YAY! We Made It To the End of Disciple Bible Study

Disciple Bible Study at PGUMC is a 32 week course delving into the historical, contextual and of course religous perspectives of the Bible.  When we started out, the evening portion of the study had 30+ members.  There was also a morning group, but alas, we never had the opportunity to sit in on any of their sessions, but we did hear about topics of discussion of the morning class from Jay Minnick, our minister.  The evening group was a lively bunch but as the weeks progressed, especially during the Old Testament, we did see a certain attrition of members.  Slowly we would notice people not attending.  This was to be expected as some people, actually most people, didn't really realize the time commitment to see it to the end.  Although a 32 week course, it ran about 38 as we did have time off during Christmas and Easter where we didn't meet.  I'm not sure if anyone actually made it to all 32 weeks.  Maybe there was 1 or 2, if so, please speak up as I would like to know who your were.  Joe and I missed for a Paul Simon concert one night and then we each had a week where one was sick and so we didn't attend.  I think I missed 3 and Joe missed 4, but considering this started last summer and just ended this week, making it to that many is still impressive to me.  I think the consensus from everyone was that we had a good time, learned a lot, both about the Bible and about ourselves.  It was a great atmosphere where anyone could ask any question, express any doubt or any opinion.  We all became very comfortable with one another and I think we will all miss our Thursday nights.  Also, we had GREAT SNACKS!  Hopefully some of us, if not all of us, will continue on with some "shorter" courses that are planned for the fall and next spring.

Last night was our last gathering and it will be memorable.  Those in attendance know what I am talking about!  We had a great pot luck dinner at Larry's house where everyone contributed.  Thanks Larry for being a wonderful host.

Joe and I will miss our Thursdays, but at the same time, it will be nice to have at least for the summer, a free night.   Thanks to everyone in Disciple Bible Study for being so supportive and for being our friends.  We both feel like we have gained some long lasting relationships with all of you.

Jay, Cheryl, Susan, Rebecca, Phil, Larry, Matt, Mike, Tim, Joe, Pat, Anna, Connie, Sheila, Joe & Me (not in that order)....and Meredith taking the photo!  And of course, Emmie in Anna's arms.  Yes, we had a baby born during the time of the course.  Like I said, it's a long course!