The Lutheran Handbook: A Field Guide to Church Stuff, Everyday Stuff, and the Bible

by Kristofer Skrade (Content Editor)

The essential field guide for all things Lutheran. Confirmands—or anyone hiking the trails of life's adventures and challenges—will want to pack this handy illustrated field guide to Lutheran theology and culture. This enjoyable, easy-to-read, reliable, all-in-one collection helps you understand the essential information about our theology, culture and Lutheran way of life. Organized by Church Stuff, Everyday Stuff and Bible Stuff with how-to's like "How to Forgive Someone" and lists like "The Top-10 Bible Villains." Encapsulates essential principles of the Christian life, making many of the complexities of our religious tradition accessible for contemporary seekers.

Genres: Religion, Christian, Nonfiction, Humor, Reference, Faith, Theology

240 pages, Paperback

First published March 24, 2005

Reviews

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprising little book full of witty humor and useful reference lists. I was skeptical at first since this is ELCA, but I loved it and would recommend to any Lutheran.

[Matthias Walters · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crazy that it tells you how you should order wood should you be sentenced to burning at the stake.

[PC · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun, informative, solid accessible beginner's theology, wish I'd had access to this a year ago when I was plunged into the deep end of the christianity-pool. I highly recommend it to anyone dating a seminarian.

ETA: Very US-centric, without being self-aware about it, as with most things coming out of the US.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is appropriate for Lutherans of all ages joining or being confirmed in the church.
It is pointedly a handbook, modeled after the 1970s vintage American Red Cross First Aid Handbook, with a similar style of illustration and step-by-step instruction, but with a bit of dry self-mocking that Lutherans are sure to appreciate. Lists (such as those of Top 10 Bible heroes and villains) are reminiscent of another classic handbook, "The Official Preppy Handbook" (c. 1980). But underneath the surface of engaging presentation is a solid foundation of information that will help Lutherans to better understand their place in the context of the broader Christian faith, as well as a concise analysis of Luther's Small Catechism.

[Tiffany Day · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great little reference guide that would be especially useful for those going through Confirmation or new to the religion. It has some very valuable information, belief breakdowns, and historical context, along with some cheeky bits. There were some new-to-me explanations and interpretations, which was interesting, as I was raised in this faith. It also includes the Small Catechism, which no Lutheran should be without. I can't say I agree with all of it, but a fast, interesting, read - This is most certainly true.

[Alvin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is helping me take my Lutheran faith only as seriously as needed.

I have seen myself reflected right into some of the wittiest parts ("welcome to our church... you're in my seat", anyone?) and realize that sometimes we put too much emphasis on stuff outside of the Word and Sacrament.

[Sally B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily readable. As a lifelong Lutheran, I did learn some new things. Great read to confirm my religious beliefs.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lighthearted approach but lots of important information for Lutherans.

[Bob Devito · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great introduction to Lutheranism for people who are new Lutherans or are considering becoming a Lutheran.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gift from our pastor and church, it's a wonderful collection of accessible theological and historical info. The tongue and cheek humor, a great addition 😆

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very "cute" book, with an easily approachable take on the subject matter, while at the same time very informative with regard to the customs and theology of the Lutheran church. My adult Sunday school class recently used it.

[Kelsey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Somewhat entertaining, and it does contain a little bit of actual useful information, but I think that only got in there by accident...it is on par with most of the stuff I have seen coming out of Augsburg lately.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very nice, and funny. The best confirmation material we used!

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing little book to help you in your daily life with God...with a bit of humor. I suggest it for anyone.

[Annabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book was funny, but was a nice reference guide. Definitely something to keep around for quick reference and laughs :-)

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a nice little review/introduction book. Its funny, nicely bipartisan (LCMS vs. Evangelical), and concise. A delightful confirmation gift or new member gift.

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hilarious!

[Mary Brodd]

A nice balance of silly and serious.

[Eileen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Gives the basics of what it means to be a Lutheran Protestant in the Christian church today. Tries to be light-hearted and humorous, but is not entirely successful.

[Peg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amusing

[Bibliobabe · Rating 3 out of 5]

cute, light hearted synopsis of everything Lutheran.

[Haley Lancaster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very fun read for someone new to the ELCA.