I Can Do All Things Silicone (Bracelet/Wristband)
Prayers For Victory In Spiritual Warfare
Sanford Bible Dry Pencil Bible Highlighting Kit
Experience The Power Of Gods Names
Amen
When Loved Ones Are Called Home (Reprinted)
Prepare : Living Your Faith In An Increasingly Hostile Culture
Wild About You
Christmas
Showing 101–200 of 218 resultsSorted by latest
-
Nativity Dramas The Third Season
$23.68Keith Hewitt is back with a third volume of clever nativity dramas in which he adapts biblical Christmas stories to popular television programs. In the same way Jesus communicated in a context that people of his time could relate to, Hewitt presents four sharp-witted takeoffs on something our culture can really relate to — TV. The humorous treatments of these biblical narratives will hold people’s attention and breathe new life into traditional nativity texts.
All four plays are specifically designed to be produced in churches and can be easily staged by congregations of almost any size. Props are simple and easy to find.
The four plays in this third volume are popular television shows from right now:
“Psyched in Bethlehem” (45 minutes)
“Everybody Loves Joseph” (45 minutes)
“Big Bang Bethlehem” (50 minutes)
“Burned in Bethlehem” (40 minutes)Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Gift For Santa
$35.61Karen Dove embraces the philosophy live to love unconditionally and serve the Lord every day. She has been a writer for over 20 years. A Gift for Santa is her first children’s witness book in a series that presents popular secular holiday icons in a God-centered, reading experience. Share God’s love with the children in your life, through this unforgettable story of how Santa came to know Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. You will fall in love with Dolly and Bea as you share their amazing adventure with Santa and visit the manger bed of the Savior of the world.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Gift For Santa
$20.61Karen Dove embraces the philosophy live to love unconditionally and serve the Lord every day. She has been a writer for over 20 years. A Gift for Santa is her first children’s witness book in a series that presents popular secular holiday icons in a God-centered, reading experience. Share God’s love with the children in your life, through this unforgettable story of how Santa came to know Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. You will fall in love with Dolly and Bea as you share their amazing adventure with Santa and visit the manger bed of the Savior of the world.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Prayers For Advent And Christmas
$15.99This collection is ideal for the Sundays of Advent, as well as Christmas Eve services. It includes:
Invocations
Opening Prayers
Prayers of Confession
Pastoral PrayersDrawn from a variety of traditions, the prayers in this collection will aid any congregation as it worships throughout the journey of Advent.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas : What The Bible Tells Us About The Christmas Story (Reprinted)
$21.66People know the often-told story of Christmas so well that it is hard to hear or feel afresh the joy of the meaning of Christmas. William Barclay goes right back to the original Biblical texts and translates them, providing surprising and fascinating insights along the way. Readers are guaranteed to find new insight and a fresh understanding of a story that they thought they knew. This book is one of a series and each title will have an introduction by one of today’s most valued writers. Insights Christmas has a Foreword by Nick Baines, Bishop of Bradford.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Mary Theresas Secret World
$27.95This is the story of two young angels who enjoy watching the Heavenly Father’s world of mankind through a heavenly porthole. Then an opportunity makes it possible for them to enter that world below. And they become part of the angelic visitation at the manger of the Christ Child.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Journey Leader Guide (Teacher’s Guide)
$11.99Take your group on a journey with Adam Hamilton as he travels on video from Nazareth to Bethlehem in this fascinating look at the birth of Jesus Christ. This 64-page Leader Guide pdf contains everything needed to guide your group through the 5-session DVD study, The Journey: Walking the Road to Bethlehem. Inside you’ll find session plans, discussion questions, as well as multiple format options and suggestions of ways to make the study a meaningful experience for any group.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Creche
$41.26A fiery preacher tried, convicted, and burned at the stake. An elderly monk, questioned and scoffed by a papal delegation. A father, in the outskirts of Paris, tormented with the decision to protect his family or follow Christ’s teaching of “turning the other cheek.” An abused wife leaves her husband, embarking on the unknown to protect her seven-year-old daughter. An eleven-year-old boy, Carter Mason, despairs to find answers to the injustices and evil he discovers in his world.
Carter finds an ally in his search when his sister, Shannon, has a close brush with blindness. The incident sets her on a philosophical journey that alienates her from her mother and encourages Carter to keep seeking answers. But it is a nativity set, a family heirloom crafted by an elderly friar in Florence, Italy, during the fifteenth century that offers Carter hope in the face of growing anguish.
The miracle of Christmas provides an opportunity of escape from the pattern forming early in Carter’s life. As a child on the verge of his teenage years, his eyes are still open enough to believe the impossible, to listen and wonder. His family is presented with similar opportunities to wrestle with their own past and beliefs as they explore the mystery of – The Creche.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
On Christmas Eve
$22.00Lucy and Charlie’s relationship has been on the rocks. With the newfound confidence that comes with her nursing career, Lucy doesn’t need to put up with Charlie’s nonsense anymore. But just as she’s about to call it quits, a lost-looking teenager crosses her path. Seeing that the girl is sick and alone, Lucy takes her in despite Charlie’s protests, in a move that could make or break their frayed relationship…
With a grown son embarking on his own life, and an ex-husband starting a new family, Betty realizes it’s time to find a partner of her own. Then Santa bears an unexpected gift at the Rotary Club’s Christmas party: himself. Has the holiday cheer gone to her head, or is she really attracted to a struggling magazine writer who plays dress- up? But things aren’t always as they seem, especially in Cape Light-and unless Betty realizes that good things come in different packages, she risks Santa passing her by this Christmas.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Blame It On The Mistletoe
$17.99Bright’s Pond is all atwitter. Not only is it time for the annual Christmas pageant, but something strange is happening at the Greenbrier Nursing Home – the residents are looking younger, acting happier, and maybe even getting a little friskier. Octogenarian Clive Dickens finally ties the knot with 90-year-old Faith Graves. All eyes naturally turn to Agnes Sparrow, but she denies any role in this apparent miracle.
Agnes’s sister Griselda, still mulling over a recent marriage proposal, agrees to investigate the purported miracle with the help of Bright’s Pond Chief of Police, Mildred Blessing. The clues lead them to Paradise Trailer Park’s newest resident, Leon Fontaine. Turns out Leon has been bottling water from the trailer park’s fountain and selling it as something it isn’t.
Hilarious shenanigans ensue as the quirky folks from Bright’s Pond get to the bottom of Leon’s deception. Meanwhile the pageant must go on, but not without its own issues including a missing baby Jesus and an unruly camel. And then there’s that marriage proposal still hanging over Griselda’s head.
Bright’s Pond certainly isn’t the typical small town with its delightful cast of eccentric characters, but that’s what makes it such a wonderful place to visit!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Journey For Youth
$8.99Witness the birth of God-with-Us! Follow Mary and Joseph on the arduous journey to Bethlehem, feel their disappointment when there’s no room at the inn, and rejoice with the angels and the shepherds when Jesus is born. Combining biblical scholarship, theological interpretation, and spiritual insight, best-selling author Hamilton paints a vivid picture of Christ’s nativity.
The most amazing moment in history comes alive for youth and their families. Stories include:
Mary’s story and Nazareth
Joseph’s story
Mary in Judea
The journey
BethlehemProvides everything needed to conduct a seven-week study, including reproducible handouts
Study book with leader helps
Further teacher helps on the Web at Hamilton’s webpage
DVD used with adult classes also recommended for use with youthAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Journey For Children
$21.23A Bible study for children that explores the profound, life-changing impact of Jesus’ birth
The most amazing moment in history comes alive for children and their families. Stories include:
Mary’s story and Nazareth
Joseph’s story
Mary in Judea
The journey
BethlehemBased on Adam Hamilton’s The Journey: Walking the Road to Bethlehem, children ages 4 through 8 will explore the story of Jesus’ birth with fresh eyes and ears.
Children will:
*learn about the places where the story occurred.
*experience some of the culture of Bible times.
*discover what each character in the story teaches us about God.
*realize what this story means for their lives today.
*celebrate the birth of God’s Son.
*discover the real meaning of Christmas.Provides everything needed to conduct a seven-week study, including reproducible handouts
Study book with leader helps
Further teacher helps on the Web at Hamilton’s webpageAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
What Sarah Saw
$33.32Good News travels fast!
