In late July, church leaders gathered at Luther Seminary for Rethinking Faith Formation: Christian Identity and Practice in a Pluralistic World. Many attended this event to deepen their abilities to cultivate in their people a vibrant, distinctive and compelling Christian identity that proves useful in navigating the challenges of everyday life in a world of many faiths, cultures and stories.
Over the three days, participants worshiped together, attended presentations and spent time in conversation around the event’s themes. Speakers gave engaging presentations, which were followed by reflection and conversation sessions led by Rolf Jacobson, associate professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary.
Dorothy C. Bass, director for the Valparaiso Project on the Education and Formation of People in Faith, presented “Practical Wisdom and the Life of Faith.” A presentation on “Rethinking Faith Formation” was given by Kelly Chatman, senior pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.
Other speakers included David Lose, Lois Malcolm, Rodger Nishioka, John Roberto, Amy Thompson Sevimli, Deanna A. Thompson, Laura Truax and Daniel Taylor. Their presentations covered topics including “Reimagining Faith Formation for the 21st Century,” “The Value of Difficult Conversations” and “Faith Formed by The Virtual Body of Christ: Christian Identity in a Wired World.”
A few days later, others gathered for Rethinking Stewardship: Exploring Year-Round Stewardship. This conference encouraged participants to consider how they might incorporate stewardship into the life of their congregation beyond the fall campaign. They imagined new ways to celebrate God’s abundance and all that God has entrusted into our care. Like during Rethinking Faith Formation, participants worshiped together, attended presentations and spent time in reflection and conversation sessions following the speakers.
Daniel M. Bell Jr., professor of theology and ethics at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, presented “The Vocation of Stewardship.” A presentation titled “Discovering the First Penny” was given by Robert Veninga, professor emeritus at the University of Minnesota.
Other speakers included Michael Binder, Sharron Blezard, Tammy Devine, Terri Elton, Mark Hanson, Rolf Jacobson, David Lose, Catherine Malotky, Efrem Smith and Glenn Taibl. Their presentation topics included “Steward at the Heart” and “Rethinking Stewardship from the Ground Up.”
The insights and wisdom shared by speakers and attendees alike were thoughtful, practical and empowering. It was a privilege for Luther Seminary to host these dynamic events. The leaders who gathered left with new ideas, information and questions to bring back to their communities.
To view photos from these two events, visit us online: 2014 Rethinking Faith Formation and 2014 Rethinking Stewardship.