LINCOLN (SNR) - The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies will start its second year of operation by offering both online and in-person classes for its fall quarter, Sept. 8 through Nov. 16.
“As we approach our second year of operations,” said Emmaus president, Dr. Vern Steiner, “we do so with awe and gratitude for the opportunities we are given to promote the glory of Christ through this strategic ministry.”
The online expansion, though coming sooner than expected, presents a welcome opportunity.
“It’s been on our radar from the beginning,” Dr. Steiner said. “We want to serve the entire diocese, not just those in the Lincoln area.” He added, “Accessibility and community are core values of Emmaus. The Church is a community of believers, and we want to be accessible in a way that best retains the community-building aspect, not just offer data for disconnected consumers. While we’re expanding into online classes earlier than we originally planned, we’ve embraced the new and wider opportunities, in a manner consistent with our mission.”
Each in-person class will meet one day per week from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Four of the five classes will be recorded and available the following day for self-paced viewing by those who register for the online version. In-person registrants will also have free access to the recordings.
Dr. Steiner pointed out that online class participants will be able to interact with the instructor and with each other.
“Though the online classes are pre-recorded, participants will have the same access to teachers as those who attend in-person, with the obvious exception of not being able to ask questions and make comments during the class session. Students are also encouraged to dialogue with the instructor and with each other through the class community forum on our website.”
The Emmaus website will include continually updated information on safety measures for in-person class attendees. The Institute will pay careful attention to and abide by the recommendations from the medical, diocesan, and governing authorities for health and safety in the city.
As class sizes may be limited, participants are encouraged to register early at www.emmausinstitute.net.
Fall courses include “The Letter of James: Living Our Faith in the Real World” Mondays by J. Burks; “Leviticus-Deuteronomy” in the Creation to New Creation stream of courses from Genesis to Revelation Tuesdays by V. Steiner; “Foundations in Biblical Study, Part II: Interpreting the Bible,” the second of two courses on essentials in studying and understanding Scripture, held in-person only on Wednesdays by V. Steiner; “Job: Suffering Servant, Sign of Christ” Wednesdays by C. Steiner; “Reading with the Doctors: The Saints and the Scriptures” Thursdays by J. Burks and C. Steiner.
In addition to the 10-week courses, Emmaus will offer a half-day seminar on the topic “Are You Saved?” The Fullness of Salvation in Catholic Teaching, Saturday, Oct. 24. More details will be made available as the event approaches.
