The book of faith faith as a window, a lens for looking at the world

German theologian Paul Tillich liked to speak of faith as a window, a lens for looking at the world. He challenged students to consider the Bible, prayer—even Jesus—as windows or ways of looking beyond the thing itself to what lies beyond it. Tillich warned against making the window itself—whether Scripture, prayer, or our own tradition—the objects of our devotion.

The biblical stories are remarkable wellsprings. Burbling up century after century, the insights and wisdom they offer continue to challenge, assault, comfort, and even frustrate listeners who find them both compelling and disturbing. These stories are windows for looking at the world and at our own lives. They help us see!

An ongoing ELCA initiative called the Book of Faith invites us to “open scripture and join the conversation.” It’s a way of helping Lutherans engage with the biblical stories. While we don’t make the Bible into an object of worship, the living Word is the lens through which we make sense of life and faith.

You will find here the Book of Faith collection of resources. They provide one way to engage in opening Scripture and whetting our appetites for the riches of the biblical stories. Open scripture! Join the conversations!

Introduction to the book of faith…

…is best described on their website or social network sites: ning | facebook | twitter .

Augsburg Fortress has published the wide array of resources described here (Visit their store). You will also find preview copies of all the Book of Faith offerings in the EaND Synod Resource Center listed here.

How did the Bible come to be our Book of Faith?

Try Rediscovering the Book of Faith, a DVD, leader guide, and participant book. (K164)

How can the Book of Faith renew our lives?

Try Opening the Book of Faith, a DVD, leader guide, and participant book that introduces four approaches: devotional, historical, literary, and theological. (K163)

What Bible might I use?

The Lutheran Study Bible (NRSV) provides hands-on tools for using the Bible—basic introductions to each book, background information, maps, charts, illustrations & more. It’s a great place to begin!

Where might we begin?

Try Making Sense of Scripture: Big Questions about the Book of Faith or Making Sense of the Christian Faith both by David Lose.

Bibles…

….include the following:

• The Lutheran Study Bible (NRSV)
• Spark Story Bible for children ages 2-2nd grade
• Spark Bible—NRSV for children 3rd-6th grade
• Bibles on CD-Rom
• Other Bibles

Additional Resources…

…can be found at the Book of Faith’s Bible resources page where there are links for the following:

• A Short Introduction to the Hebrew Bible
• A Beginner’s Guide to Reading the Bible
• A Beginner’s Guide to Studying the Bible
• A Beginner’s Guide to the Books of the Bible
• About the Bible: Short Answers to Big Questions
• The Old Testament Story
• Fortress Introduction to the New Testament

Together in Faith…

…includes studies that connect with worship themes and follow the Revised Common Lectionary (available at Augsburg Fortress).

• God’s Will for Life (Studies in Mark)
• God’s Extraordinary Church (Studies in Ephesians)
• God’s Standard or Gold Standard? (Studies in Proverbs)
• Songs of the Faithful (Studies in the Psalms)
• Great Expectations (Studies in Isaiah)
• Heaven on Earth (Studies in Matthew)
• Questions for Jesus: Studies in Mark
• Being the Body of Christ: Studies in 1 Corinthians
• From Beginning to End: Studies in Revelation
• Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: Studies in Luke
• God’s Own People: Studies in 1 Peter
• Signs of the Kingdom: Studies in Matthew
• Church in Waiting: Studies for Advent

Additional Bible Studies…

…appropriate for meeting openers, small groups, and for other short activities are available for free on the following topics:

• Deuteronomy 11:18-19 with Norma Cooke Everist
• Mark 4:2-3 with F. Javier Goita Padilla
• Psalm 111:2,10 with Thulie N. Beresford
• 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 with Mark Powell
• Jeremiah 17:7-8 with Marty Stortz 
• Romans 8:37-39 with Roy Harrisville
• John 15:5 with Craig Satterlee 
• Revelation 22:1-2 with Susan McArver 
• Amos 5:24 with Peter Nash 
• Matthew 25:35-36 with Kristin Swanson 
• Mark 8:34-35 with Mary Streufert 
• John 1:14,16 with Erik Heen 
• Isaiah 55:1-11 with Stan Olson 
• Augsburg Adult Bible Studies
• No Experience Necessary Bible Studies

Find more Book of Faith resources at Augsburg Fortress 

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: Lutherans and the Bible

Among the newest resources from Spark is Clayfire Curator , a creative worship design blog. Check out The Stories the Stars Tell, a collection for Christmas and Epiphany.

