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
Disciples
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
5/1/23
Introduction
Jesus called a group of people to follow him. They were called Disciples, but they were just ordinary people. He didn’t call them just to follow him. He wanted to be their friend, teach them, and help them to teach others. A Disciple is someone who follows Jesus. Kids can be Disciples too! Jesus wants us to be like him and follow what he does and says in the Bible, and he wants us to share that good news with others. The 12 Disciples found out that’s not always easy. But along the way Jesus keeps reminding us, “Do not be afraid!” Below you can explore more about the Disciples.
Listen
Here is a song with a fun beat about the 12 Disciples.
“12 Disciples Song”
This song will have you shouting Go! Go! Go!
“Go and Make Disciples”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Matthew 10:2
Luke 22: 14-23
John 20: 19-31
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 Peace Book by Todd Parr
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Disciples:
Disciples in The Peace Book
I Feel a Foot! by Maranke Rinck and Martijn van der Linden
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Disciples:
Disciples in I Feel a Foot!
Watch
Our friend Douglas is back to talk to us about “What is a Disciple?”
Do
Here are some coloring pages you can print out and color.
Coloring Pages
This is an activity sheet to help you learn more about the Disciples. You can print in out and follow the directions.
Activity Sheet
Here is a link to print out a fun flip book of the Disciples.
Flip Book
Here are several games you can play using gummy worms to talk about and explore Discipleship.
Games
April Playlist
Forgiveness
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
4/1/23
Introduction
In the Bible, Jesus talks about forgiveness. One of Jesus’ apostles asked him about forgiving others (see Matthew 18:21–22). Jesus told him that we should always be forgiving. The Bible also tells us that Jesus was forgiving. As we usually hear on Good Friday, the soldiers were very cruel to Jesus, but he wasn’t angry with the soldiers for what they did to him. Instead, he forgave the soldiers. It’s comforting to know that God forgives our sins, but he also wants us to forgive others. Below are some ways you can explore forgiveness.
Listen
You might remember this one from Maker Fun Factory VBS:
“You Forgive Me”
Let’s sing with the Veggie Tales again:
“The Forgiveness Song”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Ephesians 4:32
Colossians 3:13
Luke 6:37
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.
Rabbit and Squirrel: A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau and Scott Magoon
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme of Forgiveness:
Connecting Rabbit and Squirrel to Forgiveness
Big Red Lollipop by Rukhsana Khan
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme of Forgiveness:
Connecting Big Red Lollipop to Forgiveness
Watch
Douglas is back to talk about forgiveness.
Do
Here is a “Forgiveness Magic Trick” you can read and attempt to do for your family or an adult can do it for younger kids:
Forgiveness Magic Trick
This link has three different crafts you can do that explore forgiveness.
Forgiveness Crafts
Pray
Dear God,
Help us to resolve our arguments
To remember your grace
And to have good relationships
Thank you for your forgiveness
Help us pass it on to others
Thank you for your love
We love you, God!
In Jesus name, Amen!
March Playlist
Seeking
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
3/1/23
Introduction
Most of us have played the game of hide and seek. When you are “it” you go and seek out, or look for, those that are hiding. You probably haven’t thought about it before, but we can be God seekers. We may not be able to see God, but we can see the blessings he gives us, the love that he shares with us, and the beautiful world he created. In VBS each summer we talk about God sightings, ways that we see God’s presence all around us. In a flower growing in a crack in the sidewalk, in a hug from a parent, in a smile from a friend, in a helping hand from a schoolmate. There are lots of ways that we can look for, seek, and SEE God’s love and presence around us. So, get ready to be God seekers this month and have fun exploring below!
Listen
Knock, knock. You’ll love this one!
“Ask, Seek, Knock”
Let’s sing this pretty song with the Veggie Tales!
“Seek ye First”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Jeremiah 29:13
Matthew 7:7
1 Chronicles 16:11
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 link below.
