A Quick List of Everything in our Catalog

IONA & THE CELTIC WAY

What is Celtic Christianity? Why does this ancient tradition speak so strongly to our contemporary faith? This unique film by James Friedrich uses the luminous landscape of St. Columba's island of Iona to open the treasury of Celtic wisdom. (25 min.)  Great video for any group starting to plan a pilgrimage.

by David Crean & Amanda Millay Hughes, the authors of J2A

Children explore the history, structure and meaning of our sacred text. They look at how the Bible came to be - when, where and how it was written, as well as how it is organized. They will learn how to find chapters and verses, memorize the books of the Bible in song and find out how to tell the Bible's story in just 50 words!

A collection of high-resolution original line art images.  These images were drawn by Mary Kenny, and arise out of a deep prayer life.  The images are colorful and intriguing, inviting further investigation and discussion, and can be used for personal or organizational use. Perfect for coloring (teens especially love them!) as well as special bulletins, notecards and almost anything you can imagine.

A collection of high-resolution original line art images.  These images were drawn by Mary Kenny, and arise out of a deep prayer life.  The images are colorful and intriguing, inviting further investigation and discussion, and can be used for personal or organizational use. Perfect for coloring (teens especially love them!) as well as special bulletins, notecards and almost anything you can imagine.

WorkshopCycles unit that includes baptismal symbols and personal stories about the meaning of the sacrament.  It invites children to explore God's presence in wind and water -- and to appreciate the reality that God knows each of us by name.

This unit helps children experience the Christmas story from the shepherds' unique point of view exploring questions like... What do Shepherds watch for? What do we watch for in Advent? What are a shepherd's responsibilities?  What tools does a shepherd use? How can we apply this to our Advent waiting?

KEEPING YOUR STUDENTS & MINISTRY ALIVE 

by Jack Crabtree

A must-have book to help safeguard your church from accidents and lawsuits that goes far beyond the standard "sexual misconduct training" offered by most churches.  A wealth of real-life examples and simple, practical advice teach you how to look for safety hazards, avoid harmful situations and protect youth from injury, sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviors. We strongly recommend this book for anyone engaged in youth or children's ministry -- as well as youth leaders, Sunday School & VBS teachers, mission trip, camp and conference leaders.

We are the Body of Christ -- and in this unit, children explore this ancient metaphor to learn what the church is intended to be as we work together to become the hands, the feet, the voice, the presence of God in the world. Activities include mosaic work, puzzles and learning what gifts we can contribute to the church body.

Learn how to develop strategies for change that respect and utilize the abilities and temperaments of a variety of people in advocacy ministry. Designed as a one-day seminar or shorter afternoon or evening meeting, this program teaches four ways to create change in your organization and optimize the contribution and involvement of all members.

FAMILY TIME

This affordable little family book uses well-known Christmas hymns to help busy families focus on the important seasons of Advent & Christmas. Includes short readings and prayers for each Sunday of Advent through Epiphany and optional suggestions for simple family activities during the week. This is a perfect gift item for grandparents and godparents to give or for churches to offer to their families and Christmas visitors. Volume discounts make this an easy item to give or buy and sell as a fundraiser.

Eighteen weekly lesson plans based on the Episcopal Catechism found in The Book of Common Prayer designed to be used by K-Grade 3, Grades 4-6, Jr/Sr High and Adults. Each section includes bible study, reflection questions and age appropriate activities. Especially popular with small churches and those looking for materials that provide a single theme for all ages. Especially helpful for new church plants.

Multi-Media Enhanced Youth Ministry

by Heidi Hawks

This topic-based youth ministry program examines a single theme or concept in some detail over a 2-5 week period of time with the goal of addressing the characteristics of spiritual development.  This popular stand-alone curriculum is also ideal for J2A congregations seeking additional lesson plans with current multimedia and in included in the Center for Youth Ministry Membership.

MULTI-MEDIA ENHANCED
LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY 

by Heidi Hawks

PRAYER LESSONS FOR ADVENT, CHRISTMAS, LENT & EASTER

by Phyllis Vos Wezeman and Jude Dennis Fournier

This book provides a wealth of ideas and activities for all seasons. An Ash Wednesday service, lessons on foods for all the major days in Lent, Stations of the Cross and the Seven Last Words are just a few examples. These lessons are great for Sunday School teachers or those doing a Children's program during the adult Advent or Lent program time. A great way to engage children in experiencing the meaning of all the major seasons of the church.

