Of the many things a Christmas gift can do, it rarely changes a life — the toy breaks, the clothing fades, and the kitchen gadget is forgotten.
In this gift guide are ideas to elevate a Bible study, bring inspiring stories of hope to your congregation, and life-changing experiences for you, your family, and friends.
This year, change lives, kindle empathy, and nurture faith.
Free
Shoulder-tap someone for Mennonite Voluntary Service and Service Adventure
Generations of young adults have had their life perspectives changed through a service experience (you may be one of them, yourself). Pass along the gift of Christ-centered service to the next generation. Share your service story and encourage the young people in your life to create their own.
Encourage them to explore Mission Network’s Mennonite Voluntary Service (MVS) and Service Adventure for young adults, ages 17+. Live in community with other participants, worship alongside a local host congregation, and join in working toward a more peaceful and just world.
SOOP (Service Opportunities with Our Partners
Looking for a different kind of family vacation? SOOP has flexible service terms at 60 locations for individuals ages 25+ and families of all ages.
From valleys to mountains to shores, lots of organizations are excited to welcome volunteers with all kinds of interests and skills. Trim roses and trees at an arboretum, work in a library, apply your carpentry skills, teach children. Volunteer for a week or a year, alone or with friends and family!
Missio Dei
Mission Network published 33 issues of Missio Dei on a wide range of topics like “Immigration and the Bible,” “Growing the church in the rural neighborhood,” and “What is an Anabaptist Christian?” Each issue invites reflection and dialogue about God’s mission in today’s world and they are all free to download.
Want to jumpstart a group study in your congregation? Start with the ‘four Ms,’ a multimedia series that examines the four attributes of a church that is fully engaged in God’s mission.
Invite Mission Network to share at your church
We would love to join your congregation in worship to preach, teach, and share stories of God at work around the world. Click here to learn more!
$700-$3,000
Youth Venture
Youth Venture is a short-term service and learning program for individuals ages 15–22. For two to three weeks each summer, participants join teams of peers and leaders to actively explore and engage in God’s work in the world.
Giving someone the opportunity to embark on a service/learning trip stands out as a profoundly meaningful and transformative present. This unique gift not only enriches the recipient’s life but also creates a ripple effect of positive change in communities around the globe.
Just Peace Pilgrimage
Organize a pilgrimage for your family or church group.
- Witness Christ at the Borders in Texas, and Calais, France.
- Explore the history and ongoing issues of civil rights in the United States, South Africa, or West Africa.
- Become acquainted with Indigenous Peoples in the Pacific Northwest of the United States—their connection to the land, and the consequences of colonial settlers.
