What’s a Playlist?
A Playlist is a set of activities exploring a topic. The activities might include reading an article or scripture, listening to a podcast or sermon, watching a video or movie clip. Each month we’ll post three Playlists designed for Children, Youth, and Adults. All of us will explore the same topic, but the Playlists will be designed for each age group. You can work your way through the Playlists at your own pace throughout the month.
Remember you can always share your thoughts in the comment section at the bottom of this page.
May Playlist
Holy Spirit
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
5/1/24
Introduction
This month’s theme is Holy Spirit. You may have heard that phrase when you make the sign of the cross and say Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We call that the trinity, and all three of those are God. He provides comfort and hope. He also works through us helping us shine our light and serve others. The Holy Spirit is like having an invisible best friend. He can talk to us, guide us, comfort us, and help us stay on track with God’s will. Even though you cannot see the Holy Spirit, he is there. Just like we cannot see air, but we know it is there because we can breathe it in and out. Have fun exploring more below about the Holy Spirit.
Listen
Get DOWN with these kids singing ‘Holy Spirit Fire’:
This song has some fun movements that are easy to learn:
Read
Open the Bible and read:
John 14:26
Luke 3:22
1 Corinthians 6:19
Romans 15:13
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
The Dark by Lemony Snicket
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the Holy Spirit theme:
Holy Spirit in The Dark
You Can Do It, Bert by Ole Konnecke
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the Holy Spirit theme:
Holy Spirit in You Can Do It, Bert
Watch
Douglas is back talking about the Holy Spirit.
Here is the Bible story of when God sends the Holy Spirit.
Do
This site has some fun ways to explore and better understand The Holy Spirit using things like a balloon or milk and chocolate syrup.
Here is a lesson you can do with your family. You can print out the activity and follow the instructions.
This is a fun printable that allows you to create a paper Pentecost candle at home AND learn to say hello in lots of languages!
In the mood to bake? Here is a recipe for Pentecost Sunday cookies. It includes a description of Pentecost and the Holy Spirit that you could talk about while baking or while you enjoy the cookies.
Feeling crafty? Here are directions to make a pinwheel and how it connects to the Holy Spirit.
Pray
God of all, you sent your Spirit to be with the disciples, filling them with joy, peace and courage. May we also be filled with your Spirit, be brave and share your peace in our world. Amen.
April Playlist
Shepherd
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
4/1/24
Introduction
In the Bible, Jesus calls Himself our shepherd. He says that He is the good shepherd, and He calls to His sheep. A shepherd’s job is to protect and care for his sheep. The shepherd watches over them and gets to know them, and the sheep know who their leader is and respond to the voice of the shepherd. It is the
same with us . . . Jesus cares for us as His “sheep.” God knows us by name and loves us. If we let Him, He will be our good shepherd and guide, too! Have fun exploring the theme below!
Listen
Here’s a fun song that includes sheep sounds! Everyone can sing along to this one! The BAA! BAA! Song:
Make sure you have room to move for this one. Jump up and get ready to sing “Oh My Shepherd”:
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Psalm 23:1-3
John 10:14-15
Hebrews 13:20-21
Micah 5:4
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
Betsy Who Cried Wolf by Gail Carson Levine
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Shepherd”:
Shepherd in Betsy Who Cried Wolf
Herd Boy by Niki Daly
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Shepherd”:
Shepherd in The Herd Boy
Watch
Here is a fun video talking about The Lord is My Shepherd:
Do
Here is a “Good Shepherd” craft you can print, color and assemble.
Good Shepherd Craft
This has a fun Good Shepherd learning activity and craft.
Good Shepherd Learning Activity & Craft
Do you love a good word find? You can print this one out and see how many words you can find.
Good Shepherd Word Find
Shepherd Game: This would be fun and easy to play with your family. Have one person hide the sheep (cotton balls) around the house. Then the “shepherds” get to go look for the lost sheep. The one who finds the most sheep is it and can hide all the sheep again.
