We Bought the Stuff, Now What?
A Zoom Forum on Technology, Gadgets and Best Practices
Facilitated by Colter McCarty, Dir. of Technology and Communication for the MT Synod
This interactive forum will provide time for questions as well as sharing ideas, concerns and plans. Topics to be covered include:
What skills did you develop this past year that you'd like to retain?
What skills can you pass on to congregation members and how do you train them?
How can you use tech in ways other than Sunday worship?
Can you use tech to enhance baptisms, confirmation, weddings and funerals?
Can you share your tech capability with outside groups?
Tuesday, August 10 from 9:30 am to Noon
Free
Click here to register
Leading Holy Conversations amid Polarization:
Equipping Followers of Christ to Communicate in Faith-filled Ways
Led by Bishop Laurie Jungling
We live in a time when it is nearly impossible to communicate with one another with any depth. Our conversations with one another, whether in person or on social media, can easily descend into angry retorts, judgmental suspicion, reactive demonization, and hateful dehumanizing so that there seems to be nothing left to do but retreat into same-thinking groups or go to battle with the so-called “enemy.”
How do we as followers of Christ and leaders in Christ’s Church respond faithfully to such challenges that are intruding into our congregations and ministries? Do we say nothing and try keep everyone happy? Do we engage in the same divisive rhetoric? Do we leave the church altogether? Or do we seek different approaches designed to lower the anxiety level, build up community, and equip one another to love one another into faith-filled ways of communication?
This workshop will offer various tools, guidance, and methods so that you can better lead healthy and effective conversations in your communities
Thursday, Sept. 9th via Zoom
10 am to Noon (hour for lunch) 1pm to 3pm
Cost: $55
4 Contact hours of continuing education.
Click Here to Register
Equipping Followers of Christ to Communicate in Faith-filled Ways
Led by Bishop Laurie Jungling
We live in a time when it is nearly impossible to communicate with one another with any depth. Our conversations with one another, whether in person or on social media, can easily descend into angry retorts, judgmental suspicion, reactive demonization, and hateful dehumanizing so that there seems to be nothing left to do but retreat into same-thinking groups or go to battle with the so-called “enemy.”
How do we as followers of Christ and leaders in Christ’s Church respond faithfully to such challenges that are intruding into our congregations and ministries? Do we say nothing and try keep everyone happy? Do we engage in the same divisive rhetoric? Do we leave the church altogether? Or do we seek different approaches designed to lower the anxiety level, build up community, and equip one another to love one another into faith-filled ways of communication?
This workshop will offer various tools, guidance, and methods so that you can better lead healthy and effective conversations in your communities
Thursday, Sept. 9th via Zoom
10 am to Noon (hour for lunch) 1pm to 3pm
Cost: $55
4 Contact hours of continuing education.
Click Here to Register
Drawn to the Word: The Integration of the Visual Arts in Your Ministry
with Artist and Pastor Paul Oman
In this hands-on workshop, you will both see the Word come to life before your eyes on large-scale canvas as Paul paints and teaches, and you will go home with many applicable “take-aways” for your ministry. In a relaxed studio-like format, you will experience first-hand how art can serve as a “bridge” for faith and meaning between ages, generations, cultures, languages, members and non-members, actives and in-actives, denominations, education levels, and more. Paul will share insights of recent brain research, how it functions in the church, and how we can engage our people at deeper and more meaningful levels with the thoughtful use of visuals. No artistic ability or experience is needed to attend. Along with healthy laughter and great conversation, this will be a day to remember. Join us for this life and ministry-changing experience.
Tuesday, Oct 5 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at Our Savior's Lutheran in Great Falls, MT
Wednesday, Oct 6 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (location tbd)
Cost is $10 - 3 contact hours (please invite members of your congregation!)
Paul Oman, artist and pastor, shares his "Drawn to the Word" artistic ministry with audiences ecumenically across the country. He served as a science teacher, then Lutheran pastor when, in 2011, he took up work as an artistic pastor full-time.