We call it social networking now, but people have told their friends and families the news for centuries. Can you imagine the reaction of people hearing the shepherds telling about the skies full of angels singing, or that they saw the Savior the night he was born in Bethlehem? It was too exciting not to tell anyone who had not heard that the Savior was born! The Good News was told to many, many people.Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Maybe Today Series 3 Cycle B
$13.68As the fledgling church was taking its first steps into a new world, carving out a new spiritual path, it left road signs to guide the church yet to come. Those road signs are contained in the pastoral letters of the New Testament, and they have been guiding the body of Christ since its infancy. This outstanding sermon resource is based on the Second Readings from Cycle B of the Revised Common Lectionary, drawing valuable lessons from these texts for the complex challenges posed by life in the 21st century. It’s a preaching, teaching, and meditation resource that will be a welcome addition to any library.This essential resource is useful for: Fresh homiletical approaches to the lectionary texts * Inspiring preaching illustrations and sermon starters* Understanding scripture passages* Adult study and discussion groups* Personal devotions and Bible study
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas Story : The King James Version Of The Bible From The Book Of Matt
$23.73This book is a mere few verses of the Book of Matthew presented to you. From the beginning Jesus Christ’s life was threatened. These verses tell that story. You will have to read the rest of the Book of Matthew to find out what happened next!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas Snow
$21.23Christmas is more about pain than joy for Kathleen, whose father abandoned her 30 years ago. When she and two unlikely roommates—Sam, an older man, and Lucy, her fiance’s daughter—are trapped in her home by a blizzard, she’s haunted by her past. Is she ready to give the gift of a lifetime—forgiveness?
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Natures Christmas Story
$19.93The animals of the Alaskan tundra receive word of the birth of the Christ Child in Bethlehem. With great excitement they discuss the possibility of giving the newborn babe a gift. The Arctic angel suggests a very simple gift that surprises the animals.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
God Is In The Manger
$17.00“There are only two places where the powerful and great in this world lose their courage, tremble in the depths of their souls, and become truly afraid. These are the manger and the cross of Jesus Christ.”
“No priest, no theologian stood at the cradle of Bethlehem. And yet, all Christian theology finds its beginnings in the miracle of miracles, that God became human.”
These stirring words are among forty devotions that guide and inspire readers as they move thematically through the weeks of Advent and Christmas, from waiting and mystery to redemption, incarnation, and joy. Supplemented by an informative introduction, short excerpts from Bonhoeffer’s letters, and passages from his Christmas sermons, these daily devotions are timeless and moving reminders of the true gift of Christmas.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Esthers Miracle At The Manger
$25.61Based on a true event which the author had reported on, this lighthearted story follows one reluctant nativity star, Esther the cow, on a special Christmas journey. Besides discovering her importance in the Christmas story, Esther teaches us how God has made us each special in His world.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Marys First Christmas
$13.73We have all seen the story of the birth of Jesus portrayed at Christmas. It is a beautiful story, and we never tire of watching each scene unfold. “Mary’s First Christmas” is the story of the birth of our Savior as described through the eyes of Joseph and Mary. We may gain insight from them as they picture for us the adversity as well as the joy and excitement they experienced from the time of the angel’s appearance to the wondrous birth of God’s Son.
We catch a glimpse of the awe that Mary felt upon Gabriel’s announcement, of the joy she shared with Elizabeth and Zechariah as they awaited the miraculous birth of their own son. We see Joseph’s apprehension at Mary’s announcement, and how then after seeing the angel in a dream commits his life to God as Jesus’ earthly father. We can feel the excitement of the taxing journey to Bethlehem for the census, the fear and hope they felt, even to Joseph’s naming of the little donkey who carried the King of the Ages on his back…”Rocky”, in memory of the sometimes rocky and dangerous path they followed.
We see some of the sensations they felt with their description of the camp fires, the sheep for sacrifice, the beautiful stars in the night sky, and then the discouragement of finding no room upon reaching their destination. But God was always with them, and because of His grace, we know today what they did not yet understand…that this wonderful child, born in a stable, the very Son of God, would bring salvation to a sinful and lost world.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Advent Christmas And Epiphany Services
$15.99Jesus: God’s Unlikely Revelation
Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany Services includes biblically-based sermons, suggested scriptures, children’s time, hymn and prayers, as well as litanies for lighting the Advent wreath. Also included are suggestions for seasonal funerals. These services offer a completing message of hope during this important church season, when people often visit a church for the first time.
Each service focuses on and celebrates a different aspect of the theme: Jesus: God’s Unlikely Revelation
1. First Sunday of Advent-
Jesus: The Unlikely Image of God (Genesis 1:26-27; Colossians 1:15-17)
2. Second Sunday in Advent
Jesus: The Unlikely Gift from God (Isaiah 55:1-9)
3. Third Sunday of Advent
Jesus: The Unlikely Story of God with Us (Matthew 1:18-25)
4. Fourth Sunday of Advent
Jesus: The Unlikely Messiah (John 7:25-31)
5. Christmas Eve
Jesus: An Unlikely Peacemaker (Luke 2:8-20)
6. Christmas Day
An Unlikely Christmas Card (Matthew 2:13-23)
7. Epiphany
John the Baptizer: Jesus’ Unlikely Herald (John 1:1-14)Seasonal Funerals
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Legend Of The Christmas Kiss
$11.99Swaddled in a sweet poem and wrapped in beautiful illustrations, “The Legend of the Christmas Kiss” delivers a surprisingly fun tale about how the angels sent a beautiful snowfall on the very first Christmas. It all begins with one little angel who wants to bless the newborn Jesus with a gift — her kiss. But something special happens to her kiss after passing through the clouds below — it becomes a glistening speck, drifting down and landing on the Christ child’s cheek. Then as multitudes of angels add their kisses to hers, the earth is covered in a winter wonderland. Barbie Jenkins’ kid-friendly story is joyously paired with illustrations by Joyce Revoir whose cheerful art is featured in numerous children’s books.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Gifts Of Thanksgiving Series 3 Cycle C
$16.18The New Testament epistles offer us a unique look at some of the struggles faced by the early church, and how those first-century Christians worked through some of the theological and pastoral issues that divided them. In this anthology of insightful sermons based on the second readings from Cycle B of the Revised Common Lectionary, five distinguished preachers explore the epistles and show that their lessons on life and faith still offer valuable guidance for today’s complex challenges. This volume includes messages for every Sunday and major celebration throughout the entire church year, and is filled with compelling stories and wisdom. It’s a preaching, teaching, and meditation resource that will be a welcome addition to any library.This essential resource is useful for: Fresh homiletical approaches to the lectionary texts Inspiring preaching illustrations and sermon starters Understanding scripture passages Adult study and discussion groups Personal devotions and Bible studySome of the captivating sermons included in this collection are: Jesus – The Leader of Our Team Learning the Recipe for Life Show Me Your Credentials The iPod vs. the Larynx All in God’s Time God’s Chain Reaction Freedom Calling Killing What Is Already Dead Guarding the Treasure Living in Chains A New Resolve …and many more!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Little Red Jacket
$13.73This book focuses on a great aunt’s efforts to replace a lost button and mend the buttonholes of a little red jacket she wants to send to her grandniece for Christmas – and the mysterious incidents which involve, the great aunt believes, the ghostly help of her deceased mother.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Santa Tizing : Whats Wrong With Christmas And How To Clean It Up
$20.99Throw away the template for Christmas books and come walk on the kingdom side in an examination of America’s most loved holiday. Critical thinking is a must while looking through this lens of history and Scripture. You will be intrigued and enlightened. What’s wrong with Christmas? Plenty. This book shines light on various troubling issues involved in celebrating a Christian Christmas. How to clean it up? This will be determined by you and your family. Since we have an abundance of traditions, memories, and reasons to stay just the way we are, Santa-tizing will primarily explore the opposite. Know that in God’s kingdom no person is forced to do anything against their will.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas Heart : Preparing The Heart Of Your Family
$16.23If you are longing to relaim your family time for Christ, this book is at the very heart of that start. You will experience activities; Scriptures; encouragement; prayer time; and a section to journal, record memories, or place photos. Christmas is a great time of year to engage your family in heart preparation, and with consistency you will be underway to rediscovering the value and blessing of family life as God intended it to be.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Sheepdogs Christmas
$13.73Two thousand years ago the angels appeared to the shepherds announcing the birth of Christ. On that same night they also appeared to a very special sheepdog. Join Gur and his best friend, Elon and experience the wonderment of heaven from the eyes of a simple sheepdog. Take a journey along with Gur who like so many of us wait in anticipation for a glimpse of heaven’s glory. Enjoy the miracle of a heaven filled with a host of angels announcing God’s greatest gift to earth. Then follow them through the town of Bethlehem in their search to worship the Christ child. See in the manger a child who comes into this world in a humble stable far from the palatial surroundings of earthly kings. Then when all seems calm in the stable, Gur will face his greatest battle in protecting his family and the Christ child.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Advent Christmas And Epiphany
$36.00Preeminent hymn writer and liturgist Brian Wren offers this new collection of worship resources suitable for a variety of worship traditions during Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. These theologically sound and creative worship resources include prayers, litanies, calls to worship, and complete liturgies crafted to encourage rhythmic public responses during worship. All material is drawn from the readings from all three years of the Revised Common Lectionary. This collection also contains Scripture selections from the nativity narratives in Matthew and Luke and the messianic sections of Isaiah and the Psalms, making it just as useful to churches that do not follow the Revised Common Lectionary. Additional features of this volume include a Scripture index that points users to materials drawn from passages, a topical index listing items that can be used on other occasions during the church year, and a searchable CD Rom.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Tidings Of Comfort And Joy
$17.99As the questions begin, an extraordinary story unfolds. A story of love and loss and caring, of separation and reunion. Of small acts of heroism in a distant and war-weary English village, now half a century ago. As her grandmother shares this story with Marissa, the two discover that the most precious gift of Christmas is that of the present. And the season of giving is not limited to once a year.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
O Little Town
$16.99Christmas 1958: Elvis is on the radio, Ike is in the White House, the Lord is in His holy temple . . . but there is no peace in Mt. Jefferson.