Pray
Dear God,
Thank you for taking care of us. Thank you for protecting us and providing for us and being our Good Shepherd. Help us to listen to your voice so we can follow you. Thank you for your love.
We love you, God! In Jesus name, Amen!
Lenten Playlist
Wandering Heart
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
2/14/24
Introduction
Our theme during Lent is “Wandering Heart.” We will be focusing on one of Jesus’ disciples, Peter, and his journey with Jesus. Peter was a follower and wanderer; he was a friend, but he also betrayed his friend. Peter sounds like many of us. And just like Peter, God loves us no matter what. He will always be by our side on our journey through life. Below you can explore Lent and this theme. Have fun wandering through the options! Let your heart lead the way.
Listen
On Palm Sunday we know the crowds shout Hosanna! as Jesus rides by. Here is a fun song you probably know called “Ho-Ho-Ho-Hosanna!”
This family has beautiful voices and you will love this slow, but powerful song. “Come Thou Fount”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Psalm 22:23-31
Luke 5:1-11
Matthew 17:1-13
Luke 24:1-12
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
Gifts of the Heart by Patricia Polacco
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Wandering Heart:
Wandering Heart in Gifts of the Heart
Just the Way You Are by Max Lucado
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Wandering Heart:
Wandering Heart in Just the Way You Are
Watch
Douglas is back talking about the word Hosanna!
Do
The following activities are from A Sanctified Art.
Wandering Heart Lenten Calendar:
Lenten Calendars are available at both sites for families. There are simple activities to do as we follow Peter through the season of Lent. Click the link if you would like to print one at home.
Wandering Heart Lenten Calendar
Woven Nets:
Materials
• Twelve 1”x 9” strips of construction paper per child.
• Markers or crayons.
Instructions: Write sentences about yourself on the strips of construction paper, 10 per person. Each person will also need 2 blank strips to create a woven net. You can start with things like “I like…” “I am…” “I can…” or “I love…” Or full sentences such as “Jesus chooses me to be a disciple” or “Disciples follow Jesus.” Once you’ve written on your strips, weave the strips into a net. Take one blank strip and tape one end of five strips to it, about 1” apart. Then tape the other blank strip across the other ends of the strips to hold them together. Keep alternating, going over and under. Leave some space between each strip for the holes in the net. Secure the ends with tape as needed.
Hoping on Water (Hopscotch):
Materials
• Sidewalk chalk (outdoor) or masking tape (indoor).
Instructions: Draw a hopscotch grid on the ground with chalk, or create an indoor hopscotch grid using masking tape, with seven “hops.” You might choose to use blue chalk or tape and make the hopscotch grid out of watery shapes to tie in the water imagery in the scripture. Invite children to take turns hopping through the grid on one foot as they say, “God is with me when I’m scared!” (one word per hop).
Empty Tomb Gardens:
Materials
• Small gardening pots, about 3” wide (one per child).
• Large plant saucers or plates, about 12” wide (one per child).
• River rocks and/or landscaping rocks.
• Potting soil.
• Trowels or scoops.
• Moss, such as reindeer moss.
• Grass seeds, flower seeds, or herb seeds (optional).
• Spray bottle with water for misting (optional).
Instructions: Place a small gardening pot on its side inside of a saucer or plate. Place rocks on either side to keep the pot in place and create the shape of a hill. Place soil around and on top of the pot and rocks, filling the plate or saucer and leaving the sideways pot empty as an empty tomb. Decorate the garden with additional rocks and moss. You may also wish to spread seeds on the soil so the garden can grow with new life! If planting seeds, be sure to keep the soil moist by misting it. See this blog post for photos and instructions.
