RESOURCES FOR DEVOTION ARCHIVES
May 2, 2021, Fifth Sunday of Easter
May 2, Fifth Sunday of Easter Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Mr. Daniel H. Wilcox is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Fifth Sunday of Easter, 1 John 4:7-21. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
May 2, Abiding Love Crossword Puzzle
This crossword puzzle is an intergenerational way to help think about God as Love and our call to love as we learn from the lectionary passage 1 John 4:7-21.
April 25, 2021, Fourth Sunday of Easter
April 25, Fourth Sunday of Easter Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Mr. Daniel H. Wilcox is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Fourth Sunday of Easter, 1 John 3:16-24. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
Psalm 23 Challenge #2: Your Psalm, Your Words
Psalm 23 is probably the most beloved and well known passage of scripture, perhaps because of its power to bring comfort and assurance. It is one of the lectionary readings for this Sunday. The AMEC Department of Christian Education challenges us to flood emails and social media with this psalm in our own words and with our own images during this pandemic so that others might receive a message of comfort and assurance.
April 18, 2021, Third Sunday of Easter
April 18, Third Sunday of Easter Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Mr. Daniel H. Wilcox is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Third Sunday of Easter, 1 John 3:1-7. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
April 18 BECOMING Journaling Activity
This journaling activity is an intergenerational way to help think about us becoming all that God imagines and desires us to be as we learn from the lectionary passage 1 John 3:1-7.
April 11, 2021, Second Sunday of Easter
April 11, Second Sunday of Easter Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Mr. Daniel H. Wilcox is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Second Sunday of Easter, 1 John 1:1-2:2. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
April 11 Jesus Visits the Frightened Disciples Word Search
This word search puzzle is an intergenerational way to help think about Christ’s appearance to the disciples after his resurrection and his conversation with Thomas as we learn from the lectionary passage John 20:19-31.
Word Puzzle Answer Key
Word Puzzle Answer Key
Resources for Devotion and Study during the Coronavirus Pandemic
Resurrection Sunday, April 4, 2021
These resources can be used with the worship and study resources provided by the AMEC Publishing House (www.iamame.org).
Easter Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Mr. Daniel H. Wilcox based on 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 can be used corporately or for an individual’s devotional time.
Some Ideas for Children and Families for Easter
These are just a few ideas to reinforce the message and meaning of Easter even in the midst of pandemic.
Three ecumenical organizations (National Council of Churches, USA; Churches Uniting in Christ; and Christian Churches Together) came together to share some ways we can celebrate Easter this year as we did last year (old and young alike).
Visit:
http://nationalcouncilofchurches.us/three-ecumenical-organizations-release-unprecedented-letter/
Butterfly Craft: Easter is about new life; and, butterflies symbolize this. Here is the link to a simple butterfly craft activity:
How to Make Classic Coffee Filter Butterflies [Video] [Video] | Butterfly crafts, Spring crafts for kids, Babysitting crafts
Ideas for a Christ-centered Easter egg hunt:
http://www.messestomemories.com/2015/03/christ-centered-easter-egg-hunt.html
Tips for hosting a Virtual Egg Hunt:
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/easter-ideas/a32080456/virtual-easter-egg-hunts/
A Virtual Egg Hunt Video (for less of the work and more of the fun):
https://abc7news.com/kids-games-easter-2020-virtual-egg-hunt-activity-for/6089878/
Devotion for March 28, 2021 Palm Sunday
Here is a simple reflection on palms and Palm Sunday during this time of pandemic written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce. It offers some theological reflection and a couple of practical ideas for celebrating Palm Sunday as we follow the recommended actions of the health authorities. This resource can be used with the Palm Sunday resources provided by the AMEC Publishing House (www.iamame.org).
March 21, 2021, Fifth Sunday in Lent
March 21, Fifth Sunday in Lent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, Jeremiah31:31-34. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
March 21, New Covenant Heart Craft Activity
This new covenant heart craft activity is an intergenerational way to help think about our relationship with God as Jeremiah 31:31-34 reminds us.