In a small town where everybody seems to know everybody, there are still a few secrets. Three families find they are connected in ways they never suspected: an angry teen, a dying man, a lonely wife, a daughter in trouble . . . just ordinary people, muddling their way through ordinary challenges. Marriage. Illness. Bad decisions. Friendship. Faith.Forgiveness.
Spanning three generations, O Little Town is a reminder that people still make mistakes, forgiveness can still be granted, and people still rise to the occasion and do the right thing. This tender tale of love and redemption will touch readers’ hearts.Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Let Them Eat Fruitcake
$20.00It’s the holiday season, and each of the roommates at 86 Bloomberg Place is a little blue . Megan’s got the boss from hell, and now her mom is going on a cruise, leaving Megan alone for Christmas for the first time ever. Lelani can’t afford to fly home to Hawaii and isn’t sure she’d be welcomed anyway, not that she can admit that to anyone. Anna’s old boyfriend–the one who cheated on her–has sailed back into her life, just when she’s met a for-real “nice guy” she’s been keeping secret from her large, crazy Latino family. And Kendall’s met a famous actor, who might be the answer to her money woes–if she could only convince him she’s the love of his life. His wife might have something to say about that, though. Thank goodness God’s around to listen when the girls need help!
Let’s face it, relationships are hard work–whether they’re with family and friends, coworkers and customers, or boyfriends and girlfriends. And when you’ve got your first apartment, a real job, and grown-up responsibilities, too, relationships are loaded with confusion, emotion, and secrets you can’t tell to anyone but God. Best-selling author Melody Carlson has captured all the uncertainty and joy of being twenty-something in pitch-perfect detail–and their stories just might sound like someone you know.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Loves Pure Light
$11.18Light is an integral symbol in the Christian faith, especially during Christmas. The light of a single candle can disperse the deepest darkness, bringing warmth, comfort, and illumination. The soft, warm candlelight at a Christmas Eve service creates an atmosphere of worship and reverence as congregations celebrate the arrival of the Light of the world.
Love’s Pure Light is a collection of insightful Christmas sermons delivered at Susquehanna University between 1997 and 2006. This book offers pastors a valuable source of inspiration for Christmas sermon preparation. Love’s Pure Light also includes an order of service, providing congregations with a complete Christmas candlelight worship experience.
Love’s Pure Light will be a welcome addition to congregations of any size, aiding them in perceiving the power of the Light of Christmas in a deeper and more dynamic way.Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Great Candy Cane Caper
$16.86The Great Candy Cane Caper is one in a series of stories that chronicles the history of reindeer at the Christmas Village at the North Pole. In The Great Candy Cane Caper, two innocent young reindeer, PJ and Zipper, fall into the clutches of a twisted elf, Baddey Twoshoes, who has a sinister plot to destroy Christmas for the entire world. Outsiders are given a rare glimpse into how things really work in the Christmas village, including the unusual effect candy cane has on reindeer. The antics of the village reindeer and elves will delight the reader and leave everyone wondering if there is any way to unravel the sinister plot of Dr. Twoshoes and save Christmas.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Let The Bells Ring Out On Christmas Morning
$16.86Selected from among approximately 1,700 poems that Ralph Vile, a Christian layman and former schoolteacher of Luray, Virginia, wrote over a period of more than fifty years, this book focuses on the holiday during which Christians throughout the world observe the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Drawing from the Biblical accounts, Ralph reflects on what it means that Jesus came to earth and on what it would mean if He had chosen not to do so. The volume includes, “The Christmas Tree,” “Let the Bells Ring Out,” “The Christmas Gospel Story,” and many others that have touched those who have read them. Written for individuals who want to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, this volume reflects the love, the joy, and the hope of God’s greatest gift to mankind and points to the redemption that the crucified and risen Savior provides to all who believe in Him.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Come Thou Long Expected Jesus
$17.95Advent and Christmas meditations based on the seasonal hymns of Charles Wesley. Each daily meditation, keyed to the scripture reading for the day and portions of Wesley’s texts, concludes with a brief prayer based on the day’s theme. Reflective material place Wesley within his rich Anglican heritage. Daily readings are between 500-600 words in length.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Legend Of The North Star
$9.93“The Legend of the North Star (Little Dot Makes a Wish)” is an imaginative children’s story about a little dot left behind after God created the stars. The dot wants to be like other stars, so Luminaria, the wisest of all stars, grants the dot its wish and helps it discover its real purpose as the Star of Bethlehem. The story is formatted both as a narrative that can be read by a storyteller and as a play that can be performed by a narrator and numerous children.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
12 Days Of Christmas
$19.92The twelve days of Christmas run from December 26 to January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany, the date on which we traditionally recall the Magin’s arrival to present gifts to the infant Jesus. For many, the sacred meaning of these days is lost. By Christmas night we are saturated with the holiday hype, overfed with music and food, and maybe quite disappointed that the presents we received have not fulfilled us. Almquist invites readers to go deeper than the tinsel and wrappings to the source of all the good gifts in life: love, forgiveness, joy, hope, and so on. These are gifts that, once unwrapped, will last and satisfy our spiritual cravings.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Man Who Saved Christmas
$16.86Christmas-only days away; plastic snowmen and glowing reindeer adorn the lawns of neighborhoods all across America. All is calm, all is bright, and yet there is something tragically wrong about this Christmas night. With swift passage through Congress, the Anti-Intolerance legislation was signed into law prohibiting the public display of religious symbols. The traditional centerpiece enjoyed by millions every Christmas, the Nativity Scene, is now gone. This is one of those perennial issues that often stir emotions to the brink. But taking a lighter approach to the argument, wouldn’t it be fun if, somehow, through some bizarre chain of events, the person who most fervently opposes open displays of religion, became the mouthpiece from which a fictitious law like the Anti-Intolerance bill, was overturned? This story brings to life a witty rendition of the political struggles fought every December over something as humble and yet powerful as the display of the Nativity Scene.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
No Stable Too Small
$19.93Here’s a collection of humorous, down-to-earth plays that bring a fresh perspective to the Christmas story through such creative devices as imagining the thoughts and feelings of fringe characters (like an innkeeper or a servant to one of the magi) or by updating the story with contemporary settings and characters. No Stable Too Small offers a variety of practical material for any situation, ranging from shorter plays with small casts and lines that can be easily mastered by younger children to more elaborate pieces with sophisticated themes for older children and adults. And they’re ideal for use with today’s young people — the dialogue reflects the way they really talk, yet never detracts from the biblical message.
These flexible scenes offer a mix of speaking parts for all age groups, from preschool through adult, and are especially valuable for small congregations that lack the resources to mount large-scale productions. No sets are required, and only simple costumes and minimal props are needed. The plays can be performed by smaller churches with as few as 8-10 cast members, or parts can be easily divided to accommodate groups as large as 25-30. And with a running time of approximately 20-25 minutes each, it’s easy to fit them within a Christmas Eve or Advent Sunday worship service.
