Scripture Instructors
“Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ. “
- St. Jerome
Gail Murphy
Catechetical Formation
gmurphy@benethillmonastery.org
M.A. Pastoral Ministry, Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis. MO, Graduate of the 2-year Bethel Scripture Study Program, Graduate of the 2-year Seekers Catechetical Study Program, B.A. Mathematics/ Computers, Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame IN
“You have been told what is good, and what the Lord requires of you; Only to do right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God.”-Micah 6:8
As a native of Chicago, Illinois, I grew up immersed in the Catholic faith, attending Catholic schools from elementary to college level. A family bible was always open on the living room table at our home and my mother often read it to us as children. Faith was integrated with daily life and was the foundation for the core beliefs I hold today: life as a faith journey, God as steadfast companion in all experiences, and the building and nurturing of community as integral to the journey. I am blessed to have over 15 years combined teaching and leadership experience in the Catholic Community including 5 years as Director of Faith Formation and 10 years as RCIA director in Colorado Springs. I enjoy offering scripture-based opportunities that allow us to recognize and share the stories of our faith journey. Whether we find ourselves in a place of hope or despair, it is in community that often we discover the truth of Jeremiah 29:11 - “ I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
As an instructor in the Benet Hill Scripture program why do I have a passion for other’s learning to read Scripture?
This is what reading/praying, studying, understanding Scripture daily do for me:
- I am daily affirmed of God’s mercy and his promise of eternal life.
- I am given God’s grace to listen, understand, and put into action what is his, not my, plan, for my life.
- I am reminded to glorify him daily for these things.
- I can tell others of what God does for me so they too will know of his mercy and eternal security.
Why is it important to understand the historical background of Scripture for my own personal spiritual growth?
Scripture can easily be misinterpreted. If I study why the writings were written, at the time they were written, and what was happening in the lives of God’s people then, I can see why the writing was written. Then I again look at the reading how Jesus would interpret the same reading. Last of all, I then can look at what God is communicating to me for my life today.
Sue Cox, RN; BA in Religious Studies, Religious Education Instructor
johnsuecox@juno.com
... but with God all things are possible.
Matthew 19:26
Sue has been a health care professional since the 60’s who is interested in and passionate about health of mind, body and spirit. She is a certified Spiritual Director and graduate of the Scripture program. She has a BA in Religious Studies from Benedictine College in Atchison, KS, and currently teaches Scripture at Benet Hill Center.
John Cox, MA in Counseling & Educational Administration
johnsuecox@juno.com
You have been told, O man, what is good, and what the Lord requires of you:
Only to do the right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God.
-Micah 6:8
John has a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Texas, Austin and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. He is a graduate of the 4-year Scripture program at Benet Hill Center, has taught Bible Study for his local parish, served as RCIA catechist from 1995 to present and has lectured in film criticism for several groups.
Cliff Eisenach, Master of Science Studies; USAF Certified Master Instructor
"Benet Hill scripture study brings the Bible alive"
Cliff is a graduate of the 4-year Scripture Program at Benet Hill Center; and has attended numerous Scripture seminars.
Mark Klinger, MA in Pastoral Ministries
Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden; and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
-Matt 1:28-30
Mark is a graduate of the 4 year Scripture Program at Benet Hill Center, and has 36 hours from Scripture/Theology at St. Thomas Seminary, Denver, CO.