March 14, 2021, Fourth Sunday in Lent
March 14, Fourth Sunday in Lent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Fourth Sunday in Lent, John 3:14-21. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
March 14 Serpent in the Wilderness Craft Activity
This serpent in the wilderness craft activity is an intergenerational way to help think about Moses’ bronze serpent in the wilderness and that Jesus was also raised up and now all that believe in him will be with him forever as we learn in John 3:14-21.
March 7, 2021, Third Sunday in Lent
March 7, Third Sunday in Lent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Third Sunday in Lent, John 2:13-22. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
March 7 Temple Find the Difference Activity
This find the difference activity is an intergenerational way to help think about Jesus cleansing the temple as we learn from the lectionary passage John 2:13-22.
February 28, 2021, Second Sunday in Lent
February 28, Second Sunday in Lent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Second Sunday in Lent, Romans 4:13-25. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
February 28 Family History Scavenger Hunt Activity
This scavenger hunt activity is an intergenerational way to help think about Abraham as our father in the faith as we learn from the lectionary passage Romans 4:13-25 as well as learn and share about our own family history.
February 21, 2021, First Sunday in Lent
February 21, First Sunday in Lent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the First Sunday in Lent, Mark 1:9-15. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
February 21 Forty Days Word Search
This word search puzzle is an intergenerational way to help think about Christ’s baptism and his time in the wilderness as we learn from the lectionary passage Mark 1:9-15 as we continue on our Lenten journeys.
February 14, 2021, Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
February 14, Transfiguration Sunday/ AMEC Founder’s Day Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Transfiguration Sunday, Mark 9:2-9. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
Resources and Ideas for AME Church Founder’s Day
Whether it is in virtual worship or church school or even during family devotional time, we hope that we all will pause to celebrate the Founder’s Day of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Reflect on the rich life and legacy of our founder, Bishop Richard Allen, and all those who have served God in this particular church, making it a Bible-centered and justice-seeking church around the world.
Many of the resources that the Department of Christian Education has created and collected can be used in various settings as well as individually and in congregations or groups.
Many of the resources that the Department of Christian Education has created and collected can be used in various settings as well as individually and in congregations or groups.
(Click on the link below to the guide and then scroll down to the Founder’s Day Resources section on this page.)
February 7, 2021, Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
February 7, Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany, Mark 1:29-39. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
February 7, Black History COVID-19 Time Capsule Craft Activity
This craft activity is an intergenerational way to help think about Jesus’ healing of people as we learn from the lectionary passage Mark 1:29-39 as we also think about this unique moment in Black History in the making in this time of a pandemic.
January 31, 2021, Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
January 31, Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
January 31 For Love of Others Mask Craft Activity
This craft activity is an intergenerational way to help think about Paul’s advice and teaching to the Church in Corinth and us that sometimes it is more important to put the well-being of others ahead of our personal likes, dislikes, and beliefs as we learn from the lectionary passage 1 Corinthians 8:1-13.
January 24, 2021, Third Sunday after the Epiphany
January 24, Third Sunday after the Epiphany Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Third Sunday after the Epiphany, Mark 1:14-20. It also highlights the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Northern Hemisphere: January 18-25). It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
January 24 Follow Me Word Search
This word search puzzle is an intergenerational way to help think about responding to Christ’s call to each of us as we learn from the lectionary passage Mark 1:14-20.
January 17, 2021, Second Sunday after the Epiphany
January 17, Second Sunday after the Epiphany Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Second Sunday after the Epiphany, 1 Samuel 3:1-20. It also highlights the commemoration of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s life and legacy as well as the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Northern Hemisphere: January 18-25). It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
January 17 Hearing God Voice: Samuel and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Activity
This activity is an intergenerational way to talk about hearing and understanding God’s voice and call to each of us as we learn from the lectionary passage 1 Samuel 3:1-20 and Dr.Martin Luther King, Jr’s life.
January 10, Baptism of the Lord
January 10, Baptism of the Lord Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for the Baptism of the Lord, Mark 1:4-11. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
January 10 Baptism of the Lord Crossword Puzzle
This activity is an intergenerational way to remind us of the baptism of Jesus as shared in the lectionary passage Mark 1:4-11.
