Pick My Brain:  Hands-on Faith Formation!

March 5, 2013

     by Marlene Bogard, Minister of Christian Formation

I pass on to you a wonderful list of faith formation ideas and activities, for all ages and Biblically Based, (remember we embarking in a Year of the Bible – see www.yearofthebiblenetwork.org). I subscribe to an email list that is generated from: vibrantfaithathome.org

For each holiday and event listed, there is a short video to watch, and then a fully detailed plan for how you might help understand and celebrate the various special days.  Some will feel a bit more “Lutheran” as the creators are predominantly of that denomination, but almost all of it is immediately usable and appropriate for Mennonite / Anabaptist faith groups.  Enjoy!

St. Patrick’s Day (March 17)

The Real Patrick – Saint Patrick means more than wearing green.

Lent (until March 30)

Giving It Up – Why give up something for Lent?

Lord, Hear My Cry – Even in fear-filled moments, God is present.

Lenten Candles – Mark the days of Lent with a candle ritual.

Purpling Your Home – What color are your days of Lent?

A Lenten Wilderness – Discover strength to meet your wilderness temptations.

Holy Week/Easter (March 24 – 31)

Learning About the Passover Seder – Learn about the Jewish festival of Passo – ver.

Easter Egg Exchange – Make Easter Egg dying a family faith experience.

Resurrection Faith & Doubt  – Jesus is risen, but not everyone believes it.

Holy Week Ups & Downs – How could people turn on Jesus so quickly?

Easter Traditions for Teens – Create new Easter rituals for teens.

Open-Egged Questions – Serious, fun, or tasty? Open one to find out.

Easter Season (April 1 – May 19)

Come, Eat Breakfast – Make placemats the celebrate the risen Jesus.

Alleluia Chain – Connecting Easter joys.

Earth Day (April 22)

Earth Day Service – Plant flowers to lift others’ spirits.

Mother’s Day (May 5)

Mother’s Day Prayers – Pray for moms in creative ways.

Honoring Life Givers – Make a mark for those who’ve marked you.