Sundays and Seasons—Year B: As we begin a new church year, the very best resources for worship are found here. It includes preparation for each season, weekly texts, seasonal rites, music and so much more. Take a look at our preview copy or subscribe online.  You also might like to consider Clayfire (AFP)

For daily prayer, The Meaning is in the Waiting: the Spirit of Advent from Paraclete Press focuses on people of the Bible who waited on God—Sarah and Abraham, John the Baptist .

Advent Book of Faith Reflections offer daily readings, bible study, journaling, activities and prayer. This year’s title is Advent Reflections: Making All Things New from Augsburg Fortress. For small group or individual use.

DVDs for group use include:

• Legend of the Three Trees
• Advent Calendar on DVD
• Songs of Christmas
• The Christmas Story
• Advent Conspiracy: Can Christmas Still Change the World?
• Advent, five compelling 2-3 minute video illustrations about Jesus’ birth

For adult study, Kerygma’s Hallelujah: the Bible and Handel’s Messiah explores the scriptural texts of Handel’s Messiah in four sessions: Comfort, Comfort My People; Who Shall Abide the Day of His Coming?; For Unto Us a Child Is Born; and Glory to God in the Highest. A recording of Messiah is recommended for class use.

For midweek worship in Advent, the Resource Center has a variety of services available for loan: The Long Road to Christmas, Flames for the Faithful, A Child is Born in Bethlehem, and A Place Prepare. (Creative Communications)

Advent and Christmas programs are available for many kinds of settings. In addition to programs, music, liturgies, preaching resources, books, and more are available at Augsburg Fortress.

An old favorite and an especially beautiful book for celebrating Advent and Christmas, Winter: Celebrating the Season in a Christian Home by Peter Mazar combines readings, images, and reflections. (Liturgy Training Publications)

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: Open For Exploration: Advent and the Coming of Christ

This rich season of the church year is prime time for deepening our worship life and living the remarkable drama of new life in Christ. Here are some themes and ideas to consider for your Lenten journey:

Essential for Lenten worship planning is Worship Guidebook for Lent and the Three Days together with Music Sourcebook for Lent and the Three Days from Augsburg Fortress. Preview copies available.

If you’ve found the Nooma films interesting, consider using Lump, Rhythm, Today, Shells, and Matthew during Lent as a way of repeating the themes and inviting conversation about the weekly texts. Call the Resource Center for a list!

For an adult study exploring the lectionary texts for Cycle A, check out the series Signs of Lent DVD. Each of the seven segments is 10-12 minutes and follows a similar format. Themes are sand, wind, water, earth, rock, tree and light all focusing on texts from Matthew and John.

Book of Faith

Heaven on Earth: Studies in Matthew is the newest Book of Faith study. This six- session study from Augsburg Fortress is timely as we begin the new cycle in the lectionary. Preview copies available.

The 40 Day Journey books for small groups or individual use are designed for Lent. This year’s Book of Faith Lenten Journey: Seven Wonders of the Word is by Kathryn Kleinhans. Additional titles include Marks of the Christian based on Romans 12; the Lord’s Prayer; and 40 Day Journeys with Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Joan Chittister, Julian of Norwich, Martin Luther, Madeleine L’Engle, and others.

Focusing on Stewardship?

You’re invited to take a look at a stewardship resource ideal for Lent: Mark Allan Powell’s Biblical Stewardship: Our Duty and Delight features seven 20-minute video sessions on DVD, a comprehensive study guide and participant handouts. Session titles include:

• Belonging to God
• What is a Steward?
• Treasures and Hearts
• Motives for Giving
• Duty and Delight
• Cheerful Sacrifices

Bread themes for Lent?

Try a Lenten study called Bread in the Wilderness: Spiritual Famine or Gospel Feast, six sessions about hunger and food. A new six-part bible study called Bread and Broth also invites participants to share soup and bread while learning about Jacob, Moses, Joshua, Elisha, John the Baptist and Jesus.

Care of creation theme?

Check out:

• Plymouth Carbon Fast Blog (external link) -  daily thoughts for a carbon fast
• Creation Waits with Eager Longing (external link) – A Lenten journey about climate justice
• Living Earth Series (external link) –   A Lenten Journey: Joining the Hymn of All Creation

Music for Lent?

