Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, will host its fall 2007 Lay Bible Institute from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday evenings, Oct. 3, 10, 17, and 24 in Sieck Hall on the Seminary campus. “Responding to Conflict…Christian Style” will be presented by Dr. Richard Marrs, associate professor of practical theology and director of continuing education at Concordia Seminary.

The course will address many pertinent and practical aspects of conflict. Questions to be addressed include: Why does conflict occur?; How can Christians respond when they feel trapped in conflicted situations?; What does the Bible teach about conflict?; and, How can we apply what the Bible teaches to our modern culture and times? Class participants will explore how Christians can glorify God even as they faithfully work through conflict, moving toward forgiveness and reconciliation.

Marrs, a psychologist, pastor and seminary professor, has worked with individuals, couples, families and congregations in conflict, as well as being trained by Ambassadors of Reconciliation. He has served on the Seminary faculty since 2006. Previously, he served as professor and counselor at Concordia University, River Forest, Ill. (1986-98), and St. John’s College, Winfield, Kan. (1982-1986); and pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Junction City, Kan. (2001-2006). He received the A.A. degree from St. John’s College, Winfield, Kan. (1978), the B.A. degree from Concordia University, River Forest, Ill. (1980), the M.S. degree from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kan. (1985), the Ph.D. degree from Loyola University, Chicago, Ill. (1994), and alternate route certification from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, in 2001.

To register for the Lay Bible Institute, please call 314-505-7486 Monday through Friday or e-mail ce@csl.edu. The cost is $25 per person and includes all handouts and refreshments. Concordia Seminary is located at 801 Seminary Place, in Clayton, Mo.