Mid-Winter Convocation: God’s Mission and Worship

“As the second decade of the 21st century begins, we confess that the Holy Spirit is calling and sending the church of Jesus Christ into apostolic mission for the sake of God’s world.”

The first sentence of Luther Seminary’s strategic plan sets an agenda for our 2014 Mid-Winter Convocation on God’s Mission and Worship. Its theological claims undergird the shape of the conference, organized around the Spirit’s work in gathering for worship, breaking open Jesus’ presence in word and meal and sending in mission to a hurting and hungry world. We join in God’s work in Christ through the Spirit at a time when many churches are less sure than ever what their place is in society. Existing assumptions, while sustaining generations before us, seem in need of major revision. These assumptions include

• Worship is the first place newcomers are going to encounter a given congregation.
• Worship is primarily for the spiritual nurturing of the members of a given congregation.
• Visitors understand the Christian faith and its core claims rooted in Scripture.
• Longtime members understand the Christian faith and its core claims rooted in Scripture.

These assumptions are increasingly eroding today. In response to these assumptions, four pairs of practitioners and educators will think through fresh theological and practical assumptions of our new era of apostolic mission. What is God up to in our midst, and what is God calling us to be and do? Come think out loud about how to be a bold and faithful Christian leader in today’s changing world. Through stimulating presentations, practical workshops and inspiring worship, you’ll gain the concepts and skills to navigate the untrodden paths of the 21st century church wherever God has planted you.

Select the registration link below for complete event information and to register.