What exactly is a Walk Thru the Bible seminar?

Walk Thru seminars are intergenerational family learning experiences for people from age 10 to 100. During the presentation, participants follow the storyline of the Old or New Testament. They use hand signs and key phrases to put significant people, places, and events in chronological order and to remember the story of the outpouring of God’s love for the world.

How long does the presentation last?

A seminar lasts about five hours, plus breaks. A typical seminar begins Saturday morning with registration at 8:30, the seminar beginning at 9:00, lunch at noon, and finished by 3:00. Often a snack is served during the morning and afternoon breaks.

Many churches have found that a two-day program works well. In this case, the first half of the seminar is usually held Friday evening, and the second half Saturday morning.

Who are the presenters?

Mount Carmel Ministries has about 20 presenters: men and women, clergy and lay, of a variety of Lutheran backgrounds, located across the United States. They have all been carefully trained to present the Word of God in an engaging and truthful way. Although most of the churches we provide seminars for are Lutheran, we can also serve other denominations.

What does it cost to put on a seminar?

The cost is on a sliding scale depending upon the size of your congregation. Details on specific pricing can be obtained from Mount. Carmel. Each participant is asked to purchase a workbook, and all presenter expenses (travel, hotel, meals) are the responsibility of the congregation.

How do we get the money for it?

Many of our congregations have received grants from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, or used dedicated funds for education or memorial funds. Sometimes a church member is able to pay for all or part of the seminar costs. Another idea is to partner with neighboring churches.

What does the congregation provide for the seminar?

An enthusiastic chairperson is key to the success of the seminar! This person will receive a complete kit with thorough instructions and suggestions for how to present a successful seminar. The kit includes advertising posters, a DVD for recruitment, sample bulletin inserts, childcare ideas, a complimentary workbook, and a complimentary set of Keyword Learning System Flashcards.

We also need strong, passionate congregational members on the following committees - publicity, hospitality, and prayer support. These committees are overseen by the chairperson.

Do people really enjoy a five hour seminar at church?

Here are typical comments received from seminar participants:

• "This was a spiritual revival."
• "This entire seminar has been wonderful! I've learned more about the Bible today than I thought was possible."
• "I benefited greatly. This is the real Bible message which leads to salvation. Thank you."
• "I will go home with the utmost enthusiasm to read the Bible more often."
• "I have renewed my faith through this seminar."

After putting all this time and energy into the seminar, how can we make the benefits last?

We provide a free 12-unit follow-up series entitled "A Closer Look" which studies the Walk Thru overview in much more detail. It is designed for small-group study: a 20-minute teaching portion followed by 40 minutes of discussion around questions and Bible study. This study is yours to use as often as you like.

Congregations have used "A Closer Look" for:

• Confirmation classes
• New members classes
• Adult forums
• Small group study
• Vacation Bible School
• Whole church studies

We urge churches to begin this study immediately after the seminar, to pick up on the interest which the seminar has stimulated.

What do families do with their younger children during the seminar?

The Old Testament and New Testament Kids in the Book seminars are tailored for elementary school students in first through fifth grades. These sessions provide a wonderful opportunity to begin building a solid foundation for a lifetime faith walk in those children. Through active involvement in stories, games, and puzzles, students learn a simple story line of how God has been active in the lives of his people, and they also have a fun, faith-building experience.

Churches that do not schedule a Kids in the Book seminar often provide on-site child care during the seminar.

How much does a Kids in the Book seminar cost?

If a Kids in the Book seminar is offered at the same time as a Walk Thru the Bible seminar, the cost is only $500, plus $15 per participant and travel expenses for the presenter. Kids in the Book seminars may also be offered as "stand alone" seminars.

Who should we contact to learn more?

You can reach the Walk Thru the Bible ministry support staff by calling our office at 1-800-793-4311. They would be happy to explain more to you and to answer your questions. They can also send you a 3-minutes promotional DVD which helps explain what a Walk Thru seminar is and how to host one. There is also lots of good information plus the video on this website.