Tales and Prayers For New Life in Christ
Multiple-Use Life-Enriching Stories
Karl Evans

What is a story? Is it simple communication, a way to relay information about an event? Is there more to a story than that? In fact, stories are powerful. They not only inspire our imagination, but they also serve as a connection with our past, preserving core events in our history. Stories can create a feeling of community, bonding people together in a common history. They reveal truths to us that would otherwise remain hidden. Sometimes we cannot grasp a notion until it is revealed in a story. From the story of our birth to our newspaper obituary, stories are the fabric of our lives.

It is no wonder that Jesus taught us using parables, defined in the introduction as "simple translations of the unfathomable word of God into human language." Like other stories in our lives, Jesus' parables offer humanity hope and enlightenment. Consequently, stories have pervaded our worship of God, the master storyteller. Through sermons, prayers, and hymns, the grand tale of God's relationship with humanity is retold every Sunday.

It is in this spirit that Tales and Prayers for New Life in Christ is given. Each story, complete with a synopsis, a link to the liturgical calendar, and a corresponding scripture, offers us a glimpse into the mystery of life and faith. These stories, including "Angie," "Bullpen Mud," and "A Vision of Peace," can be used in sermons, small group discussions, or even as a complement to personal prayer and reflection. It is suitable for congregations, families, friends, and individuals. Let each tale lay down the foundation on which you create a story of your own.

Karl Evans has ministered in several Methodist, Presbyterian, and Lutheran churches in such states as Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada. His service has focused on congregational development and poverty research. He holds a B.A. from Willamette University (Salem, Oregon), a M.Div. from Emory University (Atlanta, Georgia), and a D.Min. from Drew University (Madison, New Jersey). He currently lives in Oregon with his wife, Donella, and together they have four children, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.