Why Do We Wear Ashes?: Nine Lenten Chancel Dramas

I was struck by the way these dramas relate to children and young people, and by how they involve children and youth in the presentations. At the same time, they have a significant message for adults. It strikes me that they could also be used when youth and children prepare programs to present in the Sunday school or for a program at family night events in the parish. Lowell O. Erdahl Bishop Saint Paul Area Synod ELCA Larsen has written a set of sensitive chancel dramas that are inclusive and therefore, usable in a variety of congregations. The themes deal with central issues in the lives of liturgical churches. I especially appreciate the use of children in the dramas. Where else do children have a chance to share the spotlight with adults? Clark Morphew Religion columnist Saint Paul (Minnesota) Pioneer Press Using the chancel drama as a pulpit, Paul L. Larsen answers some of the most asked questions about the Christian faith. Each of the nine Lenten dramas offer parts for youth and adults. Performance time is about 10 minutes each. Questions addressed in this book include: Why do we wear ashes? Why do we sing hymns? Why do we confess our sins? Why do we give? Why do we baptize? Why do we commune? Why do we confirm our faith? Why do we worship so often? Paul L. Larsen is pastor of Hope Lutheran Church, Jordan, Minnesota. He is a graduate of Concordia College, Moorhead, Minnesota, and Luther Theological Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota.