Who came up with the idea of using nativity scenes to celebrate Christmas? Many might be surprised to learn that Francis of Assisi, the well-known thirteenth-century saint, is credited with creating the first nativity scene. The Living Nativity introduces readers to Saint Francis and his joyous reenactment of the birth of Jesus, complete with a manger and animals. The Living Nativity explores how nativity sets, Advent wreaths, candles, carols, Christmas cards, and other traditions help prepare our hearts for the God "who bends low to enter our world and our lives." Prayer poems for each day of the season lead readers to deepen their spiritual journey, and the book provides a guided pattern for individuals and small groups to share reflections and experience activities that open their hearts to the Christ child. The Living Nativity provides a prayer, meditation, and reflection questions for each day of Advent. The Leader's Guide includes suggestions for worship, discussion questions focused on the readings, and guidance for a mini-retreat on a theme of the week.

The Living Nativity: Preparing for Christmas with Saint Francis

Religion & Spirituality

Peacock, Larry J.

Christian Books & Bibles

Upper Room Books

Sourcebook of Worship Resources (Vol 1)

Hammond, Heather E.

Bodo, John R.

Communication Resources

Now, even when you're short of time, the SourceBook of Funerals gives you virtually everything you need to create comforting funerals that honor the deceased, whether a church member or unchurched. This 3-ring bound volume is packed with sermons appropriate for young and old, calls to worship, invocations, pastoral prayers and other assorted prayers, scripture readings, music suggestions, poetry and prose readings, committal services, liturgies, guidance on care for the dying, model pastoral letters to offer comfort to the bereaved, and much more. Order now and rest easy knowing you'll always have appropriate materials on hand to prepare a memorable, personalized funeral service. This SourceBook will reinforce your gifts during those most sensitive, critical times, and it will allow you to spend more time where you want to be, ministering to those left behind. (Unlike Volumes 2 and 3, this volume was not published with a CD.)

Sourcebook of Funerals

Brinton, Henry G.

Schaper, Donna E.

Ferrill, Charles E.

Gray, Kathryn

Merrill, Timothy F.

Purdum, Alan

Russell, Thomas O.

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Books by Peacock, Larry J.