Writer: Sharon Crout
Calvary Baptist Church in Williamston is visiting the “Duck Dynasty” clan this summer.
Each Sunday evening, a 21-minute episode of the 2012 season of the popular A&E reality television series is shown to all ages in the church auditorium. After the viewing, study lessons are conducted based on the spiritual truths found in the episode. Separate classes are offered for adults, college students, youth and children.
Mark Roberts, Calvary’s pastor, said he heard many local hunting and fishing enthusiasts talking about the show, which features the Robertson family, owners of Duck Commander in West Monroe, Louisiana. Once Roberts’ own family started watching, “we were hooked,” the pastor admitted. As he continued watching and talking about the show with others, he realized the episodes contain many “teaching moments” for all ages.
Roberts could not locate any Bible studies written to correspond to the TV show, so he developed one himself. He received permission from A&E to show the episodes within the church in conjunction with the study.
The reaction to the series thus far has been “wonderful,” Roberts said, with many visitors joining Calvary members for the sessions. Participants have told him that the episodes and Bible studies are spurring conversations later within individual families.
“I am really excited to teach and discuss some tough topics by introducing them in an entertaining and lighthearted way,” Roberts said. “At some point in every episode, we can all see ourselves. And through laughter, we often can find the ability to open up and be honest about ourselves.”
— Sharon Crout is a member of Calvary Baptist Church.