Report 10
Ministry Activity -
Prep for student ministries Sunday
Student ministries Sunday
Staff Lunch
Hours -
Wed 7-9
Sunday 8-12:30
Monday 1:30-3
Total hours - 8 hours
Personal Reflection -
This was my last week for my practicum. I am definitely going to miss being a part of County Line's staff. I have learned so much when it comes to relationships/teamwork, leadership, and ministry. This past Sunday was the annual student ministries Sunday. The kids go up and share about the missions trip and this year was our first year to implement a youth choir. I was thoroughly impressed by the kids in the choir. They have been working on the songs for several weeks and was definitely a great addition to the student Sunday. We also had students lead the worship time and a drama in the middle of the service (while the song "everything" by Lifehouse played, pictures of kids from the southside of Chicago were put up on the screen and the students held up signs with words on them. At first the words were negative like hopeless, violence, depression, etc and then as the song built up the signs changed to positives like trust, gentle, caring, etc and then it ended with all of them forming a cross with the signs) It went really well and communicated the message of what we did in Chicago in a different way. Dane had students share personal testimonies from the trip and showed a slideshow/videoshow from the week. It was a great service.
Spiritual Reflection -
On Monday I went out to lunch with all of the staff. It was a good yet sad way to end my summer. The new junior high pastor's first day was on Monday so I kind of felt like goodbye Rachel...WELCOME new guy! I had a hard time not feeling bad for myself.
This week my friend and I read 1 Peter. Like usual I waited until the last minute to read it...not a good idea, but its really hard for me to space it for some reason. Anyways in 1 Peter 5:6-7 (Message) it says ..."So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you." This really hit home with me. I know God has everything under control, but a reminder is always good. Basically I feel like this passage is saying "Rachel chill out. God's got it. He even has His hand on you. He will show you where you are to go...even in ministry, and will promote you when it's time. Trust Him." So that's what I'm trying to do...chill and trust. :)
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Report 9
Report 9
Ministry Activity -
Missions trip prep and actual thing
VBS on MT
Work projects
Evangelism
Debriefing
Hours -
All day, everyday, for a week
Personal Reflection -
This week I got the opportunity to be one of the adult leaders for the annual high school missions trip. We went to the south-side of Chicago and worked with a ministry called Hallelujah Faith Ministries. While there we held a Vacation Bible School for the local kids. The area was a pretty rough area and taught all of us a lot. Many of the kids would show up dirty, hungry, and tired, and they broke the hearts of our team. The kids were hungry for the love of God and by the end of the week we loved them all very much.
We did work projects for both Hallelujah Faith and for Circle Urban Ministries. The team was amazing about serving. Hardly any complaining and a lot of hard working. Circle Urban said we got more done in a shorter amount of time than any other group that summer. We painted, pulled weeds, organized, mulched, cleaned and more.
We also did a scavenger hunt throughout downtown Chicago. I was a little nervous about being a leader for this, but it turned out to be one of my favorite times. One of the things on the scavenger hunt was to buy a homeless person a meal. It was great to see the students fearlessly go up to the lady and offer her a meal. We ended up sitting with her for about an hour talking about life and God. We ended with a time of prayer.
The week was stretching for me as a leader. I had never felt positive about street evangelism before this trip. I was shown that street evangelism does not have to be like advertising or handing out tracks (not that they are necessarily bad), but it can instead be about talking with people, hearing about their lives, asking what they want prayer for, and praying for them right then and there. At times on this trip I felt like just another student, other times I felt like I failed as a leader, and other times I felt great about it all. God really took this week to teach me. Although at times I felt discouraged by the end I felt very encouraged from others and from God.
Spiritual Reflection -
Being in the midst of a missions trip we spent a lot of time praying together, debriefing, and praying for others. It was great to see how God worked this week. Kids dedicated their lives to God for the first time and were so so so excited to read the Bible. It amazed me to hear the stories about their excitement for the Bible. I want that same excitement. I have decided to read a different part of the Bible each week and discuss it at the end of the week with a friend. I'm pretty excited about this. I think a lot of times when I read the Bible I just rush over it, but when I have to teach or talk about it I learn so much more. This will help me to stay focused which is exactly what I need!
Ministry Activity -
Missions trip prep and actual thing
VBS on MT
Work projects
Evangelism
Debriefing
Hours -
All day, everyday, for a week
Personal Reflection -
This week I got the opportunity to be one of the adult leaders for the annual high school missions trip. We went to the south-side of Chicago and worked with a ministry called Hallelujah Faith Ministries. While there we held a Vacation Bible School for the local kids. The area was a pretty rough area and taught all of us a lot. Many of the kids would show up dirty, hungry, and tired, and they broke the hearts of our team. The kids were hungry for the love of God and by the end of the week we loved them all very much.
We did work projects for both Hallelujah Faith and for Circle Urban Ministries. The team was amazing about serving. Hardly any complaining and a lot of hard working. Circle Urban said we got more done in a shorter amount of time than any other group that summer. We painted, pulled weeds, organized, mulched, cleaned and more.
