Among the many privileges of the work I do is the opportunity to explore resources from a wide spectrum of writers, producers, and publishers. To this rich mix, add the bonus of regular conversations with colleagues, pastors, and teachers whose passion for learning and teaching is contagious. The result continues to be an almost insatiable appetite on my part for reading and learning, hearing and viewing books and tapes, lectures and presentations, travel related to study, and opportunities of all kinds for continuing education.

You will find here a “working list” of some resources which continue to be life-giving and faith-stretching! These people, themes and metaphors, films and books celebrate paradox, mystery, ambiguity. Even more than providing a new lens through which to experience God’s presence, the resources described here are well-springs of grace and truth that continue to nourish and sustain. These extraordinary people and their enduring gifts of interpretation can help us experience the mystery of God’s love and the wonder of being
human.

The Resource Center functions as a center for learning, a crossroad for sharing best resources and best practices. It’s a deep well! I hope you will “dig deeply” so that this center helps serve as a creative source for your life and ministry.

Julie K. Aageson
Director, The Resource Center
Coordinator, ELCA Resource Centers

Themes and Metaphors

• grace and gratitude
• the book and the meal
• God as indiscriminate host
• emerging church
• learning to be “we”
• Body of Christ
• God resting on our eyelids
• the book and the bath
• worship as rehearsal for bearing
• God’s work, our hands
• faith practices the reign of God to the world
• liturgy and learning
• tree of life
• bread of life
• original blessing

Liturgy and Learning

Go to Lifelong Faith (external link) for the very best resources for Christian education and lifelong faith formation. We subscribe to The Lifelong Faith Journal (external link), available for loan.

Liturgy and Learning Through the Life Cycle by Westerhoff and Willimon
In this classic study linking liturgy and learning, the authors provide a framework for parish life that celebrates the essential acts of the church as nourishing and enduring anchors of faith.

The Religious Potential of the Child by Sophia Cavalletti
This groundbreaking approach to faith formation is based on encounter with the mystery of God in liturgy, scripture, and life and is as important for adults as for children.

To Dance with God by Gertrud Mueller Nelson
Rhythms and rituals of Christian life are described in this beautiful celebration of Christian life as it is shaped by the seasons of the church year.

Holy Things and Holy People by Gordon Lathrop
Both books are a feast of riches about the power of the liturgy to renew and transform the church.

Worship Matters Series
Each of these little booklets from Augsburg Fortress provides rich insights into all aspects of worship.

Emerging Church

The Practicing Congregation: Imagining a New Old Church and Christianity for the Rest of Us: How the Neighborhood Church is Transforming the Faith both by Diana Butler Bass
Both books offer compelling descriptions of vital congregational life and new birth among Christians. See also www.dianabutlerbass.com (external link)

A New Kind of Christian and Finding Our Way Again (and others) by Brian McLaren
A voice to be reckoned with as the church continues to wrestle with ongoing reformation. See also www.brianmclaren.net (external link)

Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith by Rob Bell
An edgy, insightfully honest look about what it means to be Christian. See also www.robbell.com (external link)

Reflections on Faith

Turn My Heart: A Sacred Journey from Brokenness to Healing by Briehl and Haugen
This collection of music, poetry and texts is for all of us who at one time or another are broken and longing for healing and hope.

Take This Bread: A Radical Conversion by Sara Miles
“A love song to the feast at the altar and the feast of a food pantry…” A truly stunning story of Christian conversion. See also www.stgregorys.org (external link)

An Altar in the World: A Geography of Faith by Barbara Brown Taylor
There are not two worlds–secular and sacred–God is present everywhere. God’s kingdom is here and now. See also www.barbarabrowntaylor.com (external link)

Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott
A raw and compelling confession of faith that graphically illustrates the light of Christ and its persistent ability to penetrate darkness.

Radical Amazement: Contemplative Lessons by Judy Cannato
Pay attention to the universe we’re part of–it speaks of God at every turn.

