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Talks look at blending elements of church life

Author and professor Heather Murray Elkins uses folk wisdom and poetry in lessons about the integration of spiritual, physical and social life.

"The Watered Down Gospel" will be her topic at 7 p.m. Friday in the first of three presentations in the Britt Lecture Series at First United Methodist Church, 1020 S. Beretania St. The lectures are free and open to the public.

The talks, with the theme "Altar-ing the World, Sacramental Life in the 21st Century," will continue:

» Next Saturday, 7 p.m., "Table Manners in the Household of God."

» Sunday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m., "Tangible Evangelism."

Elkins is associate professor of worship and liturgical studies at Drew Theological School at Drew University in Madison, N.J. She is the author of several books including "The Storyteller's Companion to the Bible" and "Wising Up: New Rituals for Old Women."

She also will present a workshop for clergy from 9 a.m. to noon Feb. 21, for which reservations are required. Call 522-9555.