LTSP Faith and Life Institute

2009 Lutherhostel has been canceled

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:12:00 +0000

Regretfully, the 2009 Lutherhostel at LTSP has been canceled. If you are interested in future Lutherhostel events at LTSP, please contact the Rev. Ellen Anderson, eanderson@ltsp.edu.

The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia offers a number of programs, events and online not-for-credit courses for all the people of God through the Faith and Life Institute. See the current offerings online: Ltsp.edu/faithandlife.

Lutherhostel 2009: What Would Luther Say?

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:10:00 +0000

Monday-Friday, June 15-19, 2009

Hosted by The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) on the LTSP campus ...and you're invited!

What might Reformer Martin Luther say to us about living out our faith in a challenging, modern time? What can we discern from his writings about controversies involving Biblical interpretation? How about controversial issues like school prayer or sexuality concerns? And what about our current economic meltdown and related questions about justice, accountability, and responsibility? What of the interaction between faith and politics and the role of government? In this 10th anniversary Lutherhostel year at LTSP, we’ll feature music and worship, enjoy Bible study, and take time to examine vocational and service opportunities for older persons as part of our faith journey. Highlights of the week will include a visit to The Philadelphia Museum of Art and a tour of treasures from the time of Luther housed at the 100-year-old Krauth Memorial Library on the LTSP campus.

Learn about the program, presenters and register online: www.Ltsp.edu/lutherhostel09

Sacred Texts - Modern Issues: April 26

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:06:00 +0000

A spring 2009 Trialogue Event for Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders, seminarians, students, and those interested in interfaith learning. Sunday, April 26, 2009, 2 to 7 pm at The Brossman Center at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.

About the Program

As we look to compare and contrast the Abrahamic faiths, there is much to learn from examining the ways in which representatives of each religious community interprets sacred texts that provide guidance for modern issues. This process helps us with our own stereotypes and distrust involving these traditions, as well as learning more about our own traditions. The 2009 Trialogue focuses on the interpretation process - the exegesis and isogesis in Christianity, PaRDeS in the Jewish tradition, tafseer and ijtehad in Islam - used by Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scholars to provide contemporary interpretations based on sacred sources that often were not confronted with the same challenges faced today.

This Year's Theme

This year a presenter and respondent from each faith will focus on the concept of "Just War" as a unifying theme around which to organize their interpretive comments. They will also lead small follow-up discussion groups and field questions. Participants can expect to come away from the program with a broader understanding of each tradition's interpretive methodologies as well as food for thought for future interfaith conversations. A light supper is included.

Learn about the presenters and more on the program, and register online: Ltsp.edu/trialogue

March-April Faith and Life Reflection: Gran Tourino

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:17:00 +0000

The March-April Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia focuses on the recent Clint Eastwood film Gran Torino. The Reflection, written by Mark Staples, takes a faith view of the epic film and its perspectives about modern life and death.

Faith and Life Reflections are suitable for individual and small group study, such as in an adult forum. This and other Reflections can be downloaded from the Institute Web site: Ltsp.edu/faithandlifereflections. The Faith and Life Institute offers many resources and opportunities for learning and renewal for all the people of God, explore the offerings at Ltsp.edu/faithandlife.

April Glimpse Online

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:14:00 +0000

Glimpses from The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) tell about your seminary, and are designed for congregations to use in their bulletins and inserts to help share LTSP's stories of ministry. The April Glimpse tells about LTSP faculty member the Rev. Dr. David Grafton, Associate Professor, Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim Relations, and Director of Graduate Studies.

View and download the April Glimpse for personal and congregational use... www.ltsp.edu/glimpses

Men in Mission Spring 2009: “God’s Work, Our Hands: Stewards of God’s Creation”

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:02:00 +0000

Men in Mission return to Bear Creek Camp, near Wilkes Barre, PA, on Saturday, April 18, 2009, to explore the topic “God’s Work, Our Hands: Stewards of God’s Creation.” The event, from the Faith and Life Institute at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP), is open to all men. The day is scheduled from 9 am - 3:30 pm, and cost is $35 per person including lunch.

