Many people know the Bible well, can quote scripture on many
topics, but are a little vague on church history: Who was John
Calvin?
Many people know the Bible well, can quote scripture on many topics, but are a little vague on church history: Who was John Calvin? How did Greek Orthodoxy come to be? Why does Easter come a different time every year? How was it decided which books belong in the Bible?
When the Men’s group at Gilroy’s Trinity Bible Church decided they would like to know more about the history of Christianity, they discussed the issue with the church’s pastor, the Rev. Vaughn Park, and the result is a two-day Conference on Church History scheduled for next weekend, Feb. 21 and 22.
Guest speaker is James T. Stitzinger, Associate Professor of Historical Theology at The Master’s Seminary in Los Angeles. A Ph.D. candidate at Westminster Theological Seminary with three Master’s degrees, Stitzinger is well qualified to explain the historical basis of today’s Christianity. Pastor Park calls him “easy to listen to” and “gracious in answering questions.”
The public is invited to attend the free conference; it will be held at the church (370-A Tomkins Court) in four sessions:
• Saturday: 10 to 11:45 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:15 p.m.
• Sunday: 9 to 10 a.m. and 10:30 to 12:15 p.m.
There will be musical interludes between sessions, and people are welcome to attend whichever sessions fit into their schedules.
Trinity Bible Church has many other opportunities available for local residents; church membership is not required for attendance.
Wednesday evening there are several activities available:
• Pioneer Clubs for children ages three to sixth grade meet at the church from 6:30 to 8 p.m. These fun events include games, crafts, Bible stories, music, memorizing Scripture, and refreshments.
This is “a great way to learn more about the Lord in a fun, safe environment,” according to Associate Pastor Jonathan Williams.
• Also on Wednesday is a High School Discipleship Class from 4:45 to 6 p.m. and Truth-Bearers, a teen discussion group featuring games, activities, music, worship, food, and fellowship from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
• Several different Men’s Bible Study Breakfasts are held on different Saturday mornings in Gilroy, Morgan Hill and South San Jose. Each is a low-key hour of fellowship and scripture.
• Thursday there is a Women’s Bible Study held at the church from 7 to 9 p.m.
• Sunday School for all ages meets at the church at 9 a.m.
Trinity Bible church also has many worship and prayer services available:
• Sunday: Morning Worship, 10 a.m.; Evening Service, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday: Prayer Meeting at 7 p.m.
For more information about the Church History Conference or any other activities at Trinity Bible Church call 842-1220 or check the Internet at www.trinitybiblechurch.org.
Chuck Flagg teaches English at Mt. Madonna High School. Write him c/o The Dispatch, P.O. Box 22365, Gilroy, CA 95021.
