A Pie a Day Giveaway Blog Worth Reading

If you remember when I posted about preaching at First Presbyterian Church of Ashland back in October, I mentioned that someone baked me a mixed berry pie. And it was amazing. When Karen Amarotico gave the pie to me, she let me know that she’s actually baking a pie a day for a whole year and giving them to people. First of all, I think this is pretty amazing because I can’t imagine coming up with different pies and finding the time to bake one every day. And in the spirit of a wonderful life challenge like this, Karen is also blogging about the experience, the pies and the people at her blog A Pie a Day. This is how she describes her journey on the blog:

My name is Karen Amarotico and I have begun a year long adventure in pie baking. This journey began as an idea in the middle of the night. That idea is that I will express my gratitude to my friends, my family, and the universe through baking a pie of one kind or another every day for a year. Each day I will choose a “pie recipient.” That person could be a friend or neighbor who I know could use a pick-me-up… or maybe it will be someone that I don’t know yet… but who has come to my attention via this blog. It would be wonderful if you decide to join me on this adventure. You can do this by following along, sharing recipes, or leaving a comment. Whatever you decide to do, thanks for visiting! [link]

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Now you can watch the #letsordainadam Ordination Service

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What are the Benefits and Dangers of Traditions in Youth Ministry?

Over the next year, I’m going to be a contributor on the slant33 website. It’s a really great group of contributors (you can see them all here). Last month I wrote on the topic of traditions in youth ministry, and I wanted to share those thoughts with you here.

Creating rituals and traditions in a youth ministry program is a great way to build cohesion and a sense of community. When I started at my current church, I was told about the Pig of Truth and immediately thought it was a bit ridiculous. At the end of each youth group, we get out a little wax pig candle holder and light a votive candle on the inside. Then we pass it around, and only the person holding the pig can talk. Kids have a chance to share what’s going on in their lives and answer a question: Where have I seen God this week?

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What is the church’s response?

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