Jay Beech suggests a replacement for the Alleluia, Not by Bread Alone; hymns that fit the texts and themes of Lent and more. Purchase at Baytone Music (external link)

For a rich Lenten worship experience, consider the new Holden Prayer Around the Cross, a set of resources adapted from Holden Evening Prayer and Prayer Around the Cross by Susan Briehl, Tom Witt, and Marty Haugen. To accompany HPAC, a set of musical resources is available in Singing Our Prayer: Companion to Holden Prayer Around the Cross.

Baptismal themes?

Watch for Washed and Welcome, exceptional new baptismal formation resources from Augsburg Fortress.

Please share what your congregation is doing for Lent! Send a note to Julie at the Resource Center.

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: Open for Exploration: Lent 2011

Our new electronic resource, Open for Exploration, provides a monthly reminder about current resources. It’s downloadable and can be used as a bulletin insert or in congregational newsletters. It is also a feature in the synod monthly e-news, eQuip. Download this resource and/or subscribe to the eQuip online.

New Curriculum

Fed and Forgiven is a set of print and DVD resources introducing children and adults to the sacrament of holy communion. DVD segments explore the many meanings of the Eucharist in ways that are appropriate for each age level. A feast for all ages! (K168) (DVD279)

SPARK! Curriculum samples (ages 2-Grade 6) are available for preview. We also have SPARK children’s bibles as well as the new Lutheran Study Bible for loan. If your congregation is still deciding which material to use, go to a free curriculum selection tool (external link) from Augsburg Fortress.

Two new Vacation Bible School kits are available for preview. BaobabBlast from Augsburg Fortress (external link) focuses on God’s creation and the community of faith. ReNew from Spark House (external link) uses the Parable of the Sower to address care of creation and a green environment.

For older youth and adults, the LIQUID series invites participants into the Bible by pointing to specific stories and making them come to life with contemporary examples. Crossing features five stand-alone stories from Joshua. Mirror Image brings five well-known parables to life. (DVD316, 317)

For congregations interested in using the Alpha course as a practical introduction to Christianity, we have the “Just Curious Kit” introducing Alpha as well as the dvd set, The Alpha Course (express version and full length version). (K169) (DVD312, 313)

A ten-session dvd program, Living Faith by Tom Wright, explores the essentials of Christianity. The sessions explore scripture, history, beliefs and practices and how Christianity differs from other religions. (DVD315)

The Missional Church is a twelve-session dvd to help a congregation think more intentionally about its calling. Sessions focus on biblical understandings of the missional church in the Old and New Testaments, a Reformation understanding of mission, confessional and theological perspectives, and strategic models for helping lay leaders think about ministry in daily life. (DVD311)

Another excellent resource for rethinking what it means to be a missional church is The Present Future: Six Tough Questions for the Church. Participants will learn how to recognize six important realities church leaders must face if we are to move beyond “churchianity” to a more authentic and missional Christian faith. This ten-session dvd curriculum includes a leader’s guide, participant guide, and four dvds. (DVD202)

A dvd resource about the history of conflict between religion and homosexuality has been given to the resource center. The documentary, For the Bible Tells Me So provides thoughtful reflection and background and offers clarity, healing, and understanding to anyone struggling with issues of scripture and sexual identity. (DVD 272)

EarthBound: Created and Called to Care for Creation is a cutting edge six-session series that takes Martin Luther’s understanding of justification and vocation and expands it across God’s magnificent creation. It addresses the origins of our misconceptions about scripture’s portrayal of creation and invites viewers to recognize God’s call to us to relate to the whole creation as our vocation. (DVD314)

A PBS special, The Congregation: Questions of Faith in Changing Times is the story of a church struggling with basic questions about being the church in the 21st century. A discussion guide accompanies the DVD. (DVD44)

Nooma films continue to be good discussion starters for all ages. The online catalog includes twenty-four titles including the newest, “Whirlwind” about wanting certainty and answers in a world that is often uncertain. (DVD278)

The ELCA’s Feautor.org (external link) – Check out this excellent open source site for sharing unpublished religious resources. Many resources posted here come from Eastern North Dakota Synod.

We have a large collection of Children’s books for loan. Check them out!

