Welcome to Saint Matthew Parish’s The Reed of God Advent book study information and registration site!
What is The Reed of God about?
The Reed of God, authored by Caryll Houselander, is a series of meditations on the humanity of Mary. Haley Stewart, Catholic author of the study guide we will be using, has this to say about the book: “It is life-changing. Caryll Houselander’s breathtaking insights into the faithfulness, patience, and love of the Mother of God reveal a beautiful portrait of Our Lady as a model for Christian living…A perfect read for Advent, Lent, or any season, The Reed of God will open your eyes to the call to be full of grace—a reed through which God will play his song. It is a spiritual classic not to be missed.”
Who can participate in The Reed of God book study program?
SMP book study on The Reed of God is open to all who are seeking a deeper understanding of Marian devotion and a closer relationship with Jesus through Mary’s example and love. Please invite any friends or family members you believe will enjoy this series, even if they are from a different parish or no parish at all!
What is the format for The Reed of God meetings?
The first session, offered on Monday evening, October 28th, will include a simple meal, an overview of the program, and small group discussion focusing on the Introduction (1-5) to The Reed of God. The following sessions will include hospitality and guided small group discussion focusing on each of the four parts of the book in turn.
Is there a cost to participate in The Reed of God book study?
There is no cost to participate in The Reed of God program. Each participant will be given a copy of the book as well as a study guide with questions and prayers that will be used to guide the small group discussions. If participants wish, they can make a free will offering to cover the cost of the materials or contribute to our hospitality efforts.
How can I get my copy of The Reed of God?
Once you have registered for the program, you can get your copies of The Reed of God and study guide by contacting Anna Trovato at the All Saints parish office, arranging to meet with a team member after a Sunday Mass, or attending the Introductory session on October 28th. We encourage participants to register and pick up their books ahead of time, so you have additional reading time, and we have time to order additional books as needed.
How long is The Reed of God program?
Including the Introduction, there are a total of five book study sessions with each session lasting 1.5 hours.
When does The Reed of God book study start? End?
We will have a “kick-off”’ session on Monday, October 28th (6:30-8:00 pm) to which all participants are invited. The program will continue through the first three weeks of November, break during Thanksgiving week, and end in the first week of Advent. Please note that after the Introductory session, the program will be offered at three different times to accommodate as many people’s schedules as possible. (See detailed schedule below.)
Monday afternoons (1:30 – 3:00 pm)
Monday evenings (6:30 – 8:00pm)
Thursday evenings (7:00 – 8:30 pm)
Do I need to attend all sessions of The Reed of God program? Read the entire book?
We encourage you to attend all sessions of the book study and to prepare for each small group discussion by reading the relevant section and responding to the questions. If you do miss a session, please remember that the program is offered at three different times, and you are welcome to join us at an alternative session. If you find yourself short on time and unable to prepare for a session, please attend anyway. Much can be gained by listening to what others have to share and joining your group in prayer.
Further questions: Please contact our team leader, Joanna Crammond, by email: [email protected], Flocknote, or phone: 412 877-8133
SMP The Reed of God book study schedule
Week 1 Monday, October 28th, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Introductory session for all participants
Week 2 Monday, November 4th, 1:30 – 3:00pm or 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Thursday, November 7th, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Week 3 Monday, November 11th, 1:30 – 3:00 pm or 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Thursday, November 14th, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Week 4 Monday, November 18th, 1:30 – 3:00 pm or 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Thursday, November 21st, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Week 5 Monday, December 2nd, 1:30 – 3:00 pm or 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Thursday, December 5th, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
All book study sessions will take place in Newmeyer Hall located on the Saint Bonaventure Campus