Why doesn’t the Catholic Church encourage its members to establish small groups for
Bible study? Aren’t many Catholics joining nondenominational churches to go deeper into their faith and have a closer connection with other believers?
There are some Catholic Bible study groups. I celebrate Mass three times a week at a parish that has such a monthly group. Unfortunately, many people have more time and energy for online gaming groups, watching TV, casino gambling, and countless other activities than for trying to grow in their understanding of God’s self-revelation. Such growth can help them live more deeply as people made in the divine image. The Bible was given to believers and should be understood in communion with other believers, something that nondenominational churches tend not to emphasize. After Vatican II, the Catholic Church has given stronger encouragement for Bible study and faith sharing in small groups.