Some of the charming presentations include:
* Love Finds a Way
* It Wasn’t the Hilton, You Know
* Christmas Eve at Angel School
* Because God Said So, That’s Why
* No Small Parts
* “Unto Us a Child Is Born”… Next on Omar
* Miracles? No Problem!
…and eight more!Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Sampsons First Christmas
$9.93Sampson’s First Christmas is a charming play that’s perfect for a holiday children’s program in small congregations. The story details the attempts of Sampson Squirrel to discover Christmas. After overhearing a conversation between the rustic characters of Ma and Pa, Sampson asks his forest friends where to find this wonderful place. When they are unable to help, Ma and Pa show Sampson the true meaning of Christmas.
This adaptable piece can accommodate any number of actors, and can be presented as a play, a puppet show, or a readers’ theater. The characters, plot, and message appeal to all ages, with dialogue that’s easy for youngsters to learn and memorize. Costumes are affordable and easy to assemble — and clear and concise directions with reproducible patterns are provided to help you make distinctive animal hats that children will love. Instructions are also included for creating simple Christmas tree decorations that accentuate the animal theme. With all these craft ideas plus production suggestions, Sampson’s First Christmas is bound to be a hit with your church!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas Journey : Advent Christmas Resources
$18.68This complete set of seasonal material offers everything you need for an exciting Advent and Christmas program. With dramatic monologues, sermons, children’s messages and worship liturgies, a Sunday school program, and a pair of Christmas Eve candlelight services, there’s something for everyone, whatever your congregation’s size or worship style.
An Unlikely Cast (Alan E. Siewert) is a set of dramatic monologues that reveal the inner thoughts and feelings of five characters who were deeply involved in the unfolding divine drama of the nativity: Joseph, Mary, John the Baptist, the innkeeper, and a shepherd. The monologues can be used in midweek Advent services, special programs, or Sunday morning worship. Staging and costuming suggestions are included, to help you bring these exciting accounts to life.
The Colors Of Christmas (H. Michael Nehls) is a creative series of six sermons and children’s messages in which each week features a different color. The sermons use the color idea to stress such Christian themes as royalty, sacrifice, and holiness, while the children’s messages utilize the inventive device of passing out ribbon swatches of the color of the day; as the youngsters receive the various ribbons, they can collect a “ribbon rainbow.”
Is This The Road To Bethlehem? (Judy Gattis Smith) is an Advent worship liturgy in which children are the main participants. The centerpiece is an “action/sermon” featuring six brief readings using illustrative wooden figures. All the elements of a typical worship service are present — but in a manner that focuses on the interests and expressions of children, allowing them to experience worship rather than just listen and watch.
Producing Christmas (Jennifer Hockenberry Dragseth) is a humorous children’s play which casts the Christmas story as the ultimate Hollywood blockbuster. Everyone wants to be a part of the big movie — and they all have ideas about how to make it a hit, only to finally learn why the coming of the Christ child is truly the “greatest story ever told.” With participants ranging in age from junior high to preschoolers, this flexible piece is perfect for a brief Sunday school program.
A Christmas Journey and Christmas Letters (Rod Tkach) are imaginative Christmas Eve services weaving together carols, prayers, scripture readings, and several brief meditations. In A Christmas Journey, the reflections guide worshipers on a journey from being home alone to the ultimate destination of the
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Run Shepherds Run
$16.95The Advent season is filled with rich themes that have fascinated poets. In Run, Shepherds, Run, Bill Countryman presents a poem a day for devotional reading during Advent and theTwelve Days of Christmas. Readers will find classic poets they know and love, including George Herbert, John Donne, Christina Rossetti, Emily Dickinson, and Alfred, Lord Tennyson, as well as contemporary poets, known and unknown.
Run, Shepherds, Run includes helpful hints for reading poetry, for those who have less experience reading it than others, as well as useful annotations to help readers with older language that may not have easily apparent meanings for today’s readers.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Beastly Christmas : A Comedy For All Ages
$13.68Centering around the theme of the familiar song “The Friendly Beasts,” this intriguing program depicts what the animals who witnessed Jesus’ birth might really have been thinking — if they had human minds. There’s humorous interplay among camels, sheep, cows, and the donkey that carried the pregnant Mary as they share their unique perspective on the nativity. This complete presentation allows many different parts of the congregation to participate; speaking roles can be performed in a readers’ theater format by adults or youth, young children can portray the humans at the manger in a silent tableau, and musical selections allow the choir to be involved as well. A special feature is more than 70 reproducible drawings that can be projected for audience viewing. (Purchase of this book includes access to a downloadable PowerPoint file for use in performances.) This adaptable drama is ideal for use not only in church settings, but also in schools or for children’s programs.
A five-copy package of supplementary coloring books for young children based on the imagery in the PowerPoint file is also available.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Night Before : Two Christmas Eve Services With Childrens Sermons
$17.43Comprised of two compelling services plus a pair of delightful children’s messages, this complete set of Christmas Eve resources provides everything you need to create a special worship experience that your congregation will remember long after the holiday decorations have been stored away.
A Christmas Gift contemplates Christmas Eve’s mixture of madness and magic through a creative weaving together of carols, prayers, scripture readings, and several brief meditations. By highlighting some of the diverse moments, memories, and traditions that contribute to the gift of Christmas, this worship service evokes the powerful mystery and miracle of the nativity.
O Come, Emmanuel is a moving candlelight service which utilizes the ancient antiphons of Advent to explore the longing behind our search for the Messiah. As the service unfolds, the singing and reading of each antiphon leads worshipers to reflect on the hopes and desires that bring us to Bethlehem, culminating in the joyful announcement that God has come among us. The service employs two readers and a solo quartet, along with congregational singing of several traditional hymns. An original choral arrangement of the Christmas antiphon is included.
Two inspiring messages for the “children’s moment” are also included. Featuring an interactive, conversational style that involves young people, these lessons can be used with either service or separately. One message helps children think about where Jesus might be in their town or neighborhood if he were born today, while the other celebrates how Christ’s birth draws us all together.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas Treasures : A Collection Of Congregational Resources For Advent C
$32.43This anthology provides an ample selection of seasonal worship, drama, and children’s resources by popular authors from a variety of denominations. Whatever your congregation’s size or worship style, you’re sure to find something in Christmas Treasures to help you create memorable Advent and Christmas services. Copying privileges are included for all segments.
Litany For Advent And Christmas Candle Lighting provides brief responsive prayers and creative congregational activities for the four Sundays of Advent, Christmas Eve, and Epiphany. It’s excellent for worship services or as a Sunday school opener.
Christmas Treasures offers three sets of short readings and prayers for the candle lighting portion of Advent and Christmas Eve services. Each 2-3 minute narrative links aspects of the nativity with events in our modern lives, both global and personal, and challenges worshipers to reflect on current issues and respond in ways that glorify the Lord.
Six Christmas Testimonies depicts the Christmas events and their meaning from the viewpoint of John the Baptist, a magus, the innkeeper, Joseph, a shepherd, and Mary. Especially powerful when read in sequence, these concise dramatic readings are an excellent way to have members participate in Advent or Christmas Eve worship services.
The Christmas Gift utilizes a creative approach to the seasonal children’s program — a “talent show” is cleverly included as part of a simple yet powerful play based on Luke’s Christmas scripture. It’s a practical presentation for any size congregation — many of the speaking roles have only a few lines, and some parts can be combined. A prop list, set diagram, and sample rehearsal schedule are included to aid novice directors. Performance time is approximately 15 minutes (plus talent show time).
Who Are You In Bethlehem? and The Promise are two dramatic presentations for the entire congregation with roles that can be performed by any age. Each combines the reading of scripture and singing of familiar hymns with brief narrations to telling the Bethlehem story, focusing on how we respond to the Savior — asking us if we have truly welcomed the babe into our hearts. These inspirational services are flexible enough to be performed by as many participants as are available without requiring extensive memorization.
Revelations Of Jesus, Given From Heaven/Received On Earth, Nativity, and If It Happened Today are four flexible, Bible-based plays with parts for young peopl
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Songs For A Savior
$16.18This comprehensive resource of five sermons with complete worship services provides a solid, thematically integrated worship and preaching program for Advent and Christmas Eve. It celebrates the deep songs of faith which result from personal encounters with Jesus Christ. The four Advent messages examine biblical personalities, revealing in their experiences real struggles as well as profound joy. You’ll explore how Zechariah wrestled to believe what the angel told him concerning the birth of his son; how the prophets searched for God’s Word of hope in times of personal and social ferment; how Mary was willing to sacrifice her life for God’s purpose; and how the birth of Jesus, heralded by the angels and confirmed by the shepherds, combined fear and joy with divine music.
