What is worship? What is Lutheran worship? What is essential in worship? Why do we worship? Who do we worship? What goes into planning and leading a worship service? This course will focus on both the Biblical and theological backgrounds for worship, particularly the Sacraments, as well as providing opportunities for practical application.
The course will be taught primarily on Zoom; however, there will be one additional practicum session for those who have registered for credit — Synod-Authorized Ministry students. The date and location will be determined.
Each class will be divided into two parts: 1) background, Bible and theology of worship; and 2) practicum. The length of the parts may vary, but in general Part 1 will last two hours and Part 2 will take up the last hour. Those who register for credit will be expected to remain for the entire three hours. Non-credit auditors will attend only part 1. The exception is for the first class which will last for 3 hours for everyone.
The primary text for the class will be “Central Things — Worship in Word and Sacrament” by Gordon W. Lathrop. Additionally, everyone will also be expected to have a copy of Evangelical Lutheran Worship (the current cranberry red hymnal).
The spring Adult Faith Formation course on worship will be held starting at 9:00 a.m. on March 29, April 12, April 26, May 3, and May 17. The cost is $25 for general learners and $50 for Synod-Authorized Ministry students. Register at CSIS-ELCA.org/aff25spring. Please register by Saturday, March 8.
About the presenter:The Rev. S. Blake Duncan is a retired ELCA pastor, having served congregations in Akron, Ohio; Bloomington, Ill.; and Steeleville, Ill. He also has extensive experience in music ministry having served as pastor for worship & music at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bloomington and as organist/choirmaster as well as pastoral administrator at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Bloomington. Pastor Duncan served the C/SIS as the educational coordinator for the Synod-Authorized Ministry program for about 10 years. Additionally, Blake is a retired professional oboist and English horn player, having performed in orchestras and chamber ensembles for over 35 years. He taught on the music faculty of Bradley University in Peoria and served for 15 summers as the oboe instructor for Lutheran Summer Music. He continues to teach, direct the choir, and assist with the music program at Unity Lutheran in St. Louis.