Modern Parables: Living in the Kingdom of God is a DVD-based bible study combining cinema and theology. Short dramatic films explain Jesus’ parables. 12 sessions, 12-20 min. each for older youth, adults. (DVD249)

Down and out: it’s the life God gives us, the life to which God calls us. Down and Out: Where Grace Takes You is a six-part series for adults about rediscovering what Martin Luther made so clear five centuries ago: grace takes us out into God’s world, out of our churches, to co-create with God on behalf of others, for the sake of the world. (DVD204)

LeaderResources (external link) has given us a preview copy of The Many Faces of God: An Interfaith Encounter for Youth and Adults by Denise Yarbrough. For ongoing study of interfaith issues, this provides a very thorough process for learning about other traditions. (PR992)

Logos Productions (external link) is highlighting a recent book by Marcus Borg, The Heart of Christianity together with two very interesting companion resources:

• Experiencing the Heart of Christianity is a twelve session program for small groups led by Tim Scorer and Borg (accompanying DVD) divided into two main parts: Seeing the Christian Tradition Again and Seeing the Christian Life Again.
• Living the Heart of Christianity–also a companion to Borg’s book–is a guide for putting faith into action.

Exploration of Faith and Emerging Church Resources

Many new resources on the topic of the emerging church are available. See our featured collection on the topic of the emerging church as well as the resource sheet called Being Church in the 21st Century: Themes from the Emerging Church.

Check out the following:

• The Future of Christianity: A Startling New Vision of Hope for the 21st Century (DVD262) Go to www.futureofchristianity.com (external link) to learn more about this conversation
• Christianity for the Rest of Us: How the Neighborhood Church is Transforming the Faith by Diana Butler Bass (B3419)
• The Gods Aren’t Angry (DVD243) Rob Bell’s latest presentation on the origins of religion
• The Missional Leader: Equipping Your Church to Reach a Changing World by Alan Roxburgh and Fred Romanuk (B3453)
• A New Kind of Christian by Brian McLaren (B3387)

Alban Institute Resources

Alban Institute’s (external link) free online guide to resources for faith communities is available at www.congregationalresources.org – Check it out it’s a treasure! Alban also offers regular webinars (external link) on topics of congregational life. Call the Resource Center for more information. We also subscribe to the Alban Weekly and have most Alban publications available for loan.

Labyrinth

Our portable labyrinth, Circle of Peace Labyrinth continues to be well-used. This twenty-four foot Circle of Peace canvas labyrinth is a seven-circuit Chartres design. It can be used as a spiritual tool, a way of silencing the noise and turmoil in our busy lives, and for centering and meditative or contemplative prayer. Call the Resource Center to reserve! (K147)

If you are interested in using the labyrinth, you may like to borrow a dvd, Rediscovering the Labyrinth: A Walking Meditation which introduces this ancient practice. (DVD100)

Continuing his series of conversations in spiritual theology, Eugene Peterson’s books and study guides provide stimulating grist for discussion:

• Eat This Book: A Conversation in the Art of Spiritual Reading (B3280)
• Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places: A Conversation in Spiritual Theology (B3487)
• The Jesus Way: A Conversation on the Ways that Jesus is the Way (B3388)
• Tell It Slant: A Conversation on the Language of Jesus (B3648)

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: New Curriculum and Resources for the Missional Church

Creation Waits with Eager Longing (external link) is a set of resources from Living Earth: A Lenten Journey. It includes a worship series and weekly themes of reflection, remembrance, rediscovery, repentance, reconciliation, and recommitment about becoming more faithful stewards of God’s creation.

For helpful information about the season of Lent, Palm/Passion Sunday, the Three Days and services of daily prayer, take a look at the third volume in the Using Evangelical Lutheran Worship series, Keeping Time: The Church’s Years.

A Lenten devotional series called Holy Lent Holy Land Holy People: A Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount includes true stories from the Holy Land, journeys through the Sermon on the Mount with copy-ready biblical commentary and preaching reflections, and original art from Bethlehem. The adaptable Word document (download .doc file) also contains music, prayers, litanies, questions for reflection and discussion, and can be used for Lenten mid-week worship or Bible study. It was developed in 2008 by the Peace Not Walls task force of the Southwestern Texas Synod (external link) and is offered as a free resource to the church at-large. Visit the ELCA Peace Not Walls (external link) for more information and resources.

For a Lenten DVD series on grace, check out Down and Out: Where Grace Takes You. This six part series reintroduces viewers to the life-changing reality of God’s promises and points the way to a completely different view of life in light of grace. Sessions are 19-25 minutes each. Available for loan.

In the six part series, What’s God Up To? Bible Stories Through New Eyes, provocative and thoughtful biblical teacher, Amy-Jill Levine asks edgy questions about familiar bible stories. Sessions are 25 minutes each. DVD available for loan.

Many additional series are available for small groups, individual study, and reflection. See the online catalog and the e-resource for December 2009, Open for Exploration for additional recommendations.

