BOOKS AND STORIES - Advent
Passing the Christian story down from generation to generation is a practice even older than the Bible! On this page you will find books* to share with children of different ages - and maybe a video as well to share as a family. Take turns reading and telling the stories among the readers in your families and grow closer to God and each other as you do! |
Benjamin Bear is so impatient for Christmas to come. To help the time pass more quickly, his mother tells him that every day when he opens a door on his Advent calendar she'll tell him a story--""twenty-four stories all about another little bear and his long, arduous journey to Bethlehem. The little bear, led by a glittering star, meets many others on his travels across hot deserts, snowy mountains, and through dark, lonely nights. His adventures, filled with acts of heroism and kindness and many small miracles, show him the path to the Christ Child. And by journey's end Benjamin Bear--""and all youngsters who share the stories and their simple morals along with him--""will understand and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.
Advent is a season almost forgotten by the secular world. With new toys and electronics available, why should we focus on this time of anticipation? Most everyone cannot wait for Christmas morning to arrive, but is it for the right reason? Sarah A. Reinhard designed Welcome Baby Jesus for you and your family to capture some of what's intended by the liturgical season of Advent. Each day has a Scripture quote from the Sunday gospel readings, a brief reflection, and an action to complete. With each passing Sunday, your Advent Wreath will grow brighter, your family's faith will grow stronger, and the true meaning of this season will be discovered.
After your family makes its Advent wreath, it is time to find devotions that will help your children (and you!) take time out each day to remember the reason for the season. This book has short prayers and responses that will help you develop a family devotional practice. Your family might enjoy devotional time together so much that you will want to continue through Christmas and into the New Year.
Christmas or confusion, Bethlehem or bedlam . . . Which will you choose this year? The truth is, we don’t have to choose, because Christmas always happens right in the midst of our chaos. God breaks into our
noisy disorder and is made known in Jesus Christ. Christmas and confusion—weren’t they intimately related at the first Christmas when Jesus was born? Sometimes we forget that. This study helps us remember that Christ breaks into our chaos and confusion and brings Christmas—how Bethlehem always happens in the midst of bedlam. Suitable for older children and adults, this study can be adapted easily for family use (just do the exercises together!) Each Sunday night of Advent, read and share as you light your Advent candles. Each week includes reflection questions, a brief prayer, a focus for the week and six daily Bible readings for use during the week. |