We also did a scavenger hunt throughout downtown Chicago. I was a little nervous about being a leader for this, but it turned out to be one of my favorite times. One of the things on the scavenger hunt was to buy a homeless person a meal. It was great to see the students fearlessly go up to the lady and offer her a meal. We ended up sitting with her for about an hour talking about life and God. We ended with a time of prayer.
The week was stretching for me as a leader. I had never felt positive about street evangelism before this trip. I was shown that street evangelism does not have to be like advertising or handing out tracks (not that they are necessarily bad), but it can instead be about talking with people, hearing about their lives, asking what they want prayer for, and praying for them right then and there. At times on this trip I felt like just another student, other times I felt like I failed as a leader, and other times I felt great about it all. God really took this week to teach me. Although at times I felt discouraged by the end I felt very encouraged from others and from God.
Spiritual Reflection -
Being in the midst of a missions trip we spent a lot of time praying together, debriefing, and praying for others. It was great to see how God worked this week. Kids dedicated their lives to God for the first time and were so so so excited to read the Bible. It amazed me to hear the stories about their excitement for the Bible. I want that same excitement. I have decided to read a different part of the Bible each week and discuss it at the end of the week with a friend. I'm pretty excited about this. I think a lot of times when I read the Bible I just rush over it, but when I have to teach or talk about it I learn so much more. This will help me to stay focused which is exactly what I need!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Report 8
Report 8
Ministry Activity -
Sunday service - Faith in Action Sunday
Staff retreat - Sister church Idea
Planning for missions trip
Missions trip meeting
Staff meeting
Hours -
Thursday - 7:30am - 3:30pm
Sun- 9am - 12:00pm
Mon -10:30am-6:30pm
Tue- 8:45am - 4:30pm meeting -7pm-10pm
Wed - 8:45 am - 4:30pm
Personal Reflection -
On Thursday all of the staff minus the senior pastor and the other intern went to a lake house and discussed and planned ideas for a sister church. It was a really long day but so much was accomplished. I really believe that getting out into a new setting in nature can help with creativity and attitude. It was great to see so much fall into place and plans being made. I would say the meeting was incredibly productive.
After the meeting two of the pastors stayed and their families came along with the owners of the cottage and family. I stayed as well. I was thinking it was going to be a little bit awkward because it felt like a family thing to me, but they said I should stay. At first it was a little weird, but after I went tubbing and had dinner the kids were no longer shy around me. I made a new friend with one little boy because I snuck him potato chips.
After dinner we took a boat ride and some people water skiied. I was in the front of the boat with six kids and it was a blast! I had them singing camp songs and doing silently loud screams. They were all having fun and so was I. Being with kids (other than family) reminded me of how much I love younger kids. They are so funny and innocent. The past week or so I have felt that maybe I shouldn't close off the idea of children's ministry and the time at the lake with the kids was just another reminder.
On Sunday the church had it's annual Faith In Action Sunday. This is where we as a congregation do work projects throughout the community in the place of a regular Sunday service. I got to know the youth pastors kids a little through this experience and by the end of the our project both were holding my hands. It once again brought the idea of children's ministry to the front of my mind. I am not sure if it is necessarily what I want to do. I feel called to youth ministry and do not want to just drop it because I still feel that God wants me where He has me, but I also believe that my eyes are being opened to other possiblities God might have in store for me.
On Tuesday we had our last missions trip meeting...the trip starts on Saturday! crazy! The meeting went pretty well. I was tired and I always get a little self-conscious around this group (a lot of them were in youth group with me and I have always struggled with fitting in) That night I again felt like I was sinking back to the same ol' feelings from when I was in high school and it took me by surprise. I have grown and changed so much sense then and do not need any of their approval. I had to remind myself that I am called by God and I belong because God called me there. I think that it was good for me to realize a weakness of mine and also realize that it is not the same as it was and I have no reason to let it get me down!
Today I met with the youth pastor's wife to go and get supplies for the missions trip VBS craft time. I really really enjoyed talking with her and getting her advice on things. She was my small group leader and I really look up to her, so it was good to catch up.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week I have been so busy and so tired that having discipline in my spiritual life has been hard. I am getting drained and we haven't even left on the trip yet! I continue to read a fictional Christian book which helps me to get on the right mindset. I also have been more present through music. I haven't been reading my Bible as often as I wish and hope to set time aside tomorrow for a devotional and prayer time. I need to get focused for the missions trip, not only because I am going and experiencing it, but I need to be a leader for the students and need to be as close to God as I can. I want to rely on HIM for strength and encouragement. I keep coming back to a song by Jon Foreman that says...."inside His open arms...the only place I ever will belong" How true and perfect is that? I do belong and I belong right in the arms of my heavenly Father.
