Electives are 90 minute courses. Please select 3 electives, one for each time slot, A–C
Elective A—Friday, 9:00 a.m.
1. Vocation: A Theological Antidote to Inertia, Identity Crisis and Aimlessness among Emerging Adults
Christian Andrews
This elective will present an assessment of the Reformed theological concept of vocation, as God’s call to all people, in which God gives a concrete and uniquely meaningful goal for every life. Sources for the presentation will include a survey of the call narratives of key figures in the history of God’s dealing with Israel, the development of the doctrine of vocation by Swiss theologian Karl Barth, and the instructor’s experience of six years of building a church with emerging adults.
2. Flipping the Switch
Erika Funk
It may not be as dramatic as crossing the River Jordan, but making the transition from teenager to adult can be just as daunting, chilly and defining. How can the faith community help push, guide and direct young people across muddy waters and also provide a sanctuary on the other side? What are they looking for in river guides and safe havens?Â
3. Constructing Community
Peter Hazelrigg
The paradox of contemporary young adulthood is that while they are constantly connected electronically, they are increasingly longing for community. We will explore trends in community formation and practical ways to assist young adults in constructing community that is spiritually nurturing.
Elective B—Friday, 3:30–5:00 p.m.
1. Deepening Spirituality: Shepherding the Souls of an Emerging Generation
Deborah K. Blanks
Young people hunger and thirst for spiritual meaning in their lives. The Sunday morning moment fills an immediate and important need, but the daily practice of spiritual disciplines offers sustenance and succor for the soul. This elective will explore practical and creative ways to help emerging adults deepen their life of faith in Jesus Christ in a busy and changing world.
2. Flipping the Switch
Erika Funk
It may not be as dramatic as crossing the River Jordan, but making the transition from teenager to adult can be just as daunting, chilly and defining. How can the faith community help push, guide and direct young people across muddy waters and also provide a sanctuary on the other side? What are they looking for in river guides and safe havens?Â
3. Constructing Community
Peter Hazelrigg
The paradox of contemporary young adulthood is that while they are constantly connected electronically, they are increasingly longing for community. We will explore trends in community formation and practical ways to assist young adults in constructing community that is spiritually nurturing.
Elective C—Saturday, 10:30a.m.–12:00noon
1. Vocation: A Theological Antidote to Inertia, Identity Crisis and Aimlessness among Emerging Adults
Christian Andrews
This elective will present an assessment of the Reformed theological concept of vocation, as God’s call to all people, in which God gives a concrete and uniquely meaningful goal for every life. Sources for the presentation will include a survey of the call narratives of key figures in the history of God’s dealing with Israel, the development of the doctrine of vocation by Swiss theologian Karl Barth, and the instructor’s experience of six years of building a church with emerging adults.
2. Deepening Spirituality: Shepherding the Souls of an Emerging Generation
Deborah K. Blanks
Young people hunger and thirst for spiritual meaning in their lives. The Sunday morning moment fills an immediate and important need, but the daily practice of spiritual disciplines offers sustenance and succor for the soul. This elective will explore practical and creative ways to help emerging adults deepen their life of faith in Jesus Christ in a busy and changing world.