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: Open for Exploration: More Resources for Lent 2010

For a rich Lenten worship experience, be sure to consider the new Holden Prayer Around the Cross, a set of resources by Susan Briehl, Tom Witt, and Marty Haugen adapted from Holden Evening Prayer and Prayer Around the Cross. It includes fourteen sample liturgies that could be used in a variety of settings. To accompany Holden Prayer Around the Cross, a set of musical resources is available in Singing Our Prayer: Companion to Holden Prayer Around the Cross.

Ask about a new Lenten series called Water for Your Soul: Living in Baptism Every Day by Glenn Borreson. It’s a powerful way to focus on baptismal catechesis and includes material for Ash Wednesday to Holy Week.

Brand new from Augsburg Fortress, Worship Guidebook for Lent and the Three Days is a must-have for worship planners and leaders. The Music Sourcebook for Lent and the Three Days is also new. Preview copies available.

The 40 Day Journey books for small group study or individual use are ideal for Lent. The newest is Book of Faith Lenten Journey: Marks of the Christian (based on Romans 12). Additional titles include 40 Days with the Lord’s Prayer;

40 Day Journeys with Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Joan Chittister, Julian of Norwich, Martin Luther, Madeleine L’Engle and others.

Find complete worship planning beginning with Ash Wednesday see the newly expanded resources online at Sundays and Seasons (external link).

Gail Ramshaw’s 40 Days and 40 Nights is a beautiful collection of readings for the weeks of Lent.

The Three Day Feast (by Gail Ramshaw) from Worship Matters gives worshipers and worship planners much to ponder – a feast itself!

Lutheran poet and writer, Herb Brokering, has given us Stations of the Heart, a beautiful book of devotional reflections.

Finally, take a look at From Death to Life, a new book about resurrection hope by EaND synod pastor Scott Block, Grace / Oakes and Nazareth/Cogswell.

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: Open for Exploration: Lent 2009

New Star Thrower (external link) leadership resources are now available.   Like Star Thrower’s Dewitt Jones videos (Focus Your Vision, Celebrate What’s Right with the World, and Everyday Creativity), these engaging short films focus on human interest topics. (DVD and print)  (4-10 minutes each)

• A Second Chance (everyone deserves a second chance)
• Differences (differences give us each unique skills and talents)
• Seeing Red Cars (encourages positive decisions, less negativity)
• We Are the Ones (looking to ourselves for leadership, change)

Continuing his series of conversations in spiritual theology, Eugene Peterson’s books and study guides provide stimulating grist for discussion:

• Eat This Book: A Conversation in the Art of Spiritual Reading
• Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places: A Conversation in Spiritual Theology
• The Jesus Way: A Conversation on the Ways that Jesus is the Way
• Tell It Slant: A Conversation on the Language of Jesus

Curriculum for fall and beyond….

We’ve been waiting a long time for this!  Fed and Forgiven is a set of print and DVD resources introducing children and adults to the sacrament of holy communion.  DVD segments explore the many meanings of the Eucharist in ways that are appropriate for each age level.  A feast for all ages!

SPARK! (external link) Curriculum samples (ages 2-Grade 6) are available for preview.  We also have SPARK children’s bibles as well as the new Lutheran Study Bible for loan. If your congregation is still deciding which material to use, go to a free curriculum selection tool (external link) from Augsburg Fortress.

Nooma (external link) films continue to be good discussion starters for all ages.  The online catalog includes twenty-four titles including the newest, “Whirlwind” about wanting certainty and answers in a world that is often uncertain. (DVD278)

Check out excellent ELCA’s Shared Resources (external link) open source site for sharing unpublished religious resources.  Many resources posted here come from Eastern North Dakota Synod.

We have a large collection of children’s books for loan. Check them out!

Modern Parables: Living in the Kingdom of God is a DVD-based bible study combining cinema and theology.  Short dramatic films explain Jesus’ parables.  12 sessions, 12-20 min. each for older youth, adults.  (DVD249)

Down and out: it’s the life God gives us, the life to which God calls us.  Down and Out: Where Grace Takes You is a six-part series for adults about rediscovering what Martin Luther made so clear five centuries ago: grace takes us out into God’s world, out of our churches, to co-create with God on behalf of others, for the sake of the world.  (DVD204)

Book of Faith

Go to www.bookoffaith.org (external link) for regular updates about resources.  Go to www.bookoffaith.ning.com (external link) for social networking and sharing stories of faith.

