Indigenous Peoples’ Day Observances

Thanks to the Synod of Lakes & Prairies for sharing Gail Strange's article from October 14, 2019 as inspiration for honoring Indigenous Peoples' Day, October 11, 2021. Here's the Great Idea: Strange shares background on the observance…

Feelings and Faith

Rachel Doboney Benton of Building Faith shared this Great Idea. Benton writes, "These days when I talk to fellow families, I hear the same echoes in our voices. We're weary. We need encouragement. The world around us brings emotions that…

SIX NEW THINGS – WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 27, 2021

Building a better future together is what it's all about this week: inspire creative young leaders and develop the hope of elders; move toward a more equitable economy; amplify theologies of love and compassion; embrace change; learn best practices…

CINEMA AND THE STREET

Thanks to Christa Meland for sharing this Great Idea from Rick Belbutoski of Hennepin Avenue UMC. Rick Belbutoski, director of youth and young adult ministries at Hennepin Avenue UMC in Minneapolis, recently got to thinking about a way to…

Gameify It!!!

Thanks to Rev. Lee Ann Pomrenke for sharing this Great Idea in her blog. Rev. Pomrenke reflects on how her whole household is now entirely online for both work and school - and will continue to be so for the foreseeable future. She has…

Blessing Animals at the Zoo

Thanks to Corrie Cabers of Building Faith for sharing this Great Idea! Corrie shares the story of Rev. David Romanik, Rector of The Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest in Abilene, Texas, who developed the idea of blessing the animals -…

Six New Things – Week of September 20, 2021

Let's make the world a better place: by acknowledging reality, inspiring our young people, supporting folx with mental and emotional challenges, rooting in sound theology, engaging in inter religious dialogue, and allowing ourselves a few…

Live Clue: Bring the Board Game to Life!

Thanks to Lauren Wainwright of Building Faith for this Great Idea!! Wainwright writes, "I love doing fun and creative events with my youth group. One of these special events is a LIVE CLUE Night. Do you know the classic detective board game?…

Six New Things – Week of September 13, 2021

This week it's all about community: dreaming what it might be; finding joy in its thriving; acknowledging its current realities; reshaping it to benefit all; strengthening it through healthier families; and preparing for God's presence within…

Faith in a Diaspora

This Great Idea comes from Rev. Emily Meyer, Executive Director of The Ministry Lab. Our Jewish neighbors celebrate Shabbat every Friday evening on our shared deck. It is a lovely thing to behold, as parents teach their children the rituals,…