Cost: See Rates Retreat Code: LH
The Lutherhostel retreat will begin Saturday afternoon with our first meal at 6 p.m.. The retreat will conclude after lunch on Thursday.
Being Simul – Life as a Sinner/Saint
If we are already new creations in Christ, children of God in Baptism, why is the Christian life so difficult? The answer lies in one paradoxical little word: Simul. Martin Luther, following the book of Galatians, described the Christian life as being “simul justus et peccator,” at the same time righteous and sinful, saint and sinner. We’ll explore what “being simul” means for the Christian life of repentance, faith, prayer, worship, and service.
Rev. William Cwirla is retired from congregational ministry after 30 years of service at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Hacienda Heights. He now resides in Port Angeles, WA with his wife Karen, enjoying woodworking, bread making, gardening, and the beauties of creation.
In addition to parish ministry, Rev. Cwirla has served as president of Higher Things, and is a frequent speaker and published author on a variety of topics including science, worship, preaching, prayer, and culture. He is a regular contributor to Dare to Be Lutheran, a magazine for Lutheran youth and Logia Forum. He is the co-host Bill & Ted Watch Movies (billandtedmovies.com), a podcast about movies and culture.
Lutheran Principles of Biblical Interpretation
God’s Word is a unified whole. Being able to apply distinct principles of Biblical interpretation is imperative for us to truly understand the scope and intent of God’s holy revelation. The mosaic of salvation history comes into marvelous view as we employ these principles properly. All theology is Christology, God has no plan “B”, what God demands God provides – these shorthand maxims and others will be discussed and their value highlighted. The result is delightful clarity.
Rev. Wiley Smith is the Pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church, Redlands, CA and the Co-Founder of the Southern California Catechism Convocation.