By Sarah Carlson, Arts Editor

The ability to create and use art as a form of expression of our faith is an essential part of Christianity.

When Dr. Mark Love, director of Ministry Events, took over ACU’s Bible Lectureship four years ago, he initiated a Gospel and Culture Coffee House series, a low-key affair where students, faculty and Lectureship attendees could gather to discuss current religious themes in various forms of media, mainly music and film.

The merging of Christ with culture is ever apparent in society, from the Cineplex to the concert stage, and the subsequent art is a powerful tool for bridging barriers and engaging others with Christianity. Thus, the necessity for Christians to examine their faith through the lens of a camera or the lyrics of a song has never been more pertinent.

Several Lectureship events, including the Coffee House series, examine the overlapping of art and faith:

Gospel and Culture Coffee House

8:45 p.m., McGlothlin Campus Center Bean Sprout

Sunday

“From Rage to Ecstasy: U2 and the Psalms”

Monday

“Race in America: Reviewing the Movie Crash”

Tuesday

“Tangled Up in Scripture: The Music of Bob Dylan”

Wednesday

“Believe the Good News!”

Music, Movies and Visual Art

_› “We Beheld His Glory”

Composing Worship Songs from the Gospel of John,

8:30 a.m., Monday-Wednesday, WPAC Room 145

_› “Lux et Tenebrae: Light and Darkness in Sacred Music,” 2 p.m. Monday, WPAC Room 145

_› “Concert Chorale”

A Cappella Chorus and University Chorale present a concert of works intersecting themes from the Gospel of John, 8:45 p.m. Monday, WPAC Room 111

_› “Interpretive Art Inspired by the Gospel of John.” Art Exhibit Opening Reception, 8:45 p.m. Sunday, Shore Art Gallery

_› Artist talk with Nil Santana and selected students. Brown bag lunch, 12:15 p.m. Monday, Shore Art Gallery

_› “Hollywood’s Challenge for the Church,” 2 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, Mabee Business Building Room 115