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As summer gets into full swing, many churches offer fewer events like Bible studies and weekly kids’ programs. This is just part of the busy season of vacations, weddings, grad parties, and more.
But, the Church itself doesn’t close for summer. God’s still working in and through his people. Many are still in need of the gospel. Fellowship is as valuable as ever (even if it takes place in gardens for a time).
During the summer break from typical ministry routines, here are some flexible, doable ideas for building up the body of Christ.
“Few things present a more astonishing contrast than the way most people view church today and what the Bible tells us about the church,” author Anne Woodcock says in Church: Enjoying God's Masterpiece. This book is a simple study guide that walks through Bible passages about the church, and asks study and personal application questions.
You can complete this on your own as you have time (or with a spouse or friends). Share what you learn as you re-gather in the fall, or throughout the summer whenever you get to enjoy time with your church family.
Eight studies for small groups exploring the New Testament’s images for the church.
Even if you aren’t able to meet up with your small group regularly, you can encourage each other in the faith. Agree to all read through the same book over the summer and text one another when any points strike you. No deadlines needed.
Some of our top picks for reading together (apart) are:
Love Your Church. You’ll come back in the autumn eager to get back into church life.
Beautifully Distinct. This book, by a compilation of female authors, touches on many areas of life.
Faith For Life. Read and share encouragement from Hebrews 11.
No spoiler alerts needed when texting about any of these books!
Summer’s a season for meeting neighbours, catching up with friends and family, and hanging out with strangers by the community pool or on the beach. These lighthearted times of gathering are wonderful opportunities for pondering spiritual questions and starting meaningful conversations with non-christians.
Seize these opportunities for evangelism with the helpful insights and tips found in books such as Stay Salt, Honest Evangelism or Extraordinary Hospitality (for Ordinary People).
Bethany McIlrath loves to get lost in a book and to help others discover their next read in her marketing role at The Good Book Company. When she's not reading stories, she's usually writing them or dreaming about them as she comes up with real-life creative adventures for friends, her husband, and a doorbell-like dog named Indy. Serving in children's ministry is also one of her greatest joys.