Empty Tomb Gardens
Pray
Dear God, we are so grateful that you gave us a hope that never dies, even when things seem impossible. Help us to share our hope with the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Epiphany Playlist
Invite
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
1/1/24
Introduction
I’m sure you have all received an invitation before. Maybe to a birthday party, a school event, or even to church or Sunday School! You know who has an open invitation for us? God! He loves us so much and is always inviting us to be in a relationship with him, to talk to him, to pray to him, to praise him, and more! I invite you to explore this theme below and think about someone you can invite to join you at Sunday School or Kids Connect!
Listen
This is a beautiful song that reminds us that even though you may be small you can follow Jesus in a big way!
“Small and Simple Faith”
Most of us know this song, but it’s a great reminder to invite all to share in the celebration of the birth of Jesus!
“Go Tell It On The Mountain”
We’ve sung this in worship before. It’s an invitation to come to worship and praise God!
“Come, Now is the Time to Worship”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Genesis 24:31-33
John 21:12
Psalm 95:1-2
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
A Night Out by Daniel Miyares
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the Invite theme:
Invite in A Night Out
Today Is a Baptism Day by Anna V. Ostenso Moore
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the Invite theme:
Invite in Today is a Baptism Day
Watch
Here is video that talks about Epiphany. Notice the star that was like an invitation and guide to come see the baby Jesus.
Do
Here is an invitation you can print out and color and give it to a friend. Sunday Education and Kids Connect are more fun with friends!
Invitation
Here is recipe to make stained glass star cookies. Perfect for Epiphany! You could wrap some in a baggie and give them to someone and invite them to something . . . to have lunch with you, to come to church, to play a game, etc.
Recipe
Print out this fun Epiphany game and invite your family and friends to play it with you. It has all the directions, game board and pieces you need.
Game
December Playlist
Rejoice
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
12/1/23
Introduction
Advent season is a time of waiting, preparing, and joy! During this time, we await Jesus’ birth. You might have an advent wreath at home that you light or an Advent calendar that counts down the days. This month we are focusing on the word REJOICE, to feel great joy! One Bible verse you might be familiar with is “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad.” Advent is a great time to think about all the things that bring us joy and things we want to celebrate including Jesus’ birth and God’s unending love. Rejoice as you explore the activities below.
Listen
You can clap along to learn the words to this song and then try the movements!
“Rejoice in the Lord Always”
Time to slow it down with this beautiful song. Think of all the things you have to rejoice and be thankful for as you listen to it!
“Rejoice”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Philippians 4:4
Psalm 118:24
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
Olympig by Victoria Jamieson
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Rejoice”
All My Treasures by By Jo Witek
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Rejoice”
Watch
What is Advent? Cocoa and Marsha interview the advent candle. There are many things to rejoice about this season.
Do
Here is the Advent calendar we will be giving out at worship and Education. You can always print out an extra one to give to a friend or neighbor.
Here are 10 ideas to help your family prepare for Christmas. Rejoice in the season of Advent as a family!
Here is a “Rejoice” coloring sheet, print it out and color away as you rejoice in the Lord!
While we are rejoicing this advent season, think about how you can share that joy with others. Can you make cards for a care center?Donate to a shelter? Help a neighbor? Be kind to someone at school? There are endless ideas! Share the joy of Jesus with others!
November Playlist
Community
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
11/1/23
Introduction
What does “community” mean to you? Is it just people being together? There are a lot of communities around us. There is your family community, your neighborhood community, your school community, your church community, and more. In these communities we work together and help each other. God has made us for one another and intends us to need each other. I am thankful YOU are in my community! Have fun exploring the theme “Community” below.
Listen
This is a great song with a good beat all about community and working together!
“Community Song”
Church is one place we gather with our community. This song is all about that big, big house!
“Big House”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
1 Corinthians 1:10
Proverbs 17:17
Matthew 18:20
Romans 12:16
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
The Breaking News by Sarah Lynne Reul
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Community”
Community in The Breaking News
Cold Snap by Eileen Spinelli
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Community”
Community in Cold Snap
Watch
I remember this song from childhood! Do you know it?
“Who are the People in Your Neighborhood?”
