LINCOLN – The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies held its first recognition and appreciation banquet May 14, in which 11 individuals were recognized with certificates for their completion of a three-year program in the study of Sacred Scripture.
The morning began with Mass celebrated by Bishop Conley, followed by a complimentary brunch and short program for approximately 85 supporters and students in attendance.
The certification the individuals received is conferred upon the completion of Emmaus’ core program of study, “Creation to New Creation: Journey through Scripture from Genesis to Revelation.” The three-year exploration of the entire Bible focuses on how every one of its 73 sacred books reveals Jesus the Christ and the good news of his salvation in unique and creative ways. In fulfilling the program of study, each graduate completed nine 10-week courses, totaling 180 hours of instruction in a community learning to live together in the Scriptures.
In addition to recognizing the program’s graduates, the morning banquet served as a token of appreciation for the hundreds of individuals who have variously supported the Emmaus Institute and attended its many classes and seminars. The event was dedicated to celebration and thanksgiving for all that the Lord has accomplished through the past year, including the completion of 16 courses, five seminars, an Advent retreat, and numerous devotional talks at parishes and religious communities.
“We are humbled at the response we have seen over the past year to our various formation opportunities,” said Dr. Vern Steiner, president of Emmaus. “The people of God have an obvious hunger to be fed and nourished by the Word of God, and we are grateful beyond words that the Lord is at work through this institute as we minister to his people in this way.
“Seeing so many individuals passionate about reading Scripture and meeting Christ there is one of the great blessings of our work.”
This fall, The Emmaus Institute will restart its core program, “Creation to New Creation,” beginning with a 10-week course in the Pentateuch (Genesis–Deuteronomy), along with other courses and seminars.
“I encourage and challenge the Catholic faithful of the Lincoln Diocese to grow deeper in their faith through the numerous learning opportunities at the Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies,” Bishop James Conley said. “I particularly encourage priests to send teachers and other ministry leaders from their parishes to study at Emmaus in order to become more fully equipped to be effective missionary disciples and ambassadors of the Gospel in their own parishes and schools.” To register for the “Creation to New Creation” program or to learn more about other upcoming offerings, visit www.emmausinstitute.net or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
