The Contemporary Studies group extends a very warm welcome to women of all ages and faiths. As a reading and study group, we read, discuss, explore and share. We also enjoy the social aspects of community. We meet in the church lounge weekly from 9:30-11:30 am on Thursday mornings from September through May.
Contemporary Studies is more than a reading group. It’s a forum for women of all ages with diverse religious and cultural backgrounds to join together weekly to discuss books and society in an informal and welcoming atmosphere. We utilize literature and contemporary platforms (documentaries, speakers, visits to community agencies etc.) to learn about our world in a fun and low-key atmosphere. We’ve met at Lakeside Presbyterian Church the past forty years, meeting the current needs of women of all faiths and beliefs.
The group as a whole selects the books we read, speakers to invite, or other modes by which we learn and uses informal consensus to decide when ready to move on to the next book or discussion topic. Our topics and books are quite varied. Sometimes we hit on very light subjects and other times, we delve into serious subjects. We hit upon contemporary books and topics, often focusing upon best-seller books of all types–fiction and non-fiction– and also spiritual and religious literature.
Through our discussions, we’ve at times wanted to give back to our community. On occasion we’ve shown our support to important community resources (e.g.: Lakeside Presbyterian church, Damiano Center, Life House). We also support the Little Free Library network (www.littlefreelibrary.org), a worldwide movement to promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book exchanges. One of our members bought and constructed such a free library that stands in front of her home.
We’re not stuffy! We simply enjoy a welcoming community of women who like to read and learn. We invite you to join us!
