Mr. Diety

Brian Keith Dalton has created some very witty vlogs (video blogs) where he offers insights as Mr. Diety. Check out the episodes below and at http://www.mrdeity.com/

MR. DIETY AND THE SCRIPTS


MR. DIETY AND THE TOP TEN


MR. DIETY AND EVIL


MR. DIETY AND THE IDENTITY CRISIS (Trinitarian)


MR. DIETY AND THE SKEPTIC

Teen Brains

A few weeks ago we got into a conversation about the research being done in neuroscience and its impact on our understanding of moral and faith development. Although a little dated, Religious Education and the Brain (2000) is a book by Jerry Larsen that offers some initial explorations. NPR's Richard Knox offers a more current view "The Teen Brain: It's Just Not Grown Up Yet." Focused on the development of neural insulation that isn't complete until a teen reaches their mid-20s, scientists speculate that this could be a source for young people's self-orientation.

Mission Trip vs Service Trip

I want to make a distinction between Mission Trips and Service Trips. The concept of service implies the giving of something to someone... taking away any agency of the one who is the recepient of service. I like to focus on Mission, God's Mission, and our participation in making real the Dream of God. Mission Trips tend to be more reciprocal... in face, in my experience, I receive far more than I give.

This video provides a glimpse at the type of learning and growing which can happen when a youth group partners with another community for their Mission Trip.

Faith Assets to Nurture Youth of Vital Faith

Using information from a study of exemplary youth ministry in seven denominations (Roman Catholic, Lutheran/ELCA, United Methodist, Presbyterian USA, Evangelical Covenant Church, Assemblies of God, and Southern Baptist), the Center for Ministry Development has developed a tool to help congregations recognize their "faith assets" in order to create and sustain vital faith.

Cyberbully

No Safe Haven for Bullies by Kevin Cullen (Boston Globe, February 2, 2010)

Bostonians have been reflecting on the issue of Cyber bullying as a result of an apparent suicide of a South Hadley freshman, Phoebe Prince, after persistent bullying. This is one of the many cyber issues parents and churches need to address as we guide young people into adulthood.

Talking ABout Race - VISION GUIDELINES

NAECED - National Association of Episcopal Christian Education Directors