Under the Tree of Life-the Religion of a Feminist Christian by Gail Ramshaw
This lovely confession echoes much of my own faith journey and struggle. Ramshaw’s elegant use of language and her scholarly yet common insights about corporate Christian life are profound and truthful.

Sacrament of Life, A Life of the Sacraments by Leonardo Boff
Taking ordinary elements of daily life–a journey, a mug, his father’s cigarette butt, water–Boff illustrates God’s presence in this beautiful little study of sacramentality.

Wisdom Distilled from the Daily by Joan Chittister
Following the Rule of St. Benedict, Chittister clearly describes the richness of daily life when guided by attention to St. Benedict’s common sense reverence for God, self, and others.

Original Blessing by Matthew Fox
Fox’s daring view of historical Christianity and his theologically sound basis for celebrating the goodness of God’s creation is life-giving and grace-filled.

A Metaphorical God by Gail Ramshaw
A feast of images for God!

I Asked for Wonder-A Spiritual Anthology-Abraham Joshua Heschel ed. by Samuel Dresner
I first read Heschel thirty years ago. This collection of his most vivid observations about God’s presence and our meager interpretations is a jewel.

Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation by Parker Palmer
Compassionate and compelling meditation about vocation and call

Stories of Faith by John Shea
Shea the storyteller has an uncanny gift for cracking open scripture to unleash the transforming power of the biblical stories.

The Preaching Life by Barbara Brown Taylor
“You will find an altar in nearly every paragraph of this book …she works with God’s word, God’s people, God’s gifts, God’s hope for the world.”

Listening for God–Contemporary Literature and the Life of Faith I & II
This uncommon collection of short stories by some uncommon writers addresses the convergence of faith and life in memorable and graphic storytelling.

In Search of Belief by Joan Chittister
A challenging and profoundly thoughtful confession of faith. See also www.benetvision.org (external link)

Rapture Exposed by Barbara Rossing
An important contribution to conversations about end times and the book of Revelation

Treasures Old and New: Images in the Lectionary by Gail Ramshaw
A collection of 40 images most used in the lectionary texts

Video / DVD / Film

The Nooma Films – this series of 10-12 minute films by Rob Bell uses the experiences of life to teach forgiveness, discipleship, unconditional love and more

Celebrate What’s Right with the World – photography and dialogue about beauty and how we look at the world

Differences – a short film that makes provocative comments about difference

The Rapture Racket – informed and thoughtful presentation about the book of Revelation

Babette’s Feast – Isak Dinesen’s tale of Babette and the meal she prepares for a pious congregation isolated on the coast of Denmark

The Gods Aren’t Angry – Rob Bell’s discussion of our struggle to define God and the origins of religion

Everyday Creativity – inspiring ways for fostering creativity and seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary

Making the Connections: Worship and Evangelism – Gordon Lathrop and Walter Kallestad discuss the relatedness of worship and outreach

Sacred Stories – three storytellers, Maya Angelou, Frederick Buechner, and James Carroll, reveal the power of faith and the presence of God in the stories of their lives.

The Rabbi’s Gift - an unforgettable allegory about a community’s longing for Christ’s presence

Elie Wiesel’s Greatest Figures of the Bible – beautiful “tellings” of the big stories, based in part on Wiesel’s Messengers of God and Biblical Portraits and Legends

Everything is Spiritual – for Jesus and his tradition, all of life is spiritual

The Overwhelming Love of God – a passionate and persuasive confession of God’s grace and love by Brennan Manning

How Do We Help? The Goal of Christian Ministry – insightful observations about the purpose of Christian life and ministry

A Second Chance – a short film about grace and forgiveness

CD’s

Turn My Heart: A Sacred Journey from Brokenness to Healing by Susan Briehl and Marty Haugen

Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith by Rob Bell

Our Search for the Living God by Elizabeth Johnson

In God’s Eyes, We’re All Minorities by Krister Stendahl

A Christian Theology of Religious Pluralism by Krister Stendahl

The Gods Aren’t Angry by Rob Bell

The Rise and Fall of Christendom by Douglas John Hall

A New Vision of the Parish by William Willimon

Bread from Heaven by Richard Hays

How Shall We Worship by John Westerhoff

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: Nourished and Sustained: Celebrating Faith and Life

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

Curriculum for Fall

A free curriculum selection tool (external link) is available from Augsburg Fortress. We also have preview samples of SPARK (external link), faith formation curriculum for ages 2-Grade 6.

