Diane Ritzema
I am the Worship Coordinator for a small church in the south suburban Chicago area. We currently have 1 Sunday morning service--it is a blended service with some organ, some piano, and some praise team. My challenge is to find music each week that fits the theme of the services, in all styles. This is a challenge I love, though. The words to songs are just as important to me as the music--sometimes more important. They must be easy enough to sing, but deep enough to cause one to think. My favorites lately have been by Keith and Kristyn Getty, Stuart Townend, CityAlight and Sovereign Grace Ministries. My passion is to bring people each week to see Christ and grow in a deeper relationship with him. I am married to Ed for 40 years, and have three wonderful children, all of whom are married. We also have 3 wonderful grandchildren who are the joy of our lives. All of them love the Lord, and that is the most precious gift a parent can receive. To God be the glory!
Posted in: Communal Visual Arts project
Thanks, Dean. I have seen that one--it looks very do-able. (Spoken by one who is somewhat visually artistically challenged.)
Posted in: Prayer Stations, a Chalk Labyrinth, and Other Cool Ideas
I love prayer stations! We have been doing them in different settings for a couple of years now. Many of the ideas we use come from websites and books geared toward youth--but they relate so well to adults and children alike. I have often gone to the Still Waters website, and have been blessed by her creativity. Here are some other websites that I use:
http://engageworship.org/
http://www.creativeprayer.com/
http://interactiveworshipstation.blogspot.com/
http://www.rethinkingyouthministry.com/
I also recommend "Sacred Space" by Dan Kimball & Lilly Lewin published by Zondervan. This is an excellent resource!
Does anyone else have another favorite resource for interactive prayer stations?
Posted in: Multi Cultural Pentecost Service
How exciting, Tom! I would utilize all of these languages in the reading of scripture and in prayers. I would also have songs from all of those backgrounds represented--with the appropriate instruments if possible. A song such as "God is So Good" can be sung in a variety of languages to unite all cultures. I'd encourage you to think global, and enjoy the opportunity of worshiping with so many different "nations."