January 3, Second Sunday after Christmas Day OR Epiphany Sunday
January 3, Epiphany Sunday Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Epiphany, Matthew 2:1-12. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
January 3 Shining Star Craft Activity
This craft activity is an intergenerational way to remind us of the star the magi followed and that we can still find Jesus and worship him as they did in the lectionary passage Matthew 2:1-12.
December 27, First Sunday after Christmas Day
December 27, First Sunday after Christmas Day Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation is based on the 2020 Christmas Message of the World Council of Churches. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
December 27 Manger Craft Activity
This craft activity is an intergenerational way to help us remember that Christmas is a season in the church and not just a day. We can continue our celebration of the birth of Jesus, God’s son.
December 20, Fourth Sunday of Advent
December 20, Fourth Sunday of Advent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Luke 1:46b-55. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
December 20 Advent Angel Ornament Craft Activity
This craft activity is an intergenerational way to help us think and talk about the messages of the angels in the Advent and Christmas stories, like the angel Gabriel’s good news to Mary found in the lectionary passage Luke 1:26-38.
December 13, Third Sunday of Advent
December 13, Third Sunday of Advent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
December 13 Advent Joy and Light Word Search Activity
This word search activity is an intergenerational way to help us think and talk about the message of hope, peace, light, justice, and joy found in the lectionary passages for the week: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, and John 1:6-8, 19-28.
December 6, Second Sunday of Advent
December 6, Second Sunday of Advent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Isaiah 40:1-11. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
December 6 Advent Comfort and Peace Crytogram Activity
This crytogram activity is an intergenerational way to help us think and talk about the message of hope, peace, and comfort found in Isaiah 40:1-11.
November 29, First Sunday of Advent
November 29,First Sunday of Advent Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Mark 13:24-37. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
November 29 Advent Wreath Craft Activity
This creative craft activity for children can be an intergenerational way to help us think and talk about the Sundays of Advent as we watch, wait, and prepare for Christmas, Jesus’ birthday.
November 22, 2020 Christ the King Sunday
November 22, Christ the King Sunday Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Matthew 25:31-46. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
November 22 Christ the King Sunday Craft Activity
This creative craft activity for children can be an intergenerational way to help us think and talk about Christ the King Sunday and the parable of the King’s judgement of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25:31-46, teaching us to show Christ’s love to everyone we encounter.
November 15, 2020 Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
November 15, Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Matthew 25:14-30. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
November 15 Talents Bank Craft Activity
This creative craft activity for children, youth, and adults is a way to help us think and talk about the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 and how it warns us to use the gifts that God has given to us.
November 8, 2020 Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost
November 8, Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Matthew 25:1-13. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
November 8 Ten Virgins’ Lamps Craft Activity
This creative craft activity for children, youth, and adults is a way to help us think and talk about the parable of the ten virgins or bridesmaids in Matthew 25:1-13 and how it warns us to be focused and ready.
November 1, 2020 Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost and All Saints Day
November 1, Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost and All Saints Day Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for All Saints Day, Revelation 7:9-17. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
November 1 All Saints Letter Activity
This letter writing activity for children, youth, and adults is a way to help us think about all those who have helped us learn and grow in the faith so that we may know the love of Jesus and learn more about his way.
October 25, 2020 Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost
October 25, Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
October 25 Be Holy! Word Search Activity
This word search activity for children, youth, and adults is an intergenerational way to help us think about Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18 which tells of God’s command to the children of Israel to live holy lives.
October 18, 2020 Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost
October 18, Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 33:12-23. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
October 18 Moses Asks to See God’s Glory Word Search Activity
This word search and hidden message activity for children, youth, and adults is an intergenerational way to help us think about Exodus 33:12-23 which tells of Moses conversation with God.
October 11, 2020 Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
October 11, Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 32:1-14. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
October 11 The Gold Calf- NO Idols Craft Activity
This craft activity for children, youth, and adults is a creative and intergenerational way to help us think about Exodus 32:1-14 which tells of God’s relationship with the Israelites and the way the Israelites turned to other gods.
October 4, 2020 Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost
October 4, Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
October 4 The Ten Commandments Word Find Activity
This word find activity for children, youth, and adults is a way to help us think about Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20, which tells of God’s relationship with the Israelites and the Ten Commandments.