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.

Exploration of Faith and Emerging Church Resources

Many new resources on the topic of the emerging church are available:

• 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)

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 (B3167) together with two very interesting companion resources:

• Experiencing the Heart of Christianity (B3435) 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 (B3434) – also a companion to Borg’s book–is a guide for putting faith into action.

Book of Faith Resources

• Three new bible study series have been added to 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); and 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.

Alban Institute Resources

Alban’s free online guide to resources (external link) for faith communities is available. 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 (external link) and have most Alban publications available for loan.

Labyrinth

Our portable labyrinth, Circle of Peace Labyrinth (K147) 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, for centering and meditative or contemplative prayer. Call the Resource Center to reserve!

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

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 Resources for Fall

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

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 just out. This little primer is a basic introduction to bible study by Diane Jacobson, Mark Allan Powell, and Stanley Olson. Four sample studies are included.

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 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 a look at the latest on prayer: Nooma: Open (DVD214). These short (10-12 minutes) films address questions of faith and life in deeply meaningful ways. We also have a longer presentation by Bell called Everything is Spiritual (DVD216). Additional titles and descriptions can be found in the online catalog.

Book Recommendations

The following titles are “must-reads!”

• Take This Bread: A Radical Conversion by Sara Miles (B3432)
• Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
• Here if You Need Me by Kate Braestrup (B3409)
• Mission Trips that Matter: Embodied Faith for the Sake of the World by Don Richter (B3491)

Exploration of Faith and Emerging Church Resources

Many new resources on the topic of the emerging church are available. See the collection posted at under Recommended Resources called “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:

• 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)
• 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)

LeaderResources 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. More information available at www.leaderresources.org (external link).

Additional new resources on emerging church topics include:

• “Faith in Action: A Campaign Kit” for helping congregations think about church outside the church walls (K161)
• A book, Christianity for the Rest of Us by Diana Butler Bass (B3419)
• A four session small group study on DVD may be helpful for thinking about faith practices. Based on the means of grace, Opening Ourselves to Grace: Basic Christian Practices explores basic practices through a four part video presentation, a six-week bible study, a discussion guide for group leaders, and additional resources

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: Exploring Scripture, Faith, and Emerging Church

Logos Productions 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 12 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.

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.

LeaderResources 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. More information available at www.leaderresources.org (external link)

Additional new resources on emerging church topics include:

• “Faith in Action: A Campaign Kit” for helping congregations think about church outside the church walls
• Three new NOOMA films: You, Today, and Name
• A book, Christianity for the Rest of Us by Diana Butler Bass

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: Exploration of Faith and Emerging Church Resources

Being Church in the 21st Century: Themes from the Emerging Church

This collection of resources attempts to provide an entry into the amoeba-like movement of the emerging church. It includes past and present voices that help us wrestle with ongoing change and cultural shifts. Saint Augustine reminds us to say amen! to what we are, the Body of Christ in the world. And so as baptized people of God, we receive Christ’s body and blood at the communion table boldly responding, Amen! May we continue to look for ever more meaningful ways to be church–sharing, living, and proclaiming the radical news of Jesus Christ and God’s overwhelming love and mercy.

