Convention 2008 - Workshop Overview

The Unfinished Reformation: Faith in Daily Life
Saturday, April 26, 2008

Workshop Overview

The following Afternoon Workshops have been scheduled, but note that room locations are tentative. We await responses from delegates and pastors who plan to attend, to make a final determination as to which sessions may require larger areas.

Convention guests may choose a workshop session at 1:10 and a second one at 2:10 p.m. A Reception in the Johnson Student Union Foyer will follow the final workshop time at 3 p.m.

“Public Discourse: Combining Faith and Civic Engagement”
Leila Brammer (Heritage Room, 2:10–3:00 p.m.)

While the popular press bemoans the self-centeredness of the youth, an amazing number of them are taking an active part in their communities, participating, planning, and initiating action. At Gustavus Adolphus College, the Communication Studies Department has incorporated a new course in the curriculum that appeals to students with these interests and helps them gain the vital skills of citizenship in our democracy. Listen to the influence they have had on important issues in their communities and reinvigorate your faith in the future.

“Campus & Granlund Sculptures Walking Tour”
Elaine Brostrom (Campus Center Registration Desk, 1:10–2 p.m.)

Join Elaine Brostrom for a walking tour of the campus and sculptures by the late Paul Granlund. This is a leisurely walk; the pieces discussed will be the ones in and around Christ Chapel.

“On Being a Christian with Integrity”
Mary Gaebler (St. Peter Room, 2:10–3 p.m.)

Real faith, according to the apostle Paul, is always active in love. But what does this mean in specific situations, and how does such activity actually arise within us. We will combine an examination of faith(both true and idolatrous) with an exploration of the way ethical decisions are actually made. In what sense is our use of Scripture, Tradition, Reason and Experience related to our convictions? Are we being consistent? What do our decisions and beliefs about ethical choices reveal about our deepest commitments?

“What’s New in the Arboretum?”
Emily Hoefs (Meet at Campus Center Registration Desk and walk together to the Interpretive Center, 2:10–3 p.m.)

The Linnaeus Arboretum provides an enriching environment to educate the mind, revive the spirit, and delight in Minnesota’s natural history. Come stroll through the Linnaeus Arboretum—enjoy the springtime beauty and wonder of God’s creation, experience the flowers, trees, and birds, and let our naturalist tell you of the prairie restoration and other new projects for the Arboretum.

“Finding Your “Spirit” in a Secular World”
Karl Larson (Three Crowns Room, 1:10–2 p.m.)

How do you keep the faith? This seminar offers some suggestion on how to keep one’s spiritual center in a rapidly changing world. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences during this session.

“How to Milk a Cow to the Glory of God: Toward a More Robust Sense of Vocation"
Darrell Jodock (Heritage Room, 1:10–2 p.m.)

Luther said that every Christian has a calling, a vocation. Unfortunately the concept has too often been “flattened out” merely to endorse one’s career. So, what sort of calling is this? How is it different from that, more than one’s occupation? How does it affect one’s work? How does it affect family life? How does it affect civic engagement?

“Vocation and Calling: Connecting Sunday to Monday”
Chris Johnson (St. Peter Room, 1:10–2 p.m.)

What really matters? Who am I and why am I here? How can I really make a difference in the world? What does God really want me to do with my life? Questions like these are with most of us all throughout our lives. In a single session or (if you prefer) in a series, we'll explore a wide range of issues and questions surrounding the idea of vocation or "calling," including the rich theological insights of the Lutheran tradition, society's changing attitudes toward work and community, and each person's giftedness for "ministry in daily life."

“Honoring the Sabbath: A Lay Perspective”
Amy Pehrson (Three Crowns Room, 2:10–3 p.m.)

The Third Commandment tells us to do it, but what exactly does “Honor the Sabbath” mean in today’s world. Does it mean more than just going to church on Sunday morning? And if so, how can we do that? Amy will share her thoughts on the importance and the different ways that the concept of Sabbath can be thought about and realized by individuals every day.

“Deepening the Church-College Connection and Resources for Congregations”
Grady St. Dennis (Board Room—1:10–2 p.m. and 2:10–3 p.m.)

Grady St. Dennis, Director of Church Relations, will explain the full listing of resources available for congregations and discuss the relationship between Church and College. Gustavus offers numerous programs of great interest to the congregations, including our very popular confirmation retreat program, and church retreats that use our Retreat Center, the Partners in Education, Partners in Music, older adult retreats and Gustavus Youth Outreach.

“Especially for Youth—Faith Life on a College Campus”
Student Leaders (Linner Lounge, 1:10–2 p.m.)

College is an exciting time of learning and growth. Do not let your faith be left out during this time of growth. How will you keep your faith growing while at college? Come hear firsthand from Gustavus students some practical ideas for you about the ways your faith can grow even stronger while in college. Leaders of the various student-led faith groups on campus will help lead this workshop.