90 episodes
Central Lutheran Church - Elk River Central Lutheran Church
-
- Religion & Spirituality
Established in 1948, Central Lutheran Church has been a beacon of faith and community in Elk River, Minnesota, for more than seven decades. Led by our dedicated Lead Pastor, Ryan Braley, we are a congregation deeply rooted in family values and intergenerational connection.
Central Lutheran Church offers two services every Sunday at 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, welcoming individuals and families of all ages to join us in worship and fellowship. Our services and activities are thoughtfully designed to engage, inspire, and strengthen the spiritual growth of each member of our church family, from the youngest to the eldest.
We pride ourselves on being a family-centered and family-focused church. Our intergenerational approach allows us to embrace and celebrate the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives within our congregation, fostering a vibrant and supportive community.
Beyond the church walls, Central Lutheran Church is deeply committed to serving and uplifting the wider Elk River community. Our active involvement in local initiatives reflects our core belief in the power of faith in action, as we strive to put Christian love and compassion into practice.
At Central Lutheran Church, we don’t just attend church – we are the church. Join us as we continue to nurture faith, celebrate family, and serve our community, hand in hand.
-
The Road vs The Pathway {Reflections}
Have you ever found yourself yearning for a pause button in the midst of life's race? I'm Ryan, and this time around, we'll wander away from the world's highways and take a leisurely stroll down the meandering paths that Wendell Berry so eloquently demarcates in "A Native Hill." Together, we'll unpack the profound differences between the expediency of roads and the thoughtful pace of paths. Wendell Berry challenges us with his words to consider if our destination-focused lives might be costin...
-
A Confusing Story with Ben Carruthers
Embark on a journey through the ancient corridors of Genesis as we unravel the enigma of the Tower of Babel, revealing how these age-old tales resonate with our lives today. Picture a magician who, with a simple twist, turns what seems like trash into treasure—this is the kind of transformation we'll explore with the Tower of Babel story, examining human ambition and divine response while challenging you to reconsider your understanding of these scriptures.Venture deeper as we address the int...
-
Slaying Dragons in Our Lives Part 2 {Reflections}
Embark on a mythical journey with us, Ryan Braley and beat maestro Mike Lauer, as we delve into the world of dragons and their profound impact on our psyche. Dragons, with their fire-breathing might and treasure-hoarding habits, are not just the stuff of legend—they're a mirror reflecting our deepest fears and the challenges we must overcome. Our conversation takes a flight through the ages, exploring how these formidable creatures have captivated human imagination and have come to symbolize ...
-
Why Would God Do That? with Pastor Ryan Braley
As I delved deeper into my seminary studies, a new understanding of the biblical flood narrative emerged—one not of wrath, but of rebirth and hope. This episode takes us through the transformative tales of the Hebrew Bible, beginning with the Exodus, where the Israelites' journey from bondage to freedom mirrors our own quests for deliverance. We revisit the poignant account of Cain and Abel, unpacking the complexities of divine protection and human fallibility. These ancient stories challenge...
-
Navigating Life's Storms {Reflections}
When my friend Jeremy highlighted Jonathan Haidt's latest book, it wasn't just another read—it was an eye-opener. Haidt, a social psychologist, delves into the mental health crisis plaguing our youth, magnified by the digital chaos surrounding us. This episode peels back the layers of his findings, revealing the stark contrast between children engulfed in technology and those rooted in religious communities. I'm moved to share my own experiences with Christianity's grounding force, which has ...
-
Where Is Your Brother? With Pastor Ryan Braley
Embark on a profound exploration of the Exodus story as we trace the philosophical and historical threads from Genesis that lead to the Israelites' path to freedom. Our latest episode offers an in-depth look into the ancient narratives that challenge our understanding of identity, sin, and liberation. Through the stories of Cain and Abel, and Adam and Eve, we dissect themes of shame, hope, and the very nature of knowledge itself—encouraging you to reflect on these timeless tales' impacts on o...