“You can’t beat gathering around a table with a cup of tea and a biscuit and talking about the Bible. People have been doing it for over 2000 years, and it still works. The Bible is the living word of God, and He speaks to us through it.” – The Revd Julie Nelson
If you’re looking for a warm, relaxed and welcoming environment to explore the Bible and connect with others, the Miserden Bible Study group might be just the place for you.
They meet in Miserden Village Hall, where they sit around a table and discuss a Bible passage over tea and biscuits.
The group typically sees six to eight people, who attend different churches over the diocese, come together for conversation. Each week, they discuss the upcoming Sunday gospel reading, guided by five questions from the ‘Friendly Bible Study’ method:
- What is the author’s main point in this passage?
- What new light do I find in this particular reading of this passage?
- Is the passage true to my experience?
- What are its implications for my life?
- What problems do I have with this passage?
Often, discussions veer off the planned questions. A Bible passage might spark a thought, a personal issue, a memory, a topical story or global event, and it leads to rich and varied conversations.
The Revd Julie Nelson, who facilitates the meeting, explained: “These questions help to open up the conversation. There’s no right answer. You don’t need prior learning to participate. Everyone’s response is valued, and we all listen to each other. Our sessions are more open compared to some Bible study meetings, for example some groups use a study guide, which to some can feel more formal.”
The Bible group started a few years ago by the Revd Val Thorne, when a church-goer expressed a desire for something more engaging than the usual Sunday services.
“We are a rural benefice with nine churches and small congregations. We can’t offer the extensive programmes and events that larger town churches can, but we wanted to try something different,” Julie said.
Val suggested a weekday meet-up at the local village pub, which coincided at the time with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the pub’s reopening. The idea was to gather for an hour to discuss a Bible passage, supporting both the church community and the pub business. Initially, the pub setting worked well, but as it became busier and noisier, the group were seeking a quieter venue.
The church itself was the next choice, but practical issues arose. The pews made it difficult to sit in a circle and have comfortable discussions, and making hot drinks was challenging. Additionally, the church’s popularity with visitors led to frequent interruptions.
“We love having visitors at the church and didn’t want to deter them,” Julie noted. “So, we decided the village hall would be a better fit.”
Since then, the group meets every Wednesday in the Village Hall.
Julie said: “The group runs itself now. There is no leader in the group. Val is now retired but the group has continued. I facilitate it but the group doesn’t need me for it to run.”
Julie is welcoming anyone to come along to a Bible meet-up session, taking place every Wednesday at Miserden Village Hall from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Sometimes it finishes at 3pm due to continuing discussions.
She said: “We really look forward to welcoming new members. People can bring their personal backgrounds, struggles, and experiences, and the Bible passage will say something to them.”
Alternatively, you can email her or give her a ring on 07920 253157 to show interest, and she can add you to her mailing list.
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