I am Human, A book of Empathy by Susan Verde
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Seeking:
Connecting I am Human to Seeking
Spot, the Cat by Henry Cole
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Seeking:
Connecting Spot, the Cat with Seeking
Do
Here is a coloring page you can print and color and hang up to memorize this verse.
Coloring Page
Do you like Decoder mysteries? Here is one you can print and try at home.
Decoder Mystery
Time to do a “word seek” also known as a word search!
Word Seek
Here’s an idea of how you can make a prayer box.
Prayer Box
February Playlist
Commandments
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
2/1/23
Introduction
This month’s theme is Commandments. We are all familiar with rules. We have rules to help us learn and keep us safe at home, at school, and in our community. God gave us rules for our life in the Ten Commandments. Most importantly they tell us to love God and to love others. Have some fun exploring the commandments below! And make sure you continue to share God’s love with others!
Listen
Are you ready to Boogie? You will be when you hear this song!
“Ten Commandments Boogie”
This one will have you counting all day long!
“Ten Commandments”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Exodus 20:2–17
Galatians 3:24
1 John 5:3
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.
Press Here by Herve Tullet
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the Commandments theme:
Commandments in Press Here
Bedtime is Cancelled by Cece Meng
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the Commandments theme:
Commandments in Bedtime is Cancelled
Watch
Here is a video of the story of Moses and the Ten Commandments.
This sweet girl can teach you a way to memorize the Ten Commandments using your fingers.
Do
Here is a link to a coloring book you can print out and color.
Commandments Coloring Page
This is a fun game you can do with your family. You will need to print out the sentence strips and then follow the directions.
Commandments Game
Here is a rhyme you can print out and learn and/or illustrate.
Commandments Rhyme
January Playlist
Light
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
1/1/23
Introduction
When God made the world on the first day He said, “Let there be light.” And there was light. Thank goodness for light! It would be difficult, maybe even impossible, to live in a world that was always dark! We often hear that Jesus is the Light of the World. God sent Jesus to be the light of the world. Just like light helps us to see in the dark and know where we are going, Jesus can be the light in our lives. When we’re having trouble, lonely, scared or when we do something wrong, Jesus is the light to help us. He can show us the way, and He is always there for us. We often sing a song called “This Little Light of Mine, I’m going to let it shine!” We can be like Jesus and shine our lights in the world as well. His light shines through us! When Jesus says to love each other or be kind, that is His way of showing you how to shine. Love and joy are ways that we can show the light of Jesus to others. If a little bit of love can brighten up the world, imagine what a lot of love can do! Have fun exploring the theme of Light and don’t forget to let your light shine…BRIGHT!!!
Listen
Click the link below to enjoy some music with Light!
“This Little Light of Mine”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
John 8:12
Matthew 5:14-16
Psalm 119:105
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.
Let it Shine by Ashley Bryan
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Light:
When God Made Light by Matthew Paul Turner
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Light:
Watch
This is a quick video on being the LIGHT in the world.
Here’s a cool science video that talks about what light is.
Do
This has several activities you can do as a family. Click on the pdf, and you will find some fun printable crafts, a true/false sheet, a light vs. darkness activity and more!
Here is a fun cross out puzzle. Can you solve it?
Your family can play some games with flashlights like…
FLASHLIGHT SCAVENGER HUNT: A parent or older sibling can give each child a list of three items to find which they have hidden around the room between shelves, under tables tops, under cabinets or chairs. Then you can use a flashlight to try to find them.
FLASHLIGHT TAG: Darken the room as much as possible and take turns trying to TAG someone else with the flashlight. If the light rays “catch” someone, it becomes the next person’s turn to try to tag someone with the flashlight ray.