In the final sermon (for Christmas Eve), Oliver links those accounts with our contemporary lives by asking what our personal response will be to the birth of the Savior. Will we allow a song of faith to arise in our lives, in our families, churches, and community?
Illustrated with poignant stories and anecdotes, the sermons in Songs For A Savior invite us to hear again the truly Good News — that our song of faith is not so much what we create for God, as how we respond to meeting the Savior and receiving God’s gift of salvation through Jesus.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmastide : Prayers For Advent Through Epiphany From The Divine Hours
$18.00“A welcome remedy for the increasing number of lay Christians who have rediscovered the daily offices. Tickle puts each day’s prayers, psalms, readings, and refrains-everything you need-in one place. The rhythm that Tickle’s book establishes gives one a stronger sense of participating in an ancient, worldwide but very personal liturgy.”
-Nora Gallagher, beliefnet.com, and author of Things Seen and Unseen: A Year Lived in FaithThe third and final volume in a trilogy of prayer manuals compiled by Publishers Weekly religion editor Phyllis Tickle as a contemporary Book of Hours to guide Christians gently yet authoritatively through the daily offices.
The Divine Hours is the first major literary and liturgical reworking of the sixth-century Benedictine Rule of fixed-hour prayer. This beautifully conceived and thoroughly modern three-volume guide will appeal to the theological novice as well as to the ecclesiastical sophisticate. Making primary use of the Book of Common Prayer and the writings of the Church Fathers, The Divine Hours is also a companion to the New Jerusalem Bible, from which it draws its Scripture readings. The trilogy blends prayer and praise in a way that, while extraordinarily fresh, respects and builds upon the ancient wisdom of Christianity.
The third and final book in the set, Prayers for Springtime, provides prayers, psalms, and readings for this season associated with rebirth. Compact, with deluxe endpapers, it is perfect for those seeking greater spiritual depth. As a contemporary Book of Hours, The Divine Hours: Prayers for Springtime heralds a renewal of the tradition of disciplined daily prayer, and gives those already using the first two volumes the completion they are seeking. With this volume, the series culminates with three prayer manuals encompassing the liturgical and calendar year with the offices for every day.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Seasoned Greetings
$19.36Christmas letters are, for the most part, either boring (“Dick continues to work at Xerox in the shipping department. In February, he was named Employee of the Month. He received a $25 gift certificate.”) or pretentious (“Well, Michelle has really blossomed in her ballet group this year. She starred again in ‘The Nutcracker.’ Huge article in the local paper.”) Tony Cobourn’s family Christmas letters are atypical. They are, first of all, hilarious. But this thirty-year compilation is also a poignant account of a functional family’s growth. Tony has captured all the stories of crazy neighbors, teenage angst, vacation misadventures, and marital coexistence. From young, struggling parents of noisy, messy children to old, struggling grandparents of brilliant, photogenic grandchildren, Seasoned Greetings will warm your heart as it recalls your own memories of holiday correspondence.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas On Stage
$28.951. Elementary Grades
2. Middle Grades
3. Programs For Teens And Adults
4. Readers Theatre For Christmas
5. Adaptions From Classics And Legends
6. Christmas LegendsAdditional Info
A collection of twenty-seven Christmas plays for all ages and all types of worship services compiled and edited by Theodore O. Zapel.The one-act plays included contain both traditional and contemporary settings, drama and humor, and new offerings and old favorites.The plays are easily staged with a minimum of costumes and props, and many of the scripts require no memorization.Christmas music interspersed with the drama adds a special touch to worship services. Since no royalty payments are required for performances, this low-cost anthology is a money-saving program resource for any drama group.Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Living With Hope
$23.00Advent is a time for deepening encounter with reality, including the ultimate reality made manifest in human form at Christmas and Epiphany. This thought-provoking book illuminates biblical thinking with striking new insights from the author’s twin disciplines of theology and science at the cutting edge of physics.
Though daily readings for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany Polkinghorne explores such themes as the end of the world, individual destiny, unseen realities, heaven, hell, and suffering; this is not a book that hides behind platitudes or easy solutions, yet the author offers profound insight into his deep reflections on the nature, meaning, and purpose of creation.
Suitable for individual study, as a guide to prayer during Advent and beyond, or as the basis of small group discussion, Living With Hope offers a unique and inspiring pathway into the coming of Christ in history, in our lives, and in what we shall be.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Gift Wrapped In Swaddling Cloths
$16.18Sermon Titles Include:
Just You Wait! (1 Thessalonians 3:9-13)
God’s Peace Is On Patrol (Philippians 4:4-7)
The Multitasking Church (1 Corinthians 12:1-11)
Losing That Loving Feeling (1 Corinthians 13:1-13)
A Labor Not In Vain (1 Corinthians 15:51-58)Additional Info
The bottom line is that our risen Lord manifests himself exclusively to the church. We’re the ones who witnessed his life, death, and resurrection, and therefore, we are the ones responsible for declaring it to the world. If people don’t know what took place on Easter, it’s not Pilate’s fault. We can’t blame the government for not getting the message out. Christ came to us. This is our story to tell.
(from “Sharing What We Have Been Shown,” Epiphany 5 sermon)
In this collection of sixteen inspiring sermons based on New Testament epistle texts, Robert Crilley powerfully proclaims the good news to a modern world that desperately needs to hear the healing message of God’s unconditional love. Thoroughly grounded in scripture and chock-full of compelling personal stories and insightful illustrations, these sermons cogently relate the challenges faced by the early church to our contemporary lives — drawing clear lessons for Christian living. Crilley is a master preacher whose messages are memorable both for their friendly charm and for their potent biblical witness.Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
There Really Is A Santa Claus
$19.99Saint Nicholas-Sinter Klaas-Santa Claus-The story of Nicholas, 3rd Century Bishop of Myra, Asia Minor (present day Turkey) and how stories of his generous life were embellished into legend. Discover additions of writer Washington Irving, Clement Moore, Civil War illustrator Thomas Nast, Coca-Cola artist Haddom Sundblom. Learn origins of the 12 Days of Christmas, Christmas tree, Carols, Kris Kringle, Creche’ scene, Poinsettia, Hanukkah…Relive events on Christmas through history, from Columbus to Valley Forge, the Great Depression to Korean War. Read Christmas Messages of U.S. Presidents, like Harry S. Truman lighting of the National Christmas Tree 1946: “If we as a nation, and the other nations of the world, will accept it, the star of faith will guide us into the place of peace as it did the shepherds on that day of Christ’s birth long ago.”
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Gideons Gift : A Novel
$30.00One long-ago Christmas, Earl Gibson lost the two things most precious to him: his wife and daughter. Angry and heartbroken, he ended up living on the streets and abandoned any belief he’d once had in God.
Ten years later Big Earl meets Gideon, a seven-year-old leukemia patient who believes with all her heart that “Christmas means never having to ask God how much he loves us.” Gideon is determined to reach this lonely and hurting man who hates Christmas–and he is just as determined to rebuff her. It will take a miracle for Earl to come to understand the true meaning of Christmas. But if he can accept what Gideon wants to give him, he might find that he can return the favor with a precious gift of his own.
In GIDEON’S GIFT, Karen Kingsbury reminds us that Christmas is still a time of miraculous possibilities if only we reach out to those around us.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
While We Wait
$12.99This book offers new ways of connection study participants with their own faith questions. Group members have the chance to look at some biblical figures on whom we don’t always focus during Advent. Somewhat surprisingly, Tamar, Ruth, Mary, Zechariah, Elizabeth, and the Magi ask questions that resonate with contemporary Christians during this season. Designed as a complete Advent study, this book offers readers unique perspectives on the events of Christmas, a fifth session for the week of Epiphany, an introduction to the spiritual discipline of breath prayer, and much more.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Thespian Theology Cycle B
$16.18If you want audiences to laugh while being stimulated to see the scriptural message in a new light, you’ll love the enjoyable and enlightening sketches in the latest installment of John TenBrook’s popular Thespian Theology series. It’s an inspiring collection based on Cycle B lectionary readings for the Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany seasons. Originally developed for presentation by a high school-age youth group, the simple, easy-to-perform scenes are an excellent tool for sharing the Gospel with unchurched people and getting them excited about Jesus Christ. Each skit is introduced by “Thespian Theological Thoughts: that briefly make an explicit connection between the drama and the scripture passage. Use these versatile pieces in place of the Sunday sermon or for youth programs and other fellowship settings-their offbeat humor is just what you need to inject a healthy dose of fun into the serious business of speaking and hearing the Word of God.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Bethlehems Closet A Reunion Of Grace
$16.18If you want to try something different for Advent this year, Bethlehem’s Closet — A Reunion Of Grace is a great resource that provides congregations with an intriguing learning experience. It’s a unique series of five monologues telling the fascinating stories, warts and all, of the women mentioned in Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus. Donald Neidigk believes that the embarrassing events in some of these women’s lives are important for us to know, since they demonstrate that Jesus was born into an imperfect family, with secrets in the closet, just like you and me. And that makes him a sympathetic Savior — exactly what we need. So even though the shepherds and wise men may be more typical of the season’s characters, Bethlehem’s Closet — A Reunion Of Grace offers a refreshing way to celebrate Christ’s birth. Each monologue comes with a children’s message (using easily obtained objects to reinforce the lesson) and a convenient order of worship.
