Nebraska Synod ELCA

by Dn. Sunni Richardson

Lifelong Learners

We learn new skills whenever we read a book, watch a movie, try a new recipe, or learn how to use a new device. We are wired to be lifelong learners, but for some reason, growing in faith seems too hard, not necessary, or perhaps embarrassing.  That means many of us finished (graduated from) confirmation, believing we had it all figured out and/or knew enough to keep us on track when talking about church, faith, and God.

That said, most of you reading this were part of a memorization confirmation program, given the “right” answers and not encouraged to ask questions.  Curiosity was not encouraged, so you may have questions about The Living Word, prayer practices, and scripture stories that are bigger than the size of the ark. As adults, we have “how, what, and why questions” like how Lutherans read the Bible, how faith impacts our response to the world news, what we can do to deepen our prayer life, and why we baptize infants.

So, how do you get started on your lifelong learning journey?  Emmaus: Lifelong Learning is a safe place ministry of the Nebraska Synod aimed at helping adult disciples take responsibility for their own development and the growth of others. The Emmaus logo represents “on the road learning” based on the Road to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-35. Here’s a summary of the story. — Jesus has been crucified, and everything was turned upside down. Two men on the road to Emmaus were deep in their own grief, disappointment, and questions. A stranger joined them and invited them to share their story. Then, the stranger took over and explained to them the bigger picture, starting with Moses and all the other prophets. [They thought they knew everything there was to know.] They stopped for the evening, and it is in the breaking of the bread [ordinary act] that they realized the stranger was Jesus. [Jesus was with them all along, but they didn’t recognize him.] Once they discover what happened [equipped and empowered by Jesus], they go to tell the others.

Emmaus offers curious disciples an opportunity to engage with others in short-term, reasonably priced, conversation-driven learning opportunities. Courses listed on the Emmaus page are offered year-round. Most courses are offered online using Zoom so that anyone across the Nebraska Synod or beyond has an opportunity to engage. If getting on Zoom feels a bit scary, we will set you up so you can fully participate. There are no tests. Many courses offer continuing education credits for Parish Ministry Associates (PMAs), clergy, and church staff. Some courses encourage you to be on your own device; others are recommended for groups, and discounts may apply. If finances would keep you from participating, please talk to the Synod staff about financial support.

Find what works for you. Here’s what is coming up this fall and into 2025:

• Biblical and Theological Studies – 8 Books of the Bible in 8 Months, Wrapping Up Mark and Returning to Luke (aimed at preachers), Martin Luther Reformer, Psalms the Prayer Book of the Bible, Road to Emmaus study
• Discipleship Training – Reclaiming Rural 1.0, Reclaiming Rural 2.0, Let Your Light Shine (Substance Abuse), New Ideas for VBS,
• Justice, Inclusivity & Advocacy – The Everyday Advocate, Holy Mischief
• Book Discussions – Life After Doom, The Kingdom-The Power-The Glory, Children’s Books and Faith Formation,
• Spiritual Practices – Psalms the Prayer Book of the Bible, Creative Prayer Stations for Use in the Congregation
• Worship – Occasional Preacher, Wrapping Up Mark and Returning to Luke

New courses are added on a regular basis, so return to the Emmaus page on the website for new listings.

Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we experience ah-ha moments when we lean in with curiosity and bring our questions and insights to the class. Engaging in conversation with great instructors will help you build relationships with neighbors, develop faith practices, sharpen your study skills, and explore church happenings.

Sign up for a course or two or three today.

If you have questions, would be interested in teaching, or have an idea for a course, contact Deacon Sunni Richardson at sunni@nebraskasynod.org.