“Real. Present. God.” is the theme of the 2018–19 edition of “Chapel Talks for Lutheran Schools,” an annual worship resource from LCMS School Ministry. The same theme will be used for the 2019 National Lutheran Schools Week and the 2019 LCMS Youth Gathering.
The “Chapel Talks” resource contains opening and closing services and 44 weekly chapel talks for use with students of all ages. Each talk includes a scripture reading, verse of the week, suggestions for hymns and visual aids, teaching points, a prayer and ideas for carrying the message of the chapel talk into the week.
The 2018–19 edition explores the book of Psalms with a specific focus on Psalm 46, from which the theme is drawn: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1).
As explained in the introduction by author Rev. Bob Riggert, “The only real God, the Triune God, is truly present in the person of Jesus. The only real God, the Triune God, entered the real world to save us from sin. The only real God, the Triune God, is present and powerful in the troubles of life.”
Riggert, who has written the last four editions of “Chapel Talks” and numerous other Bible studies and children’s ministry resources, is a former Lutheran school teacher, principal and parish pastor. In addition, he served for 15 years as executive assistant for Education, Youth and Stewardship for the LCMS Iowa District West.
The resource also includes the original hymn “Our God is Real and Present Here,” with words and music by Dr. Jeffrey E. Burkart, professor emeritus of Concordia University, St. Paul, Minn. The hymn can also be sung to the tune of O GROSSER GOTT (“Praise Be to Christ,” Lutheran Service Book 538).
“Chapel Talks” is available as a free download at lcms.org/schools or luthed.org/chapel-talks.
In addition, a full-color paperback version may be ordered through Amazon for $9.99, plus shipping.
Posted June 6, 2018
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