The monologues examine these women:
* Tamar — A Wronged Widow
* Rahab — A Former Prostitute
* Ruth — A Moabite Convert
* Bathsheba — A Violated Wife
* Mary — A Young MotherAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
In Search Of Christmas
$29.93This anthology of holiday material provides you with a complete collection of resources for drama, worship, and young people. It includes a wide range of resources from across the denominational spectrum. Copying privileges are included for all six segments.
Come! See What God Has Done is a Thanksgiving children’s event designed to heighten awareness of God’s many blessings. Six learning centers — each including posters, projects, a guided experience, follow-up activities, and a closing prayer — focus on such topics as families, nature, our religious heritage, and our bodies. Intended for kindergarten through sixth grade, this is an ideal activity for your church school and can be held during a single session.
A Chrismon Service portrays the drama of redemption through symbols of Jesus in the form of Christmas ornaments. (The word “Chrismon” is a combination of the words “Christ” and “monogram.”) As appropriate scripture passages are read, each symbol is presented and explained; worshipers participate in the service by hanging them on the Chrismon tree. Eighteen designs are included so that you can make your own Chrismons based on such symbols as the Epiphany star, the Christmas rose, and the angel.
The ABC’s Of Christmas offers four easy programs for Christmas worship, celebrating angels, bells, colors, and gifts. Each incorporates scripture, carols, and simple props together with dramatic readings to create a meaningful worship experience that will linger in the memory long after Christmastime passes.
The Angels’ Point Of View is a play in two acts that looks at Jesus’ conception, birth, and flight into Egypt from their perspective. Originally developed for a junior high Sunday school class, this piece is excellent for older youth and can be performed in a variety of settings. There are thirteen speaking roles, and complete directions for assembling props, costume, and scenery are included.
In Search Of Christmas is a light, contemporary drama that intersperses a series of brief dialogues between a husband and wife, two teenagers, and others illustrating how we can lose the real meaning of Christmas with faith-affirming conversations among individuals who have kept the season’s true spirit of joy and giving. Roles can be doubled up for the small congregation, and only a few basic props are needed.
Last Year In Bethlehem: The Story Of Eli The Shepherd reminds us that the story of Christ’s birth is more than a holiday tradition. It com
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Road Signs Airlines And Stars
$16.18These all-new inspirational programs are sure to bring wonder and joy to your congregation’s seasonal celebration. In this book you travel with youth as they pick up friends and road signs on their way to a church Christmas party. It’s an exciting resource with a salvation message that’s perfect for a Sunday school program or worship service. Then join Mary and Joseph as they make their way to Bethlehem on Salvation Airlines in The Christmas Travelers. A Sunday school pageant with a unique twist, this program declares the message of Christ’s birth through narration, readings, and song. Star Of Wonder gives you an opportunity to involve older youth or college students in a complete Christmas Eve worship service for families.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas Star : Readings And Pageants For Christmas
$12.43The Christmas Star is a potpourri of holiday gifts for those planning worship-the charming collection includes three plays and five brief meditations suitable for reading during services or for use in bulletins and newsletters. Each presentation is simple for small churches to produce, with minimal costumes and props required. Insightful and scripturally sound, The Christmas Star is a wonderful package that you won’t be able to resist!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Christmas Quartet : Poetic Reflections On The Nativity
$16.18An outstanding writer and preacher shares with readers a different approach to the season: four verse sermons on characters from the Christmas narrative (Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men), each accompanied by a chapter providing relevant background material on the featured character. It’s an intriguing combination that lends itself equally well to preaching or to Bible studies – for example, you can build a four-week Advent program around the poems. And there are four suggested orders of service provided that emphasize the message of the sermons. In a “lessons and carols” format, they’re perfect for Christmas Eve – but they also work well for Advent gatherings or potluck dinners. You’ll find a variety of ways to use these creative and thoughtful meditations that portray familiar characters in a fresh, new way.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Angels We Have Heard
$9.93If you’re looking for a fresh new approach to telling the old, old story — what better way to celebrate the Christmas message than to do it from the viewpoint of the angels? From the promise to Abraham to its fulfillment in Bethlehem, angels are a vital part of the story. Angels We Have Heard is a beautiful service that combines many of the traditional elements of Christmas worship with brief dialogues between angels and a number of characters relating to the Christmas narrative. Along with candlelight, an optional communion celebration, and many of the favorite carols we all love to sing, the encounters described in the scriptures between angels and Abraham, Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds are paraphrased. There’s also a short closing exchange between an angel and a contemporary person that sheds light on the meaning of Christ’s birth for our modern times.
This easy-to-use service is adaptable for any size congregation — while a number of speaking parts are specified, it’s easy to combine parts and use just two readers, allowing the participation of as many or as few as you wish. There’s also a convenient order of service for use in bulletin preparation. And while designed for worship use, the drama of the angels speaking with and to different people through the ages can be used in other settings such as youth meetings or church school. Very little (if any) rehearsal is required — this is a simple and versatile way to make the pageantry and drama of the biblical story come alive in your Christmas worship.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
They Worshiped Him
$9.93In today’s “hurry-up” world, it seems we rarely take the time to think of other people and “walk a mile in the other man’s shoes.” If we did, what would we see? They Worshiped Him revisits the nativity story from the perspective of the people who were actually there. In this dramatic retelling, we glimpse the innermost thoughts and feelings of some of the very common people whose lives were forever changed by a most extraordinary event. What did the shepherds feel? What did others think of them? Were they perceived as “eccentric”? And what about the wise men who followed the star? Did they have an entire entourage, or did people treat them like three dottering old men? And what about Mary and Joseph; how did this unusual pregnancy affect them? They Worshiped Him answers many of these questions while reminding us of the biblical characters’ humanity.
The singing of favorite seasonal carols is woven into the drama, encouraging audience participation. And it’s an adaptable work that can be staged as elaborately or simply as you wish. While there are speaking parts for 12 angels, 5 animals, 6 shepherds, 3 magi, the innkeeper, Mary, Joseph, and a narrator, roles can easily be combined for use with any size congregation. Staging instructions are included.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Every Knee Shall Bow
$9.93The scene for this Christmas play and worship service is a familiar one: a nativity display in a town square. As different individuals or families approach the manger scene they hear the voice of God speaking his words of truth, encouragement, and hope to their own unique needs and circumstances. When the members of your congregation hear God’s message to these individuals, they will hear God speaking to them as well. The service includes the congregational singing of familiar Christmas carols.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Creating Gods Family In Christmas
$9.93The traditional children’s pageant comes together with Christmas scripture lessons, hymns, and other elements of a worship service. The program culminates with the completion of a “living” creche, gradually built throughout the ceremony. Among the very practical features this resource offers are “Leader’s Helps” and a sample bulletin format. No memorization of lines is required. The only setting required is a simple backdrop and manger.
Here is a family Christmas worship resource that provides opportunities to involve children from pre-kindergarten on up.
