OTIS – St. Mary's book club/ bible study is a group of like-minded people who love books and reading. Members have an enthusiasm for learning and discussing books on many topics and interests, especially books on spirituality, biographies, historical fiction, classics and best sellers.
“Authors help us in our spiritual journey and growth as individuals,” said parishioner Sheree Warnke, who leads the discussions.
In 2007, tThe Catholic Communities hosted a Day of Reflection at St. Mary, and Father Jerry Schweitzer was the pastor. The speaker discussed a book by Henri Nouwen, “Life of the Beloved,” and that was all it took for a small group to gather to discuss the book as well as “The Return Of The Prodigal Son,” also by Henri Nouwen. The group has been meeting ever since, with about 18 active members.
The group has stayed very consistent through the years. Most of the organized bible studies have been through Little Rock Scripture Study by Liturgical Press, and most current studies have been through Ascension. These series provide a workbook, a video to watch and questions for discussion. Many times, a priest or deacon will join them if they are available. In the late spring and into summer, the group tends to read more books.
The book club and bible study participants have taken some trips to see some shows in Chicago. They read several of CS Lewis books, and did go visit the Indiana author's home, Gene Stratton Porter, after reading her book “A Girl of the Limberlost.” “The Red Tent” was one of their favorite books, and they watched the movie together.
“We have fun and always find ways to enhance our experience with what we read,” Warnke said.
The group begins each Tuesday morning with Mass, followed by snacks and fellowship and then starts the study or discussion. Participants completed “Jesus The Way The Truth And The Life” bible study by Ascension and they just finished reading “Remarkably Bright Creatures” and plan to watch the movie that was recently released.
“I think we all look forward to Tuesday,” Warnke said. “The energy of this group and the support we give each other in our faith and lives is so worthwhile. Not only are we learning from books, but we are also learning from each other.”
Warnke’s mother, Thelma Fath, one of the original members of the group, recalls that the club started off as a walk with coffee, discussing books between a few individuals following Mass on Sunday.
“Sometimes you just want something more and the book club seems to help provide the answer for many parishioners at St. Mary in Otis,” she said.
Fath explained that while engaging in discussions, the members begin to share their own experiences, which in turn develops into a special conversation among friends.
“The energy, inspiration, love and laughter that is felt during these conversations has a strong impact on the spiritual journey of all involved,” she said.
Sharon Capehart joined the bible study/book club group about ten years ago through a personal invitation from member – Thelma Fath. While everyone is welcome, she said, it was Faith taking the time to call and personally invite her that meant so much.
Capehart said the time spent studying the Gospels and other books of the Bible has deepened her faith and strengthened her understanding of Church teachings. She acknowledged that during the summer months, it often transitions its discussions to fictional and historical books.
She said, “Do we get off topic? Certainly! We sometimes find ourselves sidetracked by what my husband affectionately calls ‘parking lot topics.’ Regardless of where the discussion leads, this is a group of kind and loving brothers and sisters who find great comfort and joy in one another’s company.”
Tuesday mornings have become a highlight of Capehart’s week, beginning with Mass at 8 a.m., followed by coffee and surprise treats, until the lights are flicked off and on – “the familiar signal that it is time to begin our gathering.”
For more information about St. Mary’s book club/bible study, call (219) 929-7698 or email swarnke74@yahoo.com.