If you can, please keep the youth group, leaders, parents, Dane (the youth pastor), and I in your prayers throughout our trip. We are going to Chicago, doing work projects, leading a VBS, and witnessing to others. We leave Saturday the 25th and come back Sunday Aug 2nd.
Thanks
Ministry Activity -
Sunday service - Faith in Action Sunday
Staff retreat - Sister church Idea
Planning for missions trip
Missions trip meeting
Staff meeting
Hours -
Thursday - 7:30am - 3:30pm
Sun- 9am - 12:00pm
Mon -10:30am-6:30pm
Tue- 8:45am - 4:30pm meeting -7pm-10pm
Wed - 8:45 am - 4:30pm
Personal Reflection -
On Thursday all of the staff minus the senior pastor and the other intern went to a lake house and discussed and planned ideas for a sister church. It was a really long day but so much was accomplished. I really believe that getting out into a new setting in nature can help with creativity and attitude. It was great to see so much fall into place and plans being made. I would say the meeting was incredibly productive.
After the meeting two of the pastors stayed and their families came along with the owners of the cottage and family. I stayed as well. I was thinking it was going to be a little bit awkward because it felt like a family thing to me, but they said I should stay. At first it was a little weird, but after I went tubbing and had dinner the kids were no longer shy around me. I made a new friend with one little boy because I snuck him potato chips.
After dinner we took a boat ride and some people water skiied. I was in the front of the boat with six kids and it was a blast! I had them singing camp songs and doing silently loud screams. They were all having fun and so was I. Being with kids (other than family) reminded me of how much I love younger kids. They are so funny and innocent. The past week or so I have felt that maybe I shouldn't close off the idea of children's ministry and the time at the lake with the kids was just another reminder.
On Sunday the church had it's annual Faith In Action Sunday. This is where we as a congregation do work projects throughout the community in the place of a regular Sunday service. I got to know the youth pastors kids a little through this experience and by the end of the our project both were holding my hands. It once again brought the idea of children's ministry to the front of my mind. I am not sure if it is necessarily what I want to do. I feel called to youth ministry and do not want to just drop it because I still feel that God wants me where He has me, but I also believe that my eyes are being opened to other possiblities God might have in store for me.
On Tuesday we had our last missions trip meeting...the trip starts on Saturday! crazy! The meeting went pretty well. I was tired and I always get a little self-conscious around this group (a lot of them were in youth group with me and I have always struggled with fitting in) That night I again felt like I was sinking back to the same ol' feelings from when I was in high school and it took me by surprise. I have grown and changed so much sense then and do not need any of their approval. I had to remind myself that I am called by God and I belong because God called me there. I think that it was good for me to realize a weakness of mine and also realize that it is not the same as it was and I have no reason to let it get me down!
Today I met with the youth pastor's wife to go and get supplies for the missions trip VBS craft time. I really really enjoyed talking with her and getting her advice on things. She was my small group leader and I really look up to her, so it was good to catch up.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week I have been so busy and so tired that having discipline in my spiritual life has been hard. I am getting drained and we haven't even left on the trip yet! I continue to read a fictional Christian book which helps me to get on the right mindset. I also have been more present through music. I haven't been reading my Bible as often as I wish and hope to set time aside tomorrow for a devotional and prayer time. I need to get focused for the missions trip, not only because I am going and experiencing it, but I need to be a leader for the students and need to be as close to God as I can. I want to rely on HIM for strength and encouragement. I keep coming back to a song by Jon Foreman that says...."inside His open arms...the only place I ever will belong" How true and perfect is that? I do belong and I belong right in the arms of my heavenly Father.
If you can, please keep the youth group, leaders, parents, Dane (the youth pastor), and I in your prayers throughout our trip. We are going to Chicago, doing work projects, leading a VBS, and witnessing to others. We leave Saturday the 25th and come back Sunday Aug 2nd.
Thanks
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Report 7
Report 7
Ministry Activity -
Sunday school lesson on Jonah
Worship night at local church
Planning for missions trip
Missions trip meeting
Planning Wednesday night youth event
Wednesday night youth event - water night
Hours -
Thursday - 8:30am - 4:30pm
Sun- 8:45am - 1:00pm 7-9:30pm
Mon -9am-10:30am, 2pm-5pm
Tue- 8:30am - 4:30pm meeting -7pm-10pm
Wed - 9:30 am - 4:30pm, 6-8:30pm
Personal Reflection -
Sunday morning I gave a lesson on Jonah...I think this was the most comfortable I have been during Sunday school yet. Sadly it was my last lesson for the summer. For the introduction part we played a game. I hung gummy worms from the ceiling and picked two kids to race and see who could eat theirs first. It was really funny because one of the gummy worms was too high for the kid and he couldn't use his hands so he was jumping up trying to reach it. Then I read the Message version of Jonah (which is pretty animated and understandable) I had one of the kids act out Jonah. Then to give them an even better picture of the story I played scenes from the Veggie Tales Jonah movie. We then answered application questions together. I think it went pretty well.