We know that we should take care of the environment, but do we know how to do it, or even why we should do it? Join us, along with Karen Gower, Environmental Programs Manager of Bear Creek Camp, as we explore how God has called us to be good stewards of creation. Take part in bible studies and discussion, hands-on projects, and worship as we gather to celebrate all that God has given us. Like successful past Men in Mission events at Bear Creek, activities will include worship, bible study and discussion, learning, and hands-on projects, both indoors and outdoors. The work may involve getting messy, so you'll need to dress appropriately.

For more information, including a schedule for the day, and to register online, go to www.Ltsp.edu/meninmission.

in the photo: men at last year's Men in Mission Bear Creek event enjoy learning outdoors

With All Your Mind: An Introduction to Christian Theology online now forming

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 16:15:00 +0000

Seats are still open for The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia Faith and Life online course With All Your Mind: An Introduction to Christian Theology. The course will continue through February and March, and registration will be open through February 14. Here are more details:

"You shall love the Lord your God... with all your mind" (Mt 22:37). We are Christian theologians when we use our minds to consider the mysterious goodness of God through Jesus Christ. In this way, theology is for everybody. Participants in this online course will examine classical theological themes such as creation, redemption, and faithful living, especially from a Lutheran perspective. Our texts will be the Bible, Luther's Small Catechism and other accessible yet challenging works. This class is intended to serve as a basic introduction to theology or a refresher course, with the overall objective that we continue to serve God and neighbor by using the beautiful minds that God gave us. Teacher: LTSP PhD scholar Martin Lohrmann. Register online today and join the discussions: www.ltsp.edu/online-faith-and-life-study-laity

Keep up with the seminary and our Faith and Life and other offerings on our new Web site: www.ltsp.edu/faithandlife.

March Glimpse Online

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 04:07:00 +0000

The LTSP Glimpse for March is now online at www.Ltsp.edu/glimpses. The topic is What Would Luther Say? and talks about this year's Lutherhostel, coming in June.

Glimpses are stories about the seminary suitable for use in congregational newsletters and bulletins - anywhere you want to help tell the stories of the seminary. They are part of the congregational materials LTSP offers each year.

"Ritualizing Nature" focus of new Faith and Life Reflection

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:49:00 +0000

Recent political discussions have focused on the energy and environmental crisis facing the globe and its citizens. Rising and fluctuating gasoline prices and Presidential campaign rhetoric have done much to prompt headlines around this topic. These issues are not new. In 1993, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, meeting in churchwide assembly, approved the social statement Caring for Creation: Vision, Hope and Justice.

This is the focus of the latest Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. The Reflection, considerably inspired by LTSP Alumnus the Rev. Dr. H. Paul Santmire ’60, whose pioneering life work and writing has focused on the growing environmental crisis from a Christian theological perspective, discusses how people need to look at the rituals of our faith and how ritual and liturgical renewal can play a key role in shaping the Church’s voice and actions on nature and human life in nature matters.

The Reflection is suitable for individual and small group study, such as in an adult forum. This and other Reflections can be downloaded from the Institute Web site: Ltsp.edu/faithandlifereflections. The Faith and Life Institute offers many resources and opportunities for learning and renewal for all the people of God, explore the offerings at Ltsp.edu/faithandlife.

Third Annual “Rest, Refreshment, and Renewal Day for Women”

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:37:00 +0000

BEAUTIFUL FEET

“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:15b

“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” Isaiah 52:7

Third Annual “Rest, Refreshment, and Renewal Day for Women”
Saturday, February 21, 2009, 9:00 – 3:45
The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia
$40.00 (lunch included)

Ltsp.edu/restrefresh for information/registration

The theme of this year’s Rest, Refreshment and Renewal Day for Women is about your feet, your beautiful feet. God has called each of us to a specific daily vocation through which we bring the Good News. Whether that vocation includes family, neighbors, work, or community, our calling is to travel through our days bringing good news to those we serve and meet. Although this makes our feet beautiful, it also can make them tired, sore, callused, blistered, and in need of a day of rest. Set aside one day to relax! Come and put your feet up, soothe your soles, pamper your toes, and take time to reflect upon your beautiful feet!

Spend your time by participating in “Gatherings” such as prayer yoga, liturgical dance, singing, Bible study, exploration of prayer, relaxation for your feet, spiritual direction, service project and more. Take your own “Holy Time” to refresh and renew your spirit. Walk, rest, read, nap, bring your own craft project, explore the library, reflect upon the art in The Brossman Center, listen to music, bring a book, journal, meditate, have a meaningful conversation. Nurture your spirit! The campus is your sanctuary!

