Day of Learning to focus on Christianity and pop culture

Keuss is a professor of Christian ministry at Seattle Pacific University and a pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA). He has been called “an engaging interpreter of theology in popular culture” by colleagues at “The Kindlings.” Modeled after “The Inklings”—which included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein—“The Kindlings” aims to rekindle the spiritual, intellectual and creative legacy of Christians in culture.

Keuss holds a doctorate from the Centre for the Study of Literature, Theology and the Arts at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, and has served as a teacher and preacher in the Pacific Northwest, Ireland, Scotland and Burkino Faso. His work with youth and scholarly research on Christ and culture has led to books, articles and presentations on diverse subjects like Columbine, Dr. Seuss, Narnia, Bruce Springsteen, Star Wars, Donald Trump and U2.

Keuss will speak at 9 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. in Christ Chapel. His morning presentation will explore “Finding Faith Amidst Popular Culture.” In the afternoon he will present “Let Me in the Sound: What Christians can Learn About Faith, Hope and Love From Pop Songs.”

Between Keuss’s presentations, visitors will have three opportunities—at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.—to choose from among more than 20 workshops offered by campus and community members, including students. Workshops explore the intersections between Christianity and chick flicks, emerging worship, food ethics, rock ‘n’ roll, TV, Twitter, and vampires from Buffy’s foes to Bella’s boyfriend.

Northwestern classes and regular activities are canceled on March 24 so faculty, staff and students can participate in Day of Learning in Community events. For more information about this year’s focus on Christianity and popular culture, visit www.nwciowa.edu/dlc or contact event planner Jill Haarsma, 712-707-7100.