September 27, 2020 Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost
September 27, Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Psalm 78:1-4,12-16. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
September 27 A Psalm for the Future Activity
This journaling activity for children, youth, and adults is a way to help us think about Psalm 78: 1-4, 12-16, which tells of God’s relationship with the Israelites. It helps us to think and record how we are feeling as we continue to go through the Coronavirus pandemic, how God is blessing us right now, and how we will share our stories with the children in our future.
September 20, 2020 Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost
September 20, Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 16:2-15. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
September 20 Corona Complaints Activity
This journaling activity for children, youth, and adults is a way to help us think about Exodus 16:2-15–the Israelites’ complaint and God’s response. It helps us to think and record how we are feeling as we continue to go through the Coronavirus pandemic and to imagine God’s response to us.
September 13, 2020 Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
September 13, Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 14:19-31; Exodus 15:1b-11, 20-21. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
September 13 Miriam’s Tambourine Activity
This activity, particularly for the children and the young at heart, is a fun (even intergenerational) way to help us think about Exodus 14:19-31; Exodus 15:1b-11, 20-21 and remind us that singing praises to God helps us remember God’s saving acts toward us and others.
September 6, 2020 Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost
September 6, Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 12:1-14. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
September 6 Passover Unleavened Bread Activity
This activity is a fun (even intergenerational) way to help us think about Exodus 12:1-14 and remind us that Passover helps us remember God’s saving acts toward us and others.
August 30, 2020 Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost
August 30, Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 3:1-15. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
August 30 Burning Bush Craft
This activity, particularly designed for children, is a fun (even intergenerational) way to remind us that God can call all of us to courageous acts to help others and ourselves like in Exodus 3:1-15.
August 23, 2020 Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost
August 23, Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Exodus 1:8-2:10. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
August 23 God Uses Women to Protect Baby Moses Decoding Activity
This activity, particularly designed for children, is a fun way to remind us that God can call all of us to courageous acts to help others and ourselves like in Exodus 1:8-2:10.
August 16, 2020 Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost
August 16, Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Matthew 15: (10-20), 21-28. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
August 16 Jesus Listens and Heals Coloring and Journaling Activity
This activity, particularly designed for children, is a fun way to remind us that all are worthy of God’s love and are to be treated fairly like in Matthew 15: (10-20), 21-28. It also teaches about some of the principles of the current Black Lives Matter movement.
August 9, 2020 Tenth Sunday after Pentecost
August 9, Tenth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, 1 Kings 19:9-18. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
August 9 When God Whispers Games
For all ages, this activity is a fun way to remind us that sometimes God speaks to us in quietness, even in silence like in 1 Kings 19:9-18. This is the old game, which some call Telephone. We can still play it with those with whom we are sheltering and those in our COVID-19 safe group or pod. To play a version with others, the game is changed so it can be played with others with video conferencing.
August 2, 2020 Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
August 2, Ninth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Matthew 14:13-21. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
August 2 Loaves and Fish Puzzle
This puzzle activity for children and the young at heart reinforces the story in Matthew 14:13-21 when Jesus feeds the multitude using five loaves and two fish. This activity can be used by one or a group. Once the puzzle is prepared, the fun can continue for days after.
July 26, 2020 Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
July 26, Eighth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on two of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Genesis 29:15-28 and 1 Kings 3:5-12. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
July 26 Godly and Wise Leadership Learning Activity
This learning activity for children, teens, and the young at heart reinforces the story in 1 Kings 3:5-12, which tells of King Solomon’s prayer for wisdom to lead. It also looks at the godly and wise leadership of two USA Civil Rights leaders, Rev. C.T. Vivian and US Representative John Lewis, both who recently passed away.
July 19, 2020 Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
July 19, Seventh Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Genesis 28:10-19. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
July 19 The Size of the Promise Science Activity
This science activity reinforces the stories in Genesis 22 and 28, which tell of God’s promise first to Abraham and then to Jacob.
July 12, 2020 Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
July 12, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
July 12 The Sower and the Seed Word Search Activity
This word search activity reinforces Jesus’ parable of the sower and the seed as is found in Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23.
July 5, 2020 Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
July 5, Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
July 5 Crossword Activity
This crossword activity reinforces Jesus’ invitation to come and let him share our burdens as is found in Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30.
