Two Bible studies at St. Isidore’s now offer students an opportunity to spend some time studying the most important subject of all - the Catholic faith.

Father Keith Weber leads the men’s Bible study, which covers the Gospel of Matthew. Father Keith starts with a prayer, followed by a presentation of how scholars view Matthew’s telling of Jesus’ life and ministry. After the presentation, the students have the opportunity to discuss their feelings on what they have read and how it applies to their lives.

In the past, Bible studies were student-led and were more like Bible reflections. The new Bible studies also cover scholarly research.

Andrew Harris, a senior in industrial engineering from Pratt, Kan., appreciates the knowledge Father Keith brings to the study.

“Along with reading a chapter per week, Father Keith gives historical background about the people and events at the time of Jesus. This information compliments the readings and provides a better understanding,” Harris said.

Charles Mersmann, a junior in accounting and finance from Eudora, Kan., says he has learned important information about the Gospels.

“I never knew that each Gospel was written for a different crowd and is meant to emphasize different characteristics of Jesus,” Mersmann said.

Twelve to fifteen men attend the study each week, and while Father Keith hopes the men learn more about the Gospels and how they fit together to teach us about the life of Jesus, he also hopes the men will encourage one another.

“My goal is also for the men to challenge each other in living the gospel in their daily lives,” Father Keith said.

Harris said the Bible study group has done just that.

“Each person brings a new perspective, and together we form good ideas and discussion about the chapter,” Harris said.

Mersmann also enjoyed the comraderie with the other men, and the information he learned. He said he would encourage others to attend the Bible study in the future.

“I would definitely recommend the Bible study if you have questions about the Gospel or if you are looking to get to know other Catholic men,” Mersmann said.

Father Keith has also grown in his knowledge of the Gospels. For every session of the Bible study, Father Keith spends several hours researching the scholarly opinions on scripture.

“I have learned more about Matthew’s gospel as well. As I read the scholars’ explanations, I learn more about the meaning of each passage, too,” Father Keith said.

The women’s Bible study has a similar format to the men’s study, and it is lead by Emily Bergkamp, St. Isidore’s Campus Minister. Like the men’s Bible study, the women’s study has an atmosphere that encourages students to learn and grow in faith. About six to eight women attend the Bible study every week.

Dana Feldkamp, a junior in mass communications from Baileyville, Kan., had never attended a Bible study before, but wanted to learn more about her faith and meet others. She said attending has definitely paid off.

“I was really nervous the first time I attended the women’s Bible study. I remember walking in alone, not knowing what to expect and being intimated about being the only one that hadn’t been there before. My fears were quickly put to rest and I knew that I had made the right decision. Everyone was so nice and friendly, they made me feel right at home and it was amazing,” Feldkamp said.

Christine Juen, a veterinary medicine student from Glen Carbon, Ill., was new to K-State this year and she has also enjoyed getting to know others at St. Isidore’s while learning more about the Gospel of Mark.

“I love hearing different peoples’ interpretations of Bible passages and what it means to them when they read them. It gives me different perspectives and ways to look at the Bible and how it applies to my life,” Juen said.

Bergkamp’s ultimate goal is that the women will grow closer to God, and according to Feldkamp, the study has accomplished that goal.

“I have learned so much about myself, as well as my faith. I have not only grown closer to God, but also opened up my eyes to various parts of my faith,” Feldkamp said.

The discussion of the scriptures has urged Juen to dig deeper into the meaning of the Gospel of Mark, and she appreciates the thought-provoking discussions.

“I’ve learned that there isn’t always one right answer. There are certain accepted meanings or interpretations, but to some extent it is the overall message and the application of the Bible to your own personal life that matters,” Juen said.