Included are:
Call to Worship
Christmas hymns
The Christmas scripture lessons
Age group presentations from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade
A suggested bulletin layout
Leader’s helpsAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Curious Commercials
$18.68Curious Commercials approaches the Christmas event from a different perspective. Daniel Weitner doesn’t treat the nativity as a kind of warm and fuzzy feeling of longing for universal peace that envelops the earth around the end of the year or as a sign pointing to something greater in our lives. In trenchant messages that are liberally sprinkled with contemporary illustrations, he reminds us that to know what Christmas is all about, we don’t have to look outside Bethlehem…beyond the manger…or past the baby Jesus. Instead we should focus on the birth of Jesus the Redeemer – it is the wonderful event!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
On The Way To Bethlehem
$9.93Richard Goodlin writes: “Having been born in Bethlehem (Pennsylvania), I wondered what it would be like to get a letter from the IRS stating I had to go back to Bethlehem for the purpose of taxation. This gave rise to On The Way To Bethlehem.”
The assigned scripture lessons for Advent in the lectionary present themes and concepts, but there is little in the way of a story that flows from one week to the next. In these dialogues Goodlin engages people in the unfolding drama of events that lead up to the birth of Jesus, as well as the story of the life of Jesus.
These dialogues may be performed as a readers’ theater and few props are needed. Costuming is optional.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Carpenters Child
$9.93This Christmas Eve service centers on the story of Leah, a young girl from Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth. It is a story of seeming tragedy, despair and restored hope — of a loving daughter, her carpenter father, and the trials they face when he is branded a leper. It could be argued that the title should be The Carpenter’s Children because it refers not only to Leah, but also to the infant Messiah and all people of Christ.
The entire service is about 45-60 minutes in length depending on optional inclusions (such as solos or choir anthems) and can be done very effectively by one liturgist. It can also be split into two or three parts and performed as a readers’ theater, or with characters silently acting out the story as it is being narrated.
A full order of worship, staging instructions, a “children’s moment,” and production and lighting suggestions accompany the story of The Carpenter’s Child.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Its News To Me Messages Of Hope For Those Who Havent Heard Cycle A
$16.18All too often, many people find traditional worship dull and the sermons they hear impractical for living in today’s world. Yet Linda McCoy is convinced that the message of God’s unconditional love is the most vital word for life anyone can receive — especially those who have never heard or truly experienced it. Her inspiring sermons share that message of hope with modern Americans by bridging the gap between the sacred and the secular. As the fruit of her non-traditional ministry directed toward those who have never been part of a church or who have been “turned off” or “disenfranchised” by the established church, McCoy’s short, to-the-point messages effectively and relevantly communicate the good news to anyone who is searching for an experience of the Divine. Readers of these sermons will be connected to a deep sense of purpose and enriched by God’s amazing love and grace.
Sermon titles include:
* Prepare For Arrival — Matthew 3:1-12
* The Power Of A Dream — Matthew 2:13-23
* Positive Identification — John 1:29-42
* Building Bridges — Matthew 5:21-37
* It’s A Mystery — Matthew 17:1-9Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Humming Till The Music Returns Cycle B
$17.95One day God will stand again as solo conductor on the podium of the universe, and lead in the crashing finale of the symphony of Life. But until then, we who are left in this world with the buzzing and blaring of many competing and changing “top 40” hits need to keep humming the tune that Jesus taught. (from the Introduction)
The scripture lessons for these seasons combine themes of waiting in expectation and displaying the effects of eternity within the context of time. Though the dulling ache of sin and corruption pushes the song of creation out of tune, Jesus intervenes with a melody of grace, and the church keeps the music alive in witness and testimony while longing for the chorus of eternity to shout hallelujah once again. Wayne Brouwer’s messages ring loud and true in the ears of those who hear these sermons.
Sermon titles include:
I Can’t Wait — 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Tilting The Balance Of Power — Romans 16:25-27
Anti-Venom Serum — Galatians 4:4-7
Finding the Right Superlatives — Ephesians 1:3-14
Beyond Personal Preferences — 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
… and more!Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Stations Of The Nativity
$17.95This devotional guide to the 40 days from Advent to Christmas builds on the popularity of the ancient Christian tradition of walking the Stations of the Cross. Each station includes an opening sentence and a response, a Bible reading, a reflection, prayers, a longer meditation, and a short closing prayer.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Be Born In Us Today
$17.00Because they are the most familiar of all Bible stories, the accounts of Jesus’ birth are perhaos the least understood. Christmas traditions have overlaid them with layers of sentimentality, and we no longer hear their dramatic, disturbing content. With clarity and vividness, John Davies explores these stories afresh, finding in them stirring challenges to our lives today. For all who long to cut through the relentless commercialism of the season and rediscover the wonder of the Word made flesh, Be Born in Us TOday will prove inspiring and unforgettable.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Our December Hearts
$16.95This collection of meditations for the season of Advent examines – in sometimes serious and sometimes humerous fashion – the various emotions that the Advent and Christmas stories stir in us: hope, trust, compassion, as well as fear, doubt, and grief. In language drenched in poetry, Anne McConney explores what it means to gaze into the mystery that is the Incarnation.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Strange Way To Save You And Me
$9.93This play is presented as a reading with the actors silently acting out their parts as the narrators read from the side of the stage or chancel. Accompanying the script are suggested solos and hymns for choir or congregational participation.
Requires no memorization
Minimal rehearsal needed
Ideal for Christmas Eve or Christmas DayAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Lights Symbols And Angels
$16.18Lights, Symbols And Angels is a compilation of related worship resources that will enhance the Advent/Christmas worship life of any congregation, large or small.
O Come, Blessed Light Of The World! is ideal for raising awareness of the Advent season for families. Those using the material will learn about the Advent candles, read God’s Word for the day, and have a challenge of action each week. Devotions include a reading, reflection, and prayer.
Celebrating The Advent Wreath is a special Advent service which can be used for mid-week or women’s programs. Reflections on each candle will help participants learn more about the Advent wreath.
Christmas Symbols And Songs is a program which blends sharing the meaning of traditional Christmas symbols with the singing of a variety of carols. It’s excellent for a fellowship potluck, women’s tea or program, mid-week worship service, or an intergenerational event.
Angels Inspire Our Worship is an order of worship with a skit that’s ideal for a youth program. The skit, Hark! It’s Harold And The Angel Band, dramatizes an imaginary encounter between Gabe (the archangel Gabriel disguised as a stock boy), Mr. Grumpy and Mr. Grumpier (old men shopping at Heaven’s Grocery Store), and an angel band led by Harold.
Angels In The Outfield is a resource for a Sunday worship experience, mid-week service, or special Advent program. The worship is designed around the ministry of angels, using a baseball theme with appropriate hymns featuring angels.
A Christmas Celebration is a communion/candlelight service for Christmas Eve with readings, litanies, and carols.
A prolific and enthusiastic writer of worship resources, Cynthia E. Cowen has been an established writer with CSS Publishing Company since 1991. She received a B.A. degree in education from Northern Michigan University and is a graduate of the Northern Great Lakes Synod Lay School for Mission. Cowen has served as a licensed lay minister in the Northern Great Lakes Synod of the ELCA at Calvary Lutheran Church, Quinnesec, Michigan, and is currently a rostered Associate in Ministry in Youth And Family at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Iron Mountain, Michigan. She was elected to the Executive Board of the Church Wide Women’s Organization of the Women of the ELCA in 1996, and served on its Printed Resources committee.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Hear The Bells Ring
$9.93Anyone who has used Cynthia Cowen’s resources knows that they have the following characteristics:
They are complete — everything you need is here;
They require little preparation, rehearsal, or props;
They are theologically sound and spiritually uplifting.Many churches have discovered recently that families wish to include worship in the festivities of their Christmas day. This is the perfect way to do it without requiring a lot of work.
It’s all here: call to worship, Christmas carols, litanies, meditations, scripture readings, and more!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Coming Home
$16.18After many years of preaching from the first three chapters of Luke and the first two chapters of Matthew, Frank Ramirez decided to preach about something a little different around Christmastime. What evolved was this series of seven messages for the Sundays beginning with Advent and ending with Epiphany.
Why a sermon series based on the Old Testament book of Haggai? Ramirez writes, “I’ve always been fascinated by the lesser known books of the Old Testament, partly because I’m afraid of being embarrassed in heaven if I don’t recognize some of these people!”
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Advent Christmas Resources For Young And Old
$16.18These resources were carefully selected from almost 100 manuscripts submitted. They were chosen for their creativity and content, but also for their adaptability to churches of any size. None of them require complicated props or settings, nor do any require lengthy rehearsals.
This collection of resources will enliven the worship of any church, involving members young and old in the presentation.