Nine sessions lead fifth and sixth graders through "The Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, comparing it to Christian life and the teachings of Jesus. Scrooge represents those who have shut God out of their lives -- those who are out of touch with God's purposes. Scrooge's nephew and Bob Cratchit are poor but accpet the gift of love from God and share it with others -- they do not let their meager circumstances defeat them.

An entertaining story of a young boy growing up during the period when the church was established and choosing to be a Christian was an important and sometimes dangerous choice. Cleon is a slave who runs away from his abusive master and is befriended by a Jewish family whose father is in the process of becoming a Christian. They see Paul arrested,and when Cleon is taken by his old master who is about to drown when the ship sinks, he is faced with a choice: How does his new-found faith influence whether he lets him drown or rescues him?

A LECTIONARY-BASED CHILDREN'S CHAPEL RESOURCE

Developed by Holy Trinity Parish, Clemson, SC

This resource provides a creative children's liturgy for each of the three years (A, B, C using the RCL). It is an age appropriate worship option for younger children, especially in a congregation where Sunday School is at an hour separate from worship.

Come on a magical journey with Dare to be Different, using the book A Wrinkle in Time, by beloved Episcopal author Madeleine L'Engle.  This children's program uses games, crafts and other adventures to help us learn about our spiritual gifts and how our differences make us special.

A CHURCH GROWTH CELL GROUP MINISTRY

This small group program builds community, strengthens congregational leadership and facilitates church growth. Discipleship Groups gather to pray, study and share in order to be more faithful ministers in their daily life and work. Group members discuss ministry situations and concerns members encounter is daily life and engage in theological reflection. These groups become centers of pastoral support in congregations. They undergird the minstry of small congregations and assist large congregations in building community and personal relationships. These groups are especially helpful in integrating newcomers into congregational life.

A COMMUNION CLASS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

by Tracey E. Herzer

This six-week program for children (K-3rd Grade) and their parents is perfect for Lent or whenever you want to deepen children’s understanding of the Eucharist. It teaches the basics of who, what, when, where and why — and encourages children and parents to participate!

Develop plans, measure progress and adapt to changing circumstances. Ideal for a leadership retreat where participants want to immediately develop a plan they can work with throughout the coming year. Can be presented in one day,or expanded. Easy to facilitate. Designed to be used alone or as part of the Leadership Development Series (Vision, Mission, Planning, Team Building and Facing Change).

Cuadro de MARCUS ha sido desarrollado como la clave para una extensión / programa de la misión de construir sobre el éxito demostrado de Guarda Historias siendo atractivos para los niños que no tienen iglesia. La caja de MARCUS incluye un DVD con los dos primeros episodios de Guarda Historias junto con el Evangelio de Marcos, un juego de mesa y pegatinas - su regalo a los niños en su vecindario o para su uso en otros contextos. Sin embargo, fue diseñado como una manera de introducir suavemente a los niños a Jesús y para invitarlos a la iglesia.

This Advent cycle is about the birth of Jesus and the amazing ways in which that Gift changed everything for all of us. It is not just the retelling of the central Christmas story, but also helps us dig deeper and think about  the gift of "God with us".

Using games, food and theatrical readings from the Jewish celebration of Purim, we learn the story of Queen Esther and how she trusted God and saved her people.

In 2000, leaders from 190 countries met together and agreed on eight Millennium Developments Goals (MDGs) to be achieved by 2015 to eradicate extreme poverty, reduce child mortality rates and fight epidemic diseases such as AIDS and malaria. This unit helps us explore the MDGs and learn how WE can help!

AN INTERFAITH SOURCEBOOK OF ECOLOGICAL SPIRITUALITY

Compiled and Edited by Anne Rowthorn

Rowthorn has collected a series of liturgies from around the world to help worship planners and congregations develop liturgies that focus our attention on the earth, God as the Creator and our baptismal mandate to be stewards of the earth.

by Tracey E. Herzer

This beach trip balances "Fun in the Sun" with discussions and activites to help us understand what it means to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Originally designed as a four-day trip for middle school (junior high) kids, it can also be adapted for other ages and trip lengths.  Detailed activity plans make it easy to have a quality program on a shoestring budget!  Especially perfect for small churches!!

GOD'S METAPHOR OF METAMORPHOSIS

by Anna L. Liechty and Phyllis Vos Wezeman

This resource offers congregations a thematic approach for communicating the message of Lent and Easter. Centered around the life cycle of a Monarch butterfly, a different stage of its development serves as a symbol each week for the process of spiritual growth during Lent.

