June 17, 2005

Minneapolis, MN – Judging from the overwhelming demand for The Lutheran Handbook, a humorous guide to all things Lutheran published by Augsburg Fortress, mainline denominations are alive and well. Now in its fourth printing since its release in April, The Lutheran Handbook has taken the Lutheran world by storm.

"I can't remember a time when we've had a title that has sold this fast, particularly in the church market," says Bill Huff, publisher of the Congregational Life and Learning unit at Augsburg Fortress.

"With the success of this book, we are bucking the conventional wisdom that denominationalism is on the wane," Huff says. "Lutherans are seeking open, fresh engagement with their traditions-and with this book, they've got it."

The Lutheran Handbook is a humorous, 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.

Huff is so encouraged by the response that there are plans in place to develop a series of handbooks appropriate for other mainline denominations later this year. "We see the same opportunity to support other denominations in their efforts to make their theology accessible," he says.

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.

Augsburg Fortress