NEWEST RESOURCES

      Denotes most recent materials.  This list includes all videocassettes and DVDs purchased since the 2002 Supplement to the Resource Center Catalog was published. For a more complete description of any of these videos, consult the online 2008 Media Catalog.  
    ***PLEASE REFER TO "PICKS OF THE MONTH" FOR THE  VERY LATEST ACQUISITIONS***


      ACOLYTES, GREETERS, USHERS.    DVD    ue-ad    (23 min)    Guide
    This useful, ecumenical three-part resource provides invaluable help for training those who are called to assist with worship.  The DVD's ministry-centered orientation helps acolytes, greeters and ushers understand their roles as worship leaders, and its flexible design can be tailored to any congregation.  Each segment is designed for a specific age group: children, youth, or adult.  NOTE:  This resource is also available in video format.   

    ACTS 29 PRAYER ENCOUNTER. 
       kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, approx. 120 min ea; guide/workbook)
    This series is almost like being at a prayer encounter!  Terry Teykl's wit and humor along with the profound teaching on prayer makes this series a winner for Sunday school, or small group study.

     
    ADVENT CALENDAR ON DVD: CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN FOR DECEMBER.    DVD    all    (approx. 80 min)
    This new spin on familiar favorite contains 25 mini-documentaries (each between 3 to 4 minutes in length that take viewers on an informative and inspiring journey through the Advent season.  Discover where such Christmas features as the wreath, mistletoe, candy cane, Christmas tree, gift-giving and the 12 days of Christmas all came from.  And you will find out the stories behind Santa Claus, Rudolph, the Nutcracker, the Christmas angels, Handel's Messiah, and the Fourth Wise Man.

    ADVENTURES IN ODYSSEY. 
       vhs    pr,el    (2 videocassettes, approx. 30 min ea)
    Based on the radio series from "Focus on the Family," here are the latest of these fast-paced, animated adventures that teach the importance of friendship, commitment, generosity, faith, and more.  Closed captioned.
    Episode 16: Caves of Qumran. 
    When a mysterious old treasure map shows up in Odyssey, Mr. Whitaker, Dylan, Connie, and Eugene embark on a perilous journey that leads them to the caves of Qumran in Palestine.

     

    Episode 17: Race to freedom.
    When Carter found himself back in the year 1856, mistaken for a run-
    away slave, he looked to Dylan to help him escape.  In this exciting
    adventure, you will learn than every person is valuable to God. 

      AFFECTIONATELY YOURS, SCREWTAPE: DEVIL AND C. S. LEWIS.    DVD    ad    (52 min)
    Guide
    Did God give each person free will?  Who is Satan?  Can good truly overcome evil?  Consider these questions and more as you journey inside the mind of C. S. Lewis in this introductory review of one of the great Christian literary works of the 20th century.  The Screwtape Letters, a thin volume of imaginative letters between two devils, has given millions of readers insight into conquering everyday spiritual struggles.  This program explores the biblical, historical, and cultural depictions of Satan and hell and provides a deeper understanding of the nature of temptation and redemption.  It can be viewed as a documentary or used as a five-part study with sessions running 8 to 12 minutes each.

    ALL GOOD GIFTS: STORIES OF UNITED METHODIST CONNECTIONAL GIVING.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 69 min)
    The following 14 stories are highlighted on this DVD from United Methodist Communications: Picture the Power (World Service Fund) (8:35); Africa University Fund (7:41); Seize the Moment-Shape the Future (Ministerial Education Fund) (3:31); Here I Am, Lord (Advance for Christ and His Church) (13:39); Human Relations Day (1:48); Justice for Our Neighbors: In-Depth View (One Great Hour of Sharing) (7:25); Justice for Our Neighbors: Turning Lives Around (OGHS) (4:25); U.S. Hurricane Relief (OGHS) (4:04); World Hunger (OGHS) (3:14); Native American Ministries Sunday (2:08); Forgive the World (Peace with Justice Sunday) (2:12); World Communion Sunday (4:10); Best and Brightest (United Methodist Student Day) (3:06); Loans and Scholarships (United Methodist Student Day) (3:20)
    .  Most of these stories could be used during Sunday morning "mission moments."