• New bible studies continue to be added to the Book of Faith offerings:
• Books of Faith studies include Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, John, Romans, Galatians, and I John and each is accompanied by a DVD for leader preparation.
• People of Faith studies include:
  • A Gardener, Two Travelers, and a Cheat (Adam, Abraham, Sarah, Jacob);
  • A Lamenter, A Dreamer and Two Pretty Good Leaders (Rachel, Joseph, Moses, Joshua);
  • A Grandmother to a King, A King-Maker, A King and a Royal Pain (Ruth, Samuel, David, Elijah);
  • A Prostitute, Two Prophets and Poor ‘Ol Job (Gomer, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Job).
  • Together in Faith includes three lectionary studies: God’s Will for Life (Mark); God’s Extraordinary Church (Ephesians); God’s Standard or Gold Standard? (Proverbs).
• David Lose’s new book, Making Sense of Scripture: Big Questions about the Book of Faith is an introductory course focusing on seven questions for people new to bible study.
• Foundational courses include:
  • Opening the Book of Faith introducing four methods of bible study;
  • Rediscovering the Book of Faith, a three-session overview for beginners;
  • the new Lutheran Study Bible;
  • and SPARK bibles and curriculum for faith formation.
• DVDs for leader preparation are also available for preview.

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: New Curriculum and Bible Study Resources

The following resources may be helpful for your Lenten planning. They are available from the EaND Synod Resource Center.

40 Day Journeys

This series from Augsburg Fortress invites meditation, individual study, and group discussion. Journeys are with Joan Chittister, Martin Luther, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Kathleen Norris, Madeleine L’Engle, Parker Palmer, and Julian of Norwich. In addition, the Book of Faith 40-Day Lenten Journey includes forty personal daily readings and weekly worship with the study of scripture. Preview copies available. (AFP)

Signs of Lent

This adult study is a spiritual encounter with texts from Matthew and John.

• Lent 1 addresses Jesus’ encounter with solitude and self-denial in the wilderness.
• Lent 2 tells the story of Nicodemus coming to Jesus to reflect on his own spiritual journey. Lent 3 is the story of the Samaritan Woman.
• Lent 4 tells of the blind man seeking healing and its effect on the community.
• Lent 5 is about the death of a friend challenging Jesus to put his own life in jeopardy.
• Lent 6 describes Judas becoming the instrument of Jesus’ betrayal and crucifixion.
• The Easter segment shows the risen Christ meeting Mary Magdalene and commissioning her as the first evangelist.

Themes in order: Sand, Wind, Water, Earth, Rock, Tree, Light. PDF leader guide files included. (DVD185) (Logos)

Unfailing Light

This Lenten liturgy of evening prayer and communion includes the beautiful music of Marty Haugen and texts and images by Susan Briehl. (AFP) (GIA)

Journey Through the Psalms

Bring the Psalms to life for prayer and worship and learn to approach God with the emotional intensity of the ancient psalmists. Based on the book of the same name, this eight-session study is led by the book’s author. It includes a DVD, leader’s guide, participant book, a copy of the book, Journey Through the Psalms, and a set of promotional materials. It is a general bible study that immerses participants in the rich texts of the Psalms. Each DVD segment is 6-15 minutes. (K159) (Wesley Ministry Network)

God is Here!

This Lenten video series invites participants to reflect more deeply on worship life. Five sessions focus on liturgical objects and include video clips of congregational stories. (VT2114) (ELCA)

Bible People Monologues for Lent

This downloadable resource can be found online at Augsburg Fortress (external link) (AFP)

Were You There? Six Plays for the Lenten Season

These six biblical dramas reenact the sacred events of the passion. (AFP)

Journey Through Lent with Mark

This guide to the Gospel of Mark is for daily reflection and/or group study. (AFP)

The Death of Jesus in the Gospel of John

John’s account of Jesus’ arrest and trial unfolds in several stages which are carefully explored. His account of the crucifixion recognizes that Jesus suffered a brutal form of execution thus raising the question of what Jesus’ death means for us. Finally, John’s gospel also includes at least four different perspectives on the meaning of the crucifixion which are discussed extensively. This resource includes three lectures and a comprehensive study guide that poses provocative questions. It’s an excellent program for congregational study, especially during Lent and/or Holy Week. (DVD229) (Select Multimedia)

Lent: A Time of Renewal

A seven part program for reflecting on the gospels and our baptismal covenant, this series uses true stories, drama, music, and visual meditations with Lenten themes including temptation, Jesus as “living water”, “light of the world”, and “resurrection and life.” (DVD210) (St. Anthony Messenger Press)

Creative Communication Kits

The Resource Center has a wide selection of Lenten worship services available for preview.

