April 7, 2005

Minneapolis – Augsburg Fortress announces the launch of Here We Stand, its groundbreaking new confirmation program, with the publication of the program's innovative learner resource, The Lutheran Handbook, a humorous approach to confirmation learning.

As part of this launch, Augsburg Fortress is also providing a special introductory membership discount that offers pastors 50% off the normal first year cost. Pastors can take advantage of this offer through August 31.

About The Lutheran Handbook

The Lutheran Handbook is an enjoyable, easy-to-read, reliable all-in-one collection that helps readers understand the essential information about the 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," this resource encapsulates essential principles of the Christian life, making many of the complexities of the Lutheran religious tradition accessible for confirmation students, or anyone looking for an introduction to Lutheranism.

The Lutheran Handbook: A Field Guide to Church Stuff, Everyday Stuff and the Bible; 0-8066-5179-2; $14.99; 5" x 7," 4-color cover, 2-color interior, 264 pp. Augsburg Fortress.

About the Here We Stand Confirmation program

Here We Stand combines print and online resources in a flexible, easy-to-use curriculum, offering pastors a customizable program that can meet their specific needs. Because of its flexibility, Here We Stand has wide applicability for congregations and is suitable for all demographics.

Says Beth A. Lewis, President and CEO for Augsburg Fortress, "We've developed this program in response to longstanding demand among congregations for a substantial, innovative and affordable confirmation program that is decidedly Lutheran."

Recognized as solidly Lutheran in a recent field test involving congregations of various sizes and from different regions of the country, Here We Stand offers an approach to confirmation that is both theologically sound and teen-relevant.

For pastors that prefer more traditional print resources, the program features binders for three different units – Old Testament, New Testament and Small Catechism – with lessons each. More Internet-savvy pastors can access the same materials as the print binder at Here We Stand Online. The online resources also include online planning tools, peer-to-peer sharing, audio and video clips, PowerPoint presentations, "How To" teaching support and much more. Through peer-to-peer sharing, pastors can exchange ideas and best practices with a community of congregations.

The first unit of Here We Stand – Small Catechism – will debut July 18, 2005, both online and as a binder. The remaining units will be available in 2006.

For more information visit http://www.herewestandconfirmation.org/ or call Augsburg Fortress at 1-800-328-4648.

Advance praise for Here We Stand and The Lutheran Handbook

"There is nothing more basic to our core than Law and Gospel. The kids got it! And so did the adults who served as small group leaders. The adaptability to the environment was great. It made my planning easier!!!" –Jonathan Doolittle, Clairemont Lutheran Church, San Diego, California.

"Excellent! The youth enjoy these types of activities. It helps them be actively involved while learning. –Pr. Brent Campbell, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Madison, Wisconsin.

"The material was really good and the students liked having the handbook too. They want to see more of this." –Pastor Karen Marohn, St Peter's by the Sea Lutheran Church, San Diego, California.

"I really enjoyed using a solid curriculum. I didn't have to rewrite the lesson and that's a gift." –Kim Adams, Director of Youth Ministries, Sharon Lutheran, Grand Forks, North Dakota.

"I can't wait to get this book!" –Daniel Yeiser, St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Hanover, Pennsylvania.

Augsburg Fortress Press