A new Bible study group is making waves by offering an inclusive and unconventional approach to faith. Dubbed "Chosen Few Too," the group meets at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at the Gustine Club, welcoming individuals from all walks of life to explore spirituality in a laid-back environment.
Amaro Morais, the group’s organizer, started "Chosen Few Too" after struggling to attend a Bible study in Turlock due to his work schedule.
"I used to go to a Bible study at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, but I couldn’t make it anymore because of my work. So, I thought, why not bring something like that here, to the Gustine Club?" he explained.
The group gathers on the back patio, where they tune into a Facebook Live session with Morais’ pastor in Turlock. After the online sermon, they hold their own discussion, digging deeper into the verses and finding personal meaning in them. Morais emphasized that the goal is to make everyone feel welcome, no matter their background, religion, or personal history.
"Christianity isn’t 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 here, there are no rules. Come as you are."
A key scripture that resonates with the group's mission is from the Book of Mark, chapter 2, verses 16-17. Morais reflected on this passage: "When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples, 'Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?' On hearing this, Jesus 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 central to the group’s philosophy.
"We’re here for the people who might feel like they don’t belong anywhere else," Morais added. "Just like Jesus sat with those who were considered outcasts, we want to create a space where anyone can come, be themselves, and explore their faith."
The group has seen steady growth since its inception three to four months ago. Many attendees are individuals Morais knew from his past, before he embraced Christianity. These are people who might have never considered attending a traditional church service but have found a place in "Chosen Few Too."
"I’m blown away by the fact that some of these guys are coming every week. These are people who wanted nothing to do with God or Jesus before, but I can see them changing. They’re more open, less volatile, and more welcoming," Morais observed.
The Bible study has received mixed reactions from the community. While many with a Christian background have praised the initiative, others have been more skeptical, questioning the decision to hold a Bible study in a bar. To them, Morais simply says, "Show up. If you have questions, just show up. The Bible tells us that wherever two or more congregate, that’s church—whether it’s on the street, in a building with a cross, or on the back patio of the Gustine Club."
For those interested in joining, "Chosen Few Too" meets at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at the Gustine Club. Morais encourages everyone to come, 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, wear your flip-flops, come right after work. We turn nobody away."
For more information, reach out to Amaro Morais on Facebook or Instagram, or simply show up to experience the fellowship firsthand.
