From Font to Table: Welcoming the Stranger into Christ and Congregational Life Veteran pastors and commissioned ministers of parish ministry are well aware there is no “magic bullet” that guarantees to increase a congregation’s membership, and this workshop makes no such claim for an adult faith formation process. Rather, the research—case studies at four congregations […]

NEW! On Using Worldly Wealth Do we have a “theology of possessions?” Why don’t we talk about the “tithe?” What does the New Testament say about “worldly wealth” (Luke 16:9)? Is the principle “neither poverty nor riches” (Prov. 30:8) typical of what the Bible teaches about worldly wealth? Special attention will be given to Jesus’ […]

From Font to Table: Welcoming the Stranger into Christ and Congregational Life Veteran pastors and commissioned ministers of parish ministry are well aware there is no “magic bullet” that guarantees to increase a congregation’s membership, and this workshop makes no such claim for an adult faith formation process. Rather, the research—case studies at four congregations […]

Principles of Biblical Interpretation for the Parish Dr. James Voelz is currently working on a book designed to teach hermeneutics to interested laypeople in a parish setting. This workshop will present this material to pastors for feedback and discussion on its propriety for parishioners. Laypeople also are welcome to attend. After the course, pastors will […]

Sharpening the Sword of the Spirit In this workshop, pastors will reflect on the art of preaching and learn specific techniques for continued growth in proclaiming God’s Word. Beginning with an overview of the theology of preaching, the sessions will identify ways to evaluate one’s preaching, clarify one’s Law and Gospel proclamation and integrate current […]

Decoding the Apocalypse: Study of the Book of Revelation The title of the last book of the Bible is translated as “Revelation,” but its original title was “Apocalypse.” This word literally means “the unveiling.” The purpose of this book of the Bible is to unveil the purposes of God in human history. For many people, […]

This workshop was originally scheduled for July 10-12, 2023, but has been rescheduled to Jan. 22-24, 2024. Making Christian Counseling More Christ Centered Many pastors and church leaders of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod realize that much of what passes for Christian counseling is based in the Law and not the Gospel of Christ. Dr. C.F.W. […]

An Introduction to Athanasius This workshop offers a detailed study of Athanasius’ major works as primary texts in the interest of gaining an understanding of Athanasius’ Trinitarian theology, his Christology as evidenced in his “On the Incarnation,” as well as his writings against the Arians. The course will also engage his pastoral concerns through writings […]

Faith Formation Through Music and Worship Many forces are vying for the attention of our youth — movies, social media, friends, the internet. What are we as parents and teachers, pastors, and church leaders to do? Our children will be formed as they grow up. Worldly forces will contend with spiritual forces to attract and command their […]