Lutheran composers to discuss creativity

Two internationally recognized figures in contemporary Lutheran worship are coming to Lombard.

"An Evening with Herb Brokering and Carl Schalk" will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 215 S. Lincoln. Their talk is the third event in the church's inaugural Artist Series.

The Rev. Dr. Herbert Brokering and Dr. Carl Schalk will engage in a lively discussion about the creative process. The evening will include audience participation and some hymn singing.

Brokering is the author of more than 30 devotional books, as well as thousands of poems and lyrics. He's collaborated with several composers, including jazz great Dave Brubeck, with whom he wrote "Beloved Son."

In recognition of this work, Brokering has received honorary doctorate degrees from Concordia University in Austin, Texas; Trinity Seminary in Columbus, Ohio; and Wartburg College, in Waverly, Iowa.

Schalk, a Lutheran pastor who is known as an author, editor and lecturer, also is one of the modern church's most influential composers of choral music and hymns.

Schalk retired in 1994 from Concordia University in River Forest, where he holds the title Distinguished Professor of Music Emeritus.

Schalk is a Fellow of the Hymn Society of the United States and Canada and has served on the Lutheran Commission on Worship. He was editor of the journal "Church Music" from 1966 to 1980.

Between them, Brokering and Schalk have contributed 15 hymns to the recently published "Lutheran Service Book," the hymnal of the Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod. Dozens of their works also have been incorporated into hymnals of other churches in both the United States and around the world.

Admission is free, but donations will be accepted. For details, call at (630) 629-2515.

If you go

What: An Evening with Herb Brokering and Carl Schalk

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday

Where: St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 215 S. Lincoln, Lombard

Cost: Free, but donations will be accepted

Details: (630) 629-2515