We are asking you to prayerfully consider leading a study with friends, neighbors, or coworkers.

We love to try new things! Plus, we are shifting our Bible study schedule a bit for 2022-23. This format will not be the norm going forward, but it makes sense for this season as we transition to a different schedule. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to step out in faith and try your hand at leading! Who knows what you will learn and discover?

The studies are designed for women in high school and older.

Both studies were created (by College Park women) to be accessible and to help women discover biblical truths on their own. Those who are new to the Scriptures will learn how to study God’s Word. Those who are seasoned will appreciate digging into the Word and discovering the richness found there.

All materials are available by clicking the corresponding study’s button above. Resources include a study guide and weekly audio/video teachings. The study guide can be downloaded and printed at home or sent to a local print shop (such as FedEx or Office Depot) to be printed and bound.

One option is to hold the Bible study over Zoom with people you already know who live elsewhere. Another option is to reach out to other College Park women on the CPC Ladies Online Fellowship Facebook group and ask if there are women who live near you who are interested in joining you. 

Someone’s home, a coffee shop, or a park are a few options!

The teachings are intended for everyone in the study!

You are welcome to, but it isn’t necessary. Another option is for you to listen on your own after the group discussion.

We recommend the following order:

• Complete the study questions on your own prior to the group meeting.
• Meet as a group and discuss together.
• Listen to/watch the teaching on your own (or as a group if preferred).

The reason we recommend listening to the teaching after you answer the weeks’ questions and discuss as a group is so that you learn to engage with God’s Word for yourself and not simply depend upon someone else’s findings.

The first week has no questions, only an audio lesson. So, the first week, you will meet before completing any study questions. This first gathering is intended to be a get-to-know-you time and a discussion of how the study will go. If your group already knows one another, you could listen to the intro lesson on your own and at your first gathering begin on week two of the study.

It’s not required, but we would love to know so we can be praying for you! Feel free to let us know by emailing Jane Schuth.

• Pray about whether the Lord is leading you to start a group
• Pray about who you might ask to join you.
• Be personal and intentional when asking. Asking in person or over text is more personal than a social media post.

• Consider what time serves your group members best and where they would be most comfortable meeting.
• Be clear on the expectations including what they need to bring and how long will you meet.
• Keep it simple. You don’t need to have a meal or elaborate snacks, but a few drinks and simple munchies might make it more inviting.
• Create a safe environment. Let women know it is okay to ask questions or disagree, but whatever is shared in the group should stay in the group.
• Incorporate prayer into your meetings. Don’t put women on the spot to pray out loud if you don’t know their comfort level ahead of time.

• We recommend the following:
  • Complete the study questions on your own prior to the group meeting.
  • Meet as a group and discuss the lesson together.
  • Listen to/watch the teaching on your own (or as a group if preferred).
• The reason we recommend listening to the teaching after you answer the weeks’ questions and discuss the lesson as a group is so that you learn to engage with God’s Word for yourself and not simply depend upon someone else’s findings.
• The first week has no questions, only an audio lesson. So, the first week, you will meet before completing any study questions. This first gathering is intended to be a get-to-know-you time and a discussion of how the study will go. If your group already knows one another, you could listen to the intro lesson on your own and at your first gathering begin on week two of the study.

• Allow some time for fellowship.
• Create a safe environment by letting women participate at the level they are comfortable with. Your group members may come from various backgrounds or denominations or may not attend church at all. It is better to sit in silence for a bit than to call on people.
• It is okay to say “I don’t know” in response to someone’s question. Search the Scriptures for answers and feel free to reach out to us if tough questions come up. You won’t have all the answers; none of us do.
• What if no one is participating?
  • Don’t answer all the questions yourself, but if you share authentically and vulnerably, it will likely help other group members open up as well.
  • Let them know you are willing to wait while they think about the question and that silence is okay at times.
  • Use humor to break the ice, such as “Let’s not all speak at once.”
  • Don’t resort to calling on people, this will likely make women uncomfortable.
  • Connect with the women outside of the group gatherings and encourage them to share as they are comfortable. Sometimes women just need to know that their voice is valued and appreciated.
• Consider how to build relationships with the women, not only during your group meetings, but also beyond that. It can be simple texts or emails or, if time allows, meeting for a walk or coffee.