John Newton, author of Amazing Grace, said, “I think, with you, that it is very expedient and proper that reading a portion of the word of God should be ordinarily a part of our family worship; so likewise to sing a hymn or psalm, or part of one, at discretion; provided there are some people in the family who have enough of a musical ear and voice to conduct the singing in a tolerable manner: otherwise, perhaps, it may be better omitted … If you read and sing, as well as pray, care should be taken that the combined services do not run into an inconvenient length.”

It is from this challenge from John Newton that Steve Wright, through Lasting Divergence, is challenging churches nationwide to join the John Newton Challenge. A free 52-week Bible reading plan has been created for parents to read together with their children beginning January 2009. Read more about this and have your church join.

Recently Youth Specialties and Group Publishing have come up with their own version of a parent newsletter.  Meanwhile we are in Year 6 of providing this practical resource for you to give to the parents of your teens.  Mom & Pops Stuff is more than just passing on information to parents but it is full of ideas to practically help the parents with their role in the spiritual training of their teen. You can also add your own page for calender details. Giving a newsletter to your parents is a good youth ministry idea.  Why not give the one that is filled with encouraging and practical ideas?  When you sign up for Moms & Pops Stuff, it will come via email around the 23rd of each month to your e-mail inbox.

Click HERE to download Moms & Pops Stuff - New Download (January2, 2009)

Subscribe to Moms & Pops Stuff 

Part 2 of our series entitled "Our Journey Into a Youth-Pastor-Less Youth Ministry" by Pastor Dan Mayes is now available.  Dan has given us an honest look at the good and bad of how it is working for his church and for him in his position.