December Playlist
Generations
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
12/1/22
Introduction
On my way to church one Sunday I noticed a grandmother, mother, and daughter all out on a walk. They were walking side by side, laughing and talking. I smiled because it reminded me of time I’ve spent with my mom and Grandma. Family is important, but when we can spend time with all generations it is really special! Our church also has lots of generations! We love that our church family is full of grandparents, parents, teens, elementary school kids, preschoolers, and babies! We call this intergenerational. God made families, and He loves that our own families and our church families do things TOGETHER! This month’s theme is Generations. Have fun exploring below!
Listen
This is a fun, toe-tapping song called “We Are Family”
You might remember this song from Kingdom Rock VBS. Hey! Hey! “Stand Together”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Galatians 3:28
Genesis 9:12
Psalm 78:4
If you have the following books at home or can get them from the library, then you can read it. If not, you can read/listen to them using the links below.
The Worry Stone by Marianna Dengler
Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Generations:
The Worry Stone & Generations
The Keeping Quilt by Patricia Pollaco
Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Generations:
The Keeping Quilt & Generations
The Gift of the Christmas Cookie by Dandi Daley Mackall
Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Generations:
The Gift of the Christmas Cookie & Generations
Watch
Douglas is back, and this time he’s talking about how the church is its people. All generations can come together and share God’s love!
Do
Your family can feel even bigger when you look at all the generations. Here is an activity where you can make a family tree to learn about ALL the generations in your family.
Generations Family Tree
Eye and hair color are not the only things that our generations of family members pass on. Faith, traditions, and stories can be passed down too. Talk with your family about what traditions, stories, and faith have been passed down. You can even call or email your grandparents and ask them the same question.
Here are some things you can print out and complete at home.
Family of God Coloring Page
Family of God Word Search
November Playlist
Pray
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
11/1/22
Introduction
Prayer is talking to God. There is not one right way to pray. You can whisper your prayers to God, you can sing them, you can draw them, you can write them, you can even dance or jump your prayers! Praying to God can be just like talking to your friends. The more you talk with your friends the more you get to know them. The same with God! He hears you! He may not answer back the way your friend does with a voice that you can hear right away. But sometimes if you sit and listen long enough, you might feel a gentle breeze, or get a warm feeling in your heart, or feel like smiling, or get a big idea in your head . . . these are all little ways that God might be answering you. There are so many things we can pray for . . . for things we need help with, for things we are thankful for, for things we are afraid of and things we are grateful for, we can pray for others, for our church, for our community, for the world! Here are some fun ways to explore prayer below. And by the way . . . you all are in MY prayers!
Listen
Ready to ROCK? Click on this link for a fast beat song about prayer called “Pray about Everything.”
Let’s slow it down now. Here is a beautiful song called “Hear Us as We Pray.”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Philippians 4:6
Matthew 6: 9-13
Mark 11:24
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 Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood
*Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Pray”
A Night Night Prayer by Amy Parker
When I Pray for You by Matthew Paul Turner
Do
Your family can create Mealtime Grace Placemats.
Check out these Prayer Bottles to make with kids from the awesome people at Building Faith.
I love this idea for making prayer sticks. It’s easy and a great way to set a tradition as a family.
Prayer Sticks: A Holy Home Activity
Pray
Faith5 is a simple five-step family faith formation practice that includes praying for each other. Try this out with your family.
Here is a link to 10 different prayers . . . prayers for all kinds of things and whatever you are feeling. Prayer for when you are thankful or sad, prayer for a friend or a grandparent. Click the link and explore. Or come up with your own!
Here is a fun way to pray as a family. Jumping Prayers It’s fall, and although Arizona doesn’t have a lot of trees with leaves changing color, maybe you can find some or make your own with the templates provided and follow this fun way to pray called Falling Leaf Prayers.
October Playlist
Faith
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
10/1/22
Introduction
Faith is believing in God and His power even though we can’t see Him. Faith means we still know He is there and that He does wonderful things for us. The Bible talks about people who demonstrated faith. There were people like Noah, who built an ark, preparing for a flood that hadn’t started yet There was Abraham, who left his home to follow God; and Rahab, who trusted God when her whole city was collapsing around her. We can be like those faith “heroes” too! They believed in God’s promises. They didn’t know exactly how those promises would come true, but they trusted in Him. They did not do amazing things on their own power but through their trust and hope in God. God did the work. Jesus told His disciples to have faith (or to believe in) God. We can trust in God and know that He will help take care of us, that is living in faith. Here are some fun ways to explore “Faith” below.
