Every day we encounter issues that are not only controversial but that also seem to divide nations, politicians, and even best friends. Then there times when we encounter a subject that we know so little about that we don't even know how to talk about it with others. Taken from our Contemporary Issues and Christian Living sections, the studies in this pack will explore current social and ethical issues such as affirmative action, gun control, separation of church and state, and torture; global matters such as understanding the Koran and Iran; and personal topics of concern such as caring for those who care for someone with Alzheimer's disease. Below is a breakdown of the studies.

Is Affirmative Action Still Needed? From the kitchen table to the Supreme Court, affirmative action remains a polarizing issue within and among ethnicities. In this study participants will discuss and judge the purpose, necessity, irrelevance, and benefits of affirmative action. Participants will further determine if the intended goals of affirmative action have been reached.

Gun Control: Is there a Christian Response? Perhaps nothing highlights our political divisions in America so starkly as the debate over gun control. This study takes participants through arguments for and against gun control and urges a more reasoned debate from all corners. You may be surprised at where you come out on the issue!

Introduction to the Koran. Where did the Koran come from? How is it organized, and what is its message? These are a few of the questions addressed in this study. The first session looks at the origins of the Koran, its form, and how Muslims use the Koran. The second session looks at some of the content of the Koran, highlighting specific verses, or sura, so that participants can begin to read for themselves some of what the Koran contains.

Separation of Church and State. Was the United States a Christian nation from its beginning? How did the principles of freedom of religion get incorporated in our government, and what do they mean? This one-session study looks at this history and asks how Christians can best act while respecting a separation of religion and government.

Is Torture Ever Justified? There are two primary questions under discussion in the current debate about torture: First, does the U.S. government employ torture? Second, should the U.S. government employ torture? We will consider each in turn. Participants will be encouraged to consider these questions from the perspective of Christian faith.

Understanding Iran. This three-session study attempts to help participants understand the people, culture, religions and politics of our brothers and sisters in this country with rich and ancient traditions. The author traveled to Iran in early 2008 and includes some first-hand pictures and reflections of the people there.

Caring for People with Alzheimer's. How do persons caring for those with Alzheimer's disease care for themselves? How can congregations support those persons responsible for the care of persons with Alzheimer's disease? Author Carol Wehrheim describes many dynamics a person with Alzheimer's and a caregiver face, and how congregations can be a place of support.