Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, will host its fall 2011 Lay Bible Institute from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday evenings, Oct. 12, 19, 26, and Nov. 2 in Sieck Hall 202 on the Seminary campus. “From Sea to Shining Sea: A Christian’s Perspective on America and Its Politics” will be presented by Dr. Joel Biermann, associate professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary. Please note the date change: this Lay Bible Institute will begin on Oct. 12, not Oct. 5, as previously announced.

While polite conversation carefully avoids discussions of religion or politics, both will be center stage as we explore the complexities of being Christian in America. There is much to consider: What’s the proper relation and separation of “church and state?” Can any political party (Democrat, Republican, or Tea) claim a Christian mantle? How involved should a Christian be in the political system? Is America God’s chosen nation? What does God really think of politics?

These and many more pertinent questions will be answered using the dynamic and ever-relevant insights of Martin Luther and his heirs. Exploiting the great reformer’s legacy, the distinction between the two realms will provide a powerful tool for simplifying what often seems quite complicated, and for unraveling what can become unnecessarily confused. Participants are urged to come with questions, and will return to their lives better equipped for the work of living faithfully as Christian citizens of America.

To register for the Lay Bible Institute, please call 314-505-7486 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or email ce@csl.edu. The cost is $30 per person and includes all handouts and refreshments. Concordia Seminary is located at 801 Seminary Place, in Clayton, Mo.