New resources from Brethren Press provide a seasonal focus on gifts, with the 2015 Advent Devotional on the topic “In the Fullness of Time,” written by Anita Hooley Yoder, and the Winter quarter of A Guide for Biblical Studies on the theme “Sacred Gifts and Holy Gatherings,” written by Herb Smith, with the Out of Context feature written by Frank Ramirez.
Advent devotional
“In the Fullness of Time” focuses readers’ attention on the birth of Jesus Christ as a gift from God “when the fullness of time had come” (Galatians 4:4). This theme calls Christians to celebrate the arrival of God into the material messiness of our world–an appropriate theme in preparation for the Advent and Christmas seasons and the birth of the Christ child. This pocket-size paperback is suitable for individual use or for congregations to provide to members. Purchase copies for $2.75 each or $5.95 for large print by calling 800-441-3712 or ordering online at www.brethrenpress.com . The devotional also is available as an e-book in two formats, EPUB and PDF, for $2.75 each.
A Guide for Biblical Studies
“Sacred Gifts and Holy Gatherings” provides the theme for the Winter quarter of the adult study curriculum from Brethren Press. Written from a Church of the Brethren perspective, it follows the International Sunday School Lessons/Uniform Series and includes daily texts for individual meditation as well as weekly lessons for small group study, and questions for both individual preparation and classroom use. Focused themes are provided for each month in the quarter: “What We Bring to God” in December, “Four Weddings and a Funeral” in January, and “Holy Days” in February. Lessons will explore some of the traditions by which we honor God, observe special occasions in life, and celebrate holy times together. The Winter quarter covers the Sundays from Dec. 6 through Feb. 28. The price per book is $4.50, or $7.95 for large print, plus shipping and handling. Study groups should purchase one copy per student, per quarter. This resource may be purchased online at www.brethrenpress.com or by calling Brethren Press at 800-441-3712.