Sunday the church introduced the candidate for the Junior High Pastor position...this was a lot harder on me than I expected. I wish it could have waited for a couple more years...but God knows what He is doing and I have to trust that. What hurt me the most was the conversation in the coming days...a lot was mentioned by members of the congregation and pastor staff at how good this guy was going to be because he is older and experienced (this alone didn't bother me), but they would then add I do not think a young person could handle this size of a junior high youth group, it would be too overwhelming, etc. They were so thankful that a young person was not hired and voiced that thanksgiving in a strong way. I should not take it as an evaluation of what I have done this summer, but in some ways I have. I know that the junior high candidate will do a great job if given the opportunity, but I also believe that a young person could do a great job as well...(maybe I'm a little jealous)
Sunday night a group of high school students went to a worship night at a local "unconventional" church. It was good to hear some "chapel" songs again...makes me miss school! weird! Monday was a meeting with some of our missionaries and a staff meeting later in the day. Tuesday was a normal planning type of day and the missions meeting that evening. I have a lot to do for that still. Wednesday was good. I met with my youth pastor and went over stuff for the trip. He made me call a church and make an all call...it was good for me and got me out of my comfort zone. Wednesday night was the junior high water night. We had a shaving cream hair decorating contest and a lot of water balloons. I was completely in charge of the night and I really enjoyed it along with the kids.
I am going to try to connect with a group of junior high girls and have a sleep over. I want them to know I am there for them and care and hope to get them to trust me and open up. I am learning how important it is to build relationships. They listen better, open up more, and enjoy themselves more...it's all in all better once they know you.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week has been pretty good. I am trying to keep up with my devotional and read the Bible more. I have also been listening to some old chapels (I am a werido) which have been really encouraging to me. I am listening to some new mellow Christian music (Jon Foreman) and it has been really good for me to start off my day with...helps me to focus my mind on God and to chill out for a few minutes. I have also realized in the past few days (through the whole junior high youth pastor thing) that even though the Bible does say not to be discouraged because you are young it also says right after that that we are to be examples to those around us. I need to have a positive attitude and live my life as an example for Jesus Christ and God will take care of the rest.
Ministry Activity -
Sunday school lesson on Jonah
Worship night at local church
Planning for missions trip
Missions trip meeting
Planning Wednesday night youth event
Wednesday night youth event - water night
Hours -
Thursday - 8:30am - 4:30pm
Sun- 8:45am - 1:00pm 7-9:30pm
Mon -9am-10:30am, 2pm-5pm
Tue- 8:30am - 4:30pm meeting -7pm-10pm
Wed - 9:30 am - 4:30pm, 6-8:30pm
Personal Reflection -
Sunday morning I gave a lesson on Jonah...I think this was the most comfortable I have been during Sunday school yet. Sadly it was my last lesson for the summer. For the introduction part we played a game. I hung gummy worms from the ceiling and picked two kids to race and see who could eat theirs first. It was really funny because one of the gummy worms was too high for the kid and he couldn't use his hands so he was jumping up trying to reach it. Then I read the Message version of Jonah (which is pretty animated and understandable) I had one of the kids act out Jonah. Then to give them an even better picture of the story I played scenes from the Veggie Tales Jonah movie. We then answered application questions together. I think it went pretty well.
Sunday the church introduced the candidate for the Junior High Pastor position...this was a lot harder on me than I expected. I wish it could have waited for a couple more years...but God knows what He is doing and I have to trust that. What hurt me the most was the conversation in the coming days...a lot was mentioned by members of the congregation and pastor staff at how good this guy was going to be because he is older and experienced (this alone didn't bother me), but they would then add I do not think a young person could handle this size of a junior high youth group, it would be too overwhelming, etc. They were so thankful that a young person was not hired and voiced that thanksgiving in a strong way. I should not take it as an evaluation of what I have done this summer, but in some ways I have. I know that the junior high candidate will do a great job if given the opportunity, but I also believe that a young person could do a great job as well...(maybe I'm a little jealous)
Sunday night a group of high school students went to a worship night at a local "unconventional" church. It was good to hear some "chapel" songs again...makes me miss school! weird! Monday was a meeting with some of our missionaries and a staff meeting later in the day. Tuesday was a normal planning type of day and the missions meeting that evening. I have a lot to do for that still. Wednesday was good. I met with my youth pastor and went over stuff for the trip. He made me call a church and make an all call...it was good for me and got me out of my comfort zone. Wednesday night was the junior high water night. We had a shaving cream hair decorating contest and a lot of water balloons. I was completely in charge of the night and I really enjoyed it along with the kids.
