What the Heck is the Bible? First United Methodist Church (UMC) of Santa Barbara will present a six-week course on the most influential, quoted and weaponized book in Western history.

The academic-style overview will examine what the Bible is, where it came from, and how it ended up with its current reputation.

The Bible is also a book most people, even some who quote chapter and verse, have never actually read, said Rev. Robb Fuesler at First UMC of Santa Barbara, who will be facilitating the course.

“And yes, we’re aware of the irony of a church hosting a class with a strict ‘no converting’ policy,” Rev. Fuesler said. “Believers, atheists, and the morbidly curious are all welcome.”

Classes run Mondays, Oct. 20-Nov, 24, either in person, 1-2:15 p.m., limited to 16 people; or via Zoom, 6:15-7:30 p.m. (limited to 10 screens).

In person class is at 305 E. Anapamu St. (corner of Garden St.). There is parking on site.

Participants should expect 30-45 minutes of reading a week. Bibles will be loaned to those who show up without one.

Visit www.fumcsb.org or email office@fumcsb.org to register or for more details.