This gift of a day of rest, refreshment and renewal is offered to all women of your congregation and friends you may wish to invite. Give a gift to yourself and take a spiritual day to be renewed in mind, body and spirit. Remember to dress comfortably!

**New this Year! Special gathering offered for “Clergy Sisters”

December Reflection: The Twelve Days of Christmas

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:49:00 +0000

The December Faith and Life Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia focuaes on the Twelve Days of Christmas in our current, multiethnic, multinational context. In addition to the Reflection, a Guide to the Twelve Days of Chirstmas is also available. Both are free downloads, and suitable for individual, family or congregational use.

You'll find the Reflection and Guide on the Faith and Life Instutute Web site: Ltsp.edu/faithandlife, or go directly to Ltsp.edu/12days. The Faith and Life Institute offers programs and materials for all the people of God, including online not-for-credit courses, on-campus learning experiences and materials for congregational and personal use. More information is available on the Institute's Web site.

November LTSP Glimpse encourages you to Look Around!

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:10:00 +0000

The November entry in the series LTSP Glimpses encourages congregations and individuals to Look Around! and consider the call to service in the church - and how Project Connect is a good partner in discerning a call. The latest can be found at Ltsp.edu/glimpses.

Glimpses are stories about the seminary suitable for use in congregational newsletters and bulletins - anywhere you want to help tell the stories of the seminary. They are part of the congregational materials LTSP offers each year. Sign up for LTSP's @PS enewsletter for updates on the latest at LTSP, including the release of the latest LTSP Glimpse. Or click on the RSS feed link on this page.

October Reflection addresses "Vision and Priorities for a Troubled Nation"

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:36:00 +0000

Vision and Priorities for a Troubled Nation is the theme explored by the October Faith and Life Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP). The Reflection raises questions for the presidential candidates, centered around the Lutheran Letter to the Candidates from ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson.

You can download the October Reflection, and previous issues, from the Web: Ltsp.edu/faithandlife. Faith and Life Reflections are intended for use by individuals, and by small groups, adult forums, and in other settings to stimulate conversation and reflection on headlines, current books, movies, and social and ethical issues such as those involving natural disasters and developments in the church.

Seminary Speaker to focus on religion factors in Presidential election

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:18:00 +0000

With the U.S. Presidential election less than two months away, the influence of religion on the national political scene has been a hot button issue. Why is religion more socially and politically significant in the U.S. than in other developed countries? How does religion impact American politics? And to what extent do religious affiliation, practice and belief affect the way citizens view candidates and issues?

Unpacking those and other questions one month before the polls open will be Dr. Laura Olson, a Clemson University political science professor whose career focus has concentrated on religion and the American political scene. She’ll give two presentations Tuesday, October 7, at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, in a program sponsored by the seminary’s Faith and Life Institute. Both presentations in the seminary’s Brossman Learning Center (Benbow Hall) are free and open to the public.

At 11:30 am Dr. Olson will discuss “The American Religious Marketplace” and will discuss how the social and political significance of religion, while complicated, has its essential roots in the reality that religion in the United States is and always has been profoundly “deregulated by the state.” She’ll delve into the historical reasons for such deregulation and comment on how deregulation plays a central role in the way Americans understand politics – and themselves.

At 7 pm, Dr. Olson will consider “Religion, American Politics and the 2008 Presidential Election.” Dr. Olson notes that many observers cite the significance of religion in political discussions in the United States. In what specific ways does religion influence American politics? How will religious factors impact the outcome of the 2008 run for the Presidency?

Dr. Olson has taught at Clemson since 1996 and directs undergraduate studies at the school. She holds a PhD from the University of Wisconsin—Madison and in her thesis focused on the “Political Involvement of Protestant Clergy.” The author of several books, she has a pending volume entitled Generals Without an Army? The Protestant Left in American Politics (Georgetown University Press).

Ample parking is available on campus - we suggest you check ltsp.edu/germantownave for latest directions due to Germantown Avenue construction near campus.

