Every month, Fr. Charles Bolser, CSV, fills the conference table at the Viatorian Province Center with more
Fr. Charles Bolser, right, wraps up a holiday party with some of the women’s Bible study group
than 20 women who want to dive deeper into the Bible, and ultimately enrich their own spirituality.
Fr. Robert Erickson, CSV, began the Bible study sessions approximately seven years ago, and when he passed away in 2016, Fr. Bolser took over, leading both a men’s and women’s groups — and their numbers keep growing.
At their most recent gathering, the women said having Fr. Bolser bring his perspective to their study sessions adds a whole new dimension to their faith lives.
“He makes you think,” Marge Koperny said simply.
Her friend, Diane Adam, agreed, adding: “He challenges us. He always gives us new ideas on old subjects.”
Another student, Chris Avell, said she appreciates Fr. Bolser’s contemporary perspective when interpreting the Bible and talking about faith.
Women in the Bible study class say they appreciate Fr. Bolser’s contemporary perspective
“He’s a Renaissance man who has grown with times,” she says. “I appreciate that.”
In fact, Fr. Bolser has served as a pastor and high school administrator during his more than 50 years as a Viatorian, and earned masters degrees in religious studies from the University of Notre Dame and in divinity from the Washington Theological Seminary in Washington D.C., among others.
Yet, discerning the gospel messages in the Bible and sharing rich liturgies continue to drive him in retirement. It reaffirms his vows as a Viatorian, which states in part: “We reaffirm our Gospel-inspired mission to be dedicated educators of faith and to raise up communities of believers who espouse the values of Jesus Christ in our life and work.”