    ANIMATED PASSION TRILOGY.    DVD    el,ue    (3 DVDs, approx. 30 min ea)
    Use this three-volume set to share the story of the passion and resurrection of Jesus Christ with children.  Boxed together, each DVD is approximately 30 minutes in length and contains the following:
    1) Worthy is the Lamb. - Children will experience the passion of Christ from the Last Supper to Judas' betrayal, to the trial and crucifixion.
    2) He is risen. - The resurrection of Jesus Christ is relived, teaching children about the atonement and resurrection and providing hope to Christians everywhere.
    3) Kingdom of Heaven. - Jesus teaches his followers about the day of his Second Coming through parables such as the Sower and the Seed, the Wheat and the Tares, and the Ten Virgins.
    This series is a great way to introduce children to or remind them of the importance behind the Lent and Easter seasons.

    ANNUAL CONFERENCE, 2006.   
    vhs OR DVD    ad    (5 videocassettes OR 5 DVDs, approx. 14-93 min ea)
    Recorded June 8-10 at the Indiana University Auditorium in Bloomington, Indiana, these formats contain the following information (ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL TAPE NUMBER BELOW):
    Tape 1: Bible study - Dr. Randy Maddox. (approx. 83 min)
    Tape 2: Celebration of ministry - Bishop Michael Coyner. (approx. 93 min)
    Tape 3: Memorial service - Dr. Susan Ruach. (60 min)
    Tape 4: Retiree's recognition/Passing of the mantle. (approx. 40 min)
    Tape 5: Conference summary - Rev. Robert Sharp. (approx. 14 min)

    ANNUAL CONFERENCE, 2007.   
    DVD    ad    (5 DVDs, approx. 13-105 min ea)
    Recorded June 6-9 at the Indiana University Auditorium in Bloomington, Indiana, these DVDs contain the following information (ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL DVD NUMBER BELOW):
    DVD#1: Conference preacher - Bishop Woodie W. White. (approx. 58 1/2 min)
    DVD #2: Celebration of ministry/Passing of the stole - Bishop Michael Coyner. (approx. 105 min)
    DVD #3: Memorial service - Rev. Robert Sharp. (approx. 48 min)
    DVD #4: Retiree's recognition/Passing of the mantle. (approx. 65 1/2 min)
    DVD #5: Conference summary - Rev. Robert Sharp approx. 13 min)

    ANNUAL CONFERENCE, 2008.   
    DVD    ad    (6 DVDs, approx. 12-108 min ea)
    Recorded June 5-7 at the Indiana University Auditorium in Bloomington, Indiana, these DVDs contain the following information (ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL DVD NUMBER BELOW):
    DVD #1: Laity address - Ike Williams. (approx. 20 min)
    DVD #2: Celebration of ministry/Passing of the stole - Rev. Dr. Peter Storey. (approx. 108 min)
    DVD #3: Memorial service - Bishop Michael Coyner. (approx. 67 min)
    DVD #4: Course of study graduates/Reception of deacons and elders/Retirees' recognition. (approx. 37 min)
    DVD #5: Five Practices and Three Simple Rules - Bishop Michael Coyner. (with PowerPoint CD) (approx. 12 min)
    DVD #6: Conference preacher - Bishop Michael Coyner. (approx. 14 min)

    APOSTLES, THE.    vhs    sh,ad    (2 videocassettes, 130 min ea)
    This series reveals the key characters in the story that became Christianity and have stood at its heart ever since: the Apostles.  These twelve men, together with Mary Magdalene - often called 'the Apostle to the Apostles' - were crucial to the establishment of one of the world's great religions.  Boxed together, there are ten 26-minute episodes on two videotapes.      

    APOSTLES' CREED: KNOWING WHAT WE BELIEVE.    vhs OR  DVD jh,sh    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 65 min; guide)
    Divided into seventeen lessons, this video invites young people to go beyond merely knowing the words of the Apostles' Creed to exploring it as a guide to their Christian walk and a unifying force that connects them to the body of Christ.