Listen
If you joined us for Everest VBS, you will remember this song. It’s one that I love to sing along with!
“Faith”
Here’s a song to rock out to…get your drum sticks ready!
“My Faith Is In You”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
Hebrews 11:1
Matthew 17:20
2 Corinthians 5:7
Matthew 21:22
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.
Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss
Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Faith:
Faith in Horton Hatches the Egg
Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail by Jennifer Thermes
Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme Faith:
Faith in Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail
Do
Here is a fun science experiment to explore the theme of faith.
Science Experiment
Here is a fun maze you can print out and try.
Maze
Here are some family ideas on how to explore the fruit of the spirit… faithfulness. There is a free printable, a recipe idea, and more!
Faithfulness
Pray
Dear God, thank you for tiny mustard seeds that remind us how even the smallest faith can grow into something big that has roots in your love. Help us each day to grow our faith and stay in love with you.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
September Playlist
Generosity
Shannon Fossett, Director of Children’s Ministries
9/1/22
Introduction
Generosity is the willingness to give without expecting anything in return. There are lots of ways we can be generous. Have you ever shared your favorite toy with a friend or given your favorite book or stuffed animal to someone else in need? Maybe you have brought your extra change for the Hunger Jar in worship. There is JOY in giving, and Jesus wants us to share with others. You can be generous with your time and even your talent, like reading to a sibling or sharing a song with someone in a care center. You can be generous with kindness too! You can share a smile with everyone you see. 😊 You can ask someone to play who needs a friend. You can give someone a compliment. God gave you an inner light…so let it shine BRIGHTLY! Let’s be generous! Here are some fun ways to explore more about generosity below.
Listen
It won’t take long to learn the motions to this song and you can sing out loud with these kids!
“Generous”
Here’s a fun song from a past VBS.
“Give It Away”
Read
Open the Bible and read:
2 Corinthians 9:7
Luke 21: 3-4
Proverbs 11:25
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.
One City, Two Brothers
Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Generosity”
Generosity in One City/Two Brothers
How to Heal a Broken Wing
Parents, here are some notes on how to connect this book with the theme “Generosity”
Generosity in How to Heal a Broken Wing
Watch
Watch the video below to see how a $100 Christmas gift ended up changing many lives. Talk about the video together. What might you do with $100 to make someone else’s life different?
Here’s a fun video from Kid President!
Do
- Watch a read-aloud video of The Rainbow Fish or read the book aloud if you own it. Then talk about these questions together:
1. Tell about a time when you gave something away to someone else. How did you feel?
2. Tell about a time when someone gave you something you really wanted or needed. How did that make you feel?
3. What things do you have that you could share with other people? - Generosity Jar (from the Faith Practices Project): Want to help your kids be more intentional about giving generously and about discerning between wants and needs? Make a Generosity Jar! Here’s how:
1. Decorate a jar with colorful paper, stickers, or whatever your kids choose.
2. When a “want” comes up (like “I want ice cream” or “I want a new toy”), one option is to put the money you would have spent on that item into the Generosity Jar. This isn’t just for the kids—adults can (and should!) participate too.
3. Then, at the end of the month or the end of the year, count up the money in the jar and have a family meeting to decide together how to give it away. (Maybe the Hunger Jar at church or a cause you feel passionate about.) Older kids and teens can research and propose giving opportunities.
Pray
Dear God, thank You that You provide for all our needs. Thank You that we can trust You to turn the small things we give You into something big that can make a huge difference. Help us to be generous with everything we have, just as You are so generous in giving us these things.
Amen.
Desert Cross Faith Formation 