on my way to canada

this weekend i'm traveling to canada to speak at a church - i'm really looking forward to the topic: discovering a fresh perspective for the spiritual formation of  kids.  i'm so energized by conversations that stretch our minds and challenge our assumptions - in order that children benefit in their faith relationship.

i'll be presenting 2 workshops - the first is called how to see the lemons and the limes and gives vision to developing a new perspective. it's based on isaiah 43:19 which is one of my all-time favorite passages: be alert, be present, i'm about to do something new. it's bursting out! don't you see it? there it is! i'm making a road through the desert, rivers in the badlands.

i believe that we need a fresh perspective in order to discover new ways of building a lasting faith for children. much of the research cited in this workshop is from unChristian by david kinnamen and gabe lyons, growing up digital by don tapscott, and children's ministry in the 21st century by group publishing.

the second workshop is called 3 keys to spiritually forming kids and is a practical lab in which we discuss:

1. connecting parents with the church (by partnering together in providing family resources, establishing safety for new parents, and providing a nutritious and allergy free environment),


2. bringing the bible and faith to life for children (by providing opportunities for children to discover the bible as a cohesive story and ask honest questions about the bible, and providing opportunities for children to see their faith as bigger than themselves by serving others and understanding the global community.)


3. modeling an authentic faith - specifically through the hidden curriculum

i'm excited about the trip - and all that it will mean for the children of this lovely church.