    ART OF OPPORTUNITY PARENTING.    kit    ad    (3 videocassettes, 90 min ea; cass-17 min; guides/book)
    Do you want to be a parent that can effectively communicate and instill genuine godly values in your family life?  Your family is living in a fast-paced, ever-evolving, and sometimes difficult world.  How can you keep up?  This program will inspire you and enrich your family's life with insightful ideas on how to meet the challenges of family life by defining, balancing, and implementing your Christian values with your family.  In this series, Bill Sanders, author and seminar speaker on critical teen issues, teaches the fine art of parenting in nine sessions on three videos.

     ASHES TO GLORY: EASTER DEVOTIONAL ON DVD.    DVD    jh-ad    (approx. 130 min)    Guide
    Similar in format to the Advent Calendar on DVD series, this resource features a daily devotional for every day in Lent.  Experience the depths of love, the power of forgiveness, and the joy of everlasting life found in the Easter story.  From the remembrance of Ash Wednesday to the celebration of Resurrection Sunday, each day contains a brief reflection of treasured song, poem, tradition, scripture, character of the Passion story, or work of art that enhances the meaning of the season.  The 47 mini-documentaries run 3 to 4 minutes each..
                    

    ASIAN AND PACIFIC PRESENCE: HARMONY IN FAITH.    DVD    sh,ad     (approx. 45 min)
    Full of music, spirituality and hope for the future, this program provides a glimpse into the richness and diversity of the Asian and Pacific people in the United States.  You'll see celebrations from coast-to-coast and individuals representing more than 50 Asian and 25 Pacific cultures.  You'll see a history of Asian and Pacific immigration to the U.S., their devotion to family, hard work, and an abiding love of God.

    AWESOME BIBLE ADVENTURES.    kit    pr,el    (10 vhs videocassettes, 15 min ea; guides)
    These ten videos contain Bible stories just for kids.  Each video is a network-television quality with dramatic action scenes, spectacular effects, and large production casts.  Every lesson is hosted by a high-energy teenager who loves God and helps kids see how cool it is to learn about the Bible.  BOXED TOGETHER, titles include:
    Vol. 1: Noah's incredible voyage; Vol. 2: Moses receives ten commandments; Vol. 3: David's mighty battle;
    Vol. 4: Joshua's awesome victory; Vol. 5: Escape from the fiery furnace; Vol. 6: Samson's super strength;
    Vol. 7: Lot's amazing escape; Vol. 8: Moses' great escape; Vol. 9: God destroys Tower of Babel; and Vol. 10:
    Jesus' amazing miracles.
    This kit is recommended for use in Sunday school, Vacation Bible School, children's gatherings, and evening programs.

    BAD GIRLS OF THE BIBLE: AND WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THEM.   vhs    sh.ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 60 min)
    Author and speaker Liz Curtis Higgs brings her best-selling book to vibrant life in this funny, fast-paced, hour-long program with ten of the Bible's most infamous females, including Jezebel and Lot's wife.

      BAPTISM IN THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH.    DVD    all    (approx. 55 min; guides)
    Here is the perfect teaching aid about the sacrament of baptism.  It covers topics such as why our understanding and practice of baptism change over time, why we should use more - rather than less - water when we baptize, and why Jesus' baptism was about more than the forgiveness of sins.  The DVD contains one segment for all ages, two segments for adults, and one segment each for youth ages 12 to 18 and children ages 8 to 11.

    BARNA LEADERSHIP SEMINAR, VOLUME 1.   
    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 135 min; guide)
    Here are over two full hours on the latest trends and issues impacting ministry leadership delivered in an easy-to-understand language, without theological jargon, and with plentiful personal applications.  This DVD will challenge every Christian who longs to become a devoted follower of Christ and honor God in everything.  There are two seminars: 1) Developing a Biblical Worldview (70 min.) and 2) Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions. (65 min.)

    BE THERE.  BE HOPE.    DVD    jh-ad    (approx. 19 min.)
    Here is a DVD celebrating United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) ministries made possible by gifts to One Great Hour of Sharing.  These short "spots" highlight three important program areas: disaster response, hunger, and immigration.  All of the spots, including a longer exploration of our program for immigrants, Justice for Our Neighbors, bring UMCOR's mission alive with those energies of love that are transforming communities near and far thanks to The United Methodist Church and its humanitarian aid arm.