Paul seeks to give new vision to God’s Word by using the process of painting to captivate audiences in our visually oriented culture. Painting and drawing have been a part of Paul’s life since childhood. Receiving national & international recognition for his work in watercolor, Paul uses this gift to proclaim the Gospel unique and powerful ways that impact lives and inspire mission.
Registration Not Yet Available
Mark Your Calendars
Grief Retreat at Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp
September 10-12
This retreat is for any adult (18+) who has lost a loved one such as a partner, friend, parent, or child. You are invited to spend a weekend at Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp; there will be opportunities for learning and fellowship, and time for peace and quiet.
We hope that you will leave this retreat knowing that you are not alone, and feeling equipped with resources and knowledge to continue on your journey with grief.
Retreat begins with dinner at 6:15pm on Friday (check-in is from 5–6pm) and ends at 11am on Sunday.
For more information, go to:
https://flbc.net/annual-programming/grief-retreat/
or call the office at 406-752-6602
(continuing ed credits available)
AND
Retired Pastors and Spouses Retreat
September 27 and 28
Glacier Presbyterian Camp
Contact Greg Karlsgodt at 406-544-1699 for more info or to register
Grief Retreat at Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp
September 10-12
This retreat is for any adult (18+) who has lost a loved one such as a partner, friend, parent, or child. You are invited to spend a weekend at Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp; there will be opportunities for learning and fellowship, and time for peace and quiet.
We hope that you will leave this retreat knowing that you are not alone, and feeling equipped with resources and knowledge to continue on your journey with grief.
Retreat begins with dinner at 6:15pm on Friday (check-in is from 5–6pm) and ends at 11am on Sunday.
For more information, go to:
https://flbc.net/annual-programming/grief-retreat/
or call the office at 406-752-6602
(continuing ed credits available)
AND
Retired Pastors and Spouses Retreat
September 27 and 28
Glacier Presbyterian Camp
Contact Greg Karlsgodt at 406-544-1699 for more info or to register
NRIT Digital Courses
Introduction to the Old Testament:
The Old Testament is challenging literature for Christian leaders. This course will persuade students that the Old Testament is not only a helpful companion in ministry, but that it is also invaluable. All lectures are given with preaching, teaching, and pastoral care in view. These lectures will provide crucial information on Israel's history and narratives, prophetic literature, wisdom literature, and why Scripture matters in the first place.
Class is divided into the following sections that can be watched at your convenience:
1. Course Introduction
2. Creation, Exile and Return
3. Prophetic Imagination
4. Wisdom Literature
5. Why Scripture Matters
Your instructor is Dr. Michael Chan, Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary. Dr. Chan did his Ph.D. work at Emory University and the University of Helsinki. The author of several books. Dr. Chan's research focuses on developing resources for Christian leaders, apocalyptic literature, and the prophets.
Developed to be used both as training for LPAs and as a resource for study in your congregation. (Digital Download)
Cost: $70
5 Contact hours of continuing education.
Click Here to Register
The Old Testament is challenging literature for Christian leaders. This course will persuade students that the Old Testament is not only a helpful companion in ministry, but that it is also invaluable. All lectures are given with preaching, teaching, and pastoral care in view. These lectures will provide crucial information on Israel's history and narratives, prophetic literature, wisdom literature, and why Scripture matters in the first place.
Class is divided into the following sections that can be watched at your convenience:
1. Course Introduction
2. Creation, Exile and Return
3. Prophetic Imagination
4. Wisdom Literature
5. Why Scripture Matters
Your instructor is Dr. Michael Chan, Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary. Dr. Chan did his Ph.D. work at Emory University and the University of Helsinki. The author of several books. Dr. Chan's research focuses on developing resources for Christian leaders, apocalyptic literature, and the prophets.
