Australian Lutheran College (ALC) has launched its second online short course program and it has been a real joy to see the learning community grow and diversify. The first short online course took place in May (2020) and the second in July. Over 50 participants joined the July course, many of whom had taken part […]

Australian Lutheran College (ALC) has launched its second online short course program and it has been a real joy to see the learning community grow and diversify. The first short online course took place in May (2020) and the second in July. Over 50 participants joined the July course, many of whom had taken part in the first program. Participants joined from across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Cambodia, Kenya and Papua New Guinea (PNG).

The aim of this three-part series, led by senior lecturer in New Testament, Dr Stephen Hultgren, is to provide participants with an appreciation of the Gospel of Mark and its distinctive picture of Jesus, as well as its invitation to discipleship in today’s world; an invitation which can challenge us as well as give us hope.

The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Lecturer Mick Hauser commented on the participation of the students from Martin Luther Seminary (MLS) in Papua New Guinea, ‘We have found the sessions with Dr Hultgren very informative and they have helped to give shape to who Christ is in the Gospel of Mark. Despite network limitations in Papua New Guinea and exorbitant data costs, MLS has been testing its capability to connect with such online events, firstly to enhance learning for our Masters students and then also the broader student community. We are happy to maintain a link with ALC through events such as these and give thanks for the assistance ALC and LCA International Mission has given, to enable this type of learning.’

LCA International Mission is grateful for the opportunities these short courses provide for ongoing theological education among our partner churches, especially in areas where Lutheran theology is hard to come by. As our partners become increasingly aware of what is on offer, we are confident we will see a dramatic uptake of these incredible opportunities to be part of an international Lutheran learning community.

Many of our partner churches are working in new territory for the kingdom of God; therefore, spiritual attack is their everyday reality. As a member of a congregation, school, or family, or a couple or individual, you are invited to commit to praying for our partners in mission. For regular prayer point updates, go to www.lca.org.au/international-mission/act-now/pray

Read more stories about our partner church in Papua New Guinea at https://www.lcamission.org.au/category/stories/international-partners/papua-new-guinea/