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November 2010 | Volume 4, Issue 6

Getting on the Same Page

By Jennifer Perrow
Contributing Writer

Since it first launched in late September, Seattle Pacific University's innovative Lectio: Guided Bible Reading program has inspired nearly 2,500 people from more than a dozen different countries to study Scripture "together."

A free resource designed to address the growing issue of biblical and theological illiteracy, the program allows participants to explore God's Word under the guidance of outstanding biblical scholars from SPU's School of Theology who have a deeply personal Christian faith.

"The response so far from those who have connected with Lectio has been overwhelmingly positive," says Celeste Cranston, director of the Center for Biblical and Theological Education. "People are engaging in rich dialogue around the text, and they are enjoying great fellowship with one another as they gather to study."

Read more about Lectio and how it's getting SPU and the broader community literally onto the same page of Scripture each week.

Making Rich Connections

What does the Rev. Celeste Cranston enjoy most about being the director of SPU's Center for Biblical and Theological Education?

"I love being on a university campus and interacting with students, because the college years are a wonderful season of life," she says. "I also love the Christian environment -- what a gift it is to attend Chapel as a part of my work."

Cranston draws on a rich background of experiences in doing her work with the CBTE, including her time spent teaching high school in Paraguay, her years as a pastor, her love of art history, and her role as a parent. But her job is also teaching her things as a parent.

"Here's what I am learning right now: We can't hold too tightly to the wheel, because when we hit bumps in the road it can be very jarring," she says. "We need to trust God to walk beside our children, because it's not about us -- it's about God's work."

Find out more about Celeste Cranston and her rich connections with SPU in our exclusive Q&A.

In the Loop Recommends

Check out an exhibit of contemporary experiments in still-life photography and art, attend a play about love and turbulence in the '50s, and savor a concert of sacred and holiday choral music. And if you're in the Seattle area, catch a once-in-a-lifetime Picasso exhibit through early January at the Seattle Art Museum!

Read more at In the Loop online.

Have you and your family been following SPU's Lectio series on Genesis and Exodus? If so, what's one thing you've learned? Let us know at parents@spu.edu and your insight could end up on the parents' website.

A Place of "Thanks"
SPU's Honor Roll of Donors website recognizes the many generous people who have made SPU the place where world change begins for students. The site includes a "thank you" video from graduating students, quick facts about the University, and information about how SPU allocates funds.

Good Tickets Still Available!
SPU's premier Christmas choral event, The Sacred Sounds of Christmas, is almost here. Get your tickets today for the November 29 and 30 concerts at Benaroya Hall in Seattle.


Upcoming Events

Tradition
December 3

Celebrate Christmas on campus with students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and neighbors. Known as "Tradition," this free event includes Christmas carols, crafts, storytelling, hot cider, and much more. It's fun for all ages! Tiffany Loop, 6-11 p.m.

Becoming Soul Mates
January 15

Are you ready for a deeper connection in your marriage? Then consider attending this highly acclaimed seminar by relationship experts Les and Leslie Parrott in collaboration with other SPU professors. It's an entertaining, thought-provoking day on SPU's campus. And it's only $89 per couple through December 6. Learn more.

Family Weekend
January 20-22

Mark your calendars for SPU's Family Weekend, January 20-22. It's three days of experiences, including classroom visits, information sessions, athletic and arts events, and a special luncheon with SPU President Philip Eaton. Check the Family Weekend 2011 schedule for details.

Interested in SPU Events?

Engage in the life of the campus this year. Sign up for updates about lectures, concerts, theatre productions, and athletic events.