"Understanding Gustavus: Exploring Its Lutheran Identity" - Feature #1 - RelationalFebruary 28, 2012 at 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m.

Gustavus' guiding vision has been shaped by its Lutheran tradition. Following a "third path," this vision does not follow "default" models and is out of step with several societal expectations. As a result, the College's core vision can be puzzling and hard to articulate. Dr. Darrell Jodock will give a series of presentations designed for faculty, administrators and staff of all backgrounds, who make decisions and/or influence students. The sessions during lunch will explore one basic characteristic of the Lutheran heritage and its influence on Gustavus -- this feature being RELATIONAL. What are the implications for this college that the Lutheran tradition focuses on the quality of relationships rather than on beliefs, doctrines, or rules of behavior? How do we understand its fondness for paradoxes? What sort of freedom does it support? What sort of ethic does it affirm? Participants may attend at either 11:30 or 12:30 (repeat presentations) with short discussion following. Participants pick up a free lunch at the buffet and bring it to the President's Dining Room.