This is a video that talks about what the church is…it’s us! The community is what makes the church!
Do
This is a fun object lesson you can try as a family! We ARE stronger together, and church is much more than a place to go!
Pray
Here is a finger rhyme prayer that helps us to pray for others in our community. You might have others you’d like to add!
See my hands. They help me so. (Hold up both hands)
Wiggly fingers – watch them go! (Wiggle fingers)
When I talk to God, I pray (Fold hands)
Each one tells me what to say. (Touch fingertips together)
Thumbs are oh-so-close to me. (Touch thumbs to chest)
I’ll pray for my family.
Pointer tells me what to do. (Shake index finger)
I’ll pray for my teacher, too.
Middle stands so tall, not bent. (Hold one hand upright. Hold the other hand flat on top of it.)
I’ll pray for the president.
Rings for finer number four. (Touch tips of fourth fingers)
Please bless the sick and weak and poor.
Little finger – small to see. (Wiggle pinkies)
Now, I think I’ll pray for me!
October Playlist
Blessings
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
10/1/23
Introduction
A blessing is like a gift. Not just any old gift, it is a good gift that is meant to be helpful, useful, or encouraging and brings you happiness. It’s fun to get gifts, isn’t it? It’s even better when the gift is something that we can use or appreciate. When we receive that kind of a gift, it is a blessing. Did you know that God also blesses you? He loves you! That is a huge blessing. Blessings are gifts you can share with others too! When you share love, when you are caring, when you forgive someone, then you are sharing those gifts or blessings with others. Have fun exploring the theme “Blessings” below and think about some people you can share a blessing with or be a blessing for!
Listen
You probably have heard this song as a prayer!
“The Blessing”
Here is the same song preformed by kids over Zoom. I love their voices all together!
“The Blessing”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
James 1:17
Numbers 6: 24-26
Ephesians 1:3
Matthew 5:8
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
The Blessing Cup by Patriccia Polacco
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the “Blessings” theme:
Blessings in The Blessing Cup
Grateful by John Buccino
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the “Blessings” theme:
Blessings in Grateful
Watch
Douglas is back talking to us about blessings.
Do
This site is packed with “blessing” activities and includes a Blessing Scavenger Hunt, puzzle, word find and more!
Gather your family and try out this “Focus on God’s Blessings” game together.
Pray
September Playlist
Gather
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
9/1/23
Introduction
The word “gather” means to come together. Where are some places that you gather with others? School? Church? Home? Sports practices? Yes, there are lots of places we can gather. If I asked you what does 1+1 = ? You’d probably say 2 . . . but I think Jesus’ answer might be 3! Wait, what?! Well, Jesus mentions in Matthew 18:20 “Where two or three gather in my name, I am there with them.” So if you and a friend are together (1+1), then Jesus is there too (=3!). Pretty cool that Jesus is always with us. Have some fun exploring the theme “Gather” below. I can’t wait to gather with you at Sunday School!
Listen
This song has simple words and motions . . . you’ll know it just by watching once!
“All Together Come and Gather”
This song will have you toe-tapping along!
“The Gathering Song”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Matthew 18:20
Matthew 13:2
Psalm 102:22
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read them. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Gather”:
The Mitten by Jan Brett
Watch
I used to love this finger rhyme as a kid. Have you tried it before?
Do
Church is one place we like to gather. Why not invite a friend to church, Sunday School, or Kids Connect! Gathering can be more fun with more friends.
Gather your family for a game night. You can pull out your favorite board games or try something new. Here are some fun ideas if you need some:
Pray
Jesus said “where two or three gather in my name, I am there with them.” Here is a prayer you can use when you have two or more gathered!
A Gathering Prayer for Children and Young People
Come to us, Lord
Come to us, Lord,
as we gather here today.
Live with us, Lord
through our worship and our prayers.
Help us to hear you,
help us to know you
and help us to be with you,
today, and always.
Amen.
Desert Cross Faith Formation 