The prophetic story of Jonah is remarkable, considering his dismay for God’s mercy which was granted to the Gentiles. Jonah judged that destruction was more fitting for their corruption. However, he was himself notably disobedient to God’s command for him and yet benefited also from God’s rescue and grace. This foretells the suffering and salvation which was to come with Christ. Interview with Dr Lidija Gunjevic.

With respect for the function of Church music to unite us into a community for worship, there is now a calling to expand upon the tradition and instruments, introduce new methods and understanding for the next generation of professional Church musicians. This is motive in the modern course of training - necessary to keep worship service alive, while also duly respecting the liturgy, text and long-standing heritage. Part 2 of this interview with Dr. Lorraine Brugh, Associate Professor of Music and Director of Chapel Music at Valparaiso University. Dr. Brugh is the Frederick J. Kruse Endowed Chair in Church Music.

Important issues concern the music scene in Lutheran worship today, considering how Luther brought revolutionary methods to integrate the congregation into the worship service. With respect for the well-established tradition, now is a matter to introduce new ways while keeping true to the criteria of worship: as a vital means to express praise to God in our communal body, being one in Christ. Part 1 of this interview with Dr. Lorraine Brugh, Associate Professor of Music and Director of Chapel Music at Valparaiso University. Dr. Brugh is the Frederick J. Kruse Endowed Chair in Church Music.

The liturgy and settings for worship in the ELCE has evolved in an interesting way, relative to the immigration of Lutherans to America. As result, over time it produced a vast selection of musical settings applied to different texts. Plans are underway to design a new Order of Service due to maintain a unified text with a variety of music settings, allowing for more choice in congregations. Interview with Pastor Tapani Simojoki

There is a great reputation for Lutheran hymnody – renown ever since Luther’s initiative to translate Latin liturgy into the people’s common language to promote wide-spread ministry of God’s Word. So it is similar incentive for producing this collection of Lutheran hymns more related to the English tradition, with explicit purpose to teach what God has accomplished for us, while praising His Name. Interview with Pastor Tapani Simojoki, chairman of the ELCE's Worship Committee.

The fact of Jesus ministry is also verified by external sources. Historic records from the Roman Empire concur with specific dates and locations in the Biblical account; and the earliest references of the “sect” of Jesus’ followers first labelled as ‘Christians’. Also notable is the mass of Jewish converts who believed Jesus as the Messiah fulfilled, and current scholars in discussion noting it as truth. Final episode.

This episode considers the Biblical account of the many witnesses of Christ’s Resurrection, with the diversity of their details in different contexts – from visitors to the empty tomb, to visions of the Risen Christ. Good reason to regard this as truth is the very common circumstances of the details, such as Jesus place of origin, his apostles as common fishermen, the women as first witnesses. Episode 2 of 3.

Sceptics and scientists disclaim the validity of Christ and His ministry due to the miracles He wrought and His Resurrection. This discussion verifies Jesus as Truth through multiple points, notably the eye-witness accounts of the Risen Christ. Also the massive spread of the Early Church, with many martyrs willing to sacrifice their lives, demonstrates their remarkable commitment to Life in Christ. Episode 1 of a 3-part interview with Dr. Tomas Bokedal.

Luke emphasises in his account of Christ’s teaching to the disciples precisely how to cry out with lamenting prayer to God. By examples in parables, Jesus conveys that the manner of approach must be with a contrite and humble spirit. Also in faithfulness, we are to be assured that we can certainly anticipate answer from God. Christ stands as our advocate, to offer vindication from our suffering. Interview with Dr Channing Crisler (part 2 of 2)

Here we consider the practice of lament as a traditional Jewish form of prayer, beseeching the Lord for delivery from tribulation. Luke’s account of Christ reflects specific petitions of lament from the Old Testament Overall, it is affirming Jesus’ identity as Saviour: both for being able to answer the people’s pleas with His Divine Power, also serving as intercessor to God the Father for those in need. Interview with Dr Channing Crisler (part 1 of 2)