I am going to try to connect with a group of junior high girls and have a sleep over. I want them to know I am there for them and care and hope to get them to trust me and open up. I am learning how important it is to build relationships. They listen better, open up more, and enjoy themselves more...it's all in all better once they know you.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week has been pretty good. I am trying to keep up with my devotional and read the Bible more. I have also been listening to some old chapels (I am a werido) which have been really encouraging to me. I am listening to some new mellow Christian music (Jon Foreman) and it has been really good for me to start off my day with...helps me to focus my mind on God and to chill out for a few minutes. I have also realized in the past few days (through the whole junior high youth pastor thing) that even though the Bible does say not to be discouraged because you are young it also says right after that that we are to be examples to those around us. I need to have a positive attitude and live my life as an example for Jesus Christ and God will take care of the rest.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Report 6
Report 6
Ministry Activity -
For this week I did something a little different. Dane, the youth pastor, was on vacation, so I got the opportunity to teach both junior high and high school Sunday school. I decided to do my lesson on the word "go." During fall summit last year I felt God telling me to "go." I created a slideshow (which took about an hour or two to make), with pictures of kids from africa and india. I intended for them to watch the slideshow at the end and listen to the song "God of Justice" by Tim Hughes and reflect on what they felt God calling them to do...Well, things don't go as planned. Sunday came along and I was pretty excited about the whole thing. Junior high only had about 8 kids in it because of the holiday weekend. We talked some and then I went into my lesson. It went pretty well. High school is a different story. I was pretty nervous, there were only about 15 students and I felt awkward standing on the stage speaking to them. They weren't used to me being up there so they didn't answer questions much and my lesson went way too fast. I was also pretty bummed because I made the slideshow on my mac but had to play it on a pc and the pictures all said that they could not be seen because they needed to be decompressed. Lame. It was good practice for me to get in front of high school students and I learned what to do and what not to do. It ended up being fine, just not what I expected.
This week I am working on a lesson in Jonah for junior high. It will probably be my last lesson for the summer because of the missions trip and Faith in Action Sunday. It's a little sad that it is my last one. I am also planning a water night for junior high for next wednesday and working on crafts for the high school missions trip VBS. I am getting pretty excited about the missions trip and am getting connected with the students. I would also like to plan a slumber party for some of the junior high girls before I go back to school.
Today I am in a meeting about this computer program website thing...it's funny.
Hours -
Sun- 8:45am - 12:30pm
Mon - home
Tue- 8:30am - 4:30pm meeting -7pm-9pm
Wed - 8:30 am - still in progress
Personal Reflection -
I can't believe it is already July! Ahhh! Crazy! I miss some things about school, but I'm really enjoying my time at County Line and at home. I am learning a lot and am happy to be building relationships here at my home church. I really need to figure out how I can make here on Sundays while still at school. I've gotten a lot of rest lately which has been really, really good. I am excited for this next Sunday; Sunday school is so much more fun once you get to know the students.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week has been pretty good. I read a fictional Christian book about a college girl...it's corny, but reading about her life and how she lives as a Christian is encouraging for me. I have started journaling some again and trying to read My Utmost for His Highest again everyday. It's been pretty cool. I am excited for what God has been showing me and I am feeling closer to Him.
Ministry Activity -
For this week I did something a little different. Dane, the youth pastor, was on vacation, so I got the opportunity to teach both junior high and high school Sunday school. I decided to do my lesson on the word "go." During fall summit last year I felt God telling me to "go." I created a slideshow (which took about an hour or two to make), with pictures of kids from africa and india. I intended for them to watch the slideshow at the end and listen to the song "God of Justice" by Tim Hughes and reflect on what they felt God calling them to do...Well, things don't go as planned. Sunday came along and I was pretty excited about the whole thing. Junior high only had about 8 kids in it because of the holiday weekend. We talked some and then I went into my lesson. It went pretty well. High school is a different story. I was pretty nervous, there were only about 15 students and I felt awkward standing on the stage speaking to them. They weren't used to me being up there so they didn't answer questions much and my lesson went way too fast. I was also pretty bummed because I made the slideshow on my mac but had to play it on a pc and the pictures all said that they could not be seen because they needed to be decompressed. Lame. It was good practice for me to get in front of high school students and I learned what to do and what not to do. It ended up being fine, just not what I expected.
This week I am working on a lesson in Jonah for junior high. It will probably be my last lesson for the summer because of the missions trip and Faith in Action Sunday. It's a little sad that it is my last one. I am also planning a water night for junior high for next wednesday and working on crafts for the high school missions trip VBS. I am getting pretty excited about the missions trip and am getting connected with the students. I would also like to plan a slumber party for some of the junior high girls before I go back to school.
Today I am in a meeting about this computer program website thing...it's funny.