PENTECOST APPLE-ICATIONS

by Anna L. Liechty and Phyllis Vos Wezeman

Beginning with Pentecost Sunday, the apple is used as a symbol to explain and examine the fruit of the spirit from Galatians 5:22-23. Running through the next nine Sundays, a variety of apple-ications represent love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

(formerly Making It Real and Relevant: TOPICS) 

by Heidi Hawks

This topic-based youth ministry program examines a single theme or concept in some detail over a 2-5 week period of time with the goal of addressing the characteristics of spiritual development.  This popular stand-alone curriculum is also ideal for J2A congregations seeking additional lesson plans with current multimedia and in included in the Center for Youth Ministry Membership.

NURTURING THE NEXT GENERATION

by Tracey Herzer and Nancy McLaughlin

This beautiful and practical little book is perfect for parents, godparents, grandparents or anyone who wants to talk about God with a child they love. It explores the history and theology of godparenting, and offers plenty of easy, helpful tips on how to be the best godparent ever!  A lovely keepsake gift and a handy guide to use for years to come.

Sister Joan Chittister looks at the state of the world and as an antidote to materialism and individualism evokes the Benedictine values of creative work, holy leisure, wise stewardship, loving community, humility and peace.

Desmond Tutu speaks about how we come to terms with the love of God for us. Because Bishop Tutu’s style is so remarkably enriching, the study is formatted to allow groups to view the whole presentation in one session, and then to revisit parts of it in detail during subsequent meetings. It is a perfect resource for congregations, study groups, schools and more, whether in a large faith community or a small one. No extensive knowledge of scripture is needed, just an interest in being nourished by on of the most energizing preachers and teachers in the Anglican world.

A CULTURAL SPAN

In this adult education DVD and program, Phyllis Tickle explores the situation facing people of faith with new alignments of faith, understanding and hope. From her perspective as religion editor of Publishers Weekly, Phyllis Tickle surveys some of the main influences that have led to what she calls “the post-Enlightenment church.” She examines the “three cords of one cable—spirituality, corporeality, and morality,” that bind us together as a culture, and helps us to see religion as a human construct that changes as the society changes.

In this DVD program Jim Wallis discusses the relationships between poverty and war, fear and security and urges the listeners and the nation to do more to combat global poverty. The editor of Sojourners Magazine, Jim Wallis, discusses the relationships between poverty and war, fear and security, invoking Martin Luther King’s view that the only security is a common security. He also urges the listeners and the nation to do more to combat global poverty, quoting the prophet Micah’s vision of each person “sitting under his own vine and fig tree.”

Al fin de la Guarda Historias, cada kit viene con una copia de la Guía del Maestro. Si necesita copias adicionales, puede solicitar tantas copias como desee. Esto permitirá que más de un salón de clases para compartir el juego como se puede dividir a las cuatro películas entre 2 a 4 clases.

SET OF BOTH THEW FORRESTER BOOKS

$30 for both Holding Beauty in My Soul's Arms and My Heart is a Raging Volcano of Love for You! (regularly $19.95 each). 

EDUCATION & FUNDRAISING FOR THE "REBUILD OUR CHURCH" CAMPAIGN

by The Rev. Linda L. Grenz

Over 150 pages of education, fun and fundraising resources for congregations that want to learn about and join the campaign to rebuild the Cathedral complex in the Diocese of Haiti. This resource packet contains lesson plans for adults, youth and children -- several can be used with intergenerational groups. You'll learn about the country, the diocese, and the ministry of the church in Haiti. You can also explore some of the fun cultural aspects of Haiti: the tap-tap busses, fanal lanterns, proverbs, jokes and folk tales....and recipes to host a Haitian feast. Plus you'll get over 25 fundraising ideas, including detailed instructions and recipes for the trendy "Cupcakes and Cake Balls Fundrasier" and a Guide to Fundraising  to help you get organized -- tools you can use for years to come. 

Hurting Hearts and Helping Hands helps children learn about Haiti before and after the devastating earthquake in January 2010. Children hear stories and learn songs from Haiti, make mud cookies, take an imaginary boat trip and play games, while connecting Christ's command to help and serve others.

AN INVITATION TO MINISTRY

by Kevin Thew Forrester

An exploration of Baptismal Ministry and Mutual Ministry concepts. This ministry is the responsibility of all baptized members of the church, not merely the ordained. Drawing on experiences of the people in the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan, the author challenges the whole church to seek this mutual ministry as the key to its future health and mission.

THE STORYKEEPERS HOME EDITION

This is the home version of The Storykeepers, an animated video series created for children that tells the story of Ben the baker, and his wife Helena, who are Christians in Rome at the time of the Neronian persecutions (64 A.D.). Ben and Helena have adopted four children whose parents were lost during the fires set by Emperor Nero. The hope-giving stories and parables of Jesus are told in the course of their exciting adventures, including the passion narrative from the Gospel of Mark.

