When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were …
Intergenerational Epiphany With A “To Go” Bag
When everyone else already has their Christmas packed away in boxes, we finish the Christmas season with a final burst of sparkle and light, gift-making and giving. Our church …
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One Day Youth Confirmation Retreat
With so many well-crafted resources available, there is no reason to write your own. We adapted activities from My Faith, My Life to create a meaningful day of spiritual …
Want to Start Small Groups? 6 Steps to Launch Next Semester
"Jesus jumpstarted his ministry by forming a small group. It’s dynamic. It’s worth it. It’s the most fruitful form of discipleship I’ve ever been a part of." The Joy of …
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“Dollar Store Children Sermons”: 10 Tips For Object Lessons That Actually Work
"Now is the fun part. Brainstorm a list of objects that connect with the direction that you are being pulled. For example, let’s say you want to talk about Thomas. You might have …
Holy Week Through the Eyes of Youth
"Holy Week is a remarkably powerful spiritual week. Provide time and space for young people to be immersed in a quiet Sabbath time and space. Invite them to hear the whisper of …
Freshly Brewed: 5 New Ideas for Coffee Hour
"At its best, a church coffee hour is a venue for the Holy Spirit to work." Coffee Hour: A Path to Higher Grounds I attend a church that …
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A Christmas Reflection: Mystery, Magic, and Oranges
"What mattered was the simplicity: a simple gift given in love and community." Memories of Christmas Eve When I close my eyes and picture Christmas, I am a child holding my …
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Love and Serve: A Youth Group Learns Compassion in Visiting Aging Adults
"On the drive back to the church, the deacon was able to help the youth process the visit and to claim the truth that faith sharing is the best kind of sharing of all." Youth Group …
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How to Feed a Youth Group (When they’re tired of pizza)
There are plenty reasons why pizza is an ideal food for youth groups. It arrives ready-to-eat; most people like it (vegetarians included); and it can be very cost effective, …
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