Faith and Life Institute online - Singing with Mind and Spirit: The Hymns of the Church

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:55:00 +0000

with musician and composer Mark Mummert, instructor

In this online not-for-credit course, we will study the hymns and songs of the Christian church so that we can sing them with both our mind and our spirit, as Paul counseled in his first letter to the Corinthians. Join musician Mark Mummert in this consideration of song as a part of our faith.

The course will be online from October through November, and registration is now open. Go to the Faith and Life Institute Online page for more information and to register.

LTSP Glimpse looks at Krauth Memorial Library

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:47:00 +0000

LTSP Glimpses return for the year with a new Glimpse of the Krauth Memorial Library, celebrating its 100th Anniversary. The latest can be found at Ltsp.edu/glimpses.

Glimpses are stories about the seminary suitable for use in congregational newsletters and bulletins - anywhere you want to help tell the stories of the seminary. They are part of the congregational materials LTSP offers each year. Sign up for LTSP's @PS enewsletter for updates on the latest at LTSP, including the release of the latest LTSP Glimpse. Or click on the RSS feed link on this page.

Perspectives on Evil topic for September Reflection

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:28:00 +0000

Perspectives on Evil is the theme explored by the September Faith and Life Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP). The Reflection raises questions about the issue of evil in our lives and culture in connection with questions asked by Pastor/Author Rick Warren of the U.S. Presidential candidates during a recent nationally televised question and answer forum at Saddleback Church.

You can download the September Reflection, and previous issues, from the Web: Ltsp.edu/faithandlife. Faith and Life Reflections are intended for use by individuals, and by small groups, adult forums, and in other settings to stimulate conversation and reflection on headlines, current books, movies, and social and ethical issues such as those involving natural disasters and developments in the church.

Thinking about God? Audit a Course at LTSP

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:49:00 +0000

So you've been walking with God for some time now, and you're thirsting for a deeper knowledge of your Christian faith.

Did you know that one affordable way to grow your knowledge is by auditing courses at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia? Study during the day, evening, even on a Saturday. Classes begin the week of September 2. There are a host of options. Consider these!

"Thinking About God?" is an introductory course on theology with a discussion of how our faith offers a perspective that equips us to consider and deal with contemporary challenges. Or, what about "Wealth, Poverty and the Church?" Want a deeper understanding of the Bible? "Healing and Miracle in New Testament Times" is one option. The seminary also offers a number of courses in Bible, Church History, Theology and Christian Education that may be of interest. This is just a sampling of the options available to you in the Fall of 2008 and beyond. The tuition charge for course auditing is $500 for a one-unit class, $250 for a one-half unit class. If you are 60 or older, the audit fee gets reduced by one-half. Bring a friend so you can carry on conversations before and after class. The seminary enjoys a lively community of regular auditors now. Why not join in?

For more information or to register for a course, go to Ltsp.edu/audit.

Getting (and staying) connected - July Reflection

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:43:00 +0000

Connections form the theme of the July Faith and Life Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP). The Reflection looks at how connections are important, in our lives, in our communities, and in our congregations, yet as our lives get busier, those important connections often do not happen. How can we change what we do so that connections become a part of our lives?

You can download the July Reflection, and previous issues, from the Web: Ltsp.edu/faithandlife. Faith and Life Reflections are intended for use by individuals, and by small groups, adult forums, and in other settings to stimulate conversation and reflection on headlines, current books, movies, and social and ethical issues such as those involving natural disasters and developments in the church.

Opening the Book of Faith subject of June Reflection

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 20:48:00 +0000

The June Faith and Life Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) looks at Opening the Book of Faith: Lutheran Insights for Bible Study. Opening the Book of Faith is the introduction to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith initiative. This bold vision calls for a conversation across the church about how the Bible forms us as the People of God

You can download the June Reflection, and previous issues, from the Web: Ltsp.edu/faithandlife. Faith and Life Reflections are intended for use by individuals, and by small groups, adult forums, and in other settings to stimulate conversation and reflection on headlines, current books, movies, and social and ethical issues such as those involving natural disasters and developments in the church.

Lutherhostel to explore Penn's influence

noreply@blogger.com (Faith and Life at Ltsp) — Tue, 20 May 2008 14:09:00 +0000

Lutherhostel program to explore
William Penn’s legacy for today

PHILADELPHIA, PA (May 19, 2008) – “William Penn’s Holy Experiment: Religious Freedom Then and Now” is the theme for the ninth annual Lutherhostel program June 16-20 at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP).

