Few groups can rightfully make the claim of going strong for more than three decades. Southeastern Bible College can do even better.

The school celebrates 75 years of Christian education this year. It also celebrates 35 years of serving the community with a community Bible study.

The study continues this month with the study of the book of Mark.

Anita Scroggins said the study fulfills multiple purposes.

“No. 1, we hope to further the gospel; help people learn more about what the word says and give them a deeper understanding of the word,” Scroggins said.

She said the school also hopes community events allow people to better understand the school’s purpose.

Pete Clifford, assistant to the president at SEBC, began attending the study soon after he came to SEBC five years ago. Clifford himself has been a minister for 57 years, but said every soul needs to learn more about God daily.

“I need refreshment as much as anyone,” he said. “It helps me to get a different perspective and to focus on an in-depth study.”

While the study is in-depth it also focuses on what organizers call the “Fast Food Gospel.”

Scroggins said Mark is the shortest of the four gospels and gives you a direct look at Jesus actions. Jesus uses the word immediate 41 times in Mark, according to a release about the Bible study. Scroggins said people today can use the lessons every day.

“It helps you with your walk,” Scroggins said. “With the world being the way it is today, you need every tool you can get to make it day to day.”

Clifford said many people enjoy the study so much they drive from as far as Anniston to take part. He also said the 50-100 people who attend each week are diverse.

He said there are senior citizens, motorcycle enthusiasts and young professionals. Appreciating the commonality between all of those people is special.

“It’s an expansion of your learning, but at the same time it’s the knowledge that there are others there reaching out for the same thing,” he said.

They come yearning to know more about God, Clifford said.

“It is done in such a way that if you want a question answered, you don’t feel embarrasment of expressing your ignorance on a subject,” he said. “We are all considered new students and are all there to learn.”

The study lasts three months. Attendees can choose to attend at 7 p.m. on Mondays or 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday mornings. The first classes will be Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 19 at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call Scroggins at 970-9213.