Stations of the Cross

Magnificent visual images and a beautiful music score combine with thought provoking meditations for each of the 14 Stations of the Cross. Will help listeners relate events in Christ’s life to our own. (VT2286) We also have a set of sixteen Stations of the Cross posters. (K26) (Franciscan Communications)

Character Portrayals for Lent

This set of dramatic character portrayals for Lent includes scripts for many biblical characters as well as two video programs from Calvary Lutheran Church, Golden Valley, MN (external link), where these dramas have taken place. Author Rev. Steve Dornbusch wrote these in conjunction with Mark Holmen’s Lenten Faith Mentoring Program. (K145) (Youth and Family Institute)

Forty Days and Forty Nights: A Lenten Ark

Count down the days of Lent aboard an ark with Noah’s family and all the animals. The colorful ark has windows and doors to open for each day of Lent and the Easter Triduum. Open one window each day to discover who is on board. The accompanying booklet by Peter Mazar connects the animals on the ark to Lenten values and provides guidance for daily prayer. (K149) (Liturgy Training Publications)

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: Lent 2009

Coming soon to the resource center is Book of Faith Course I. Watch too for a Lenten resource called 40 Days with the Book of Faith. A set of CDs by John Shea focusing on the gospels, Gospel Food for Hungry Christians: Images and Reflections from the Gospels by John Shea provides stimulating insights into  Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  (CDs 37, 38, 39, 40)

A newly revised DVD by Mark Allen Powell, How Lutherans Interpret the Bible is a seven session introduction to basic issues of biblical interpretation.  Titles include The Word of God, What Lutherans Say About the Bible, Where the Bible Comes From, Interpreting the Bible in Context, Determining Right from Wrong, The Many Meanings of the Bible, and Devotional Bible Reading.  (DVD228)

Romans: Living Faithfully is a twelve session DVD course for exploring the great themes in Romans.  Participants will experience an overview of this important letter and basic insights into what Paul meant by the bad news of human sin and the good news of justification.  Presented by Walter Taylor, Professor of New Testament at Trinity Lutheran Seminary.  (DVD225)

Another helpful New Testament resource is David Rhoad’s Dramatic Presentation of Paul’s Letter to the Galatians.  This dramatic reading of the epistle to the  Galatians illustrates the power of the spoken word.  It also includes background on the church at Galatia and a feature on justification.  (DVD227)

The Gospel of John is a new six session overview of the structure and theology of John’s gospel. Presentations are by Robert Kysar.  (DVD226)

Craig Koester’s The Death of Jesus in the Gospel of John could serve as an additional look at John’s account of Jesus’ arrest and trial including four different perspectives on the meaning of the crucifixion.  Three lectures and a comprehensive study guide.  (DVD229)

Encountering God in Scripture: Finding Yourself in the Story of God includes ten 5-minute sessions on “the big questions about the Bible.”  Five short bible studies and a study guide are also included.  (DVD201)

Opening the Book of Faith: Lutheran Insights for Bible Study is a must have.  This basic introduction to bible study by Diane Jacobson, Mark Allan Powell, and Stanley Olson.  Four sample studies are included.

Additional resources for the Book of Faith can be found in “Biblical Resources for Congregational Life,” a Recommended Resource Collection from the resource center, as well as in the Topic: ELCA Book of Faith section of this website.

New from Rob Bell

If you’ve not had a chance to view the Nooma films by Rob Bell, you might like to take at the newest Nooma films:  Nooma: She on feminine language and imagery for God and Nooma: Open on prayer.  These short (10-12 minutes) films address questions of faith and life in deeply meaningful ways.

Exploration of Faith and Emerging Church Resources

Many new resources on the topic of the emerging church are available.  The downloadable Recommended Resource Sheet entitled “Being Church in the 21st Century: Themes from the Emerging Church” is a good place to start.

