Resources
Companion video to the book Fire of Grace:
"Forgiveness: A Miracle of Love"
Trinity Lutheran Church was burned to the ground by an arsonist. When Paul Keller was finally apprehended and imprisoned, one of his first visitors was Rick Rouse, pastor of the church he burned. Pastor Rouse said that he was compelled by Christ to visit Paul and offer him his personal forgiveness. That simple and profound act began a process of healing and transformation that included the entire congregation, victims of arson in the community, as well as Paul Keller and his family. Told in an interview format with Paul Keller and Pastor Rouse, this is a profoundly moving story that dramatically demonstrates the transforming power of forgiveness.
Produced by Seraphim Communications of St. Paul, MN, this video was recommended in Seeds of the Parish and is used as a confirmation and adult class resource by many congregations. Available in VHS or DVD format from Seraphim or Augsburg Fortress.
Check out this and other videos at www.seracomm.com or call 1-800-733-3413.
Study Guides
How to Use This Book
Fire of Grace is designed for individual or group study.
Suggested format for a class, retreat, or Small Group study:
Session One: Introduce the topic of forgiveness using the video "Forgiveness: A Miracle of Love" Use the discussion questions in the accompanying study guide. Encoruage people to talk about why forgiveness is so difficult yet so necessary and important. If time permits, have them share from their own experiences.
Sessions Two through Ten *: Each chapter is divided into two sections: narrative (story) and commentary (practical helps). Ask participants what struck them about the narrative. Then summarize some of the key learnings in the commentary section. Utilize the discussion questions at the end of each chapter. Perhaps close the session by using the scripture and prayer at the end of the chapter.
*The book can be adapted for use in as few as three sessions. Session Two might focus on Part One (The Five Stages of Forgiveness) and Session Three could cover Part Two (Four Steps Toward Reconciliation: A Journey of Discipleship).