Ecumenical Bible study group
builds unity in the midst of diversity

Community Bible Study is seeking new members. The Rochester west group meets on Wednesday mornings at Greece Baptist Church on Long Pond Road. The non-denominational program welcomes women of all ages and all levels of biblical knowledge. Concurrent programs offering age appropriate activities for infants to kindergarteners are also accepting new members.

There are advantages to ecumenical Bible study according to Mary Lou Bates, secretary for the Rochester west group. "We meet many different women from many different denominations," she said, "but we all learn together." This year the women will study the Book of Romans.

The two-hour class is comprised of several sections, beginning with a short opening. "We then go to our core group of about 14 or 15 women," Bates said. "We discuss the Scripture passage we studied at home, and share our answers to the study questions." These sessions are led by a trained Core Group Leader. "Then we gather together for lecture on the biblical passage presented by Laura Cockrell, our teaching director," Bates said.

The ministry of Community Bible Study began in 1975 as the answer to prayer. A group of women sought a Bible study program in the Washington D.C. area. From a single class in Bethesda, Maryland, the ministry has grown to over 500 groups in 42 states. Throughout its history, its mission has remained unchanged: To make disciples of Jesus Christ in our communities through caring, in-depth Bible study, available to all.

"The Rochester west group began in the fall of 2002," Bates said. A group of ladies from the west side of Rochester were attending class on the east side. As their numbers increased, they prayed about the possibility of starting a west side class. Eventually they worked with the national organization to start the Rochester west group.

Leaders of Community Bible Study are volunteers who receive extensive training from the national organization. "Each group has a teaching director, an assistant teaching director, a coordinator, a children's program director, and a prayer chairman," Bates said. "This group is called the Servant Team, and they are our leaders." Churches such as Greece Baptist allow groups to use their facilities.

Besides gaining new insights into the Bible, members enjoy support and companionship. "Our Core Group Leaders call the women in their group every week," Bates said, "to check on them and see how they are. We have a brunch once a month as a part of our group, so that's a time for fellowship and getting to know each other." Prospective members are invited to attend Visitors Day. "We have a Welcome Group," Bates said, "where women can learn about the program, and decide if they would like to register."

Community Bible Study meets at Greece Baptist Church, 1230 Long Pond Road, on Wednesdays from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. Classes begin on September 14 and continue through mid-May. Visitors Days are September 14, 21, 28. For information, contact Kathy Smith, coordinator: 247-8053, or Mary Lou Bates, secretary: 594-2232.