Stephen Binz has bridged the gap between contemplative biblical study and practical application. This is a rare achievement that many readers of Scripture will find profound and spiritually formative.”–Thomas C. Oden, general editor, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture

“In the Ancient-Future Bible Study series, Stephen Binz opens our minds, imaginations, and hearts to the experience of Scripture that God intends. In each book he leads us through the movements of lectio divina so that by understanding the Word and meditating on it we are drawn closer to the Lord in prayer and prompted to act on it. I believe that users of this series will encounter the Holy Spirit and find themselves enfolded in God’s love.”–Bert Ghezzi, author, Adventures in Daily Prayer

“The Ancient-Future Bible Study series revives a simple, time-honored framework for listening to God’s voice known as lectio divina. This framework does not so much constrain as bring liberty–liberty to explore, to listen, and to grow. Stephen Binz’s work is carefully considered, richly textured, and solidly grounded. His seed thoughts will help you dwell richly in the Word.”–David Neff, editor in chief, Christianity Today

Ancient-Future Bible Studies Available from Brazos Press

Abraham: Father of All Believers
Paul: Apostle to All the Nations
Peter: Fisherman and Shepherd of the Church
David: Shepherd and King of Israel
Women of the Torah: Matriarchs and Heroes of Israel
Women of the Gospels: Friends and Disciples of Jesus

About the Author

Stephen J. Binz (SSL, Pontifical Biblical Institute, Rome) is a popular speaker and the highly regarded author of over two dozen books. He is the former director of Little Rock Scripture Study, used in churches throughout the world, and founder and author of Threshold Bible Study. He is also the former editor-in-chief of God’s Word Today magazine and is a licensed psychotherapist.

On Friday 19th August at 7.00p.m. Our Lady of Lourdes’ Parish is hosting a musical evening courtesy of Mr. Michael Ellacott. Tickets will be available at the church door priced £5.00 each (for adults) and children can come along free of charge. There will be refreshments available at the interval and also there will be a raffle. The evening has been organised by the Fundraising Committee of Our Lady’s to help raise funds for necessary structural work on the outside of the church and the presbytery. The evening promises to be very enjoyable and entertaining and we hope that you will manage to join us. Any additional donations towards the works being carried out will always be gratefully received. Thank you in advance for your support and your generosity! (Our Lady of Lourdes, 42 Struan Road, Perth PH1 2JP) Car parking is available on site.

Dear parishioners, just to remind you that this evening (Friday 12th August) at 6.30p.m. Bishop Robson will offer Holy Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes, Perth (42 Struan Road, PH1 2JP). I would encourage you all to come and join us as we welcome the statue of St. Michael the Archangel which is making its pilgrim way around parishes in Scotland. There will be a chance to pray before the statue, asking the intercession of the holy archangel, and placing our written petitions which will be remembered in the Masses celebrated while the statue is with us. After Holy Mass there will be refreshments in the church hall, to which all are most welcome. Please come and support the parishioners in our sister parish of Our Lady’s. I look forward to seeing you this evening, God bless, Fr. Martin

(please see below a short video of some of the statue’s journey so far…)

Excerpted from a recent ‘Ad Clerum’ from Bishop Robson

CENTENARY OF CARFIN GROTTO AND THE SCOTTISH VISIT OF THE RELICS OF ST BERNADETTE:

As I am sure you already know, this year 2022 is the Centenary of the Lourdes Grotto, the National Marian Shrine, at Carfin. It is also the occasion of the Visitation of the Relics of St. Bernadette, to whom Our Lady appeared in Lourdes at the Grotto of Massabielle on a number of occasions in 1858. The relics will be arriving in Carfin from Saturday, 24th September until Friday, 30th September 2022. The Guardian of the Shrine, Fr Jim Grant, has organised a programme of events for each day beginning on Monday, 26th September, which I enclose with this notice. The Shrine can be visited any day during this September week, though the timetable enclosed begins fully on the Monday. There are designated days allowing for all, individuals and groups, to visit the Shrine (Tuesday-Friday) with the exceptions of the Sunday 25th September which has a separate timetable.

Given the distance from Carfin, it might be sensible and appropriate to concentrate our efforts on the National Centenary Pilgrimage on Sunday 25th September when the Mass will begin at 3pm. Following the Mass, there will be a Rosary Procession in the Grounds.

May I therefore ask all parish priests to advertise this special day of the Centenary Mass in parish bulletins and newsletters. I am sure some parishes may organise bus trips or car-sharing to enable those parishioners who do not have their own transport to join the Pilgrimage.