New beginnings

Group, Sep/Oct 2002 by Case, Steve

Give kids each a helium balloon. Then say something -like: This is a chance. This is a new beginning. Right now you can choose to look at this new school year with all the potential that God sees in you. You can look at this school year as an opportunity. Look at your balloon. In your imagination, write on the balloon all of the things that are keeping you from moving forward. You can use your finger if you want. Write all of the things that are holding you down. Think of all the things that are separating you from what you want to be. rm going to count to three. When I say "release" I want you to let go of the balloon. When you do, I want you to let go of all the fears and stresses that you don't need as you begin this new school year. As you let go I want you to say the words: "God makes all things new." closing

Close with a piece of music that has a "can't-keep-agood-person-down" feel. I've used "Change in My Life" by John Pagano (from the Leap of Faith soundtrack album) and "Lions" by Lost and Found (from the This CD album).

Close with the following prayer, or come up with one of your own.

-Say: Pray with me. Creator God, you've given us so much potential. Forgive us when we waste it. Open the doors, show us the light. Help us to begin again. Help us to see every day as a gift. Help us to use all that you have given us. Help us to hear your voice and see your face. Help us to go from this place as new creations. Amen.

Steve Case is a veteran youth minister in Florida and a contributing editor for group Magazine.