Developed to be used both as training for LPAs and as a resource for study in your congregation. (Digital Download)
Cost: $70
5 Contact hours of continuing education.
Click Here to Register
An NRIT Digital Offering: download onto your computer or stream online
In Memory of Her: Voices of Biblical Women
With Dr. Kathryn Schifferdecker
This class explores anew the books of Ruth, Esther, and Song of Songs. These small Old Testament books are often overlooked in Christian preaching and teaching, yet they contain hidden treasures: great stories, beautiful poetry, humor, and strong women's voices. Come explore these gems of the biblical narrative and re-acquaint yourself with the themes found in them: love, loyalty, beauty, courage, and faith.
You can purchase this class now and watch at your convenience in the coming months. The format allows you to watch in any time increment you choose and also allows you to return to sections you’ve already watched or go back and forth between sessions.
$70 to purchase class
4.5 Contact hours of continuing education. (And no travel costs!)
Click Here to Register
In Memory of Her: Voices of Biblical Women
With Dr. Kathryn Schifferdecker
This class explores anew the books of Ruth, Esther, and Song of Songs. These small Old Testament books are often overlooked in Christian preaching and teaching, yet they contain hidden treasures: great stories, beautiful poetry, humor, and strong women's voices. Come explore these gems of the biblical narrative and re-acquaint yourself with the themes found in them: love, loyalty, beauty, courage, and faith.
You can purchase this class now and watch at your convenience in the coming months. The format allows you to watch in any time increment you choose and also allows you to return to sections you’ve already watched or go back and forth between sessions.
$70 to purchase class
4.5 Contact hours of continuing education. (And no travel costs!)
Click Here to Register
NRIT Digital Offering: download onto your computer or stream online
An Introduction to the New Testament
with Dr. James Aageson
The New Testament documents are central to the Christian faith and to historic Christianity. By ecumenical consensus among all Christian traditions, the New Testament is central to the faith, life, and worship of the church. It is the word of God and it conveys the word of God. Even as the New Testament is central to all Christian traditions, interpretations of these texts often vary widely. This makes for a rich and fascinating tapestry of readings in the history of New Testament interpretation. This course is an introduction to the New Testament designed for a general audience and for lay people who may be preparing themselves for congregational leadership.
You can purchase this class now and watch at your convenience in the coming months. The format allows you to watch in any time increment you choose and also allows you to return to sections you’ve already watched or go back and forth between sessions.
$75 to purchase class
6.5 Contact hours of continuing education. (And no travel costs!)
Click Here to Register
An Introduction to the New Testament
with Dr. James Aageson
The New Testament documents are central to the Christian faith and to historic Christianity. By ecumenical consensus among all Christian traditions, the New Testament is central to the faith, life, and worship of the church. It is the word of God and it conveys the word of God. Even as the New Testament is central to all Christian traditions, interpretations of these texts often vary widely. This makes for a rich and fascinating tapestry of readings in the history of New Testament interpretation. This course is an introduction to the New Testament designed for a general audience and for lay people who may be preparing themselves for congregational leadership.
You can purchase this class now and watch at your convenience in the coming months. The format allows you to watch in any time increment you choose and also allows you to return to sections you’ve already watched or go back and forth between sessions.
$75 to purchase class
6.5 Contact hours of continuing education. (And no travel costs!)
Click Here to Register
An NRIT Digital Offering: download onto your computer or stream online
St. Paul:
From Saul of Tarsus to the Apostle of the Lutheran Reformation
with Dr. James Aageson
Apart from Jesus, Paul is arguably the most important figure in the history of Christianity. Paul and his legacy have continually shaped, fed, and challenged the church from the first century to the twenty first. Paul’s letters form the theological heart of much of the New Testament, and along with the memory of his ministry, they have continued to be read, preached, theologically interpreted, and applied to contemporary ethical issues.
You can purchase this class now and watch at your convenience anytime in the coming months. The format allows you to watch in any time increment you choose and also allows you to return to sections you’ve already watched or go back and forth between sessions.
