My Own Experience of "Las Posadas" As a child in a multicultural family, I had the privilege of celebrating the Advent and Christmas seasons in many different ways. I grew up in …
A Free Tool for Formation Planning: The Ministry Planning Calendar
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens" (Eccl 3:1, NIV). A time for worship, study, service, and silence. A time to work and play, to …
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Courageous Companions: Reimagining Discernment about Mentors for Youth
I have been privileged to lead training events about the best practices in youth ministry for years. A topic always addressed is how and whom to recruit as adult mentors for …
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What’s the Difference between English Bible Translations?: A Quick Guide
“The Lord is my shepherd.” What line would you say next in Psalm 23, verse 1: “I shall not want," “I lack nothing," or “I will not be in need”? What about John 3:16? Do you expect …
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Building Faith’s Top Picks for Adult Bible Study Curriculum
Looking for a Bible study curriculum for adult Christian formation? There are many options from a variety of publishers and denominations. The right choice depends entirely …
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Advancing Creation Care and Climate Justice with Earth Keepers
In February 2021, the Diocese of Maine Climate Justice Council met for the first time. The council, consisting of nine lay and ordained Episcopalians who include the three of us, …
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VBS and Summer Camp Curriculum Top Picks for 2024
Building Faith's 2024 Vacation Bible School and summer camp curriculum reviews are in! We have evaluated 10 new curricula for this year and found a variety of fun and fruitful …
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Leading with Love: Ministry Lessons from Hospital Chaplaincy
Years ago, before my ordination to the diaconate, I chose hospital chaplaincy as my call to servant ministry. Specifically, I chose to engage in love’s work in real people’s lives. …
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A Healthy Edible Nativity to Tell the Christmas Story
In our church, we have noticed that our children and youth do not know the story about the birth of Jesus as well as they did ten years ago. Because of this, we have decided …
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St. Francis Day Survival Guide: Practical Tips for Animal Blessings
Many churches and faith communities offer animal blessing ceremonies. A popular date for these events is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, which is celebrated on October 4. If …
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