USING A DELLA ROBBIA WREATH TO SHARE THE STORY OF CHRIST 

by Anna L. Liechty and Phyllis Vos Wezeman

This new e-book offers congregations a thematic approach for communicating the stories of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. To make the worship theme visible and to reinforce the message, each candle of an Advent wreath is assigned a phrase that also serves as the focus for the Words of Preparation and for a Children’s Message.

A MADRIGAL FEAST CHRISTMAS PAGAENT

by Sondra Edwards

A fun and creative alternative to a traditional Christmas pageant. It combines the idea of a madrigal feast with the drama and intrigue of experiencing the first Christmas as a guest of the Innkeeper. A Madrigal Feast is an American form of dinner theater often held by schools and church groups during the Christmas season. Meant to recreate the feeling of a Renaissance feast, it is set in the Middle Ages and often comedic in nature. 

In the stories of Samuel, David, Mary, Esther and others - we are reminded that God often has special tasks for young people - even children. In this cycle, we study the story of Jeremiah, a prophet who was called as a child and told to bring God's messages to the kingdom of Judah.

(and you can be one too!)

by The Rev. Christopher Yaw

It's an amazing time to be an Episcopalian!  This brilliant little book invites both newcomers and long-time Episcopalians to take a fresh look at all the Episcopal Church has to offer. Chris Yaw uses his journalism skills to tackle church history, modern changes and deeply rooted theology in a light-hearted, down-to-earth, very readable style that helps us look at who we are and who God is calling us to be.

An Advent unit on John the Baptist and an introduction to baptism. The cycles addresses: How do prophets shine a light? What are prophets? Who was John the Baptist and what was his message? How was his message connected with the Old Testament prophecies of Isaiah and with the birth of Jesus?

Faith Formation
for Today's Church

Are you seeking the sacred in your daily life? Are you looking for a way to grow with others in your church? Will you set out on a pilgrimage that leads toward deeper community, stronger faith and the skills to minister in the world? Journey in Faith supports and enhances the baptismal ministry of the whole people of God. It is a multi-year, multi-faceted program that renews and revitalizes congregations and is especially suited for younger adults. Each Unit is a set of six sessions that can be done individually and in any order rather than as an ongoing program.

Journey to Easter is a five session program based upon the fourteen Stations of the Cross. It includes original line drawings of Stations by Mary Kenny that can be reproduced and used with the program, on bulletin covers or framed as artwork. Journey to Easter is designed to help participants learn about the Lenten devotion known as the Stations of the Cross and to worship using the Stations. The programs helps participants  understand and share Jesus’ feelings and experiences on the way to Calvary and identify with the persons—good and bad—who were involved in his crucifixion as we prepare for Easter hope.

CELEBRATIONS, CUSTOMS & CRAFTS FROM MANY LANDS

This e-book is filled with activities designed to develop an awareness of and an appreciation for the contributions of the peoples of all lands and races to the celebration of Christmas. Covering twelve countries, this resource can be used in homes, school or church for the twelve days of Christmas or to have a grand Christmas festival with multiple country stations.

David is one of the most beloved and well-known Bible characters. From the shepherd boy who played his lyre and fought Goliath, to the mighty king who reestablished the Israelite nation and envisioned a temple to bring God's people together, David is a significant part of our religious heritage.  A shrewd political leader and a flawed human being, he was still called "a man after God's own heart".

FAMILY TIME

This affordable little family book uses the growth & manufacturing process for chocolate as a metaphor for talking about spiritual growth during Lent and Easter.  These little devotions are perfect for busy families - includes short readings and prayers for each Sunday, plus optional suggestions for simple family activities during the week.  

This flexible design means you can choose whether you want to try to use the devotions weekly, daily or even just sporadically as your schedule allows.

Volume discounts available --- order for all church families!

by Anna L. Liechty and Phyllis Vos Wezeman

Know Chocolate for Lent offers a thematic approach for communicating the message of Lent and Easter to children, youth and adults. Know Chocolate for Lent uses the growing and manufacturing process of chocolate as a metaphor for the growth of faith and discipleship in the Christian life. Lent is an appropriate time for reflection and study so that believers comprehend the significance of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

La Historia Sigue Vive es un recursos que gira la Guarda Historias en una serie de talleres intergeneracionales que los participantes ayudan a entrar en el apasionante mundo de la narración bíblica. Pueden escuchar las historias de Jesús como si fuera la primera vez, y se los invita a entrar en la historiea no de forma abstracta or intelectual, sine con todo su ser; con sus pesamientos, sentimientos, ideas, experiencias do vida ye respuestas de fe. A medida que descubren como contaran las historias ellos mismos, se convierten en "guarda historieas," en parte de esa gran comunidad de los que han recordado, contado y vivídos las historias de Jesús durante dos mil años.