The annual program is a residential or commuter learning experience for older adults (aged 50 or more, non-Lutherans welcome!) co-sponsored by the seminary and the Association of Lutheran Older Adults, based in Baltimore, MD. Participants come from around the country. The program is made possible through a generous grant from the Pennsylvania Humanities Council.

“Quaker statesman William Penn cast a long and historic shadow over the development of colonial Philadelphia in the late 17th century, and he espoused formative ideas about liberty of conscience and religious freedom that he put into practice as an English colonizer,” says Mark Staples, Lutherhostel project manager and director of the seminary’s life-long learning initiative called The Faith and Life Institute. “We’re going to take a look at his life and times, his approach to partnering with colonists of differing religious persuasions and the Native tribes of his day. And we’ll consider lessons from his legacy that offer a perspective for today. What are our current religious freedom challenges? How might his approaches guide us as we consider the local to global challenges before us now?”

Keynoters for the week include Quaker presenter Nancy V. Webster, curator/historian for the national Friends Historical Association; Dr. Jon Pahl, professor of the History of Religion in North America at LTSP; Dr. A. Gregg Roeber, professor of Early Modern History and Religious Studies at Penn State University; “Living History” Performer William C. Kashatus, who appears regularly for the National Park Service; and the Rev. Bruce Davidson, director of the Lutheran Office of Governmental Ministry in New Jersey. LTSP Professor Katie Day will show her pictorial research on the faith communities along Philadelphia’s historic Germantown Avenue, including commentary on several historic or “mother” churches from several traditions. The week will include a bus tour of historic Pennsbury, Penn’s distinctive residence for a time when he lived in Philadelphia. Also appearing will be Susan Plaisted, a Pennsylvania Humanities Council presenter who will explore “Dining with William Penn” during a Wednesday afternoon session.

The cost for participating in the program is $430 (residents) and $330 (commuters). The registration fee covers 13 meals, refreshments and the bus tour of Pennsbury. Register on line at www.Ltsp.edu/Lutherhostel08. Detailed information about the program is available there. For additional assistance, contact Staples at 215/248-7352 or email him at Mstaples@Ltsp.edu. The program begins with checking in Monday morning June 16 for a 1:30 p.m. program opening. The program concludes with lunch Friday noon.

Tough Texts session videos online

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Sun, 11 May 2008 13:25:00 +0000

The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) has added several video recordings from the Tough Texts: An Interfaith Dialog Series for Christian, Jewish & Muslim Leaders to the LTSP Web site. They are:

- Gender and Sexuality with presenters The Rev. Wil Gafney, PhD, Laura Levitt, PhD, and Constance Carter, PhD
and
- War and Peace with presenters Paul Mojzes, PhD, Rabbi Leonard Gordon, and Khalil Malik, MD

These sessions are also available for download or online listening as MP3 audio files.

See the Web site, www.Ltsp.edu/news/news-media.html, for these and other LTSP online media. See Tough Texts: An Interfaith Dialog Series for Christian, Jewish & Muslim Leaders for details on the series.

Tough Texts videos now online

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:09:00 +0000

Two sessions of Tough Texts: An Interfaith Dialog Series for Christian, Jewish & Muslim Leaders, presented by the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, are available for viewing online. The spring 2008 dialogue series focused on how the three Abrahamic traditions contemplate Scripture in terms of Identity and the Other, Gender and Sexuality, and War and Peace.

Gender and Sexuality with presenters The Rev. Wil Gafney, PhD, Laura Levitt, PhD, and Constance Carter, PhD, and War and Peace with presenters Paul Mojzes, PhD, Rabbi Leonard Gordon, and Khalil Malik, MD, can be viewed on the LTSP Web site.

Human Sexuality social statement is May Reflection

communications@Ltsp.edu (LTSP Communications and Media) — Wed, 07 May 2008 18:35:00 +0000

The May Faith and Life Reflection from the Faith and Life Institute of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) looks at the draft Human Sexuality social statement now being discussed by individuals and congregations in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The resources can also be used by non-Lutherans who are interested in exploring how faith connects with human sexuality.

The effort, begun as a result of a request from the ELCA Churchwide Assembly in 2001, is now in the draft stage and open to comment before the final statement will be acted upon by the 2009 Churchwide Assembly.

