Two Study Groups are now open for booking this January, offering people across the diocese the chance to deepen their theological understanding, grow in confidence, and learn alongside others in a supportive and reflective environment.
The courses are completely free, and combine expert tutelage, peer discussion groups, onsite study and quiet days, and self-directed online learning.
One of the tutors for this year's Opening up the Bible is the Revd Samson Kuponiyi, Associate Minister in Radley, Sunningwell and Kennington. Samson first came to tutoring reluctantly, after being encouraged by others to give it a try - but he says the experience has transformed not only how he teaches, but how he learns.
“Someone suggested it to me and I was very quick to say, ‘no, that’s not for me’. But they persuaded me to give it a go."
"I didn’t just enjoy it – it has been of immense benefit. You come together, studying together and sharing life experiences. We learn from one another.”
Opening up the Bible focuses on helping people deepen their relationship with Scripture and grow in confidence to interpret and teach it in a variety of ministry contexts.
“The Bible was written many years ago. Is it still relevant to today’s world? Is it still relevant to our context? That is one of the things I am really looking forward to. As we come together, we will look at the Bible alongside our own experiences: the same world, but different situations. We’ll explore how relevant the text is for us, individually and collectively.”
Although grounded in academic study, Samson says the course is deliberately practical.
“We come to it from academic, individual, and collective perspectives. We are all students together. We will all be learning together, and we will all be teaching ourselves together - under the guidance of God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.”
Anyone in the diocese can join Samson and other tutors and peers from across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire next term. Book now or read more about the courses below to see what's right for you.
About the courses
Opening up the Bible
Opening up the Bible can be trickier than it looks – as many of us discover when we come to study it in depth, prepare sermons, lead Bible studies, or draw on biblical texts in ministry.
This course helps participants learn from reliable guides, not only so we understand what we read, but so we can help others unpack the text with confidence.
Jesus and Salvation: A Deeper Dive
Running alongside the Bible course is Jesus and Salvation: A Deeper Dive, a theological exploration of the person and work of Jesus.
The course begins with a question Jesus posed to his disciples: “Who do you say I am?” – a question that continues to challenge believers today. Participants will explore the depth of Jesus’ love, sacrifice, and eternal significance through a diverse range of voices and perspectives.
Guest contributors will bring insights from across different contexts and traditions, enriching participants’ understanding of Jesus’ life and message.
Who are the courses for?
The courses are suitable for:
- Those involved in preaching, teaching, or leading small groups;
- Anyone wanting to grow in theological confidence;
- Curious, motivated learners seeking structured exploration.
Participants are welcome to choose either course; we do not recommend taking both simultaneously due to the commitment involved.
Why join a Study Group?
These courses offer:
- Expert input from experienced tutors
- A supportive peer-learning environment
- Practical tools for ministry and discipleship
- Space to reflect, question, and grow
- Integration of online and in-person learning
- Most importantly, they offer the chance to deepen faith while learning in community.
Book now
Places are free but limited. Register now to secure your place: