Explore Scripture. Share Your Faith.
The Catholic Biblical Institute in the Diocese of Orange is devoted to empowering the faithful to deepen their understanding of Sacred Scripture and confidently share their faith with others. This institute offers a comprehensive biblical education program with 3 levels of courses, starting with a retreat and progressing to in-depth studies of individual biblical books.
As Saint Jerome wisely observed, “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” Every Catholic is called to engage in regular Scripture study, for it is through this intimate encounter with the sacred text that we can grow in our knowledge of Jesus Christ and conform our lives to His teachings. By immersing ourselves in the wisdom of Sacred Scripture, we are equipped to fulfill the Great Commission, “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:16-20).
HOW TO
PARTICIPATE
The Biblical Institute regularly holds courses throughout the year.
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The Book of Job: Suffering, and the Meaning of Life
Saint Cecilia Catholic Church 1301 SE. Sycamore Avenue, Tustin, CA, United StatesRSVP Here: Bible Institute ~ Retreats 2026 Job Chapter 1-2 – Introduction, Job’s sufferings, loses his possessions, his children and his health. Special features in the Hebrew Bible.Job Chapters 3…
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The Gospel of Matthew Explained
Saint Cecilia Catholic Church 1301 SE. Sycamore Avenue, Tustin, CA, United StatesThe Gospel of Matthew Explained: Jesus’ Eternal Kingship and the Redemption of Israel Matthew Chapter 1-2 – Introduction, The importance of the Infancy Narratives inMatthew’s GospelMatthew Chapters 3-4 ‒ The…
THE PROCESS
Step 1: The Biblical Retreat
Begin your journey through scripture by attending The Biblical Retreat at The Biblical Institute, a special opportunity for you to dive into scripture while nurturing your spiritual growth. This retreat isn’t just a requirement—it’s a chance for personal growth and deepening your connection to discipleship.
Step 2: First Level of Courses
Uncover the world of Biblical figures and interpretation in our Level One courses—an engaging 44-hour journey into sacred scriptures. Explore the history, context, and importance of each biblical book within the Canon. The goal of the Level One courses is to help you read scripture within the living tradition of the Church.
Dive into Church documents like Dei Verbum and the Catechism, deepening your understanding of Catholic scripture interpretation. Investigate the Old Testament’s rich theological themes—creation, covenant, promise, sin, and redemption—to grasp their deeper meanings.
Witness how moments, from the Covenants with Abraham to Moses at Mount Sinai, set the stage for the arrival of Christ. In the New Testament, focus on the Kerygma, the dynamic proclamation of the Gospel’s Good News, and embrace your personal commitment to serving Christ as His dedicated disciple.
Step 3: Second Level of Courses
Step into an in-depth journey with our second-level course, totaling 96 hours. Learn the intricacies of individual books, exploring their narratives and interconnected theology. This level aims to equip you with a robust grasp of scripture, so you can effectively share the faith with others. Complete your experience with a rewarding final project—an all-encompassing exam that showcases your mastery of the course material. Become confident and knowledgeable in scripture and faith.
Step 4: Third Level of Courses
In the institute’s third and final course, explore the study of individual biblical books. Tailored to empower group leaders, this level equips you to skillfully guide studies of specific biblical books within your parish or small groups.
These individual book studies provide invaluable knowledge for engaging talks and retreats. Acquire the skills to be a confident leader in your community’s study of scripture.
ABOUT
FR. TIM PETERS (SThD)
Fr. Timothy Peters was raised in Southern California and was ordained to the Priesthood on June 7th 2003 for the Diocese of Orange. He served as a Parochial Vicar in Saint Anne’s Parish in Santa Ana, CA from 2003 to 2007 and at Saint Anthony Claret Parish in Anaheim from 2007 to 2009. He completed a License in Biblical theology (S.T.L.) at the Gregorian University from 2009 to 2011. He served as a Parochial Vicar at Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, CA from 2011 to 2014. In 2014 he began doctoral studies (S.T.D.) in biblical theology at the Angelicum University in Rome. In 2016 he was assigned to Saint John’s Seminary in Camarillo, CA as an Assistant Professor. He successfully defended his doctorate in 2017 on the theme of Messianic Hope in the Second Temple Period. He teaches biblical courses on the Pentateuch, Historical Books, Prophets, Psalms, Wisdom Literature, Introduction to the New Testament and the Synoptic Gospels.
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QUESTIONS?
WHAT DOES LUMEN CHRISTI OFFER?
Within the Lumen Christi Institute, there are five paths that aim to equip and encourage the faithful to take their place within the mission of Christ.
Catholic Biblical Institute
When we study the Bible, we meet Christ in a new, transformative way. The Catholic Biblical Institute provides opportunities for anyone to study scripture and apply the story of Christ in everyday life.
Certifications
Ministry certification equips the baptized to fulfill the call of God on their life in a role of service to the community. Lumen Christi offers certifications in various ministries such as catechesis (for volunteers and Catholic school teachers).
Street Evangelization Training
A series of skill-building workshops to help Catholics navigate faith-sharing conversations. With the encouragement found in the simple steps taught through these workshops, anyone can answer the baptismal call to carry on the mission of Jesus.
School of Evangelization
The School of Evangelization is an initiative dedicated to equipping the faithful with the knowledge, skills, and passion to share the Gospel in their Parish communities. Our comprehensive program offers a dynamic and transformative journey for those eager to deepen their faith and become effective evangelizers.