You can download the May Reflection, and previous issues, from the Web: Ltsp.edu/faithandlife. Faith and Life Reflections are intended for use by individuals, and by small groups, adult forums, and in other settings to stimulate conversation and reflection on headlines, current books, movies, and social and ethical issues such as those involving natural disasters and developments in the church.

Graying but growing

noreply@blogger.com (Faith and Life at Ltsp) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:29:00 +0000

Mark Staples, director of the Faith and Life Institute at LTSP, gave these remarks on older lifestyles to an audience of older adults at Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, Emmaus, PA, on April 8, 2008

Let me start these reflective remarks by clarifying my background a bit. Some people assume that because I work at a Lutheran Seminary I must be either a professor and theologian, or a pastor. I am neither. I’ve served most of my time at the school as a writer and director of communications, and then the past two years have been directing a life-long learning initiative called “The Faith and Life Institute.”

I say this so that if any of you concludes that I have a screwy idea or two you don’t end up saying to yourself, or others, “What are they teaching in seminary these days anyway?”

It is a real honor to be asked to give remarks to those of you who work so diligently and in depth at older adult ministry. From what I can see this is an exemplary group of its kind, and so I really wonder if there is much I can say to you. Let’s see if any of these ideas pique your interest.

In 2005, I was talking casually to an editor at The Lutheran who used to write for me many years ago when I was an editor in Philadelphia for the magazine. Kathy Kastilahn was highly intrigued by a decision my wife, Lynn, and I had made to quit our jobs and take a year off to think about faith and life and where we were headed. At 60 I found my health and energy were declining. I was used to working a lot of hours at the seminary as communications director. I covered most events at the school and edited the web and publications galore. It was a demanding post. Asthma was getting the best of me even with treatment and was sapping my strength. My wife and I had cared for both of our mothers in our home at different times for a total of 19 years.

We kept deferring the kinds of vacations we had wanted to take. Then, in May of 2004, Lynn’s Mom passed on in our home. Our children had become adults. Suddenly we could look at things differently. Lynn reminded me of the scores of conversations she had shared with dying patients in her service as a hospice case manager for Abington Hospital. “So many of them tell me, ‘I wish we had done this. I wish we had done that. Now we can’t.’” We discussed that tomorrow is promised to no one. We could wait for retirement, or we could sell the house and use the equity from a couple of the bigger rooms to just be together, traveling and enjoying once-deferred experiences together. We decided why not?

And so we sold the house, took a small apartment at the seminary and hit the road. It was a risk because it required use of part of our retirement nest egg early.

Kathy was just fascinated about this. “You’ve got to write about it,” she said. And so a trilogy of stories ran in the magazine – “Plan B for Retirement” (November 2005), “Holy Surprises Along America’s Highways” (March 2006), and “Becoming ‘new’” – Five Learnings on the Way to Retirement (December 2006).

I must confess the articles have attracted much more interest than I could possibly have anticipated. Many folks wrote me and told me everything from “You’re nuts to take a chance like this” to “I wish I had the courage to do this” and once in a while I would meet a stranger in the church, like Professor Karla Bombach of Susquehanna University who would say “You’re the one who wrote those articles” and then engage me in a discussion about them.

In that year Lynn and I engaged in some genealogical research in Nova Scotia, renewed friendships too long ignored in New England and elsewhere, enjoyed coincidences of experience we believed God had set up for us, saw many of the nation’s incredible national parks, volunteered in Mississippi twice in the aftermath of Katrina, and celebrated a family reunion of sorts in Florida.

Since then I’ve returned to the seminary in a new post for life-long learning and enjoyed it immensely. It was supposed to be part time, but now is more like full time. Since November, the asthma that used to plague me has been returning with something of a vengeance with three visits to emergency rooms or urgent care centers this year. I am allergic to a lot of stuff, and it keeps finding me. My last hospital visit was pretty scary in Tempe, AZ on March 7. Stress and asthma do not go well together. Enter Plan C for retirement. It’s called retiring two years earlier than you had planned upon. Enter the range of emotional and intellectual struggles that go along with that. I simply have not been ready for this kind of change. One at a time, my doctor, my wife, old friends, have given me reminders that we don’t always get to choose our own timetables. “I’ve got a bunch of people at Abington Hospital you should talk to in the hospice unit,” my dear wife tells me. She’s returned to her old work.

