Festival of Faith 2009 – Reaching Muslims with the Gospel

"[This was] the best theological seminar I have been to in quite some time," said one attendee of the seventh annual St. Luke Festival of Faith.

Over 75 people representing seven area congregations enjoyed Dr. Adam Francisco's presentation on the topic of reaching Muslims with the Gospel. Dr. Francisco is Guest Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

The Festival is a practical, lay-oriented seminar intended to equip God's people to declare the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those around them. This year's seminar was sponsored by the St. Luke Board of Evangelism.

One attendee writes, "I have a far greater understanding of the Muslim religion and beliefs, and what I need to do to have greater dialogue with a Muslim." Another said, "We need more seminars and workshops like this to better equip ourselves to go into the world and share our faith."

The day began and ended with worship, led by Pastor Thompson. Participants received instruction before enjoying lunch. They then had an opportunity to put their new knowledge to work in small groups sessions where they responded to statements a Christian may hear from a Muslim neighbor. The day ended with a question and answer session with Dr. Francisco.

The seminar was summed up in this student comment: "Very timely. Very well done. St. Luke was a terrific host."