This program for Epiphany is designed to help participants become more aware of the Good News of Christ and better able to share it with others. Weekly Gospel dramas, craft and activity suggestions, reflection questions and Bible study involve the whole congregation in experiencing the mystery of the season.

LifeCycles is based upon the understanding that all Christians are called to, and commissioned by, baptism for participation in Christ's ministry in the world and in the church. Working through small groups, LifeCycles aims to empower all members to realize their God-given gifts and so become ever more active, articulate apostles at work in God's world, and to transform congregations to become vital, ministering communities.

In most cases, LifeCycles is used as the formation process for mutual ministry teams which will provide the primary pastoral leadership in congregations. Some members of the congregation will be ordained, others will be commissioned for leadership ministries within the congregation while others will be sent forth to carry out their ministries in their daily lives.

EXPLORING THE EUCHARIST

Help adults develop a deeper understanding of the Eucharist. This program guides them through the Eucharistic service and involves them in the key aspects of confession, proclamation, offering and thanksgiving. It helps participants explore how they live those dimensions in daily life. Great for those new to the church and for congregations seeking to deepen their understanding of the Eucharist. Also includes liturgical notes outlining two ways to develop an instructed Eucharist for your congregation.

Exploring Benedictine Spirituality

For centuries, the Benedictine Rule of Life has helped people live a more balanced life. Living in Community addresses the question: "What does it mean to be part of a Christian community in a secular world?" It focuses on Benedictine spirituality as a way to invite people to reflect on how we live together as a Christian community and engages participants in developing a Rule of Life for themselves.

MULTI-MEDIA ENHANCED
LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY 

by Heidi Hawks

and consider becoming
a member of the
Center for Youth Ministry!

Making it Real and Relevant is a lectionary based youth ministry program that uses contemporary music, movies and videos to connect faith formation with daily life. It provides lessons that are aligned with the Revised Common Lectionary with the goal of addressing the characteristics of spiritual development of older youth.

EQUIPPING LAITY TO SERVE AS MARRIAGE MENTORS 

Develop a marriage ministry in your congregation! Support newlyweds in forming healthy, loving relationships. While this mentor training program could be used to train mentors for any situation, it is specifically designed to prepare laity to work with couples preparing for marriage or lead a marriage enrichment program.

Miqra is a Hebrew word meaning "a public reading of scripture" and this resource is a How-To guide to help you create your own Miqra event -- where youth gather to learn, read and fall in love with Scripture.

52 CREATIVE METHODS FOR TEACHING CHRIST'S MESSAGE

by Phyllis Vos Wezeman and Kenneth R. Wezeman

This book of activities is designed to involve present-day disciples in Christ's call to missions. Nine themes are explored: Purpose, Passages, Places, Population, Professions, People, Present, Possibilities, Projects. Varied learning styles are addressed through methods including art, banners, creative writing, drama, music, puppetry, storytelling, clowning, dance, foods, games and photography. All necessary instructions are provided, along with suggestions for use. This resource provides 52 simple techniques that can be used as a supplement to church school or VBS curriculum, an enhancement for worship or outreach, or for special events highlighting missions.

BIBLE-BASED K-9TH GRADE SUNDAY SCHOOL

This in-depth, non-denominational curriculum helps students gain a broad understanding of the Bible over many years. It uses classic artwork and literature to enhances learning the entire biblical story and themes that relate to practical issues in students' lives. Teachers, especially those new to teaching or short on time, love this curriculum for its easy to follow instructions and convenient preparation materials.

LITURGICAL EXPLORATIONS: COLLECTS, BLESSINGS,
LITANIES, PRAYERS AND EUCHARISTIC PRAYERS

by Kevin Thew Forrester

This is the downloadable version of the liturgical text in My Heart is a Raging Volcano of Love for You!  These resources bring the liturgy alive in exciting ways. Unlike our current collects, these collects are drawn from the day’s Scripture readings, giving them a connection to the day’s lessons and sermon. Kevin uses refreshing, contemporary language that makes ancient texts meaningful to today’s ears while emboding the church’s baptismal theology and the Anglican-Episcopal tradition.

TRANSFORMING CONGREGATIONS THROUGH MUTUAL MINISTRY

by Margaret A. Babcock

New Growth in God's Garden combines theological reflection on mutual ministry with practical helps for congregational leaders. This book is chock-full of ways you can transform your congregation by expanding the ministry team.