June 28, 2020 Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
June 28, Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on one of the passages from the lection for Sunday, Genesis 22:1-14. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
June 28 Craft Activity
This craft activity creatively reinforces the Genesis account of Abraham and Isaac and the sacrifice.
June 21, Third Sunday after Pentecost
June 21, Third Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on two passages from the lection for Sunday, Genesis 21:8-21 and Matthew 10:24-39. It grounds the Black Lives Matter movement scripturally. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
June 21 Activity
This activity reinforces Matthew’s account of Jesus calling the disciples and is a reminder that Black Lives Matter.
Remembering The Emanuel 9
This short resource by Ms. Jacquelyn Dupont Walker, Consultant for the AMEC Social Action Commission, helps us remember our slain beloved and encourages us to recommit to the struggle for racial justice.
Link to Some Ideas for Children’s Hand-made Father’s Day Gifts
June 14, 2020 Second Sunday after Pentecost
June 14, Second Sunday after Pentecost Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on two passages from the lection for Sunday, Genesis 18:1-15, (21:1-7) and Matthew 9:35-10:8, (9-23) It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
June 14 Activity
This word search activity reinforces Matthew’s account of Jesus calling the disciples.
June 7, 2020
June 7 Trinity Sunday Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation is based on Matthew 28:16-20. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
June 7 Craft Activity
This craft activity creatively reinforces the Christian understanding of the Triune God (the three in one) and helps us celebrate Trinity Sunday.
Pentecost, May 31, 2020
May 31 Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation is based on the 2020 Pentecost Message of the Presidents of the World Council of Churches. It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
MCAM
Music and Christian Arts Ministry (MCAM) Virtual Connectional Mass Choir Pentecost Offering
Seventh Sunday in Easter, May 24, 2020
May 24 Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on John 17:1-11, one of the readings of the lectionary for the Seventh Sunday of Easter (Year A). It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
May 17 Craft Activity
Since Thursday, May 21 was the Ascension of the Lord (40 days after Easter) and some churches will celebrate this on Sunday, April 24, this craft activity creatively reinforces the Ascension account, Acts 1:1-11.
Sixth Sunday in Easter, May 17, 2020
May 17 Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on Acts 17:22-31, one of the readings of the lectionary for the Sixth Sunday of Easter (Year A). It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
May 17 Word Search
This word search puzzle reinforces the message of Acts 17:22-31, God is near to each of us.
Fifth Sunday in Easter, May 10, 2020
May 10 Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on John 14:1-14, the gospel reading of the lectionary for the Fifth Sunday of Easter (Year A). It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
May 10 Word Search
This word search puzzle reinforces the Eastertide message of John 14:1-14, Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Links to some Ideas for Children’s hand-made Mother’s Day gifts
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/mothers-day/g32126629/mothers-day-crafts-for-kids/
https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/mothers-day-crafts-for-kids/
Fourth Sunday in Easter, May 3, 2020
May 3 Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on John 10:1-10, the gospel reading of the lectionary for the Fourth Sunday of Easter (Year A). It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
May 3 Children/Youth Craft Activity
This craft activity reinforces the Eastertide message of John 10:1-10, Jesus as the Gate/Door and Good Shepherd.
May 3 Psalm 23 Challenge
Please see the resources for March 22.
Third Sunday in Easter, April 26, 2020
April 26 Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on Luke 24:13-35, the gospel reading of the lectionary for the Third Sunday of Easter (Year A). It can be used as a family or group devotional time or for an individual.
April 26 Children/Youth/Family Bread Baking Activity
This activity reinforces the Eastertide message of Luke 24:13-35. Families and households may want to do this activity before sharing in the devotional meditation for this week.
Second Sunday in Easter, April 19, 2020
April 19 Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce is based on John 20:19-31, the gospel reading of the lectionary for the Second Sunday of Easter (Year A).
April 19 Children/Youth/Family Activity—The Questions Game
This activity reinforces the Eastertide message of John 20:19-31,helping to explore the themes of questions, doubt, and belief in the risen Christ.
Resurrection Sunday, April 12, 2020
These resources can be used with the worship and study resources provided by the AMEC Publishing House (www.iamame.org).
