Catholic Book Club

"The harm that comes to souls from the lack of reading holy books makes me shudder...
 What power spiritual reading has to lead to a change of course,
 and to make even worldly people enter into the way of perfection."
 — St. Padre Pio

Our Parish's Catholic Book Club will begin discussing our new book, Jesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls, by John Bergsma, on September 11, 2025, at 7 pm in the Church Library.

"From scholar John Bergsma comes an intriguing book that reveals new insights on the Essenes, whose existence, beliefs, and practices are often overlooked. Bergsma reveals how this Jewish sect directly influenced the beliefs, sacraments, and practices of early Christianity and offers new information on how Christians lived their lives, worshipped, and eventually went on to influence the Roman Empire and Western civilization. Looking to Hebrew scripture and Jewish tradition, Bergsma helps to further explain how a simple Jewish peasant could go on to inspire a religion and a philosophy that still resonates 2,000 years later.
 
In this enriching and exciting exploration, Bergsma demonstrates how the Dead Sea Scrolls—the world's greatest modern archaeological discovery—can shed light on the Church as a sacred society that offered hope, redemption, and salvation to its member. Ultimately, these mysterious writings are a time machine that can transport us back to the ancient world, deepen our appreciation of Scripture, and strengthen our understanding of the Christian faith."

Why not join us in our study of this important book? The group meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 pm in the Church Library or Church Meeting Room. At each meeting, we discuss a selection from the current work. When we finish one book, we vote to decide which will be the next book to read and discuss. Should you have any questions, or are interested in joining us, feel free to contact Len Commini (609-273-6541; [email protected]) or Judy Kolpack (587-3873; [email protected]).

For the first session, please read and be prepared to discuss the following:

The remaining schedule will be posted as soon as we determine how quickly we will move through this book.