The IMD team has been ON THE LOOKOUT for some great resources to EQUIP YOU in the lead-up and follow-up to Gripped by Grace. These can be used by churches, youth groups or as something to do on your own.
Quite frankly, there is some great stuff out there!
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PROMOTIONAL material is available for you to download.
These LINKS are a great place to get started if you want to explore some different aspects of global mission.
There are also a number of things that you, your church or your youth group can do BEFORE or AFTER 'Gripped by Grace', to get the maximum impact out of the night. Here are some ideas...
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Have a THEME NIGHT dedicated to exploring a different country, people group, mission agency or missionary family. Dress up, have international food, play games from that country, experience the culture, pray for the people... be creative!
AMAZING RACE: Run a FUN, interactive and energetic game which gives an insight into different countries, statistics, culture, food... This game is a winner for youth groups.
Invite SPEAKERS to come to your church and share their amazing stories! Mission agency reps are always keen to do short, inspirational presentations, and former/current missionaries seem to have a rare passion and fervour that will inspire and motivate you!
PRAY for a different country each youth group night, in small groups. 'Operation World' has a wealth of information about different countries that can be useful in praying for them.
Send a CARE PACKAGE to missionaries that your church supports. Include letters, photos, newspaper clippings and lots of Tim Tams and Vegemite!
SUPPORT Christians in other countries. Youth, join a group like the new 'Thirteen Three' to support persecuted Christians.
Have a Progressive DINNER which encourages your congregation to experience a new culture through food. Tantalise your taste buds...
INVITE someone from your church to talk to your youth group about their involvement in another ministry area. Encourage people to get involved in mission at home.
Take part in a PERSPECTIVES course in your local area. This course is highly recommended! It will challenge you to see how BIG God's mission is. The purpose of the course is not to transform every person doing it into a missionary; however, to challenge every Christian to become strategic as well as obedient in participating with the Living God in His mission.