Tuesday, March 31st, 2020
Here’s a great idea we heard about! The United Methodist Camp Retreat Ministries has created a Virtual Camp Program. Each day, campers can log in and follow a day camp session exploring topics such as spiritual development, nature exploration, STEM, music, art, social/emotional learning, exercise and more. The Virtual Day Camp is a free gift […]
Read More >>Tuesday, March 31st, 2020
Children, youth and adults all need fresh air and exercise—it’s good for the mind and soul! We put together a fun and easy nature scavenger hunt that you can put on your website or send out via social media to your children, youth and congregants to encourage them to step outside and explore. Then, encourage […]
Read More >>Tuesday, March 31st, 2020
Did you know that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime? This week’s timely topic that may help you in your role at a church or organization is domestic violence awareness. All families face struggles and adversity together. Couples often disagree […]
Read More >>Tuesday, March 31st, 2020
The Pilgrim’s Progress, written in 1678 by Pastor John Bunyan who was imprisoned for sharing his faith, is one of the most popular books of all time. The recently released animated feature is described as a “powerful allegory that helps families understand the spiritual journey is the most important journey in life, as well as […]
Read More >>Wednesday, March 25th, 2020
Here’s a great idea we heard about! The ELCA Youth Ministry team has created a YouTube channel called Faith Finder Fun where they post videos every day to occupy young people: Backyard Mondays, Science Fridays, you get the idea. Learn more and meet the team at their website. Have an idea to share about how […]
Read More >>Wednesday, March 25th, 2020
Have kids at home or want to connect with the children and youth at your church or organization? Here are 3 websites that will give them a good start in learning about history and the arts—from the comfort of their computer or tablet. (They won’t even know they are learning!) Learn about the Museum of […]
Read More >>Wednesday, March 25th, 2020
There are a lot of reasons to continue learning at all ages, including improving your self-confidence and keeping your brain healthy. But in your job as a staff member or volunteer, learning has more practical benefits. This week’s timely topic is starting a Hunger Relief Program: Hunger and food insecurity are formidable problems in the […]
Read More >>Wednesday, March 25th, 2020
In our busy lives, personal growth is not an area that always gets our attention. We’ve got 26 ideas for you, starting with the letter A. You’ll want to get to Z! Click here to get the printable list.
Read More >>Wednesday, March 18th, 2020
Dear Safe Gatherings community: We are watching along with the rest of the world as things change across the country in the wake of the coronavirus. The ripple effects are many and unknown. We want you to know that Safe Gatherings will continue to serve you in the same ways we always do: with online […]
Read More >>Monday, January 27th, 2020
Most organizations today recognize that it is essential to screen employees and volunteers. But of those organizations, it is evident there are two prevailing opinions regarding the frequency of background checks: those who run one background check at the beginning of a person’s service and then never again; and those who run background checks at […]
Read More >>Monday, January 27th, 2020
Imagine this scenario: You are in charge of the children’s ministry at your organization and a congregant comes to you with disturbing news. “There’s a sex offender in the congregation,” she says. “I searched the national sex offender website and this person’s name came up.” You did not know about this previously, and you don’t […]
Read More >>Monday, January 27th, 2020
Having trouble finding good volunteers? Is it challenging to keep the ones you have? A mentoring program may be the answer you’ve been looking for. Mentoring programs offer an opportunity for your clergy, leaders and experienced volunteers to share their skills and experience with those who are less experienced, to put them on the fast […]
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