Thursday, March 15, 2007

Program takes attendees on Old Testament walk

By Julia LeDoux
Special correspondent More than 90 people took a spiritual stroll on Saturday as they participated in a Walk Thru The Old Testament Seminar at Belvoir Chapel. Led by Peter Hook, the seminar helped participants arrange the major people, places and events of the Old Testament in chronological order by tying together the structure of its 39 books. “I hope that they get an overview of the Old Testament,” Hook said. “Most people are not familiar with the Old Testament. I want them to understand they can benefit by it.” During his high-energy presentation, Hook used a series of gestures – for example, hands above the head with fingers touching represented Mount Sinai while the divided kingdom left behind by Solomon was formed by the hands making the letter V while hinged at the wrist – and words and rhymes to help participants remember the who’s and where’s of the Old Testament. Hook also used overhead visuals and memory-association pegs to bring the Old Testament to life for attendees. “It brings the Bible right where I need it,” said seminar participant Darryl Duff, a member of Belvoir Men of Faith. Director of Catholic Religious Education Sister Michael Bochnowski agreed. “It’s an opportunity to extend the chapel family,” she said. Shortly after accepting Christ as his personal savior Hook entered the Army as the Vietnam War raged. After completing Officer Candidates School, he served a tour in Vietnam. Returning home, Hook received his bachelor’s degree from Lancaster Bible College and a master of theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. He currently serves as chairman of the pastoral ministries program at Philadelphia College of the Bible in Langhorne, Pa. and pastors a local church in Piscataway, N.J.