Cornerstones: Introduction to the Old Testament

Over four sessions we will engage in an exploration of the Catholic approach to the Old Testament. We will be following the principles set out in the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum), one of the key documents of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965).

Essential to our enquiry will be the consideration of a selection of biblical texts. This process of reading and reflecting will lead us to an appreciation of how the written words of human authors can be instrumental in bringing about an encounter with God, which, after all, is the goal of meditating on Scripture. Practical experience in the guided reading of extracts from Scripture will help us deal with the historical, cultural and literary challenges that face every serious reader of the Bible.

Dates

Extensive Mode (4 x 1.5 hour sessions)

Wednesday, 14 October 2026
Wednesday, 28 October 2026
Wednesday, 11 November 2026
Wednesday, 25 November 2026

4:00PM – 6:00PM [QLD time]
3:30PM – 5:30PM [NT time]

Intensive Mode (1 x 6 hour session)

Wednesday, 4 November 2026

9.00AM – 3.00PM [NSW time]

Topics

Session Content
Session One ·      The structure, nature and purpose of the Old Testament
Session Two ·      Formation of Israel as Covenant People (Exodus and onwards)
Session Three ·      Prophecy and the Covenant Community
Session Four ·      The Psalms and Writings – expressions of Israel’s relationship with God