A new Bible study group is making waves by offering an inclusive and unconventional approach to faith. The group, called Chosen Few Too, meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Gustine Club and welcomes people from all walks of life to explore spirituality in a relaxed atmosphere.
Amaro Morais, the group’s organizer, founded Chosen Few Too after his work schedule made it difficult for him to attend a Bible study in Turlock.
“I used to go to Bible study on Tuesdays at 7 p.m., but because of my work I couldn’t make it anymore. So I thought, why not bring something like that here to the Gustine Club?” he explained.
The group meets on the back patio, where they tune into a Facebook Live session with Morais’ pastor in Turlock. After the online sermon, they have their own discussion, delving into the verses and finding personal meaning in them. Morais stressed that the goal is to make everyone feel welcome, regardless of their background, religion or personal history.
“Christianity is not about following a set of rules or a religion; it’s about following Christ,” Morais said. “We invite everyone here – no matter who you are or what you believe in. If you’ve been rejected by churches or feel like you’re not good enough, we want you here. We’re looking for broken people because Jesus uses broken people. We’re all broken and there are no rules here. Come as you are.”
A key passage of the Bible that resonates with the group’s mission is the Gospel of Mark, chapter 2, verses 16-17. Morais reflected on this passage: “When the scribes, the Pharisees, saw Jesus eating with sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples, ‘Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?’ When Jesus heard this, he said to them, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.'”
This message is a central part of the group’s philosophy.
“We are here for people who feel like they don’t belong anywhere else,” Morais added. “Just as Jesus sat with those who were considered outcasts, we want to create a place where everyone can come, be themselves and explore their faith.”
The group has experienced steady growth since its inception three to four months ago. Many participants are people Morais knew from his past before he converted to Christianity. These are people who may never have considered attending a traditional church service but have found a place at Chosen Few Too.
“I’m overwhelmed by the fact that some of these people come every week. These are people who previously didn’t want anything to do with God or Jesus, but I see them changing. They’re more open, less unpredictable and more welcoming,” Morais noted.
The Bible study has drawn mixed reactions from the community. While many from Christian backgrounds have praised the initiative, others have been more skeptical and questioned the decision to hold the Bible study in a bar. To them, Morais simply says, “Come. If you have any questions, just come. The Bible tells us that wherever two or more gather, there is church – whether on the street, in a building with a cross, or on the back patio of the Gustine Club.”
For anyone interested in joining, Chosen Few Too meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Gustine Club. Morais encourages everyone to stop by, even if it’s just once, to see what the group is all about.
“We can’t save anyone, only Jesus can do that. But we can plant the seed and let the Holy Spirit grow it. Everyone is welcome – come as you are, put on your flip-flops, come straight after work. We don’t turn anyone away.”
For more information, contact Amaro Morais on Facebook or Instagram, or simply stop by to experience the scholarship first hand.