    BECOMING AN EVANGELISTICALLY EFFECTIVE CONGREGATION.    DVD    ad    (3 DVDs, 48-91 min ea)
    Learn about 20 components of effective church evangelism from Bishop Scott Jones, Bishop of the Kansas Area of The United Methodist Church. 

    BEDBUG BIBLE GANG: PENTECOST PARTY.   
    vhs    pr    (1 videocassette, approx. 23 min)
    This video introduces the First Pentecost and the story of Philip and the Ethiopian as well as The Fruits of the Spirit as told by a fruit fly.

    BEDBUG BIBLE GANG: WONDERFUL WEDDINGS.    vhs    pr    (1 videocassette, approx. 23 min)
    You'll hear the stories of The Wedding That Nobody Went To, Jacob and Rachel, and The Ten Bridesmaids.

    BEGINNINGS: INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN FAITH.    kit    ad    (4 videocassettes, approx. 57-59 min ea, 1 DVD; manuals)
    Here is a 9- to 12-week small-group study by Andy Langford and Mark Ralls about basic Christian beliefs.  It is intended for adults hungry for an intentional walk with God that encourages inquirers, explorers, seekers, and new church members, and is designed to begin where these adults are on their spiritual journey.  

    BEGINNINGS: LONGING TO BELONG.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 185 min)    Manual/Guides/Book
    This newest 10-week study in the Beginnings series by Andy Langford, Rob Weber and Mark Ralls answers another basic question for seekers and lifelong Christians: "Who do I belong with?"  It will help participants discover the importance of community to the Christian faith, learning the basic characteristics of a life lived together with other followers of Jesus.


    BEGINNINGS: SPIRITUAL LIFE.    kit    ad    (4 videocassettes, 183 min total,1 DVD, 183 min; manual, guides, book)
    Here is a series by Andy Langford, Mark Ralls, and Rob Weber - a 10-week, video-based study of Christian spirituality that introduces and explores spiritual "habits of the heart," including centering, loving, serving, questioning, and engaging.  This small-group study, following up "Beginnings: Introduction to Christian Faith" can be used after that study or as a stand-alone program.  Like all "Beginnings" programs, "The Spiritual Life" centers around a series of ten questions, one per session.

    BEYOND 30 SECONDS: DEVELOPING A WELCOMING CONGREGATION.   
    (1 videocassette, 64 min; guides)
    Here is a seven-session video curriculum for small groups that will take you and your congregation to the next level as it invites you to look beyond the television commercials to truly become people who understand and welcome newcomers - to view welcoming as a way of living within the body of Christ.  It is an excellent study for understanding hospitality and its practice by a local congregation.

    BIBLE JESUS READ.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 96 min; guides)
    Like nothing else, the Old Testament depicts the cries, complaints, and questionings that cause the heart to seek God.  Hosted by Philip Yancey, this eight-session resource uses video and group discussion to explore the sometimes shocking and cryptic writings of the Old Testament to help readers know God better.  Yancey covers five crucial segments of the Old Testament from Job, Deuteronomy, Psalms, Ecclesiastes, and the Prophets.

    BIOETHICS AND THE BOOK OF LIFE.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 90 min; guide)
    The last few decades have seen astounding progress in the life sciences, progress that raises moral and ethical questions about everything from the treatment of disease to the meaning of human life.  This video includes some of the best stories from the public television series Religion and Ethics NewsWeekly on a wide variety of current issues in bioethics, including such topics as stem-cell research and cloning, as well as the enormous questions posed by genetic science about what makes us human.

     
    BLACK METHODISM: LEGACY OF FAITH. (REVIVAL)    DVD    jh-ad    (approx. 31 min)    Guide
    This special anniversary DVD was created so that you and your congregation can appreciate the rich, vibrant history of black United Methodists and the challenges they face for the future.  It helps United Methodists celebrate the 40th anniversary of several related and pivotal events from 1967-68 in the life and history of our denomination.