Featured Resources:

• A Generous Orthodoxy, The Secret Message of Jesus: Uncovering the Truth that Could Change Everything by Brian McLaren
• A New Kind of Christian by Brian McLaren
• “Why Christian?” by Douglas John Hall
• Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith by Rob Bell
• The Emerging Christian Way edited by Michael Schwartzentruber
• Barbara Brown Taylor’s Leaving Church and Home by Another Way
• What Would I Believe if I Didn’t Believe Anything? A Handbook for Spiritual Orphans by Kent Ira Groff
• Leadership on the Other Side by William Easum
• The Practicing Congregations by Diana Butler Bass
• From Nomads to Pilgrims by Diana Butler Bass
• Passion for the Possible, Credo, Letters to a Young Doubter by William Sloan Coffin
• The Heart of Christianity by Marcus Borg
• Present Future by Reggie McNeal
• Jesus Against Christianity: Reclaiming the Missing Jesus by Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer
• Leadership on the Other Side by Leonard Sweet
• Practices of Faith Series by Dorothy Bass
• Worship for Postmodern Times, Unfettered Hope, Reaching Out Without Dumbing Down by Marva Dawn
• How Shall We Worship? by Marva Dawn
• Becoming a Blessed Church: Forming a Church of Spiritual Purpose by N. Graham Standish
• Who is Our Church? Imagining Congregational Identity by Janet Cawley
• Lutheran Questions, Lutheran Answers: Exploring Christian Faith by Marty Martin
• Public Church: For the Life of the World by Cynthia Moe-Lobeda
• Why Worship Matters by Robert Rimbo
• Searching for God Knows What, Blue Like Jazz, and Through Painted Deserts by Donald Miller
• A New and Right Spirit: Creating an Authentic Church in a Consumer Culture by Rick Barger
• Central Things by Gordon Lathrop
• Be Not Afraid: Building Your Church on Faith and Knowledge by Fredric M. Roberts
• Spiritual Questions for the Twenty-First Century edited by Mary Hembrow Snyder
• Called to Question, Heart of the Temple and In Search of Belief by Joan Chittister
• The Upside Down Kingdom by Donald Kraybill
• The Problem of the Enculturation of the Church by Walter Brueggemann (audio)
• Authentic Religion by Richard Rohr (audio)
• Rebuild the Church by Richard Rohr (audio)
• All of Life is a Holy Festival by Joyce Rupp (audio)
• Home by Another Way by Barbara Brown Taylor (audio)
• Scarred by Struggle, Transformed by Hope by Joan Chittister (audio)
• Fulfilling the Promise by Joan Chittister (audio)
• Apocalypse Now and Then: the Next Millennium by Barbara Rossing (audio)

Videos:

• The NOOMA Film Series by Rob Bell
• An American Prophet – William Sloane Coffin
• Transfiguration Ministry to a Wounded World – Joan Chittister
• The Reign of God – Richard Rohr
• How Do We Help? The Goal of Christian Ministry – Richard Rohr
• Faith and Reason
• Living the Question
• Making the Connections: Worship and Evangelism
• Christianity at the Turn of the Century – Tony Campolo
• Called to Freedom – Tony Campolo
• “Seeing God Again: What’s at Stake” by Marcus Borg
• The God They Never Told Me About – Joan Chittister
• The Prodigal God by Desmond Tutu
• “Now You Know that You Need One Another” by Desmond Tutu
• We All Get Healed by Jim Wallis

Featured Links:

• Emergent Village (external link)
• Soul Tsunami (external link)
• The Sarcastic Lutheran (external link)
• Resonate (external link) – the emerging church in Cananda
• emergingchurch.info (external link)
• Jonny Baker (external link)
• The Ooze (external link)
• The Thoughtful Christian (external link)
• Leadership Buzz (external link)
• Everything is Spiritual – Rob Bell (external link)

Churches:

• The Spirit Garage (external link) – Minneapolis, MN
• Church of the Apostles (external link) – Seattle, WA
• Mars Hill (external link) – Grandville, MI
• House of Mercy (external link) – St. Paul, MN
• Solomon’s Porch (external link) – Minneapolis, MN
• Mercy Seat (external link) – Minneapolis, MN
• The Church at Matthew’s House (external link) – Oceanside, CA
• Mosaic (external link) – Austin, TX
• Cedar Ridge Community Church (external link) – Spencerville, MD

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: Being Church in the 21st Century