Habits of the Heart

Habits of the Heart is a women's Bible study that was formed in 1994 out of a desire to provide an in-depth study of God's Word to women of Zionsville, Indiana, and the surrounding communities.

Habits of the Heart includes discussion groups, lectures, music, and fellowship. While the women study, infant and toddler care is provided, and structured Bible classes, activities and music are enjoyed by children ages two through kindergarten. The children's ministry is an integral part of Habits of the Heart, for in order for women to study, their children must be well-loved and cared for.

Why the name "Habits of the Heart?" It was in 1831 that an aristocratic Frenchman named Alexis de Tocqueville came to the United States to study the American way of life and its political institutions. After several years, he compiled his observations and research in two volumes on democracy in America.

What intrigued him most during his stay was the order and prosperity that America had, despite its extreme individualism and the freedom to act on impulse. How did this happen? Was it just circumstances or governmental laws? No, he concluded that it was the mores of the nation, the moral habits of the heart. He stated that, "When the Habits of the Heart are as they should be, a society of people has much liberty and freedom. For Americans, the ideas of Christianity and liberty are so completely mingled, that it is almost impossible to get them to conceive of one without the other."