Women’s Bible Study, Part 2: A Q&A with Patty and Becky

Author:
April 30, 2026

Patty Hvizdos co-leads our Women’s Bible Study with Becky Keller. Last week, Patty shared how participation in a Bible study with other women has helped her. This week, Patty and Becky describe what WBS is all about.

Who started our Women’s Bible Study?
Becky: When I first joined the church in 2011, I volunteered in the office folding bulletins. While visiting with Emily O’Donnel [wife of the former Lead Pastor, Doug O’Donnell], one day I asked, “Why doesn’t our church have a women’s Bible study?” Her answer was short, affirming, and empowering: “Start one!” A group of women met, and we hatched the plan for a Thursday morning study, led by Peggy Lynne Cupp and Emily, and a Wednesday evening option led by me. 

This process taught me some very important aspects of the New Covenant culture: People do listen to your suggestions, there will be support where needed, and it was a ministry the leaders valued. 

The Wednesday evening and Thursday morning studies are intended to mirror each other, giving people an option that best fits their schedules week by week. The Women’s Bible Study is one of the highlights of my week.   

What is the aim of this ministry?
Patty: Women’s Bible Study at New Covenant seeks to study, understand, and apply the Word of God in our lives. We support one another in our journey toward glory.

Becky: I love Patty’s answer but would add that one of the main purposes is to provide a place to belong. We want women to know each other outside of Sunday morning worship. Many of the women in WBS and the leadership of the church now consider this ministry as one of NCC’s small groups. Also, the partnership that has emerged with the men’s study, studying the same Scriptures, has been a bonus for many of the married couples who are part of the study. This semester the men and women have been studying Romans.

Can you describe what happens each week?
Patty: We open with a prayer, read and discuss the passage being studied, and end with prayer requests and prayer. While our focus is the Word of God, we share our lives and encourage, support, and love one another.

Becky: Each week as we gather, we have a time of sharing with others about our week. Many of our current issues will be lifted up in prayer at the conclusion of the gathering. This comfortable time sharing with fellow believers is one of the best parts of the study. One of our members has said, “This Bible study is the safest place in Naperville for me.” Sometimes we arrive feeling pretty beat up by the world, and it’s a great comfort to know you are surrounded by fellow believers. Whether you are celebrating or struggling, there is no criticism or judging found here. What a glorious gift and the living out of a true church experience.   

What makes WBS unique?
Patty: We have now settled into the inductive method for our studies. This covers the Context, Observations, Meaning, and Applications (COMA) of the passage being studied. We work our way through each book verse by verse, chapter by chapter. This method works well for the full spectrum of women, for those who want to study in depth, or for busy women who have little time to prepare—and everyone in between. Everyone is enriched by partaking of this time together. 

Becky: We also send a follow-up prayer request and praises email each week. It helps those who missed the study or who need a reminder about what we prayed for. It also provides assurance for others that their prayers were heard. We always want group members to know we care enough to continue going before the throne on their behalf. Being heard, seen, and cared for is a unique aspect of our groups.   

This summer, Women’s Bible Study will be going through John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress, the classic allegory of the Christian’s journey with Christ. The study begins June 10/11 through July 15/16, Wednesdays at 6:30-8:00 PM or Thursdays at 9:30-11:30 AM. The books are available for a discounted price of $10 through the church office. Please contact Becky or the office by May 10 to order yours.

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