KAIROS Courses

November 30 - December 3, 2009
SCHOOL FOR LAY MINISTRY

PLEASE NOTE: THE DATES IN THE CATALOG ARE INCORRECT - THE CORRECT DATES ARE NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER  3
Responding to a growing need for and interest in lay congregational leadership, many ELCA synods provide lay schools of ministry or theology within their synods that offer certificates after a period of training to lay people who wish to participate more fully in their congregations and in their daily lives. In partnership with the synods of the ELCA of Northeastern, Northwestern, and Southeastern Minnesota, Eastern and Western North Dakota, and  South Dakota, Luther Seminary offers programs twice a year that fulfill some of the requirements for these particular synods.

TOPICS for the week:
Rise and Impact of World Christianity
In 1900, two-thirds of Christians lived in Europe and North America; today two-thirds of all Christians live in Latin America, Africa and Asia. The effects of this immense shift are only beginning to be felt, but it is one of the most important transitions in Christian history. We will examine the ways in which this shift has developed, and the nature of the newer Christian communities that have been developed. We will also look into the effects that this shift might have on North American Christianity.
Suggested Reading
Philip Jenkins,The Next Christendom (Oxford UP)

Psalms: Worship in Israel
The book of Psalms is unique among biblical books. We receive it as the word of God addressed to us, a part of Holy Scripture; but it is at the same time a book of prayers and worship texts addressed to God. We will study the Psalms to hear their word of truth for us, and also as prayers and liturgical texts that provide insight into the nature of worship in biblical times and that serve as an important resource for Christian worship today.
Suggested Reading
C. Hassell Bullock, Encountering the Book of Psalms (Baker 2001) for an overall introduction
John Eaton, The Psalms: A Historical and Spiritual Commentary with an Introduction and New Translation (Continuum 2005) for a basic commentary
Lynn Domina, ed., Poets on the Psalms  (Trinity University Press 2008) for stimulating and provocative reading

For You, A Savior: The Gospel of Luke
The Gospel of Luke begins with the intricately arranged and  beautiful story that a Savior has been born "for you.". It concludes with the Risen Jesus commissioning his disciples to spread the message of this salvation to the ends of the earth. In between the gospel is packed with unique and compelling stories of Jesus' teaching about the marvelous kingdom of God and Jesus' call with its promise of the transforming power of discipleship. Through lecture and discussion, we will explore the distinctive features of Luke's telling of the gospel story
Suggested Reading
Mark Allan Powell, Fortress Introduction to the Gospels (Fortress, 1998)
David L. Tiede, Luke (Augsburg, 1989)