Review: Contraception and Christendom

While this book is a response a specific argument made by a specific writer in the LCMS, Hasselbrook addresses the broader implications and concerns of contraception, especially for Christians.

Review: Ministry, Word, and Sacraments, an Enchiridion

Image from Concordia Publishing House. Author: Martin Chemnitz Publisher: Concordia Publishing House I recently became aware of this fascinating book. And since I first started it, I decided that it must become better known. Martin Chemnitz's brief Enchiridion, or handbook on theology, is something of a continuation of the Catechisms, and I think it should be read …

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How St. Nick became the Patron Saint of Christmas

Saint Nicholas, or Nikolaos, was born around 280 in Patara, Lycia (in modern-day Turkey) to Christian parents who raised him in the faith. When he was still young, he lost his parents and was sent to live with his uncle, a Bishop, who continued his education in the Church. Eventually, Nicholas was ordained as a …

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The Lord’s Prayer: Temptation

Following the part of the Prayer that asks for forgiveness and grace, we go to the reason why we need such things: sin. Sin is part of fleshly nature, and its desires lead us into this rebellion against God. Thus, we ask, "And lead us not into temptation, ..." (Mat. 6:13). But why do we …

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Part 1: Allhallowmas: Saints, Feasts, and Holidays

How we got one of our most widely celebrated modern day holidays.