This past year’s topic is for “Christian Education Network of the ELCA Presents… Learning Strategies for Intergenerational Ministry through the Seasons,” along with so many other things in 2020, has needed to be adapted as we deal with a global pandemic and racial relations and tensions that have been brought to the forefront of our lives and ministries.
- From Outreach To Mission: “As the impacts of social distancing have taken root in our local community, our congregation has ramped up our engagement, moving from a simple act of generosity to a more informed approach that connects family-oriented actions with the causes of inequality in our community.” This link from Building Faith outlines a format for a monthly mission project, with zoom meetings at the beginning and end, and guest speakers related to the project:
- Resources for God’s Work Our Hands going virtual are here: https://www.elca.org/Resources/GWOH-Sunday#Resources
- Gen On Ministries provides an overview of training options for volunteers who are doing online ministries: https://www.genonministries.org/blogs/blog/keep-your-ministries-going-forward-new-online-training-options.
- Free downloadable cards from Sparkhouse are available for faith conversations in the home: “These Sparkhouse Conversation Cards are a fun way for families to engage in conversations about faith. Share them with families to print and use at home. Or print and distribute them to families as part of an activity kit from your church”.
- Engaging Volunteers for Fall Ministry, an article by CENetwork of the ELCA board member, Teresa Kaldor. This is an up-to-date volunteer plan that keeps COVID-19 in mind.
- Practical Family Ministry in a Pandemic, an article by CENetwork of the ELCA board member, Julie Hestermann. This is an up-to-date look at Family Ministry 2020.