$65 to purchase class
4 Contact hours of continuing education. (And no travel costs!)
Click Here to Register
St. Paul:
From Saul of Tarsus to the Apostle of the Lutheran Reformation
with Dr. James Aageson
Apart from Jesus, Paul is arguably the most important figure in the history of Christianity. Paul and his legacy have continually shaped, fed, and challenged the church from the first century to the twenty first. Paul’s letters form the theological heart of much of the New Testament, and along with the memory of his ministry, they have continued to be read, preached, theologically interpreted, and applied to contemporary ethical issues.
You can purchase this class now and watch at your convenience anytime in the coming months. The format allows you to watch in any time increment you choose and also allows you to return to sections you’ve already watched or go back and forth between sessions.
$65 to purchase class
4 Contact hours of continuing education. (And no travel costs!)
Click Here to Register
FREE RESOURCE FROM THE MONTANA SYNOD
SERVING ON THE CONGREGATION'S COUNCIL
Church councils provide positive leadership within a congregation. As a support to your council, we have prepared five short videos, ranging from five to ten minutes, that are intended as an introduction to the work of councils and their role within the church.
Click Here to Register
On the next page, you will need to provide contact information, including an email. Then click on the "submit" button and you will be taken directly to the five videos, plus an introduction.
We hope you find the videos helpful in leading to deeper conversation about what it means to be church together.
Free Resource from NRIT
SYRIA IN THE BIBLE AND IN THE EARLY CHURCH: A HERITAGE AT RISK
This class was recorded a few years ago and is being re-released as a free resource
For years, the Republic of Syria has been ravaged by a civil war with severe humanitarian consequences. The displacement of millions of people, the dislocation of families to refugee camps, and the plight of those trying to reach Europe to escape the horrors of war are known to us all. We also are aware of the tragic loss of Syria’s rich cultural heritage at the hands of ISIS and by those who profit from the looting and sale of antiquities.
The loss of antiquities and the humanitarian tragedy are not unrelated. As Dr. Amr al-Azm, a former official in the Syrian Ministry of Antiquities who now teaches Middle Eastern History and Archaeology at Shawnee State University in Ohio, reminds us: “A people without a history is a lost people . . . and history without people is meaningless.” Not only the Syrians, but we too are deeply invested in Syria’s history as evidenced by the bible and in the history of the early church. The loss of Syria’s cultural heritage, then, is not only a tragedy for the Syrian people, but a tragedy for us as well.
In this NRIT digital presentation we will explore the importance of ancient Syria for the bible and the church and will attempt to convey some sense of the threat posed by the Syrian civil war to our common cultural heritage.
Thomas R. Lee served for many years as Lutheran campus pastor at the University of Montana, Missoula, where he also—as a faculty affiliate—taught biblical Hebrew and Aramaic in UM’s Religious Studies Department. He has served parishes in Livingston, MT, and also in Lynden, WA, and prior to his retirement, was an associate to the bishop for the Montana Synod. During the 1980s and into the 1990s he served on the staff of two archaeological projects in the Kingdom of Jordan and one in the Republic of Syria. He has a PhD in Near Eastern Religions and Languages from the University of California, Berkeley, and the Graduate Theological Union.
Click Here for the Video: https://vimeo.com/162538939/c62acb4bb9
Available DVDs at the Synod House
(Click Here)
NRIT Digital Education Store
(Click Here)
Northern Rockies Institute of Theology is a continuing theological education ministry of the Montana Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
NRIT exists to provide and promote lifelong learning for the people of the Montana Synod (and their neighbors) , for the purpose of equipping them in their lives of ministry.
For more information about NRIT click here.
NRIT exists to provide and promote lifelong learning for the people of the Montana Synod (and their neighbors) , for the purpose of equipping them in their lives of ministry.
For more information about NRIT click here.