Bishop William F. Medley gives a video reflection for Season 1 of the Acts 2:42 series. This fall, current Acts groups and others are encouraged to meet for the new upcoming video series “In the Word with Bishop Medley.” SCREENSHOT
New small group opportunity: In the Word with Bishop Medley
BY DR. JEFF ANDRINI, EVANGELIZATION & DISCIPLESHIP
“In the Word with Bishop Medley” begins in September. This new video series is an effort to offer faith formation across the diocese in the most effective format for adult learners – small groups!
This specific series will meet once a month running from September through May. The content is twofold. It covers basic scripture scholarship and the liturgical calendar, and Bishop Medley will offer a video reflection on the readings for the fourth Sunday of the month. Therefore, small groups will meet once in the first three weeks each month to hear the readings proclaimed and to learn from their bishop and one another.
While content is important and there are many small group series available, there is so much more than content to these groups. Adult faith formation needs to be holistic, rooted in community and a safe place to pray for one another and discuss the joys and sorrows of our lives.
Catholic parishes that offer small groups and encourage members to participate find several benefits. 1) Enhanced discipleship and spiritual formation. Beyond passive listening like a homily, small groups offer active discussion, reflection and application to daily life. The intimate setting encourages vulnerability, allowing individuals to share struggles, receive support and work on overcoming challenges and growing in virtue. Through prayer, study and fellowship, participants often experience a renewed and deeper relationship with God. 2) Stronger community and belonging, which is evident in so many ways. 3) Growth in lay leadership and ministry. A couple priests have told Bishop Medley that the members of their parish Acts 2:42 groups are growing very close and are becoming more active in the parish. 4) Increased engagement and parish vitality.
Small groups are one of the best models for growing parish life and allow parishioners to active live out the Christian life together.
While you may have not heard about “In the Word with Bishop Medley,” you can still discuss your desire with parish leadership to be involved and see about forming your own group. All the materials are provided, and training is offered to help you lead the group. Are you feeling a “God nudge” to move out of your comfort zone and form a small group that will be a blessing in your own life and to every person who participates with you?
While are Acts 2:42 small group series came to an end last May, many of the current small groups plan to meet and use Bishop Medley’s new series. The prayer is that as we study God’s word and reflect on the readings for the fourth Sunday of the month, as a diocese, we will come to Mass on the fourth Sunday more disposed to hear God’s voice in our hearts through our preparation.
Prayerfully consider joining an existing group or creating a small group in your home to help your parish become a dynamic and attractive place of faith. Questions? Email me at [email protected].
Peace,
Jeff
Dr. Jeff Andrini is the director of the Office of Evangelization and Discipleship.
Originally printed in the August 2025 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.
