

"That the whole church become more fluent in the first language of faith, the language of Scripture, in order that we might live into our calling
as a people renewed, enlivened, empowered and sent by the Word."
(ELCA Book of Faith Initiative
Vision Statement)
Book of Faith 2010 events [here].
One way you can get into the Book of Faith now!
Try God Pause, a daily devotional provided by the ELCA as part of the Book of Faith Initiative. There is a link to God Pause on the St. Matthew's website under the "Worship" heading. There is also a "God Pause" link on the blue sidebar on most pages. The direct link is [here].
You only need to go to the God Pause website once! After your first visit to the web page, you can sign up to have God Pause sent to you daily in your e-mail. Opening God's Word becomes as simple as opening your e-mail each morning! This takes the guesswork out of what Bible verses to read and provides an immediate focus for your reflections with God each day. This daily devotion is provided by ELCA clergy and is taken from the upcoming Sunday readings and/or Gospel text. A great way to start your day and prepare yourself for a relevant Sunday morning worship experience!
“Isn’t it just about reading the Bible?”
A member recently stopped in the office to discuss the Book of Faith. In her comments she said, “I keep forgetting what we call this, isn’t it just about reading the Bible?” In answer to that question, yes, the Book of Faith Initiative truly is simply an invitation to get into the Bible. But it is about more than just reading the Bible. From Opening the Book of Faith, “Lutherans read the Bible...they believe the Bible...they love the Bible. But they also try to understand the Bible.” This understanding doesn’t come all on its own. In community, we can share our questions and challenges with what we have read. We can be reinforced and supported in our efforts to stay true to reading God’s Word and making it a part of our daily lives. Together, we can grow more fully in our understanding of what the text is saying to us as a called people and as individuals who come to the Bible with our own history and personal perspective.
The Book of Faith planning team is currently planning a Lenten Bible study experience. Sunday morning worship and Wednesday evenings will be an opportunity for everyone to grow in their understanding of how God is speaking to them and to all of us as a gathered and blessed community of faith.
More information about the ELCA Book of Faith initiative is also available on the Book of Faith website [here].