St. Theresa Catholic Church

The Year of Saint Paul

Pope Benedict XVI declares: "Meetings for study will be promoted and there will be special publications on Pauline texts, to promote the immense richness of the teaching contained in them, true patrimony of humanity redeemed by Christ.  Also, in every part of the world, similar initiatives will be organized in dioceses, sanctuaries and places of prayer by religious institutions, institutions of study and assistance, which carry the name of St. Paul or which have been inspired by him and his teaching."  The year began on June 29, 2008, the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul.

Bishop Robert J. Baker commissioned Father Mitch Pacwa to write a bible study guide for parish and school use within the Birmingham diocese during the Pauline Year. Our Sunday Visitor Publishing in Indiana agreed to co-publish the book, Saint Paul: A Bible Study Guide for Catholics.  The Birmingham Catholic Press is making it available to all Catholics throughout the world looking for a resource to use in celebration of the Year of Saint Paul.

In September and October of 2008, Father Pacwa will present a lecture on each of the six sessions in the book at the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Birmingham.  Parishes in the diocese will conduct the bible study on Saint Paul this fall and in the Spring of 2009.

The book has been released and covers Saint Paul's teaching on the Sacraments as well as his missionary activity. The appendix of the book includes a reference checklist to enable the reader to study the Letters of Saint Paul during the year.  St. Theresa Church has copies of the book and is encouraging the forming of personal study groups.  Anyone interested in leading these studies is asked to contact the Parish Office.