In view of these developments, I decided to revisit what I wrote three years ago to see if it still makes any sense. (I think it probably does, at least for me, but maybe we should talk again three years from NOW.) I’ve also reviewed in my mind the folks I’ve met along the nation’s and more local highways since then.

Here are some thoughts that might spark discussion at the conclusion of my comments. I hope so.

1. Don’t wait too long to travel or savor relationships. This seems obvious enough. With my lung function at 58 percent of capacity now, it was certainly easier to travel, hike and visit folks we had not seen for years three years ago than it might be now. I’ve lost 10 percent of my lung function since November. Don’t wait until health issues compromise you.
2. Discover new interests or rekindle old ones. By attending the Walter Kuntzleman Conference here a couple of years ago I picked up the Gallup Press Book “Living Your Strengths.” Author Albert Winseman was one of the presenters. This fine book strives to connect people more effectively to their gifts in a way that inspires themselves and their communities. Don’t spend time trying to mend or overcome your weaknesses. It isn’t worth it. The book leads you into a web aptitude style survey and connects various strengths to scriptural understanding. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Communication is not one of my top strengths! Oh, if I could only start all over again. I’m more of a networker and connector. No wonder I like setting up interfaith dialogues and organizing flood relief workers, both comparatively new interests of mine. I urge you to try this book on for size if you haven’t already. It might help you focus better how you use your gifts in retirement.

3. Take part in pre-retirement consultations. The church’s Board of Pensions has been a godsend to me in my planning. I started my pre-retirement thinking with Lynn a bit late. But the support has been magnificent. Especially now. AARP and many other organizations offer this kind of consulting. I imagine most of you have partaken in something like that. 50 is not too early an age to start in.

4. Connect with a spiritual counselor. My wife and I after more than 40 years of marriage are really on the same page spiritually, and that is an incredible blessing. A seminary faculty member, Rich Stewart, is my age. He has proved to be an invaluable friend and counselor as I have examined life passages. With the pace of modern life, especially in the workplace, it is easy to overlook how much you may be a mentor or counselor to others and vice-versa. It is much easier just to keep running. I wonder how many of you rely on a spiritual counselor, someone you can approach, spend time with and really trust.

5. Manage the fear factor. In a casual conversation a woman who appeared to me to be stressed out to begin with talked to me about my writing. This woman is a high-powered executive with a great deal in the way of resources. She showed me her jam-packed calendar. “I’m afraid of the future,” she said candidly. “I have no idea what is next for me after work. I’m afraid to think about it!” Admittedly, there is much to fear – inevitable loss of energy, health, career and work as we have known it. Will we ever have enough money to retire? Especially in this time that is an issue in the headlines that makes so many folks anxious. Most people are not blessed as I am with a Pension. Increasingly such a benefit will become a rarity. But later life can also be a time of opportunity as so many of you know. God has a way of opening new doors, even when change is not always “our idea.” Even if you are limited in your capacity, you can study theology right in your own home. Go to www.Ltsp.edu/flonline and sign up this very month for our newest on line course for laity entitled “Peter and Paul: Agents of Change,” which is a study of the Book of Acts. In managing the fear factor and the advancing years, I like to think of 2 Corinthians 5: 17: “So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see everything has become new!” Even the old and very old can become new with Christ!

Let me share a few other thoughts we might think about together before I pause and invite you to share in the discussion with me.

