Los profetas Isaías, Amós, y Malaquías (entre otros) mostraron la íntima relación entre el amor a Dios y el amor al prójimo. Denunciaron la manera en que sus contemporáneos separaban el culto a Dios de su conducta cotidiana hacia sus semejantes. “¿Cómo podemos decir que amamos a Dios, a quien no vemos, si no amamos a nuestro prójimo, a quien sí vemos?” Estas lecciones siguen estando vigentes hoy día para nosotros. En español.

Practicing love is more demanding that citing Scriptures that speak about love. Nowhere does this seem more pressing for Christians in North America than when it comes to loving Muslims. Muslims are no longer only those we in North America hear about from overseas missionaries on furlough. We meet them as neighbors, co-workers, fellow citizens, and family members. In many places, churches are struggling to address the needs of discipling Christians who can demonstrate love toward Muslims in their life. What are effective ways to build positive and trusting relationships with Muslims? What type of hospitality and friendship is meaningful for Muslims? What types of formation do Christians need to be engaged in to effectively address the questions, fears, and prejudices that inhibit our acts of love towards Muslims?

Those of us who feel Psalm 33’s call to write new songs must remember that the psalm also tells us to play skillfully. In this seminar we will focus on the skills of songwriting for congregations, digging into what it means to balance inspiration and perspiration. Join these singer-songwriters as they speak about their approaches to creating new texts, new tunes, and the combining of texts and tunes. The afternoon will be spent discussing participants’ song submissions. Attendees of all levels and musical styles will benefit from this seminar.

Almost every church affirms engagement with Scripture as a vital—even central—element of their worship services. Yet preachers and worship leaders are increasingly aware of the need for “remedial” work to be done for worshipers to engage well with Scripture. In a post-Christendom context, no assumptions can be made about basic biblical knowledge and understanding. This seminar will explore strategies for engaging Scripture in worship in a culture marked by low biblical literacy.

This retreat will be limited to 15 people who will spend time together in a home setting, also enjoying fellowship over the noon meal. In this day of quiet together, we will ponder afresh “how deep the Father’s love for us;” enjoy “sweet communion” with Jesus; and pledge anew, God’s Spirit helping us, “with one holy passion,” to return our Lover’s love.