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In this devotion, Ramona Bouzard ’80 M.Div., ’13 D.Min., asks if, when we look in the mirror, we see God’s love and justice reflected. Read today’s God Pause.

Friday, November 14 marked the end of our hosting the Smithsonian exhibit on human origins. It was a good experience, and there are many people to thank. Sponsored by both the Smithsonian Institute and the American Library Association, the representatives from both organizations were impressed with the welcome and hospitality they received and was offered to visitors of the exhibit. They were deeply grateful for our work hosting the exhibit. Some fun facts:
– Over 800 guests walked through the exhibit
– 200 of those participated in the programs offered by the Smithsonian during Fall RFS week
– Ken Reynhout led over 120 students from the Blake School through the exhibit as part of a ninth-grade educational experience
– Several local churches took advantage of the exhibit and brought over senior groups.
One of the best comments we received from one of the participants was from a young girl who, upon learning that humans share 60% of their DNA with bananas, said: “My brother has a lot more than that in common with bananas!” Thanks to all who engaged the exhibit and volunteered. Special thank yous to:
– Exhibit Committee: Kenneth Reynhout, Jessi LeClear Vachta, Josh Mesner, Rachel Farris, Chris Jacobson, and Dale Dobias
– Jack Hendricks who stepped in at the last moment to be the docent coordinator. He skillfully organized and scheduled over 15 volunteers to host during the exhibit open hours.
– Dale Dobias for leading this project, especially with so many other changes taking place in the library.
—Terri Elton, Dean of Academic Affairs

Join us Tuesday, December 2, 4-6 p.m. (doors open at 3:30) in OCC 10 to watch the new documentary “Sugarcane” and learn more about a part of our country’s history and Canada’s as well. This is a beautifully told story and brings you into the experience that continues to shape many of our Indigenous neighbors. The film’s name comes from a Native reservation in British Columbia. Indian residential schools were also used in the United States. Join us to learn more. Snacks provided.

The Luther Seminary community is warmly invited to Augsburg University’s annual Advent Vespers at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. For more than four decades, Augsburg has ushered in the Advent and Christmas seasons with a magnificent experience of music and liturgy focusing on the theme of preparation and culminating in the joyful celebration of the Incarnation.
2025 Advent Vespers: Guide Our Feet Into the Way of Peace
December 5 (7 p.m.) and December 6 (2 p.m. and 5 p.m.)
Central Lutheran Church
333 South 12th Street, Minneapolis
Advent Vespers is free to the public with a suggested donation of $30 per person. Reservations are encouraged. Learn more and register for Advent Vespers.

Explore the world and deepen your studies with these unique summer travel courses: Space is limited, so inquire today.

• Mission in a Post-Christian Society: Learning from the UK. Join Dwight Zschile in London from June 6-13, 2026. This course (CL4550) examines how the church is recontextualizing Christian witness through new forms of church and mission. Contact Jody Nyenhuis, jnyenhuis001@luthersem.edu, to be added to the interest list and receive more information.
• Knowing Our Neighbors in Mexico and Guatemala. Travel with Guillermo Hansen to Mexico and Guatemala from June 17-30, 2026. This course (CD1640) focuses on the history and mission of companion Lutheran churches, exploring work with indigenous peoples, migration, and human rights. The trip includes visits to historical and archaeological sites. Contact Ben McDonald Coltvet, bmcdonaldcoltve001@luthersem.edu, to be added to the interest list and receive more information.
• Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Youth Worker. Led by Andy Root, this course (CY4566) takes place in Berlin, Germany, from June 20-25, 2026. Participants will examine Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s biography and writings, focusing on his significant ministry with children and youth and reexamining contemporary confirmation practices through his work. Contact Ryan Popineau, rpopineau001@luthersem.edu, to be added to the interest list and receive more information.

It can be challenging to engage with aging parents. Join us on December 2 at 9:30 a.m. in the OCC Meditation Chapel for a circle discussion as we share with each other the gifts and challenges of doing so. Led by Mary Hess, this will be a time simply to listen to each other’s experiences. We will use a talking piece, and only one person will speak at a time.