    BLACK METHODISTS FOR CHURCH RENEWAL, INC. (2007)   
    DVD    ad    (9 DVDs, various times)
    Recorded 21-24 March 2007, Cleveland, OH.  ORDER BY TITLE ABOVE.  BOXED TOGETHER.
    Tape 1: Keynote Address, Part 1 - Bishop Woodie W. White.
    Tape 2: Keynote Address, Part 2 - Ms. Erin Hawkins.
    Tape 3: Call to Praise and Biblical Reflection (Thursday Bible Study) - Dr. Marjorie Kimbrough.
    Tape 4: Agents for God's Divine Will - Rev. Carlyle Stewart.
    Tape 5: Obedience and Disobedience to God's Law - Rev. Sheron Patterson.
    Tape 6: Call to Praise and Biblical Reflection (Friday Bible Study) - Dr. Marjorie Kimbrough.
    Tape 7: Raising Up a Nation of New Leaders for God's People - Rev. Candace Lewis.
    Tape 8: BMCR Board and Youth Harambee Reports.
    Tape 9: Banquet Program - Bishop Gregory Palmer.

    BONHOEFFER.   
    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 90 min; information sheet)
    Here is a feature-length documentary that tells the dramatic story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the young German theologian who became part of the plots to kill Adolf Hitler.

    BRIARS IN THE COTTONPATCH.    vhs OR DVD    jh-ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 67 min)    Pamphlet
    Relive the early days of the civil rights movement in Georgia and watch a courageous group of blacks and whites withstand violence and hostility to lay the seeds for what would become Habitat for Humanity International.

    BUILDING BETTER LIVES: INDIANA UNITED METHODIST CHILDREN'S HOME.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 15 min)
    Here is a video which takes you on a visual tour of the Indiana United Methodist Children's Home in Lebanon, serving children and families since 1915.

    BUILDING ON FAITH: MAKING POVERTY HOUSING HISTORY.    DVD    ad    (52 min; guide)
    This National Council of Churches documentary explores why the average American citizen needs to care and advocate for more affordable housing in our society.  You will hear stories from individuals with housing issues, stories from faith group leaders and housing experts, stories from two churches working on housing issues, and learn about environmental and Native American issues related to housing.  Closed captioned.

    BUZBY, THE MISBEHAVING BEE.    vhs OR DVD    pr,el    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 60 min)    Information sheet
    Buzby, the misbehaving bee, is bringing his mischief to the garden.  And his unwillingness to follow the "Garden Golden Rules" has caused a major problem.  But a simple act of kindness will change his heart and teach him that God's rules are made to keep everyone safe.  Also featured is the cartoon short, "The Straight Path."  Closed captioned.

    CAN WE TALK? CHRISTIAN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 205 and 220 min ea, 1 CD)    Information sheet
    The General Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns has developed materials that help United Methodists talk with civility about their different views of homosexuality in an open atmosphere where unity and understanding could grow.  This resource contains hours of presentations and personal stories on two DVDs, and a CD filled with a wealth of materials designed to get church members talking.  Special features include: stories; perspectives; general church dialogues; how to talk; Biblical presentations and ministry options; worship; and downloadable documents.  The resource is meant to help local churches, large and small groups, districts, and individuals dialogue with love and grace about their agreements and disagreements over homosexuality and grow into the courageous Christians God intended.

    CARVED FROM THE HEART: PORTRAIT OF GRIEF, HEALING AND COMMUNITY.
        vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 30 min)    Guide
    One man loses his son to a cocaine overdose.  Grieving, Stan Marsden, an Alaskan Tsimshian wood carver, decides to create a totem pole in his son's memory and invites the community of Craig, Alaska to help.  The project grows.  It brings people of diverse ages and backgrounds together, acknowledges common problems of drug abuse and violence, and promotes healing within the community.  The program illustrates the enormous importance of mutual support, ceremony and culture for facing grief and loss.

    CELEBRATE: SEED IS A PROMISE.    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 9 min)
    Here is a resource to help women celebrate United Methodist Women..  With a song written for the video, and with footage of the work of United Methodist Women over the past 135 years, this program will inspire and uplift you as it celebrates an important anniversary.
      
    CHANGING FACE OF GOD.   
    vhs    ad    (5 videocassettes, 22 min ea; book)
    Does the face of God change?  What difference would it make to say that God has only one face?  Even if true in some sense, the fact of the matter is that the features each of us would count as necessary and changeless would be a matter of considerable debate.  In this five-part series, the book and companion videos were based on lectures taped at the Washington National Cathedral.  Five leading scholars - Karen Armstrong, Marcus Borg, James Cone, Jack Miles, and Andrew Sung Park - explore why our understanding about God makes a world of difference.