Hours -
Sun- 8:45am - 12:30pm
Mon - home
Tue- 8:30am - 4:30pm meeting -7pm-9pm
Wed - 8:30 am - still in progress
Personal Reflection -
I can't believe it is already July! Ahhh! Crazy! I miss some things about school, but I'm really enjoying my time at County Line and at home. I am learning a lot and am happy to be building relationships here at my home church. I really need to figure out how I can make here on Sundays while still at school. I've gotten a lot of rest lately which has been really, really good. I am excited for this next Sunday; Sunday school is so much more fun once you get to know the students.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week has been pretty good. I read a fictional Christian book about a college girl...it's corny, but reading about her life and how she lives as a Christian is encouraging for me. I have started journaling some again and trying to read My Utmost for His Highest again everyday. It's been pretty cool. I am excited for what God has been showing me and I am feeling closer to Him.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Report 5
Report 5
Ministry Activity -
This past week was VBS week. I ran junior high girls camp. I was in charge of creating lessons and things to do for 32 junior high girls for 2 hours and 45 min for five days. Wow. I learned a lot through all of this. It was a little overwhelming to have that many girls in such a small room for so long. My main theme was worship. I wanted to show the girls new and exciting ways to worship God so each day was a different theme. The first day was an introduction day ...we started off going over genesis 1 and 2 and how God said and it was but with humans He used His hands and formed us. He personally made each one of us unique and special we talked about our names and about how each one has meaning. I had different prayer/experience stations set up for them (a prayer journal, reading about kids from another country, characteristics of God, praises and concerns, a movie on Invisible Children, and a station where they drew a cross on a rock and then wrote on a card a person they wanted the rock to represent and they had to keep the rock in their pocket as a reminder to pray for that person) Day two - music day. We talked about praising God and about how music can communicate more than just saying something sometimes. We listened to different types of Christian music and looked up verses from a Matt Redman song. Day three- art day. We talked about the creativity of God and I had them go to three different stations: tie dye, bracelet making, and worship through painting (with music playing) Day Four - written word day - we talked about the power of words and wrote encouragement letters to people in our lives we also made prayer journals. This day was great because I really felt like I finally connected with them and got them talking. Day Five - fellowship day. We went to a pond and swam and played sand volleyball. I was surprised at how well the girls all got along!
On Saturday night we had the annual junior high all-nighter. Everyone looks forward to this the entire year and it gets bigger every year. We started off a putt-putt golf n' games where in groups we played putt-putt, go-carted, and played arcade games. At 1:30 am we made it back to the church ate food, then we played night watchmen. Night watchmen is the signature game we must play every year. I remember when I used to play it and still love it to this day. What happens is this: the kids get in groups of 5 or 6 and go around the church looking for clues (like a scavenger hunt type thing) ...with the lights off. The catch is that there are night watchmen (aka leaders) going around the church on there given pathways (they cannot vary from their path...cannot turn around if it isn't a part of there path and the student can follow the night watchmen and we cant do anything about it) the watchmen have flashlights and if the flashlight hits a student the night watchmen will say "jail" that student whole group then has to go to jail where there is a jail man who will make them do something ridiculous to get out (like rub his feet) every 5 min. the nightwatchmen take a "break" and play a hand of euchre then go back to their paths. The kids love it. Then...we played a full out game of nerf gun war. Then we put a movie on and they got like 2 hours of sleep...I got 20 min...ugh.
Sunday - Sunday was the VBS bash day. We had carnival games for all the kids to play, hotdogs, hamburgers, ice cream, face-painting, and a cool train ride. It went really well...but I was exhausted from the night before. I went home after that and slept for about 18 hours. ridiculous I know.
Monday - Wed.
Back to normal. Planning Sunday school, but this week I teach both junior high and high school. Monday was the staff meeting. It went well, they went over there monthly goals. Tuesday was the first senior high missions trip meeting. We are going to Chicago. I am excited.
Hours -
VBS and rest of day
Thurs. - 8:30 am - 5:30pm
Friday - 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Sat - 9:30 pm - midnight
Sun- midnight - 2:30pm
Mon - meeting 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Tue- 9am - 4pm meeting - 7-9pm
Wed - 9 am - 6:00pm
Personal Reflection -
This past week was so exhausting, yet so worth it. I have gained so much more experience and feel so much more comfortable in front of the group. I have also gotten to know the volunteers through all of this. I am so excited that I am connecting more with the students. I know that the girls really enjoyed themselves during camp...I just hope some stuff sticks with them. I constantly have to remind myself that although what I say is important and matters, me being there and loving them matters even more.
Spiritual Reflection -
I am trying to read my Bible more on my own time. It was been going okay. It's just not as "fun" or fresh as I would like it. I think I am going to try scrapbooking verses to try and make it more hands on for me. I also really enjoy reading other books, so I might try to have one of them be my devotional book. God really shows himself to me while I'm preparing for lessons, which has been really neat for me. He reminds me of little things as I work towards the weeks Sunday school class.
