This is an idea that we used last year on the run up to Easter, inspired by a gift given to my daughter, of a (dare I say 'charm') bracelet depicting elements of the 23 Psalm. We decided to adapt this and created a bracelet that would help us reflect on significant events in the life of Jesus on the way to the cross. These elements acted as a visual aid for a teaching series (power point enclosed) culminating in an Easter service where everyone (after a shorter meeting time) made their bracelets with coffee and cake thrown in.
From our experience this was an act of worship not only appreciated by those wanting to wear a bracelet but also by others (Dads & lads) who were happy to give it away as a gift or have it hanging somewhere as a reminder.
The accompanying explanatory post card is in a print ready format should you wish (like us) to take it to a commercial printers.
We got the beads from an American web based company: http://www.firemountaingems.com/. To save searching the site a ‘wish list’ has been created on firemountaingems.com. Follow the instruction in the pdf available for download.
You will need:
A reasonable amount of lead time: If you order the beads they take about 10 days to turn up; and (if you choose to go this route) enough time for the preaching/teaching team to prepare. In addition you will need to figure out the quantities required for your community.
A budget: each bracelet cost about £2.00 each to make. To help cover the cost we made folk aware and asked for a voluntary donation.
A number of volunteers to be on hand to help those who might struggle to make a bracelet on their own.
An area with tables set up where people can spend 10mins making their bracelet
TIP: We bagged up individual sets of bracelets (including elastic cord) to try and eliminate the possibility of beads getting scattered or dropped.
Guy is from Bloxham near Banbury, proud parent of Dan and Anna and excellent husband to Caron. Likes guitars, bikes, creativity and food with friends. He works part-time at Banbury Community Church co-ordinating the music and worship and is a self-employed guitar tutor. He has also studied Theology Music and Worship at London School of Theology.