WELCOME TO THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH

This collection of six video programs covers a wide breadth of subjects that help welcome and introduce people of any age to the Episcopal Church. This set is idea for use with Inquirer's Groups or as a gift for newcomers. It can also be used as an adult education program or with one of our youth confirmation program.

Inviting Families to Church

One of the fastest ways to grow your church is to invite families. And it is often the easiest. Episcopalians often aren't comfortable inviting people to church so it is much easier to focus on children and youth. OPEN DOORS is a plan, a process, events and everything you need to help your congregation become inviters. You'll learn how to use the four key entry points to invite families to your church!

The Parish Life Membership gives you access to over fifty programs for children, youth and adults plus several additional bonus items that you can use during your membership year. This membership has education curricula, leadership programs and liturgical resources -- in fact, it includes most of our programs that are not a multi-year membership of their own. This membership is the best "bang for your buck" if you want lots of options and a wide range of resources. 

A MEDIEVAL PILGRIMAGE VBS or SUNDAY SCHOOL

by Phyllis Vos Wezeman, Anna L. Liechty and Judith Harris Chase

Take your VBS on a pilgrimage to five Medieval pilgrimages destinations: Rome, Canterbury, Santiago de Compostela, Dunfermline (Scotland) and Croagh Patrick (Ireland). During their imaginary journey, they will learn about the life and legacy of a Saint revered since the Middle Ages and pretend to make the trek to see and hear the story for themselves.

Connecting Baptismal Vows and Prayer Forms

The Practically Christian process links the five baptismal vows with six classical prayer forms of Adoration, Penitence, Intercession, Petition, Thanksgiving, and Praise and moves each person to faithful action and reflection. These six units are sequential but could be taken in any order with some minor adaptation. Each unit can also be done as a separate program. Each unit has six sessions for connecting the unit's prayer focus (for instance, Adoration) with each of the five baptismal vows and concludes with a group celebration. 

AN INTERFAITH SOURCEBOOK OF ECOLOGICAL SPIRITUALITY

Compiled and Edited by Anne Rowthorn

Invocations are provided to start the day and benedictions to end it. A series of theological prayers for all occasions along with table blessings, litanies and responsive readings are included. She also gives worship planners with a partial list of fun and fanciful, serious and solemn occasions to celebrate a creation liturgy, a community event or festival, or to plant a tree on a special day, or just to spend a few moments contemplating the majesty of God‟s creation A starter list of Biblical ecological readings and a list of environmental hymns from ten English language hymnals completes this useful resource. This compilation of prayers and blessings will be especially appreciated by clergy, church music directors, and worship leaders.

Newly Updated & Expanded!

Our BEST DEAL for Advent! We've bundled together more than $200 worth of Advent resources into one place so you can save even more.  Most of these elements are intergenerational, although some of the formation items are divided for age-appropriate learning. The children's Sunday School formation is based on a unit from our WorkshopCycles curriculum called "Emmanuel, God With Us" and includes seven workshops (computer, art, drama, kitchen, music, kitchen and story).

El ministerio dentro de toda la familia está cada vez más reconocido como un campo clave para las iglesias y parroquias Cristianas ya que buscamos fomentar y educar la fe entre los niños. Recuerdo cuando… es una colección de 4 DVDs y cuadernos de actividades que cubren los 13 episodios de Los Guarda Historias. Desarrollados para ayudar a familias jóvenes a educar a sus hijos con las historias de Jesús, los cuadernos de actividades ofrecen materiales para ayudarnos a conectar las historias de nuestra propia familia con aquellas de Jesús.

MOVING FROM MAINTENANCE TO MISSION 

Rooted in God helps congregations determine their unique calling in God’s work. Participants are led through an exploration of what it means to be the Church and are guided on a journey to discern what God is particularly calling their church to become and do. The process focuses on Missional Theology and invites participants to discuss the discipline/discipleship needed to bring the "re-invented" church into existence. This resource is a great way to invigorate and re-focus a congregation. Participants lead the congregation through a workshop on developing a "Rule of Life" as a way of engaging the congregation as a whole. Ten sessions + the Rule of Life workshop.

This confirmation program is based on the Journey to Adulthood (J2A) program. It examines what it means to be a Christian, an Episcopalian and invites participants to examine what a particular Christian community does and means. The sessions are suitable for confirmation preparation for both youth or adults new to the church. Sessions include worship, historical and theological content, discussion, reflection and community building. Fifteen 2-hour sessions (may also be used in one-hour sessions).

