This series explores the heart, soul, purpose, and place of worship. We begin with the heart of worship—that is, God’s desire that worship leads to justice. Then we look at the soul of worship: the story of our faith that we gather to remember. Week three explores the purpose of worship—to renew our spirits to continue the work of loving God and loving our neighbor in our everyday lives. And we finish with the reminder that we can worship anywhere—not just in a sanctuary. Participants will discover the value and importance of worship beyond the music.
Details:
$75.00
Week 1—The Heart of Worship
Participants will explore a basic definition of worship. They will watch a video that shows crowds of people gathering for celebration and ritual. They will explore scripture passages from Amos and Romans that point us to what God seeks in worship. Ultimately, they will develop a definition of worship that sets the tone for the rest of this series.
Scripture—Amos 5:21-24
Week 2—The Soul of Worship
In this lesson, participants will explore how worship is about a gathered community remembering the story of the life and ministry of Jesus. They will hear the Godly Play story: Circle of the Church Year. They will explore Psalm 68 and hymns that offer theologically rich insights into why we come together to sing and proclaim our faith. Participants will become more aware of the importance and value of the gathered faith community, sharing the experience of remembering the story of our faith that binds us together and gives us purpose.
Scripture—Psalm 68: 1-6a
Week 3—The Purpose of Worship
This week, students will experience a labyrinth walk—using a finger labyrinth or actual path—to explore how worship renews their spirits for God’s work in the world. The goal is to encounter moments of surprise, challenge, and reflection, noticing their WOW moments and the thoughts and feelings they stir. Through discussion and scripture, students will consider how openness to God transforms their hearts and guides their daily actions. This lesson stands out by turning the abstract idea of spiritual renewal into a hands-on, reflective experience that connects worship, personal insight, and faithful living.
Scripture—Isaiah 40:38-31
Week 4—Worship Without Walls
Participants will explore various settings and ways people can worship beyond the traditional Sunday morning sanctuary experience. They will read ten testimonials of people’s experience of worship, explore what worshipping beyond the church walls might look and feel like, and then write their own testimonials. Participants will connect back to each lesson in this series to gain a more holistic understanding of worship as the way we live our lives and practice the presence of God each and every day.
Scripture—Psalm 139:7-14
Holy Disruptions series are designed to delve into the unique experiences of today’s youth, spark deep theological reflection, and foster transformative discussions. Our three-part methodology empowers students to align with God’s vision and desires for the world.
Facilitate a disorienting experience – where students are most receptive to growth.
Invite students to investigate their reaction to the disorienting moment.
Ask students to explore what God says about it.
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