"For where two or three come together in My name, there am I with them."
Matthew 18:20 NIV

Organizing Prayer Before, During and After Your Group Event:

Along with the checklist for flyer preparation, slides for the Worship Announcements, agenda, speakers and rooming lists one very important item to add is an Event Prayer Plan.  Setting up a structured prayer recruitment and encouragement campaign can yield great results both for those attending the retreat and those staying home.

This week's article was initially planned to share the power of speaking blessings over our children, however, after exploring the topic I had to ask "What If"

• What if this concept were modified and applied in our churches and work places?
• What if we used this approach with our spouses and looked for good things to share?
• What if our staff, congregation and volunteer leaders heard heartfelt appreciation of jobs well done

Would acknowledgment of good attitudes generate even more caring and sharing? Could blessings spoken intentionally in sincere appreciation build stronger teams? And how much more fruit would be generated from group retreats where team members feel truly respected and valued as they work on strategic activities?

Chistian teenagers face some real challenges living a Christian lifestyle heading back to school.  Most teenagers faced challenges the moment they returned from summer camp.  According to a George Barna Study, Peer Pressure Can Be A Huge Stumbling Block for our Teens.  Click Read More for study findings and some Biblical encouragement for parents and youth pastors.

Family Fest Bonding Through the Heritage of "Camp Meetings"

Family prayer is the greatest deterrent to sin, and hence the most beneficent provider of joy and happiness.  The old saying is yet true: 'The family that prays together stays together.'
- Thomas S Monson

Have you ever wished you could set aside time to grow closer to your family?  And have you wished your family could grow closer to God?  What if you could combine both and enjoy fellowship with other Christians at the same time?  If so, Family Fest at Lake Williamson Christian Center could be a great option.

Today we're still enjoying warm sunshine, the sounds of children splashing at the beach, picnics and evenings at the ball park.  Fall seems a long way off but has a way of coming upon us quickly after the more relaxed pace of summer vacation from school.