Publisher's Synopsis
SIMUL is an anthology of poetry written by Lutherans. Its name reflects Martin Luther's observation that as children of God we are both fully saints and fully sinners simultaneously. SIMUL reflects this paradox, and explores the complexity, beauty, and messiness of the human condition. Laughter and tears, faith and doubt, hope and despair all have found their place in this unique publication. The idea for SIMUL began to take shape back in 2005, and so began the search for Lutheran poets. After personally contacting 28 Lutheran colleges, 8 Lutheran seminaries, and almost 8,000 Lutheran congregations, the poetry submissions poured in by the hundreds, making my dream a reality. When the final deadline had passed, I had received over 1,200 poems written by pastors, professors, and dozens of everyday Lutherans from all walks of life. Selected authors ranged from newly discovered talent to well-known Lutheran poets and hymn writers. To hear their stories and read their poetry was a great gift to me, and I will be forever grateful for the experience. In celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, it seemed only fitting to again release this important anthology. It is my hope and prayer that these poems might find a place in your heart, and that they might be a blessing to you and your family now and for years to come. - Mark Odland, editor
