For immediate release
August 14, 2023
Chicago, IL — The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women (GCSRW) has announced the release of a newly adapted digital version of their popular "God of the Bible” for United Methodists. The comprehensive five-session study delves into how God's true nature is revealed through Scripture. The resource debuted during four workshop sessions at YOUTH 2023 and is now offered free of charge to the Church at large. This digital course was built for seamless access across various devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones. It also ensures greater accessibility and a flexible, user-friendly experience.
Originally launched as a booklet and later in PDF format, GCSRW's aim in developing this updated version of the curriculum was to gain insight into young people's perceptions of God. During the YOUTH 2023 event—that welcomed more than 2,500 attendees representing youth, church leaders and agencies—workshop participants were invited to contribute their feedback on the material through a Mentimeter exercise, notes Meg Lassiat, the agency’s Director of Resource Development and Training, who also serves as the leader for the development of study’s online segments. “Our workshops were successful and the comments we received indicated that the curriculum had a significant impact on attendees and is a much-needed resource.”
The curriculum is designed for individual use and online or in person small group settings. To enhance the study experience, a participant’s guide and supplemental resource documents are included. A leader's guide featuring background material, hints for managing small groups and facilitating discussion is also available. Each resource is accessible via a free online download.
The five sessions focus on the topics of:
- Imagining the Mystery and Love of God
- Listening to Wisdom
- God Who Loves, Nurtures, and Parents
- God of All Creation
- Knowing the Unknowable
“The responses collected from youth, that included their familiarity with different names and descriptors for God, shows that traditional language used for God continues to be male-dominated,” added Lassiat. “Reconsidering our perspective on God and using expansive language to include feminine, masculine and non-gendered language can have a significant impact on how we perceive God’s creation and the intrinsic value of every individual. This transformative process can lead to a greater understanding and empathy among us.”
“I hope that the ‘God of the Bible’ curriculum will be embraced and utilized throughout our connection, engaging people of all ages, especially youth,” expressed Dawn Wiggins Hare, general secretary of GCSRW. “It's remarkable to realize the amount of work ahead of us, but there is reason for optimism as newer generations embrace a broader vocabulary.”
The digital on-demand and self-paced course can be accessed online at GCSRW.org/GodoftheBible.
Leaders seeking guidance on how to effectively implement the curriculum are encouraged to reach out to GCSRW staff at [email protected]
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About the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women:
The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women advocates for full participation of women in the total life of The United Methodist Church. GCSRW helps the church recognize every person – clergy and lay, women and men, adults and children – as full and equal parts of God's human family. They believe that a fully engaged and empowered membership is vital to The United Methodist Church's mission "to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." Learn more at GCSRW.org.
Media contact:
312-346-4900
[email protected]