When they’re “on air,” cast members Frank Anderson (left), Kirk Gallup, Norma Williams and Eric Ringham play roles as members of the fictional New Frontier Lutheran.
doesn’t use enough.” He said the theater and church share a com- mon goal: both seek to bring people together for an experience that is transformative and spiritual. Te show seems to achieve
that goal with its audience. It now replaces the church’s second service at 11 a.m. once a month. “It’s started to take on a life of its
own,” said Robb Bass, a cast mem- ber. “It’s part of the lifeblood of the church now and a source of pride.” Te writers try to balance com-
edy with faith in each episode, Bass added. For many, the show’s humor seems to be its biggest draw, allow- ing even those outside of the church community to relate to the charac- ters and situations. “Te show appeals to anyone
who is part of a community and has worked with the absurdities that come up when working with differ- ent personalities,” said Sara Peper, coordinator of member engage- ment at Diamond Lake. “Being able to laugh at ourselves brings us together. Our mission is ‘Inviting All People to a Life in Christ.’ If we can appeal to different groups, we’re reaching that mission.” Longtime member Russ Micha-
letz said he enjoys the way the show shares the experiences of congrega- tional life. For Orvick, the chance for dif-
ferent voices to be heard through the show has been an incredible giſt. “Each of those characters has a voice in which they can proclaim the good news,” he said. “It can be in humor or in song, but it gives us
Author bio: Webb is a freelance writer in St. Paul, Minn.
would like to see it performed for other congregations or synod events since any ELCA gathering would be composed of their target audience. Tough Royce has thoughts of
Cindi Kresse cues worshipers at Diamond Lake Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, for the “New Frontier Lutheran Radio Hour” show.
more opportunities to touch people through different ways.” Te show has also given them the
chance to attract younger genera- tions, such as millennials, to the church. “Tey don’t necessarily wor- ship like the older generation that was raised in the church,” Orvick said. “Millennials like more variety in their worship diet. We’re finding out that something like this—which has a story—is attracting them.” Orvick and Royce agree that they
would love to see others replicate the show’s model. Orvick said he
someday live-streaming or produc- ing the show as a webcast, his more immediate goal is to get the scripts published so other congregations can use them. Te show is in no danger of
running out of material. Audience members always come up to the cast with humorous ideas. “I think they take a great deal of ownership in it,” Royce said. “It feels great that we can create this experience and the congregation can feel that it’s theirs.” Orvick said, “Our goal was always
to provide another experience. And who’s to define what worship is? If you come and have a good time and hear something that’s moving for you, well that’s worship.”
RAISE LEADERS. FIGHT RACISM. FOR FREE.
Bridge Builders • July 23-29, 2016 An intentional week of camp in New Era, Mich. for high school
youth (grades 9-12) to grow as leaders and join the fight against racism as an expression of faith.
30 full scholarships and travel assistance for non-Michigan residents available for:
• At least 20 participants of color • Up to 10 white participants
Programming emphasis includes leadership, race equity, and peer ministry training.
www.elcalivingwater.com/bridgebuilders March 2016 29
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