-A Christmas Play: Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room
-A Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service
-A Christmas Program For Children (Or Entire Congregation)
-An Old Fashioned Christmas Pageant
-Two Worship Services For The Christmas Season
-A Worship Service And Choral Reading For Christmas
-A Christmas Play: Mary After The AngelAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Whose Birthday Is It Anyway
$9.93For the small church that does not have a lot of time to prepare, here is an ideal Christmas program and worship service. It can be presented as part of a Sunday School program or Sunday worship service.
The true message of Christmas is spoken through the words of “the friendly beasts,” which include two donkeys, three doves, four cows and four sheep.
This program enables children to become involved in a Christmas project in which they share their Christmas ornaments and angel food cake with the congregation.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Behold That Star Christmas Anthology
$20.00Looking for a fresh collection of stories to usher in the season of joy and giving? For those grown tired of commercialism, who feel that Santa Claus and red-nosed reindeer do not project the true Christmas spirit, this book may be the answer.
Containing little-known classics by old and new masters of the genre, this bestselling anthology includes stories from many lands, interspersed with songs and poems – over half the contents available in English for the first time.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Kneel Before The Babe
$16.18Four complete Christmas services:
Christmas Play With Drama And Service Of Lights
Christmas Service Based On Traditions And Carols From Around The World
Christmas Service In Monologues And Carols
Christmas Service Of Scriptures, Traditions, And CarolsThese inspiring services are easy for any size church to prepare and present. Each one offers a unique and different approach.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Voices Of Christmas
$9.93Using a skillful blend of irony and humor, this work is designed to reveal the realities of Christmas-both the detrimental and the divine. Involving no scenery or props, cast members address visualized listeners as if no interruptions from other characters or changes of subject occur. Lines may be read or recited and the cast may stand or be seated on various levels. No one needs to move about, though use of pantomime is suggested in some cases.
Characters include:
* Patient — a resident of a nursing home
* Homemaker — a food-happy matron
* Shopper — a wealthy, materialistic socialite
* Sportsman — a ski enthusiast
* Merchant — a toy store owner
* Traditionalist — a sentimental Swedish-American grandmother
* Corporation Man — a heavy-drinking partygoer
* Child — a greedy little girl
* Working Wife — a frazzled victim of the Christmas rushWith a presentation time of about 30 minutes, this creative, easy- to-produce play can be used in a variety of situations and settings. It will be one of the most popular programs of the entire year.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Light In The Land Of Shadows Cycle B
$16.18Light In The Land Of Shadows contains 16 sermons for Advent, Christmas, Epiphany and Transfiguration Sundays.
This book makes connections between Old Testament themes and contemporary issues. The preacher will find it exegetically sound yet filled with illustrations and insights. The lay person will find it comprehendible and useful for exploring ultimate issues within the context of meaningful Bible study.
(The) sermons are fleshed out in normal, everyday language, grammar and sentence structure — Yet the faithful preacher can take comfort in the fact that they are backed up by sound biblical exegesis. (from the Introduction)
Hal Warlick is a master at weaving a fascinating story or illustration into the sermon, dramatically portraying the scriptural message. This is Old Testament preaching at its best.
Sermon titles include:
Lighting A Fire In A Cold Room
All Dressed Up And Somewhere To Go
Any FAX From God Today?
Will We Enjoy Heaven?
Pain And Promise In The Hand Of GodAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Born One Of Us
$9.93This Christmas chancel drama, used by itself or incorporated into a worship service, uses seven speaking parts (from children to adults) and takes about 30-35 minutes to perform. It is designed as a readers’ theater so that little rehearsal is needed. Included is a closing litany for the minister and congregation which provides a gripping conclusion to the drama of Christ’s birth. (Copying privileges are also included.)
The action takes place in the home of a middle-class Jewish family in Bethlehem at the time of the birth of Christ. The father is a rabbi, the mother one who helps out in almost any needy situation, the daughter a dream-struck adolescent, and the son a rebellious young adult.
The dialogue builds to the point at which the daughter returns struck by heaven’s light, which she calls a miracle. Her mother explains to her (and the congregation) that the real miracle is Jesus, who on that holy night was born, one of us.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Wrinkled Wrappings
$16.18Wrinkled Wrappings is a series of pulpit messages for Advent and Christmas carved from the pen and emanating from the heart of a distinguished preacher whose messages inspire hope in the hearts of believers. Brokhoff is especially skilled at relating biblical stories to modern life. The flowing style of these sermons is peppered with gripping illustrations that catch us where we are and carry us along as he shines the light of God’s Word into our lives.
Sermons are based on texts from Mark, Luke, John, and Isaiah.
Sermon titles include:
You’re Going To Have A Baby
Good News For Bad Times
God With A Human Face
Happy Next Year?Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
1st Christmas Present Ever
$9.93Versatile — “ready-to-use” — no memorization required. Just what the volunteer ordered.
This program is appropriate for Christmas Eve or any Sunday morning in Advent. Involving children of all ages and one adult, it can be used in any size church with a few participants or many. Two versions — a longer version intended for a full-length service and a shortened version to be used in place of a sermon — are also included.
Symbols of Christmas (a tree, ornaments, candy canes, a creche and more) are combined with biblical readings and brief dialogue to create a greater understanding of Christian traditions. While the narrative dialogue is being read, a silent, active nativity scene is shown to illustrate the first Christmas present ever. (Copying privileges included.)
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
1st Christmas In Origami
$14.99A one-of-a-kind book that allows children to enjoy the Christmas story while they learn the ancient Japanese art of paper folding. Each chapter features a narrative about one of the characters in the Christmas story with easy-to-follow directions on folding that character. Eleven characters compose the finished Nativity scene.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Kneeling In Bethlehem (Large Type)
$19.00In a style that is contemporary, reverent, and faith-filled, Ann Weems reflects on the mystery of the Christmas season. Included in this collection are twenty-six poems created specifically for this title as well as popular selections from her earlier workds, especially Reaching for Rainbows and Family Faith Stories. Capturing the spirit of joyful celebration, the poems can be used in worship services, read aloud at family gatherings, or used by individuals for quiet reflection.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
What Shall We Do With This Baby
$9.93Jan Spence created this short Christmas Eve children’s program for her small, rural church. It includes five brief scenes built around a suggested order of worship. Clergy can easily write a meditation to complete the service.
Speaking parts are available for a narrator and two readers. These roles are appropriate for junior or senior high students.
Any number of younger children can easily be added in non-speaking roles as shepherds, angels, and wise men. The program also included speaking roles for Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus.
The service has appropriate breaks for carols or songs by children’s choirs.
Narrator: What shall we do with this baby? Yes this is the question that has echoed through time. Nothing is more helpless and needy than an infant alone. Without human help, a baby alone cannot thrive or survive. What shall we do with this baby indeed!
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Miracle In The Bethlehem Inn
$9.93Miracle In The Bethlehem Inn is a Christmas play based on a Jewish family who are descendants of King David. They are in Bethlehem to pay their tax. The owner of the inn is Aaron. Earlier he promised a room to his brother, Joshua.
A Gentile merchant and his family arrive at the inn before Joshua. Aaron lets the Gentile family have the room promised to Joshua. Joshua and his family go to the stable to sleep, but give it up for the Holy Family.
Throughout the play Aaron is skeptical. He is only interested in money until the miracle occurs, which he then proclaims “will shatter the world.” At the end of the drama, Aaron sings a song to tell all that “I Have Seen Him.”
This play has a performance time of about 45 minutes. It appeals to an audience of all ages. Speaking parts are for seven women and six men. It can be played with a variety of ages, with non-speaking parts for youth.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Whats The Matter With Christmas
$9.93Four youths, rehearsing a church Christmas play, are perplexed about why everyone appears so busy at Christmas. Through a series of events, the youths learn, to their surprise, that the real meaning of Christmas is God’s gift of Jesus.
Highlights of this drama:
Easy-to-rehearse
Simple, yet powerful message
Parts for four youths, up to 10 young children and two adults
Five original songs for young singers
Complete order of worship provided
Performance time from 35 to 45 minutesAdd to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
-
Golden Bells
$16.18Is the need a Christmas message, adult casts, and great themes of literature? This book offers two solutions:
The Bells of Christmas Eve takes place in Italy in 1520. In the final moment of the play, the bells ring — it is a miracle. Speaking parts for 8 persons. Performance time about 30 minutes. Church bells should ring as sound effects at the play’s end.The Golden Gift is set in France in 1820. The story is based on a scene from Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. It includes the familiar story of the ex-convict and the good bishop. The ex-convict takes the golden candlesticks. Parts for 10 persons. Performance time is about 30 minutes.
Add to cartin stock within 3-5 days of online purchase