The Present Future: Six Tough Questions for the Church is a ten-session DVD curriculum by Reggie McNeal.  It’s meant to help participants recognize six important realities church leaders must face if they are to move beyond “churchianity” to a more authentic, missional faith.  (Leader and participant guide) (DVD202)

Logos Productions is highlighting a recent book by Marcus Borg, The Heart of Christianity together with two very interesting companion resources:

1. Experiencing the Heart of Christianity is a twelve session program for small groups led by Tim Scorer and Borg (accompanying DVD) divided into two main parts: Seeing the Christian Tradition Again and Seeing the Christian Life Again.  (B3435)
2. Living the Heart of Christianity -also a companion to Borg’s book- is a guide for putting faith into action.  (B3434)

Tom Wright, whose New Testament work continues to enrich Christian life and study, has recently produced Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense. He offers a fresh  presentation of the timeless truths of Christianity making the case that faith is reasonable and rewarding for us today.  In this ten session course, Wright expands on the themes of his acclaimed book “Simply Christian” in video-based lessons.  (DVD186)

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: More Book of Faith and Emerging Church Resources

A newly revised DVD by Mark Allen Powell, How Lutherans Interpret the Bible is a seven session introduction to basic issues of biblical interpretation.  Titles include The Word of God, What Lutherans Say About the Bible, Where the Bible Comes From, Interpreting the Bible in Context, Determining Right from Wrong, The Many Meanings of the Bible, and Devotional Bible Reading.  (DVD228)

Romans: Living Faithfully is a twelve session DVD course for exploring the great themes in Romans.  Participants will experience an overview of this important letter and basic insights into what Paul meant by the bad news of human sin and the good news of justification.  Presented by Walter Taylor, Professor of New Testament at Trinity Lutheran Seminary.  (DVD225)

Another helpful New Testament resource is David Rhoad’s Dramatic Presentation of Paul’s Letter to the Galatians.  This dramatic reading of the epistle to the  Galatians illustrates the power of the spoken word.  It also includes background on the church at Galatia and a feature on justification.  (DVD227)

The Gospel of John is a new six session overview of the structure and theology of John’s gospel.  Presentations are by Robert Kysar.  (DVD226)

Craig Koester’s The Death of Jesus in the Gospel of John could serve as an additional look at John’s account of Jesus’ arrest and trial including four different perspectives on the meaning of the crucifixion.  Three lectures and a comprehensive study guide.  (DVD229)

Encountering God in Scripture: Finding Yourself in the Story of God includes ten 5-minute sessions on “the big questions about the Bible.”  Five short bible studies and a study guide are also included.  (DVD201)

Opening the Book of Faith: Lutheran Insights for Bible Study is a must have.  This basic introduction to bible study by Diane Jacobson, Mark Allan Powell, and Stanley Olson.  Four sample studies are included. Coming soon is Book of Faith Course I.  Watch too for a Lenten resource called 40 Days with the Book of Faith. A set of CDs by John Shea focusing on the gospels, Gospel Food for Hungry Christians: Images and Reflections from the Gospels by John Shea provides stimulating insights into Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  (CDs 37, 38, 39, 40)

Additional resources for the Book of Faith can be found in “Biblical Resources for Congregational Life,” a Recommended Resource Collection from the resource center.

New from Rob Bell

If you’ve not had a chance to view the Nooma films by Rob Bell, you might like to take at the newest Nooma films:  Nooma: She on feminine language and imagery for God and Nooma: Open on prayer.  These short (10-12 minutes) films address questions of faith and life in deeply meaningful ways.

Exploration of Faith and Emerging Church Resource

Many new resources on the topic of the emerging church are available.  See the Recommended Resource Collection: “Being Church in the 21st Century: Themes from the Emerging Church.”

The Present Future: Six Tough Questions for the Church is a ten-session DVD curriculum by Reggie McNeal.  It’s meant to help participants recognize six  important realities church leaders must face if they are to move beyond “churchianity” to a more authentic, missional faith.  (Leader and participant guide) (DVD202)

Logos Productions is highlighting a recent book by Marcus Borg, The Heart of Christianity together with two very interesting companion resources:

1. Experiencing the Heart of Christianity is a twelve session program for small groups led by Tim Scorer and Borg (accompanying DVD) divided into two main parts:  Seeing the Christian Tradition Again and Seeing the Christian Life Again.  (B3435)
2. Living the Heart of Christianity-also a companion to Borg’s book-is a guide for putting faith into action.  (B3434)

Tom Wright, whose New Testament work continues to enrich Christian life and study, has recently produced Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense. He offers a fresh  presentation of the timeless truths of Christianity making the case that faith is reasonable and rewarding for us today.  In this ten session course, Wright expands on the themes of his acclaimed book “Simply Christian” in video-based lessons.  (DVD186)

The preceding resources are highlighted and recommended for your consideration. If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource, contact Julie Aageson at 701-232-3381 or julie.aageson@ecunet.org

Visit the EaND Resource Center | Search the Catalog

Eastern North Dakota Synod - ELCA: Book of Faith and Emerging Church Resources