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from the executive chair ...

Lenae Rasmussen

As we draw closer to our third annual gathering, July 20-22, 2003, our planning is centered on our mission to proclaim Christ crucified to the world. Our gathering begins at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, with our guest speaker, Dr. Robert A. J. Gagnon, known nationally for his book, The Bible and Homosexual Practice: Texts and Hermeneutics (Abingdon, 2001). Gagnon will speak on "The Confessional Crisis: Scripture and Sexuality." Rev. Perry Toso of Creston, IA, will preach at our worship service on Sunday night.

Dr. Gagnon and Dr. Gedde will lead the confessional issues discussion group on "Public Ministry and the Role of the Christian in Society" on Monday and Tuesday. In light of the pressure being put on mainline Protestant churches to bless "same-sex marriages" and ordain practicing homosexuals, and the struggles in Iraq, this group will certainly have lively discussions.

On Monday morning we begin with a devotion from Rev. Homer Larson, and "Red Velvet Cake-Part 2: When Memories and Traditions Are Forgotten" by Dr. Larry A. Gedde. As Gedde shares his understanding of the confessional crisis in America, he has hinted that he may touch on the recipe for "Wacky Cake!" Rev. Walt Kukkonen, the pastor of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Audubon, will give the Monday afternoon Bible study. There will be a variety of discussion groups and workshops on resources and mission opportunities Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning. Rev. Ron Rasmussen of Loganville, WI, will preach and lead the contemporary worship service on Monday evening.

On Tuesday morning we begin with a devotion from Rev. Jack Togerson, and Dr. Oliver K. Olson's insights on theology and liturgy, "Fidelity In The Midst of Chaos." Dr. Olson and Mrs. Amy Williams will lead the discussion group on "Worship: Contemporary and Faithful." Dr. Olson and Dr. Jim Galezewski will also participate in our "House of Studies" workshop. Rev. Dick Smith of Bismarck, ND, will give the Tuesday afternoon Bible study. After the business session, we'll have a picnic dinner, followed by a folk service in the park led by our District Pastor, Rev. Mark Jamison of Sioux Falls, SD. Our gathering concludes on Tuesday evening with a fireworks celebration.

We warmly welcome you to "the gathering place" for fun and fellowship this summer. Come and hear the gospel proclaimed and celebrated with lively worship and fellowship. All who are thirsty, come! You'll be fed with the Word of God and his sure Promise for you: "Your sins are forgiven for Christ's sake." And, of course, the food and the Christian fellowship is always "hyggelig" (cozy and friendly) when you're with the Danes in Southwestern Iowa. This is most certainly true.

 

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