
In keeping with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Book of Faith Initiative, [see http://www.augsburgfortress.org/bookoffaith/ for more information], Olivet is excited to offer two Bible Studies this fall.
The first is the Opening the Book of Faith Course. This is the first step for those preparing to launch Book of Faith in their congregations. Recognizing that preparing local leadership is essential, this seven-session course outlines the purpose and goals of Book of Faith initiative and is a perfect introduction for Bible study leaders, education committees, church councils, and others. Important communication tools, study principles, and discussion methods are unpacked for participants in a flexible, conversational format that encourages discussion, conversation, and sharing — setting a healthy foundation for a powerful Book of Faith experience. This course meets Tuesdays from 5:30-7:00pm October 7th-November 25th.
The second is the Rediscovering the Book of Faith Course. This three-session study explores how the Bible came to be our Book of Faith by providing an introduction of the creation, collection, and canonization of Scripture. Participants will discover where the Bible came from, will better understand how it was put together, and will examine the contribution the Reformation made toward scriptural literacy. With discussion-starting video clips and an easy-to-follow class plan, this course encourages participants to engage in reflection and discussion — and is an exciting way to become part of the conversation! We meet Tuesdays, 5:30-7:00pm, December 2nd-16th.
Registration is in the church office. Contact Pastor Kris Gorden for more information; 235-6603.

THURSDAY BIBLE STUDY SERIES
On Thursdays at 10:30am, Pastor Bill Boelter will lead a Bible
Study on the three texts assigned for the following Sunday. The
goal of the study is two-fold: to examine the background and
underlying message of each lesson and attempt to see the connections
among them. All are invited. The study may be of special interest
to the lectors who read the lessons at worship. Each week's study
is separate from the next which means you can benefit even if
you can't be present each week. Questions: Pastor Bill at 235-6603..
Reading Religiously…
Led by Pastor Jeff Sandgren
This book study group meets the first Friday of each month,
12:00-1:30 PM October through May
at Barnes and Noble Bookstore.
At our first meeting, on October 3rd, we’ll discuss The Shack by William P. Young.
Books may be purchased/ordered through
Barnes and Noble (281-1002)
FYI: November 7th
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Oliversity (Wednesday Evening Adult Education)
College quality… without the homework… or tuition!
Join us for a conversation you won’t want to miss. Oliversity is on Wednesdays, 6:30pm, Lounge/Library. Come to class after worship on Wednesdays or bring your kids to confirmation and stick around. Professor John Helgeland, Pastor Marv Hartmann, and Pastor Jeff Sandgren provide leadership for this class. Questions? Contact Pastor Jeff at 235-6603 or at jsandgren@olivet.org. Fall Semester begins Wed., Sept. 24th - “Lutheran Identity”. What does it mean to be a Lutheran? Some voices say we’ve lost our identity. Some say our faith expression is indistinguishable from general Protestantism. Others disagree. Does it matter? Where are we headed as a church? This 8-session series indentifies the biblical, historical and cultural elements which combined to give the Lutheran church a unique identity, with emphasis on its first two centuries.
Sept. 24 Why Define What Is Lutheran?
Oct. 1 Reform Movement to Lutheran Church
Oct. 8 Christological Interpretation of the Bible
Oct. 15 The Role of the Ecumenical Creeds
Oct. 22 NDEA BREAK - NO OLIVERSITY
Oct. 29 Hammering Out the Lutheran Confessions
Nov. 5 Community Around Common Liturgy
Nov. 12 Lutheran Witness in Society
Nov. 19 (To Be Determined)
Efforts will be made to demonstrate the impact on our mission in either a loss or recovery of our Lutheran identity. An optional book, Lutheran Identity by Frank Senn, will be available for $12.00.