1. I’m eager to hear about how you share the wisdom of this ministry with other congregations or groups. As you undoubtedly realize, the demographics of our church denomination indicate that most of us are 50 and over. Yet, when I attended a pre-retirement workshop in Vermont a few years ago, my colleagues who were pastors in congregations acknowledged they had not thought in great depth about ministry with, by and for older persons in their midst. Several of the pastors told me they had not thought about it even for themselves. In addition, last year in New Jersey I led a workshop on “Crafting a Vision for your Congregation.” It’s something you can find on the Institute’s web site under “free items.” I’m not suggesting that you need it! An older pastor approached me after the workshop and said something striking that has remained with me. The pastor began by telling me that he had done much over the years to “turn around” struggling congregations. But he doesn’t feel the congregation he’s in has much of a future. “It is filled with older persons who just want to sit around and be ministered to,” he said. “They don’t want to do anything themselves.” I couldn’t help wondering, is it that they don’t want to do anything, or is it that they haven’t caught a vision for what God might do with them in service to others? I am wondering whether you minister to other congregations to help them catch the vision for what you have caught here. Many congregations today are stuck on preservation rather than Luther’s focus on serving the neighbor. As a result, they are dying. Speaking of that…
2. I’ve been reading a wonderful volume called “Luther’s Spirituality” by Philip and Peter Krey, which is a translation of and exploration of Martin Luther’s more colorful writings. Here’s a sample. In a chapter called “The Late Medieval Context,” which I find is not always entirely different from our own, Luther is talking about the propensity some preachers have to either unduly praise the lords of the day at the expense of peasants, or vice-versa. He writes, “Those preachers who, like Muntzer, Carlstadt and other fanatics, take the one side and scold the Lords in order to win over the people and flatter the peasants – or on the other side, scold the peasants in order to flatter and serve the Lords – as our opponents do – are poisonous and dangerous. The thing to do is to chop both parties up into one bowl and make one dish out of the two of them.”

One critical chapter of this book focuses on the Book of Romans, in particular a preface to that Book written by Luther in September of 1522. The preface presents the core of Luther’s understanding of spirituality, a term we hear thrown around a lot today. Luther calls Romans “the clearest expression of the Gospel” and contends that any serious Christian should know the Book by heart. This will give you a challenge for the next month! In Romans one can learn what a Christian needs to know about the meaning of law, Gospel, sin, punishment, grace, faith, righteousness, Christ, God, good works, freedom, love, hope and the cross. Further, it explains how we should relate to everyone, whether righteous or sinner, strong or weak, friend or foe, even how we should consider ourselves.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about one particular oft-cited passage in Romans, 8:28. “We know that all things work together for good, for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” I’m hoping you would reflect with me about the meaning of this passage in your own lives and your corporate life here. Perhaps you have a story or two.

The first time I heard this passage preached upon, at least in my memory, was four years ago when an African American pastor from Elizabeth, NJ, a Baptist, focused on the passage in a sermon lasting one hour and five minutes. It was the best sermon I ever heard during the Preaching with Power program the seminary sponsors each March. And I’ve listened to a lot of fine sermons. He told a riveting story of being in his church study one Saturday morning when an hysterical parishioner ran into the room. “I think something’s happened to my parents! They don’t answer the phone! I can’t get into their apartment. It’s been a couple of days.” He went with her to the apartment and found both parents had been slain, stabbed to death as I recall it. He had been studying this passage in Romans before she arrived. He said he kept asking later that day, “What good can possibly come of this?”

The woman dropped out of church for a time. She was inconsolable. Her Mom had been one of her best friends. Now she was gone. About two years later on a Saturday morning, the young woman returned to the pastor’s study. She was excited, glowing. “I got to thinking,” she said, “about how my Mom kept telling me I would make an excellent teacher. I’ve gone back to school, gotten a Master’s degree, and I have a new job in an elementary school. I’m so excited I just had to tell you!” He decided, maybe ALL THINGS work together for good after all.

In Mississippi 18 months ago I was standing with another older Katrina volunteer at the end of a long day, waiting in the shower line. He was a contractor from North Carolina. In the midst of a casual conversation, he suddenly said, “You know, I’ve always thought that connecting with God is a mountaintop experience. But I’m finding out that God is also with us in the valleys of life, places like here in Mississippi’s destroyed communities.” Can anything GOOD come out of a storm like Katrina that has scarred so many lives and intensified the reality of poverty in places like Moss Point, MS? Indeed, as I am God’s witness to you today I can tell you that lives of survivors and volunteers alike are being transformed as the result of Katrina.
3. Finally, let me close with an invitation to you to partake in the offerings of The Faith and Life Institute that I currently oversee. On the web site at www.Ltsp.edu are a combination of free items, programs and events offered by the seminary to benefit lay people and discussion groups like this one. We have a monthly reflection series suitable for private or group discussion. Each reflection on a topic of the day closes with questions and resources you can use. As with offerings like our on line series you don’t have to travel to Philadelphia to partake, but of course if you’d like to come by, we have programs like our annual health ministry conference and our interfaith dialogue series to participate in. Thanks for listening.