FaithElement
MACON, GA - January 20, 2010 - A new media-savvy approach to Bible study was announced today by FaithLab. The service, named FaithElement, brings several innovations to small group Bible study. The materials are free for church groups to use, with funding coming from sponsorships.
FaithElement is a media-savvy resource. Each session provides a Bible background video that provides context and interpretation of the selected passage. The video is delivered online and can be viewed using a computer, laptop or portable device. Various forms of media are often used in sessions, including video clips, music and other web-based content.
The new resource also recognizes a variety of approaches. Each session offers these approaches: Mental, Missional, Mystic, Media and Youth. Each session page is just one page in length, and groups only need one. Each approach is extremely low-prep, and they each connect with the Bible background video, freeing leaders from the need for lengthy preparation.
"Groups can use FaithElement without a teacher." said David Cassady, executive director of FaithLab. "With the Bible content and background provided in a video, and simple collection of discussion prompts, groups are completely capable of leading themselves."
FaithElement groups are also encouraged to participate in quarterly projects. These projects offer opportunities for groups and individuals to put their faith into action, and to work together to make a difference in the world. The service allows persons to sign up for regular "Faith Challenges" which can be accessed via email, Facebook or Twitter.
"Several trends came together to inspire the creation of FaithElement,"
Nikki Hardeman provides Bible background guidance through the weekly videos, while a team of experienced writers develop the various session pages for each week’s session. The materials draw scripture selections from the Revised Common Lectionary. FaithElement’
FaithElement has been in testing since October 2009. In January 2010, a Youth option was added, along with improved video quality and additional help resources.
“Our group has been using FaithElement since the first weeks, explains Nikki Collins MacMillan, Ministry Director for The Light @ Bare Bulb Coffee, a new church development of the PC (USA), “We enjoy the multiple discussion and engagement formats and find the background video to be well researched, thought provoking, and engaging. As a new community of disciples, we are refreshed by its engagement with both Scripture and the broader culture. We are thinking, praying, discussing, laughing, and serving our way into new faithfulness.”
Bo Prosser, Coordinator for Congregation Formation at the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, commented, “FaithElement is the most creative and flexible curriculum I’ve seen in a while. This material will engage every learner in your class and draw them in to not only hearing the Scriptures but applying them to today…right now!! This is a trusted resource from a team who is genuinely combining scholarship with the immediacy of application. You won’t be disappointed!”
FaithLab is a religious think tank dedicated to exploring and creating ways for people of faith to better utilize media and technology in ministry. The FaithLab is wholly owned and operated by The Brainstorm Lab. Faithlab was launched in January 2009, and maintains an active blog at thefaithlab.com.
For more information, contact David Cassady at david@thebrainstormlab.com, or 478-471-7700.
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
