911 Resources for September 11th, 2011

I. Opening
Reflections on 911 that play with soft music in the background. Quotations from actual 911 news sources mix with the sayings of Jesus, an opening prayer, and a pause to thank God for the memories of those who have given their lives. (Time: 3:23)

II. Children's Sermon
A cartoon children's sermon with optional skit and five questions on bullying, defending yourself, and Jesus' view on fighting is included in this resource based on the story of Judge Deborah and General Barak, Judges 4. Use it in worship or as a Sunday school opening and discussion. (Time: Approximately 5 minutes)

III. Lessons
Three texts are chosen to accompany the Old Testament story of Judge Deborah and General Barak. The verses may be read, sung and/or signed in American Sign Language (ASL). A karaoke version of the songs, MP3s of the music, lead sheets, piano scores, and links to ASL online at www.faithink.com are provided.

• Judges 5:3 celebrates Judge Deborah's praise to God for deliverance
• Psalm 34:1-8 stresses trusting God during times of trouble
• Romans 6:3-4 focuses on burying the old self and rising to the newness of life in Christ
• Matthew 5:9 centers on Jesus' call for his followers to be peacemakers

IV. Sermon (with optional small group discussion and role play)
A set of customizable slides with two 911 stories, statistics on the costs of war, art by Dr. He Qi, and quotations from Jesus, Bonhoeffer, Luther, Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr. and others. Use some or all of the slides to build your sermon or turn this into a cross-generational education session for the whole faith community. Suggestions for small group time are also included. (Time: Approximately 20 minutes, plus optional small group discussion.)

V. Closing
Accompanied with soft music, reflect with slides detailing the exact events of 9.01.01, plus quotations, a closing prayer, and a blessing. (Time: 4:45)

Promotional Posters
Place these at schools, hospitals, coffee shops and local bulletin boards to invite the community to worship with you.

Invitational Bulletins
These special bulletins are designed to be distributed on the Sundays prior to September 11th. Invite members to take them home and personally invite friends, co-workers and neighbors to join them at worship.

Postcard Invitations
Invite members to jot a personal note on these convenient cards and drop them in the mail to neighbors, local community leaders, military personnel and friends from other faith communities.

Conversational Flying Disc
Spray-mount this art by Dr. He Qi to a FRISBEE® and toss it around in education or small groups, inviting people to reflect on war, peace, and their understanding of Christ's call to be peacemakers in the world.