    CHANGE OF HEART.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 21 min; guide)
    Somewhere in some church is a character like Bob who likes the status quo and resists change.  Somewhere there is also a character like Lydia who is young, has lost her way, and is searching for and wanting acceptance.  This video gets viewers thinking about their own feelings about change within their church and reaching out to seekers and non-believers.

    CHAUTAUQUA: INTERFAITH EXPERIENCE.    vhs    ad    (approx. 30 min)
    This CBS Religion special explores the Chautauqua Institution, a summer cultural and religious retreat in Chautauqua, New York.  Since 1874, people of all ages and many faiths have entered this community to experience and discuss various aspects of music, art, drama, and religion.

    CHILDREN OF THE NAKBA.    DVD    sh,ad    (26 min)    Guides
    For Palestinians, the events between 1947 and 1949 are remembered as a time when Israeli military forces destroyed over 500 Palestinian villages and expelled about 85 percent of the Palestinian population at that time.  These refugees have lived exiled from their land since then.  Learn about the Palestinians who call these events the "Nakba," an Arabic word meaning "catastrophe."  Both Palestinians and Israelis are children of the Nakba, heirs to a story of dispossession.  Building a shared future of justice, equality, and reconciliation for both peoples will mean grappling with this history.  Closed captioned.

    CHRISTIANITY AND ISLAM.    DVD    ad    (100 min)    Guide
    Here is an insightful four-part series comparing and contrasting Christianity and Islam with theologian and best-selling author Dr. Timothy George answering questions in this visually rich series.  The four 25-minute programs are: 1) Tenets of Islam; 2) The Trinity; 3) The Bible and the Incarnation; and 4) The Cross and Salvation.
     
    CHRISTIANITY AND WORLD RELIGIONS: WRESTLING WITH QUESTIONS PEOPLE ASK.    kit    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 1 DVD, approx. 103 min ea, CD-ROM)    Guides/Book
    Here is a small-group study that explores four major world religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism - and compares the beliefs of each with those of Christianity.  This six-week study with Adam Hamilton deals openly and honestly with questions people ask about other religions, including why we should believe the claims of Christianity over those of other faiths.

     
    CHRISTIANITY'S FAMILY TREE: WHAT OTHER CHRISTIANS BELIEVE AND WHY.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, 140 min, 1 CD)    Guides
    Find and share answers to the questions Christians have about other Christians.  This exciting study presents a welcoming, inspiring vision of eight Christian denominations and faith traditions.  Comparing the Christian family to our own extended families, Adam Hamilton contends that each denomination has a unique, valuable perspective to offer on the Christian faith.  He gives a brief history, outlines major beliefs, and describes some things we can learn from that tradition to strengthen our own Christian faith.  The eight sessions look at Orthodoxy; Catholicism; Lutheranism; Presbyterianism; Anglicanism; Baptists; Pentecostalism; and Methodists.  Sessions run about 15-20 minutes each.

    CHRISTMAS CAROL BIBLE STUDY.    kit    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 60 min; guides)
    This video-based, four-episode Bible study features the classic Dickens' film (in black and white) with relevant scriptures for you to use on the teachings of Jesus.  The four sections are:
    Section 1 - Scrooge. - Lesson: Selfishness.
    Section 2 - Marley and the Ghost of Christmas past. - Lesson: Regret.
    Section 3 - Ghost of Christmas present. - Lesson: Repentance.
    Section 4 - Ghost of Christmas future. - Lesson: Salvation.
    The four sessions are each about 15 minutes in length.  A leader's guide and a study guide are included.   

    CHRISTMAS CHILD.   
    vhs OR DVD    all    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 96 min)
    In this riveting story by author Max Lucado, a Chicago journalist finds himself in a small Texas town on Christmas Eve and encounters old faces and new facts.  The trip into the past holds his key to the future, and a scarlet cross shows him the way home. 

