Throughout the Fall we have taken an exciting trip through time in chapel. Chaplain Chris, with the help of his friend “Dr. Brown,” created a time machine that we used to bring back a number of Bible heroes as well as a very special guest–Brother Van himself! Pastor Brad Ulgenes of St. John’s Lutheran Church …
Tag Archive: Intermountain
Oct 16
Would you consider “Change for Children” this Christmas?
Once again, I would like to make available to you and your church free Advent children’s object lessons! While written primarily for a Children’s Sermon format, these object lessons could be used in a Sunday school setting, youth group, or even as sermon illustrations! None of the lessons are dependent on Change for Children (CFC) …
Oct 10
Toward a Theology of Hospitality – a sermon by Intermountain Board President, Rev. Marianne Niesen
[This sermon was delivered in worship at St. Paul’s UMC in Helena, Montana on Sept. 20th, 2015. Rev. Marianne Niesen serves as Sr. Pastor of St. Paul’s UMC as well as the Chair of the Intermountain Board of Directors] In Africa, the Masai are known as the fiercest of warriors. Interestingly, though, they greet each …
Sep 17
Teaching Tips for faith formation classrooms for children of varied abilities and special needs
When teaching children of different abilities the most important thing to remember is that “one size DOES NOT fit all” with education. It is OK to make accommodations from a provided program to keep differently abled children engaged and included. The following are suggestions on how to structure a classroom sensitive to children with varying …
Sep 09
Working through anxiety with prayer and glitter jars
Recently I came across this excellent video produced by Julie Bayer Salzman and Josh Salzman called “Just Breathe.” It can be found here. What I like best about it is that children explain in simple terms what it feels like or them when their emotions are getting out of control. And, conversely, they use the …
Feb 10
Of Shields, Smarties and the Holy Spirit
Life in ministry to 32 SED (severely emotionally disturbed) children is always an exercise in balancing preparation, improvisation, and constant openness to the Holy Spirit. It’s part of what makes the chaplaincy at Intermountain’s residential home such an exciting and challenging place to serve. I thought I might take a few moments to share how …
Jan 30
Hopefulness in the midst of loss – Missing Kalkidan
Recently, the extended Intermountain family suffered a tremendous loss. One of our recent graduates, Kalkidan, passed away as result of injuries sustained in a car accident. She was on her way to Montana to visit friends that she grew close to during her time in our care. The loss of Kalkidan hit us hard. Personally, …
Jul 28
What’s a work and play day? St. Paul’s UMC gives an example
I have fond memories of summer youth mission trips from my time as a youth pastor and associate pastor. Now, in my role as Intermountain’s chaplain, it is a great joy to host groups that want to support the work of Intermountain with their presence and passion for ministry. In my work with youth, I …
Mar 20
“Need a drink?” a Change for Children object lesson based on John 4:5-42
Objects needed: A box of saltine crackers, a bottle of water (or several bottles… as you might want to give each child a bottle) Key Text: John 4:5-42 Theme/Main Idea: Jesus meets the needs of our thirsty souls. Presentation: “Good morning! How are you this morning? Are you filling up your change cans at home …
Feb 28
Blessed to be a blessing
“It is more blessed to give than to receive…” (Acts 20:35) Recently, our children assembled hygiene kits as a service project. These hygiene kits are given to students that come from far away to attend the International Evangelism Centre in Salika, Tanzania. At the Centre, these students prepare to be church planters and pastors to …