Common Ground
Fall Session Returns!

Wednesday evenings,
September 15 - November 3, 2010

Join your friends for a casual dinner, church family devotions,

and an early evening of learning and growing in fellowship and faith!

Dinner at 6:00 pm

Informal Praise & Prayer at 6:30 pm

Group Time 6:40-7:40 pm

Closing on "Common Ground" at 7:45 pm

Course Offerings include ...

A.  Investigating the Exodus – Take a close-up look at an epic biblical adventure known as the Exodus that is recorded in the pages of the Old Testament.  Explore the evidence of a liberating journey from slavery to freedom, guided by the fascinating and controversial documentary, “Exodus Decoded” which was produced by James Cameron of Avatar and Titanic fame!  Led by St. Andrew member and former Valparaiso University professor Rodney Bohlmann. (8 sessions – 9/15 to 11/3)

B.  Exploring Muhammad of Islam – Was he a penniless orphan, as Muslims commonly believe? Was he primarily motivated by religious or political interests? Did he see religion as an end in itself, or a means to an end?  What was his attitude toward non-Muslims and women? Learn about the beginnings of Islam, the life of Muhammad, and his importance to Muslims through the ages, with time for discussion about the implications of these beliefs for us as Christians and for the world at large today.  Led by St. Andrew member Ed Kauffman, who has spent many years working in and studying Islamic life and culture.  (3 sessions – 9/15 to 9/29)

C.  Keys to Unlock Modern Hearts: Evangelizing in Contemporary Culture – How does our current cultural climate change the effectiveness of “evangelism” as the church has known it?  Explore the way society has evolved since the mid-twentieth century and how these marked differences call us to modify our approach to witnessing for Christ in the here and now.  Led by Pastor Bob Mordhorst.  (5 sessions – 9/15 to 10/13)

D.  Ministry in Sign – Ron Friedrich serves as Pastor of Christ Lutheran Church of the Deaf in Silver Spring as well as Lutheran Campus Pastor at Gallaudet University in Washington, DC.  Ron’s ministry to deaf Christians is powerful and fascinating.  Spend some time learning about the ministry and about American Sign Language in a way that will help you experience and share its beauty and power. (3 sessions – 9/15 to 9/29)

F.  Sacred Space – What is it about churches and other sacred places that draw us to the holiness and presence of God? What does the history of church building tell us about the faith of those who worship?  How can shape and material change the way a space evokes sacred experience?  Learn some history, share your thoughts, and explore the answers. Led by St. Andrew member and architect Jeff Lohr.  (3 sessions – 10/20 to 11/3)

G.  Understanding Revelation – Its writing is symbolic and its images often seem bizarre.  It contains great encouragement and powerful warnings about the final showdown between God and Satan.  This study of the Book of Revelation is for those who want to unlock the promises of God and increase their understanding of the sometimes mysterious final book of the Bible.  Led by St. Andrew member and Bible teacher Jim Farmer.  (3 sessions – 10/20 to 11/3)

H.  Faith Walk Membership Information Seminar101 –What did Jesus say about being “members of the body” in the community of believers? What are the sacraments and why are they important?  What does it mean to practice Christianity in the Lutheran tradition?  Come to explore these and related questions in a small group setting where answers are found and friends are made! Open to those new to St. Andrew, as well as those looking to renew and refresh!  Although the seminar will prepare participants to unite with our congregation, a commitment to membership is not required to attend.  Led by Pastor Hricko. (5 sessions – 10/6 to 11/3). 

 Don’t miss the blessing of gathering together
on Common Ground!