Catholic Bible Study: A tool for living out the Year of Faith

According to catholicnews.com, Pope Benedict XVI announced in his letter Porta Fidei that the Year of Faith will commence October 11^th of this year. After reading this I wondered, what does the Year of Faith mean for us?

After some research it seems that the Year of Faith focuses primarily on two things. This statement from Porta Fidei sums up the purpose and goal of the Year of Faith perfectly: “[the Year of Faith] is intended to contribute to a renewed conversion to the Lord Jesus and to the rediscovery of faith, so that the members of the Church will be credible and joy-filled witnesses to the Risen Lord, capable of leading those many people who are seeking it to the door of faith.”

How do we go about this two-pronged challenge practically (rediscovering our faith, and sharing it with others)?  Here are two very simple, practical ideas to consider that will help you live this beautiful call to improve your life of Faith.

Catholic Bible Study – By participating in a Catholic Bible Study we have the chance to not only grow in our relationship with God but also grow in our faith as well. A Catholic Bible Study typically includes many references to the Catechism and other quotes from Catholic Doctors of the Church so that you and others can dive deep into the Catholic Bible. Being a part of a Catholic Bible Study might be a great choice for you and your friends to actively embrace the call of the Year of Faith.

Being a Catechumen – If you think you have the call to be a catechumen, then this would be a great way to embrace the Year of Faith. As a catechumen you will not only get to educate children about the faith, but also learn more yourself. Being a catechumen at your local parish is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding through having to explain it to others. Many catechumens say that they have learned more about the faith from being a catechumen than any other experience in their lives, and that might be true for you as well. Serving as a catechumen is a great service to God and his children as well as a beautiful embracing of the call of the Year of Faith.

Participating in a Catholic Bible Study or serving as a catechumen are just a couple ideas on how to make the most of the Year of Faith. If you’re already a part of a Catholic Bible Study or serving as a catechumen, then perhaps it's time for you to invite others to join you! Helping others to embrace the Year of Faith is an important part of the purpose and goal of the Year of Faith as well.  Additionally you can check out The Catholic Company's Year of Faith collection of Catholic products to assist you in knowing your faith better and sharing it with others. If you have any ideas on how to live the Year of Faith then please leave your comments below.