Ministry Activity -
This past week was VBS week. I ran junior high girls camp. I was in charge of creating lessons and things to do for 32 junior high girls for 2 hours and 45 min for five days. Wow. I learned a lot through all of this. It was a little overwhelming to have that many girls in such a small room for so long. My main theme was worship. I wanted to show the girls new and exciting ways to worship God so each day was a different theme. The first day was an introduction day ...we started off going over genesis 1 and 2 and how God said and it was but with humans He used His hands and formed us. He personally made each one of us unique and special we talked about our names and about how each one has meaning. I had different prayer/experience stations set up for them (a prayer journal, reading about kids from another country, characteristics of God, praises and concerns, a movie on Invisible Children, and a station where they drew a cross on a rock and then wrote on a card a person they wanted the rock to represent and they had to keep the rock in their pocket as a reminder to pray for that person) Day two - music day. We talked about praising God and about how music can communicate more than just saying something sometimes. We listened to different types of Christian music and looked up verses from a Matt Redman song. Day three- art day. We talked about the creativity of God and I had them go to three different stations: tie dye, bracelet making, and worship through painting (with music playing) Day Four - written word day - we talked about the power of words and wrote encouragement letters to people in our lives we also made prayer journals. This day was great because I really felt like I finally connected with them and got them talking. Day Five - fellowship day. We went to a pond and swam and played sand volleyball. I was surprised at how well the girls all got along!
On Saturday night we had the annual junior high all-nighter. Everyone looks forward to this the entire year and it gets bigger every year. We started off a putt-putt golf n' games where in groups we played putt-putt, go-carted, and played arcade games. At 1:30 am we made it back to the church ate food, then we played night watchmen. Night watchmen is the signature game we must play every year. I remember when I used to play it and still love it to this day. What happens is this: the kids get in groups of 5 or 6 and go around the church looking for clues (like a scavenger hunt type thing) ...with the lights off. The catch is that there are night watchmen (aka leaders) going around the church on there given pathways (they cannot vary from their path...cannot turn around if it isn't a part of there path and the student can follow the night watchmen and we cant do anything about it) the watchmen have flashlights and if the flashlight hits a student the night watchmen will say "jail" that student whole group then has to go to jail where there is a jail man who will make them do something ridiculous to get out (like rub his feet) every 5 min. the nightwatchmen take a "break" and play a hand of euchre then go back to their paths. The kids love it. Then...we played a full out game of nerf gun war. Then we put a movie on and they got like 2 hours of sleep...I got 20 min...ugh.
Sunday - Sunday was the VBS bash day. We had carnival games for all the kids to play, hotdogs, hamburgers, ice cream, face-painting, and a cool train ride. It went really well...but I was exhausted from the night before. I went home after that and slept for about 18 hours. ridiculous I know.
Monday - Wed.
Back to normal. Planning Sunday school, but this week I teach both junior high and high school. Monday was the staff meeting. It went well, they went over there monthly goals. Tuesday was the first senior high missions trip meeting. We are going to Chicago. I am excited.
Hours -
VBS and rest of day
Thurs. - 8:30 am - 5:30pm
Friday - 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Sat - 9:30 pm - midnight
Sun- midnight - 2:30pm
Mon - meeting 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Tue- 9am - 4pm meeting - 7-9pm
Wed - 9 am - 6:00pm
Personal Reflection -
This past week was so exhausting, yet so worth it. I have gained so much more experience and feel so much more comfortable in front of the group. I have also gotten to know the volunteers through all of this. I am so excited that I am connecting more with the students. I know that the girls really enjoyed themselves during camp...I just hope some stuff sticks with them. I constantly have to remind myself that although what I say is important and matters, me being there and loving them matters even more.
Spiritual Reflection -
I am trying to read my Bible more on my own time. It was been going okay. It's just not as "fun" or fresh as I would like it. I think I am going to try scrapbooking verses to try and make it more hands on for me. I also really enjoy reading other books, so I might try to have one of them be my devotional book. God really shows himself to me while I'm preparing for lessons, which has been really neat for me. He reminds me of little things as I work towards the weeks Sunday school class.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Report 4
Report 4
Ministry Activity -
On Sunday I taught Sunday school for the junior high again. I had planned alot for VBS throughout the week and had neglected my Sunday school lesson ...I knew I was going to show the Nooma Lump...it talks about how no matter what we do God still loves us. The key phrase is "Nothing you could do could make God love you less." So I didn't know what to do for my game or what all I was going to talk about. I was out to eat with my cousin and family and friends and we were talking about my lesson and came up with this:
So, I had my black robe from graduation and my mom randomly knew where my dad's old gavel was. I had a trial in the classroom. I chose a boy in the class that is mature for his age, a leader, and a good sport. I called up his mother Sunday morning and asked her what something was that he did wrong in the past couple of months and then I asked if she would go on the witness stand against him. She agreed. I walked in the room gavel in hand, robe on, yelling order in the courtroom. I didn't think I could keep a straight face, but because I needed keep them focused and quiet I stayed pretty serious. I called Kalib to the stand and read him his rights. He wasn't informed ahead of time that I was doing this...I tried him on the fact that he defied authority and willingly wore the wrong shirt to his choir program. His face was priceless. I then asked him "what say you on this account" he made excuses and then I said I would like to call the defendants mother to the stand. It was great. Kalib's jaw dropped and the class was cracking up. Kailb's mom pretended to cry and I found the defendant guilty! Then i turned to Kalib and said "But because you are a son of God you Kalib are forgiven because nothing you could ever do would make God love you less."
