Good Afternoon, Formation Community,

As we are midway through Eastertide, many of you have already made plans for Pentecost I am sure. If you haven't, its not TOO LATE! There are ideas and resources below. In addition, there are resources for graduation and other end of the year celebrations with ideas for in person and at home.

In addition, as a diocese we continue to pray for the all of the people impacted by the death of Andrew Brown, Jr. in Elizabeth City. I have include links to previous Formation Updates with resources on Racial Healing for all ages. You can read Bishop Skirving's Pastoral Letter HERE. You can read a letter from the Diocese of East Carolina's newly reformed Racial Healing Commission HERE. Be on the look out for more information about Dismantling Racism Curriculum for Youth offerings as we move into the summer.

There are some excellent events coming up as well, please look all the way through so you don't miss anything!

As always, if I can be helpful to you or your parish, please do not hesitate to be in touch me with.

Peace,

Missioner for Lifelong Christian Formation
Click on the image to access previous Faith Formation Updates with resources on Racism, Racial Healing and more.
Activities for Home or Church
Offers several different coloring pages and poster options. These can be printed and handed out if you are gathering in person or emailed out for individuals and families to use at home. They are purchased through a license based on parish or context size and some are available in Spanish.

This comes from Presbyterian Church, the supplies are simple to find and the idea behind the activity would be really timely as churches move into a new time. How do we see the Holy Spirit moving in ourselves and moving in our communities.
Books and Other Resources
A Children's book by Rebekah McLeod Hutto that uses all 5 senses to help children and families explore the story of Pentecost and how the Holy Spirit shaped, and continues to shape, who we are as God’s Church.

Written by Laura Alary, author of Make Room: A Child’s Guide to Lent and Easter and Look! A Child’s Guide to Advent and Christmas this book shares the comings and goings of Jesus through the telling of the Ascension and Pentecost stories.

Lesson Plans That Work are a resource provide by The Episcopal Church. Lessons are written by experienced Christian Formation teachers using practical ideas for volunteer leaders.
Other Pentecost Ideas Shared in the
April Diocesan Formation Leader Gathering:
Most of these supplies can be used at church for an in person activity or bagged up and made available for those still at home.
• Pentecost Prayer Flags - This post can give you some ideas about how to make them.
• Pentecost Ribbon Sticks - Using Pentecost colors, this post offers simple supplies and a method.
• Painted Dove Ornaments - You can order wooden doves here and have a painting days ahead of Pentecost. Hang the doves for worship on Pentecost where those worshipping at home can also see them.


As many congregations are returning to in person worship and activities, there can be a push to do ALL THE THINGS. This post from Building Faith offers some excellent advice on how to have great celebrations without sending in the clowns!
From Lesson Plans That Work, this offering provides links to other ideas and ways to honor graduates in a variety of ways.

How to Honor and Celebrate the Class of 2021 (No Matter What): 21 Ideas This post from Grown and Flown offers some ideas and good advice about how to celebrate in yet another strange year. From simply asking graduates what they want to letting of old expectations. A good read for parishes planning to celebrate and parents alike.

A comprehensive list from re:Worship. It was updated for use in 2020, so many of the links would be helpful and appropriate for 2021.
Thank You Notes - It has been a year. It is likely that parish ministry volunteers have taken on new roles and responsibilities. Whether or not you are gathering in person, volunteer still need to be thanked. A handwritten, sent in the snail mail, thank you note is often treasured when it is received. From children to adults. Thanking the acolytes to the altar guild after a program year like no other is essential.

Celebrating the Ending - A Celebration of Ministry From Seasons of the Spirit, this can be used on its own or in the context of worship. Written originally for year C, it can be adapted for other times.
June 14 - 17, 2021

"Light on the Path"
In person - COVID Protocols in Place
"This gathering will allow time for conversations as we ponder the path that we have traveled during the past twelve months. There will be time for worship, spiritual growth, reflection, imagining, dreaming and mapping our future with the hope of endless possibilities. This Kanuga Gathering is open to all who want to learn and to gather with old friends and new, both lay and ordained."

Keynote Speakers:
The Rev'd Dr. Stephanie Spellers and The Rev'd Jay Sidebotham
Youth Week
June 20-25, 2021 - Online - $50
Offerings for Youth & Young Adults
The Episcopal Diocese of East Carolina | 252-522-0885 | www.diocese-eastcarolina.org