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Collaborative Ministry: Moving Past a Do-It-Yourself Model in Youth Ministry
The inertia of our DIY culture is strong. And for those of us constantly at the precipice of being overprogrammed and overworked, another layer of do-it-yourself-ing is appealing: if you want something done efficiently, do it yourself. But what if we took the time to do it together?
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Best Progressive Storybook Bibles (and How to Choose the Right One)
Choosing a storybook Bible can feel overwhelming—there are so many options, each with its own tone, theology, and style. In this guide, I share how I evaluate storybook Bibles as a pastor, parent, and member of the Illustrated Ministry team. You’ll learn what to look for, how to discern what matters most, and my top progressive, inclusive recommendations.
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Trans Inclusion in the Church: What Christians Need to Know
As anti-trans rhetoric and laws increase in the United States, Christian churches face a moral choice: to remain silent or to affirm the sacred worth of all people. For those committed to following Jesus’ example of love and justice, supporting trans people is not just a political act—it’s a theological one.
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Love Thy Neighbor: How One Teen Turned Compassion into Action
Keliah’s story isn’t about solving everything. It’s about showing up with what you have, where you are, and offering it freely. It’s about turning compassion into something people can hold in their hands—a flyer, a connection, a hot meal.
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The Will to Dream: Practicing Prophetic Advocacy This Advent
Equip your congregation to practice prophetic imagination this Advent with The Will to Dream. Download our free “Advocacy for All” bulletin inserts and explore small but mighty ways to live out faith-based advocacy.
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The Will to Dream: Hymn Recommendations
There is something sacred about a congregation lifting voices together. In an age of earbuds and curated playlists, communal singing may feel countercultural—and that’s precisely why it’s so vital.
From Prophetic Hope to Prophetic Resistance: Imagining God’s Kin(g)dom from Advent to Easter
Each year, the church walks a familiar path from Advent’s longing to Easter’s joy. But what if we saw this journey not as a straight line of triumph, but as a living cycle of grief, resistance, and imagination?
A Beaded Examen: Colorful, Creative Prayer for Kids
A Beaded Examen turns prayer into something kids can see, touch, and feel. It creates space for naming emotions, noticing God’s presence, and practicing gratitude—all while holding a rainbow of beads in their hands.
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Picture Books Aren’t Just for Kids: Why Adults Need Them Too
Whenever I want to learn something new, I start with a picture book. They’re short, beautiful, and offer gentle introductions to big ideas. Picture books don’t just belong to kids; they remind adults how to laugh, wonder, and rediscover delight. Here’s why they matter for all ages.
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Year-Long Youth Ministry Planning: A Simple How-To Guide
As the new ministry year begins, youth leaders can find calm and clarity by planning with the liturgical calendar. From birthdays to beloved traditions, seasonal faith practices, and sustainable rhythms, this guide offers simple steps for shaping a year of meaningful ministry that leaves room for the Spirit’s surprises.
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Celebrate the Season of Creation with Compassion Camp
September marks the Season of Creation, a sacred time to honor our connection with the Earth. Compassion Camp: What Every Living Thing Needs offers stories, music, and activities to support worship and faith formation grounded in creation care.
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Progressive Christians on TikTok: Content Creators Youth Need to Know
When teens search TikTok for faith, they often find conservative voices and harmful theology. But progressive Christian creators are offering alternatives. Here’s how youth workers can guide teens toward affirming, thoughtful spaces online.
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