Book Study Series: Encountering Jesus: How People Come to Faith and Discover Discipleship

This is an 8-week book study and discussion group, where we will explore Fr. Gittins' transformative book, Encountering Jesus: How People Come to Faith and Discover Discipleship. Through this study, we will delve into seventeen Gospel stories in which individuals encounter Jesus and experience profound transformation. Participants provide their own copy of the book and should plan to read two chapters per week (approximately 30 pages), prior to the meeting. We will begin with Ignatian Imaginative prayer and discuss responses and insights. Discussion questions will be provided.

Fr. Gittins examines seventeen Gospel stories in which people encounter Jesus and are transformed. In his commentary, he analyzes the scripture stories as examples of typical human behavior, everyday concerns, and emotional responses. Passages are unpacked with clarity of application to the life and spiritual journey of the present-day reader. This text is a valuable resource for spiritual directors who are engaging Ignatian Imaginative prayer, as they guide seekers in connecting their story to the Master Story. 

Meetings will be on Wednesday afternoons for 8 weeks from 1:00pm - 2:30pm. 

Study Facilitators

Elizabeth McLaughlin

Elizabeth McLaughlin holds a master's degree in Theological Studies from the University of St. Thomas Graduate School of Theology and a bachelor's degree in Educational Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University. She is certified by the state of Texas in secondary sciences and has worked professionally in education for 30 years as an instructor, gifted and talented program director, and curriculum specialist. Mrs. McLaughlin has presented at national and local educational conferences, catechetical leadership training, retreats, and parish formation programs. Additionally, she has served on curriculum committees and is a certified catechist in the arch-diocese of Galveston-Houston, working with all ages from pre-school through adult. She served as adjunct faculty at the UST Nesti Center for Faith and Culture Family Life Certificate program and most recently as the 7th and 8th grade Theology instructor at St. Laurence Catholic School.

Marie Thome

Marie Thome is a 1999 graduate of Houston Cenacle Spiritual Direction Institute and was a Spiritual Director for the Cenacle. She is currently on the volunteer staff at the Emmaus Spirituality Center. She is an educator and was in the classroom as well as administration in Catholic schools. Marie is a certified catechist and served in various ministries at St John Vianney, her home parish. She has also been active in the ACTS ministry in various roles including as a Spiritual Director, since she first attended 20 years ago. She has created and led Days of Prayer and presentations. She is a seeker of knowledge and spiritual growth and is humbled by the privilege of accompanying others on their spiritual journey. She is the mother of four and grandmother of nine.