Apr
24

Light Speed, God and non-relativity

galaxy small

I believe that God created the universe (and maybe many universes). I also believe that the Bible makes it clear that as we discover the intricacies of that creation, we are discovering the underlying reality of who God is and what he is doing in the world. That is why I LOVE science. Science is…
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Apr
17

I want more texting during my lesson!

Cuba Religion

Students are going to text while you speak no matter what you say or how many texting spies you place in the audience. Why not use this evil distraction for good? That’s where Poll Everywhere comes in. It’s a really simple process. You don’t even have to sign up to try it out. You put…
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Apr
04

Ultimate Nerf Wars

nerf wars ammo table

Looking for a proven successful youth ministry event idea to kick off your summer?  Try this: Ultimate Nerf Wars. What you need: Tables, anything camouflage, tarps, bandannas in two colors (1 per person), score sheets, pens, Sharpies, glow-in-the-dark bracelets/necklaces, medals or prizes (optional) Bullet buckets to gather up bullets for reloading.  Lots of volunteers. What people…
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Mar
13

DIG – A Bible Study Technique like None Other

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I’ve been meaning to pass this along for a few weeks. You could have reminded me. DIG is a free session that came out of a final assignment from my UMYM Certification class. Well, it is the final assignment. I was halfway holding out for my grade; I didn’t want to give you anything that…
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Mar
06

Five Lenten Practices Your Youth Need to Experience

Lent-1

If you’re like me, Holy seasons are always a difficult time.  Usually the church is at it’s busiest and I’m not only striving to focus my own spiritual life but also provide new and relevant experiences for my youth. If you haven’t tried these spiritual disciplines below allow me to suggest incorporating them into this…
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Mar
06

Time For Some Forgiveness

How are the Children?

Here’s a fact of life. You’re not going to get through today without hurting those around you. Here’s another fact of life. You’re not going to get through today without being hurt by those around you. That’s why God makes the two sides of forgiveness such a big deal. You need to forgive others when…
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Feb
28

6 Critical Questions Parents & Teens Should Ask Today

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As a former teacher-turned-youth director, I can attest to the power of sharing ideas among trusted co-workers. Why re-invent the wheel when you can “steal” great ideas from others and apply them to your own situation?  I had the opportunity to do just that recently when I sought ways to improve communication between my high…
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Feb
14

Soul Fire: Light Your World- Session 6: Get Your Light- Church > Being a Light to the Nations

fire6

                This is one of several sessions in the Soul Fire curriculum that has been posted for YouthWorker Movement use.   Supplies: Camper Book, Bible, Pens, a recent newspaper & a recent magazine, poster board, (1) glue stick, scissors   Key Scripture: “I am the Lord, I have…
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Feb
01

5 Quick and Easy Youth Games for your Super Bowl party

  TV screens are ready to go…check. The pizza has been ordered…check. The boys know to bring soda, chips and dips, the girls know to bring desserts, cups and paper plates…check. Now let’s plan the entertainment for the big youth group party this weekend.  Here are five tried-and-true games to have on hand this Sunday…
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Dec
06

Soul Fire: Light Your World- Session 4- Energize Your Light: People & Friends; the Power of Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships

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                Session 4: Energize Your Light- People & Friends; the Power of Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships   Supplies: Camper Book, Bible, Pens, index cards (10 per group member), butcher paper, markers, masking tape   Key Scripture: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have…
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Nov
30

Soul Fire: Light Your World- Session 3- God Light: The Lord’s Prayer

fire6

*This camp/retreat curriculum could be easily adapted for weekly Sunday school or Youth Group use.  Make modifications as needed.  The intent is to help Youth experience the Means of Grace (Spiritual Disciplines/Christian Practices).Session 3: God Light- The Lord’s Prayer       Supplies: Camper Book, Bible, Pens, 1 sheet of drawing paper for each camper,…
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Nov
15

Angry Birds at Your Next Youth Event

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Get ready for something awesome – life-size Angry Birds. “I will have to admit that I use to play Angry Birds a little too much.  But now I don’t have to feel bad about spending all that time glued to my iPhone last summer because it was all research and preparation for youth ministry!” -Eric…
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Oct
11

Life Of A Disciple In The World 5: Sloth

The Life Of A Disciple In The World The Seven Deadly Sins Session 5: Sloth- “Whatever Dude…….” Core Teaching:            Sloth is a Major Sin that impacts our spiritual life.  It also contributes to prolonged and needless suffering in our world. Session Goals:            This session focuses on the 4th Deadly Sin, Sloth.  Students should be able…
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Sep
20

Life Of A Disciple In The World 3

The Life Of A Disciple In The World The Seven Deadly Sins Session 3: Envy- Evil Eyes Core Teaching:            Envy leads to many other sins.  We all envy.  We rarely confess this sin however.  We even go out of our way to tap into other people’s envy. Session Goals:            This session shows exactly how envy…
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Sep
20

The G.I.F.T. Challenge – Session II

AmyValdezBarker

Are you looking for an excellent in-depth Bible study for your youth?  The G.I.F.T. Challenge is about having youth “Growing In Faith and Theology.”  A continuation for last week’s post, this is Session II of the G.I.F.T. Challenge.  Click here to find Session I. G.I.F.T. CHALLENGE GUIDELINES – Session II (Weekly – 60 minute session)…
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