Easter Devotional Meditation
This devotional meditation written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce based on Matthew 28:1-10 can be used corporately or for an individual’s devotional time.
Easter Children/Youth Activity and Challenge
This activity reinforces the Easter message of Matthew 28:1-10, speaking to this fearful time of pandemic. It is an ongoing project that children and families can do together until this pandemic is over and even after.
Some Other Ideas for Children and Families for Easter
These are just a few ideas to reinforce the message and meaning of Easter even in the midst of pandemic.
Three ecumenical organizations (National Council of Churches, USA; Churches Uniting in Christ; and Christian Churches Together) have come together to share some ways we can celebrate Easter this year (old and young alike). Visit: http://nationalcouncilofchurches.us/three-ecumenical-organizations-release-unprecedented-letter/
Butterfly Craft: Easter is about new life; and, butterflies symbolize this. Here is the link to a simple butterfly craft activity: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/479844535301289369/
Ideas for a Christ-centered Easter egg hunt: http://www.messestomemories.com/2015/03/christ-centered-easter-egg-hunt.html
Tips for hosting a Virtual Egg Hunt: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/easter-ideas/a32080456/virtual-easter-egg-hunts/
A Virtual Egg Hunt Video (for less of the work and more of the fun): https://abc7news.com/kids-games-easter-2020-virtual-egg-hunt-activity-for/6089878/
Devotion for April 5, 2020 Palm Sunday
Here is a simple reflection on palms and Palm Sunday during this time of pandemic written by Rev. Garland F. Pierce. It offers some theological reflection and a couple of practical ideas for celebrating Palm Sunday as we follow the recommended actions of the health authorities. This resource can be used with the Palm Sunday resources provided by the AMEC Publishing House (www.iamame.org) as well as the litany coming from Bishop Adam J. Richardson, our Senior Bishop.
Devotion for Sunday, March 29, 2020
This meditation prepared by Rev. Garland F. Pierce can be used corporately or for an individual’s devotional time. It is based on Ezekiel 37:1-14, one of the lectionary readings for Sunday, March 29, 2020.
Ezekiel 37:1-14 Family and Children’s Game
This low-tech activity based on Ezekiel 37:1-14 is a fun and simple little game that children can play. Families also can play this game as a part of devotional time.
Ezekiel 37:1-14 Children’s Activity (with instructions in multiple languages)
Here is a low-tech activity based on Ezekiel 37:1-14. This simple craft activity is a fun way to introduce the story of Ezekiel in the Valley of Dry Bones.
Fitness Sunday at Home
First AME Church: BETHEL, led by Rev. Dr. Henry A. Belin III, pastor, for some time has made the fifth Sunday of the month FITNESS SUNDAY. The congregation dressed in casual and workout attire joins in worship and takes a moment in the service to engage in a bit of low impact fitness training, led by choir soloist and personal trainer, Kevin Watson. During the Coronavirus Pandemic as we all practice “physical” distancing, Mr. Watson prepared a short video of low impact exercises with a smile so that the congregation can continue to move and worship on Fitness Sunday and any other time while members shelter in place. We share it as a resource for others to use as they stay active during this time.
Devotion for Sunday, March 22, 2020
This meditation prepared by Rev. Garland F. Pierce can be used corporately or for an individual’s devotional time. It is based on Psalm 23, one of the lectionary readings for Sunday, March 22, 2020.
Psalm 23 Challenge
Psalm 23 is probably the most beloved and well known passage of scripture, perhaps because of its power to bring comfort and assurance. The AMEC Department of Christian Education challenges us to flood emails and social media with this psalm in many languages and forms during this pandemic so that others might receive a message of comfort and assurance.
Devotion for Sunday, March 15, 2020
This meditation prepared by Rev. Garland F. Pierce can be used corporately or for an individual’s devotional time. It is based on Romans 5:1-11, one of the lectionary readings for Sunday, March 15, 2020
Devotional and Study Ideas during the Pandemic
At this time when many are practicing “social distancing”, families, households, and individuals still desire time to worship and reflect on and study the word of God. This short list highlights some existing resources that might be used for this purpose.