Many members of a particular religion feel they need more than just religious services and community projects, so they choose to attend weekly bible study. These are not so much classes for adults, and they can often become lively discussion groups for those seeking knowledge and understanding. Some people join them simply to have a better understanding of their religion, but others are looking to fill a void. Each person might have their own reason for attendance, but every one of them may be able to find what they seek.
Religious officials do not always lead these studies, but an advanced church member often does. Their job is to choose the passage that will be read, and they then begin a discussion. They can answer many of the normal questions the other study members might have, and they can do further research for those that are above their own level of understanding.
Groups like these are meant to help people advance within their own understanding, and it has long been a tenet of any teaching method that it helps those who want to learn when they teach others. It is often a reciprocal course where even the leader can learn something new. They might have read the same passage a hundred times, but the next time they do another person will see it from a different viewpoint.
Learning in religion has often been restricted throughout the centuries due to a lack of schooling in many communities, but modern life has given many cultures the gift of reading. Pupils today often study secular knowledge only in school, but they can always pick up more information when they become adult members of their church. Some churches even provide this type of session for youth, and it has become more popular over the years for those invested in their beliefs.