We’re near the end of the spring. We are growing closer to Pentecost, when the disciples are empowered to GO and preach the word. Hopefully, we are growing ever closer to when we …
Intentional Vacation Bible School Planning Addresses Issues of Justice in Our Community
If the past year of ministry has taught me anything, it is the importance of intentionality when designing children's ministry programs. For the first half of the pandemic, I could …
Planning for the 2021-2022 Program Year
Planning for the next program year after 12+ months of pandemic ministry pivots and continued uncertainty about what will be possible in the fall feels daunting. Even so, I …
Continue Reading about Planning for the 2021-2022 Program Year
Gifts of a Digital Confirmation Class: Embracing a Family-Based Model
When the Building Faith team heard about how one parish was reimagining Confirmation during this time of being church in physically distanced ways, we could not wait to share their …
Continue Reading about Gifts of a Digital Confirmation Class: Embracing a Family-Based Model
Vacation Bible School Top Picks 2021
Lifelong Learning at Virginia Theological Seminary has offered Vacation Bible School reviews for more than 15 years. Beginning as an in-person “fair” and transitioning to an …
Holy Week Family Worship: Outline for Maundy Thursday & Good Friday
Offering families the tools to worship at home together is always important, but can be especially meaningful during Holy Week. Most families are able to participate in a …
Continue Reading about Holy Week Family Worship: Outline for Maundy Thursday & Good Friday
Using the Lectionary for Formation and Spirituality
“Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn and inwardly digest them . . . ” These words from the …
Continue Reading about Using the Lectionary for Formation and Spirituality
Creating Spiritual Space Online: Best Practices & Reflection Questions
Last fall, the Fetzer Institute released a new research report on best practices for creating sacred space online. As we continue to creatively adapt to new forms of gathering …
Continue Reading about Creating Spiritual Space Online: Best Practices & Reflection Questions
Crèche Sharing Across the Miles
As many church buildings are closed and continue to offer worship over Zoom and other online platforms, we can still celebrate the birth of Christ throughout the twelve days of …
Advent Resources from Publishers
Religious publishing companies offer new Advent resources each year. We asked four publishers for just two "top picks" for the season. For more great resources, check out each …