We then watched the Nooma and discussed it some. Overall I was happy with how it went.
This week is VBS week and I am in charge of the junior high girls camp. At one point there was an expectation of at the most 25 girls...well I ended up with 32. VBS was huge this year, it has become a great outreach opportunity. I was a little stressed out about it all, but it has been going really well. I am trying to keep it fun and exciting, while having them learn something, and not think it is too childish. I am wearing out a little, but that's okay.
Coming up we have the rest of VBS, the junior high all-nighter, and the VBS Bash on Sunday morning which will be a carnival type dealio.
Hours -
I keep forgetting to put the hours for Thursdays.
so
Thursday - 8:30am - 5pm
VBS and rest of day
Mon - 8:30am - 5:30pm
Tues - 8:30am - 6:30 pm
Wed - 8:30 am - still in progress
Personal Reflection -
I think that this week has been really good for me. I am becoming more and more comfortable in front of students and learning to improvise on the spot...which I am really happy about. I feel like the more I get to know the students and the more that I spend in front teaching, the more comfortable I am. This week I have been debating a change in my minor and I have decided to change it from Leadership to Christian Education. I think that CED is more practical and I was looking at the classes and alot of the overlap with the youth min major. I also think it will give me a more well rounded view on ministry. I am excited ...it should be really neat.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week I have been so so so busy with planning...it's exhausting. I have felt encouraged by the responses of the students and the parents and I am so happy to hear that the girls are having a good time. I think that I really need to be more intentional with my with God. I have been learning and growing through the lessons I am planning, but need to make sure that I take time just for God with God.
Ministry Activity -
On Sunday I taught Sunday school for the junior high again. I had planned alot for VBS throughout the week and had neglected my Sunday school lesson ...I knew I was going to show the Nooma Lump...it talks about how no matter what we do God still loves us. The key phrase is "Nothing you could do could make God love you less." So I didn't know what to do for my game or what all I was going to talk about. I was out to eat with my cousin and family and friends and we were talking about my lesson and came up with this:
So, I had my black robe from graduation and my mom randomly knew where my dad's old gavel was. I had a trial in the classroom. I chose a boy in the class that is mature for his age, a leader, and a good sport. I called up his mother Sunday morning and asked her what something was that he did wrong in the past couple of months and then I asked if she would go on the witness stand against him. She agreed. I walked in the room gavel in hand, robe on, yelling order in the courtroom. I didn't think I could keep a straight face, but because I needed keep them focused and quiet I stayed pretty serious. I called Kalib to the stand and read him his rights. He wasn't informed ahead of time that I was doing this...I tried him on the fact that he defied authority and willingly wore the wrong shirt to his choir program. His face was priceless. I then asked him "what say you on this account" he made excuses and then I said I would like to call the defendants mother to the stand. It was great. Kalib's jaw dropped and the class was cracking up. Kailb's mom pretended to cry and I found the defendant guilty! Then i turned to Kalib and said "But because you are a son of God you Kalib are forgiven because nothing you could ever do would make God love you less."
We then watched the Nooma and discussed it some. Overall I was happy with how it went.
This week is VBS week and I am in charge of the junior high girls camp. At one point there was an expectation of at the most 25 girls...well I ended up with 32. VBS was huge this year, it has become a great outreach opportunity. I was a little stressed out about it all, but it has been going really well. I am trying to keep it fun and exciting, while having them learn something, and not think it is too childish. I am wearing out a little, but that's okay.
Coming up we have the rest of VBS, the junior high all-nighter, and the VBS Bash on Sunday morning which will be a carnival type dealio.
Hours -
I keep forgetting to put the hours for Thursdays.
so
Thursday - 8:30am - 5pm
VBS and rest of day
Mon - 8:30am - 5:30pm
Tues - 8:30am - 6:30 pm
Wed - 8:30 am - still in progress
Personal Reflection -
I think that this week has been really good for me. I am becoming more and more comfortable in front of students and learning to improvise on the spot...which I am really happy about. I feel like the more I get to know the students and the more that I spend in front teaching, the more comfortable I am. This week I have been debating a change in my minor and I have decided to change it from Leadership to Christian Education. I think that CED is more practical and I was looking at the classes and alot of the overlap with the youth min major. I also think it will give me a more well rounded view on ministry. I am excited ...it should be really neat.
Spiritual Reflection -
This week I have been so so so busy with planning...it's exhausting. I have felt encouraged by the responses of the students and the parents and I am so happy to hear that the girls are having a good time. I think that I really need to be more intentional with my with God. I have been learning and growing through the lessons I am planning, but need to make sure that I take time just for God with God.
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