The book of Esther tells the unlikely story of a young Jewish woman who secretly rises to power in the Persian court, just as her people face the threat of annihilation at the hands of a dangerous enemy. It deals with grave matters, but you may also find yourself laughing as you read!
This special two-part Fall Lecture Series will explore Esther’s dramatic narrative, its colorful cast of characters (and the conspicuous absence of One very important figure), and how humor functions as a serious form of truth-telling. Together, we’ll consider how comedy and courage work hand in hand in this biblical tale to confront tyranny and hatred in all their forms.
Presented in conjunction with our sermon series Cast Lots: Wisdom, Power, and Fate in Esther, this event features two distinguished guest speakers:
Dr. Eunny Lee — Associate Dean and Professor, Department of Biblical Studies and Professor of Biblical and Religious Studies at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Her scholarship includes Old Testament wisdom literature, feminist hermeneutics, and the poetic and performative dimensions of the Psalms.
Rabbi David Stern — Senior Rabbi of Temple Emanu-El in Dallas, a national leader in Reform Judaism, celebrated preacher, social justice advocate, and widely published writer on Jewish liturgy and theology.
Come ready to think deeply, laugh a little, and discover new dimensions of this beloved and unsettling biblical book.
Schedule:
Saturday, October 11
Welcome + Session I: 9:00–10:15 AM
Brunch: 10:15–11:00 AM
Session II: 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Sunday, October 12
Lunch: 11:45 AM–12:30 PM
Session III: 12:30–1:45 PM
Food will be provided at both sessions.
RSVP
Please RSVP by October 8.
👉 RSVP Here: fpcdallas.org/esther-series
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