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES FOR EVERYDAY LIFE

by Sister Barbara Jean Brown

Sister BJ introduces you to five spiritual practices that can be used for Lent or any time of the year: Spiritual Reading, Prayer of Attentiveness (Contemplation), Fasting, Works of Kindness (mercy) and Worship in Community and includes an introduction to the Triduum (Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil). You will find ways to participate in them to deeper your spiritual life. Each of the six chapters includes an introduction, practical steps and a list of additional resources. This book can be used as a Lent program or for personal use anytime of the year.

LIFE FORMING PRACTICES FOR OLDER YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

by Beverly Burton, Drew Dyson & Kenda Creasy Dean

This is a book of spiritual exercises and a workbook from the authors of The Godbearing Life. It is useful for older youth groups (e.g., YAC groups in the J2A program) looking for a spiritual discipline they can do together. It is also appropriate for college students. It offers a practical way for senior high youth and young adults to study spiritual disciplines while strengthening relationships among participants. The book includes lessons on inward, outward, and corporate disciplines. The goal is that Christ would be formed in each participant. Youth and adults co-journey together as they examine classical and contemporary disciplines, supporting one another, and intentionally seeking encounters with God.

AN ANIMATED VIDEO SERIES

The Storykeepers is an animated video series created for children that tells the story of Ben the baker, and his wife Helena, who are Christians in Rome at the time of the Neronian persecutions (64 A.D.). Ben and Helena have adopted four children whose parents were lost during the fires set by Emperor Nero. The hope-giving stories and parables of Jesus are told in the course of their exciting adventures, including the passion narrative from the Gospel of Mark.

MEDITATIONS FOR LENT

by Anne E. Kitch

Most of us lead busy lives where time is precious and the space we reserve for the sacred is carefully delineated.  Yet every once in a while, the miraculous breaks in and, as if our blinders were removed, we can see the holiness of everyday life.  In this book, Anne Kitch offers short meditations about the day-to-day business of living and invites us to take time to discover the holiness of each moment we’re given.  Perfect for group settings as well as personal use by families or individuals, you’ll find many different ways to enjoy this book during Lent or anytime you want to remind yourself to see the sacred in each day.

This program introduces participants to the full spectrum of Christian prayer methods and encourages them to incorporate these practices into their daily lives. Twenty-two lesson plans can be used as a year-long course, as four separate courses or individually.

Do you want clergy and lay people to be on the same team in your congregation? Do you want to develop a more collaborative structure for reaching your goals? This program is designed as an overnight retreat; can be done in one day. It's easy to facilitate and it enhances skills required for effective collaboration. 

Christopher Glover finds personal expression in his writing; he had not expected that others might enjoy his writing but with this book he makes his first offering available to a public audience. An inspiring read and an attractive gift.

A membership desgined for schools who wish to help students understand The 5 Needs in Life and how it relates to our behaviors and relationships. Perfect for incorporation into curriculum or as an adjunct program.  Especially helpful for special needs children or those with behavioral issues. 

This workbook explains the needs we all have in ways pre-school children can understand. Includes coloring pages for the little ones to enjoy and for you to use to foster conversation. This book can be used by schools, agencies or families. It is especially helpful for special needs children or those with behavioral issues.

This workbook is written with both teens & pre-teens in mind and has been used successfully in a job training program for rising 9th graders. However, adults of many ages have used the workbook too to identify their own needs and understand why we sometimes act the way we do.

The Sermon on the Mount includes some of Jesus' most well-known teachings, including what we now think of as The Beatitudes.  This children's unit helps us look at how Jesus changed our understanding of what it means to be blessed and how we can recognize the beatitudes in our world today.

CAMPFIRE STORIES OF PROMISE & HOPE

Five stories of promise and hope are retold in contemporary settings that are sure to engage and intrigue youth and adults. Use this DVD to start your Sunday morning sessions.

A fun Spring cycle for playing outside while learning about the Good Shepherd who cares for all of us. Activities include: making dioramas, sheep obstacle course and follow the leader, Disney's Finding Nemo (learning about the Parable of the Lost Sheep) and singing hymns and songs about shepherds. Perfect for VBS too!!

This Emmy-winning classic animated adaption of C. S. Lewis’ children’s tale is a delight for all ages. This animated film is used with the Aslan is on the Move! program - a fantasy experience that can be used for Vacation Bible School (VBS) or as an intergenerational summer fun event (e.g., on Sunday afternoons) or for Lent. 

PREPARATIONS AND PROVISIONS FOR LIFE TOGETHER

by The Rev. Linda L. Grenz and Dr. Delbert C. Glover

The two authors of this book, Linda Grenz and Del Glover, say at the outset that they are ordinary Christians writing for ordinary Christians and ordinary congregations. So why has this book become a classic for couples about to marry, couples already married, and the congregations that support them? Because they approach the ordinary issues couples face in marriage from the life-experience perspectives of an Episcopal priest (Linda) and a former corporate executive (Del) who worked with people as they faced various family-related issues. They invite readers to use the book in ways that speak most directly to them and offer questions for the couple to discuss and others that engage a congregation. The book is filled with probing questions for the individual to consider and couples to discuss.

For centuries, Christians have walked Stations of the Cross as a way to engage in the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection. This cycle uses some of the traditional stations to talk about what it means to fall down, to carry heavy burdens, to be a friend, to share comfort and to discover new life in unexpected ways.

A PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ADULTS

The Seekers is an innovative approach to life's journey especially designed for young adults, ages 16-20. This program provides leaders with outlines for discussion and activities that support and guide young adults as they mature and search in Christian faith.

The emphasis of The Seekers is not doctrinal instruction, Bible teaching, or information giving. Rather, the whole group (leaders and participants alike) discover, wonder and reflect together on their lives as Christians.

The Story Lives On is a resource that turns The Storykeepers into a series of intergenerational workshops that help participants enter into the exciting world of biblical storytelling. They hear the stories, as though for the first time, and are invited to enter into the story with their whole selves -- thoughts, feelings, ideas, life experiences and faith responses. And they discover themselves as part of that great community of those who have remembered, told, and lived out the stories of Jesus for 2000 years. The workshops are a great way to build a strong community. Each workshop is built around a meal, listening to the stories on video and participating in a series of activities and discussions.

Our church’s past merges with the present with narration by David Morse and interviews with leading Episcopal historians and commentators, who connect past events with ministry in our own day. This program comes in two parts making it ideal for Sunday morning adult education forums. Also good for confirmation, new members or youth groups. Study guides provide timelines, glossary and discussion topics.

Children learn about communion: what it means, why it is important and how the tradition was given to us. A great cycle for Lent, it includes: baking eucharistic bread, making things needed for worship, the movie Jesus and a Last Supper "picnic."

FORMATION AND DISCIPLESHIP IN THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH

by Linda L. Grenz

The church of the twenty-first century will need to be a learning community, but making disciples through Christian formation too often reflects a limited number of generic educational programs offered to child, teen and adult "consumers" who move on if they don't find what they want. How then can we make the transition form consumer religion to participatory faith in a time of stress and upheaveal, developing models and spiritual practices to feed the growing hunger in our churches for knowledge, spritual growth, maturity and vision?

EXPLORING THE GREAT IDEAS AND IMAGES OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

EXPLORING THE GREAT IDEAS AND IMAGES OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

Walking the Bible is a fourteen session study guide that leads adults or older youth through the first five books of the Bible, using "Walking The Bible: A Journey by Land Through the Five Books of Moses" VHS & Book by Bruce Feiler. Engaging and informative, the video and basic study sessions are 50 minutes -- or can be expanded to 1 1/2 hr. with additional activities using the book. The video and book may be purchased at www.pbs.org.

We believe children can learn about worship and benefit from being a part of community worship, well before they would ever be able to define or explain it.  This unit examines some of what happens in a church service and helps children connect with it as their relationship with God grows.

60 CREATIVE ACTIVITIES TO HELP CHILDREN RECOGNIZE JESUS

ENCOUNTERING THE AUTHORITY OF SCRIPTURE

This program helps participants understand the diversity of positions related to the authority of Scripture. They also learn methods of exploring and interpreting God's Word, and reflect upon its authority in their own lives.

by Malcolm Boyd

"I find that the habit of despair is a bottomless pit. I wonder if I can achieve the habit of hope instead?" Questions like these were sent to Malcolm Boyd as a columnist for AARP's magazine Modern Maturity. For ten years he answered with compassion and honesty, creating a body of wisdom that everyone who is aging - and that means everyone - will cherish. Boyd's answers are informed by his fifty years of experience as an Episcopal priest and spiritual director, working with elders and their families in countless situations.

THE SEVEN LAST WORDS OF JESUS

The words Jesus spoke as he hung on the cross are among the most significant ever spoken. During his time of deep suffering and pain, Jesus shows us honest emotions—courage, despair, dignity, and acceptance. Our love for him grows even greater as we watch him face  death and sacrifice. Words of Truth—Words of Life helps us explore the meanings of Jesus’ seven last words so that we can be closer to him in his experience, so that his courage and fidelity can give meaning to our lives.