    CHRISTMAS MIRACLE OF JONATHAN TOOMEY.    DVD    all    (91 min)
    This is a story of love, redemption, and above all, hope.  When a broken-hearted boy loses the treasured wooden nativity set that links him to his dead father, his worried mother persuades a reclusive, ill-tempered woodcarver to create a replacement, and to allow her son to watch him carve it.  The commission takes their relationship to unexpected places as the young boy makes greater and more difficult demands of the woodcarver's ability, and as Christmas approaches the three of them struggle to come to terms with each other.

    CHRONICLES OF NARNIA.   
    vhs    el-ad    (6 videocassettes, approx. 87 min ea)
    Welcome to a magical world where animals speak, mythical creatures roam the land, and four children fight an epic battle between good and evil.  Now you can enjoy C.S. Lewis' classic fantasy series in three unforgettable adventures.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
        Vol. 1 - Lion, the witch and the wardrobe.
        Vol. 2 - Prince Caspian and the voyage of the dawn treader.
        Vol. 3 - Silver chair.

    CLAIMING THE STORY: JOURNEY IN CHRISTIAN HISTORY FOR UNITED METHODISTS.    DVD    jh-ad    (40 min)    Guide
    Inspire young and old alike with the drama of Christianity - the personalities, movements, and events that shaped each age.  Following the German and English Reformations the storyline follows the development of United Methodism.  It also demonstrates your church's link with all major Christian movements.  The resource is also available in videocassette format..


    CLERGY WOMEN'S RIGHTS IN THE METHODIST CHURCH.    DVD    ad    (approx. 8 1/2 min)   Information Sheets
    Featuring Bishop Edward Tullis (1917-2005), this program tells how the 1956 General Conference voted to give full clergy rights to women.  A Timeline of Women's Empowerment in The United Methodist Church is also included.

    COMING TO SAY GOODBYE: STORIES OF AIDS IN AFRICA.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 30 min; guide)
    This documentary is about courageous people living with HIV/AIDS in Kenya and Tanzania.  Their stories are a personalized journal of the spread of this modern plague.

    COMMUNICATING WITH COMPASSION: HOW TO COMMUNICATE IN WAYS THAT EASE THE PAIN AND LIFT THE SPIRIT.    DVD    ad    (40 min)    Guide
    Adventures in Caring Foundation founder and cancer survivor, Karen Fox, explains a step-by-step method for communicating with people who are ill, injured, isolated, or in distress.  She demonstrates, using real situations, four key communication skills that empower, encourage, bring hope, and lift the spirit.  Here is an inspiring training or refresher course for volunteers, staff, and families.  It could also serve as a workshop for care groups and Stephen's Ministry groups.


    CONFRONTING DEATH: CHRISTIAN APPROACH TO THE END OF LIFE.   
    DVD    ad    (57 min)    Guide
    Walter Wangerin speaks from his own experiences of living with life-threatening cancer for the last two years.  In his illustrious storytelling, Walt speaks candidly and poignantly about the effects of terminal cancer on his family, his life, and his faith.

     CONFRONTING THE CONTROVERSIES: BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES ON TOUGH ISSUES.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 1 DVD, approx. 114 min ea, CD-ROM)    Guides/Book
    Here is a small-group study that explores some of the most challenging topics of our time: the separation of church and state; creation and evolution in the public schools; the death penalty; euthanasia; prayer in public schools; abortion; and homosexuality.  This seven-session resource provides the components to create a powerful small-group experience.  The purpose of this program is to help participants learn how to think through complex moral issues and maintain respect for persons on both sides of the divide; to teach how the Christian faith relates to critical issues in contemporary society; and to encourage discipleship and other prophetic challenges.

    CONGREGATION, THE.   
    vhs OR DVD    ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, 120 min)
    Here is the compelling story of two ministers - one undergoes a trial by jury, the other a trial by fire - at a church trying to re-invent itself for the 21st century.  Follow the struggles of a liberal United Methodist church as it confronts problems related to a controversial pastoral change and, then, faces the issue of homosexuality within the clergy.

    CONVERSATIONS ON HOMOSEXUALITY AND THE UNITY OF THE UMC.
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 20 min; guide)
    General Conference 2000 directed the General Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns (GCCUIC) to organize a process of dialogue around issues related to homosexuality and the unity of the church (Resolution #29, p. 134, The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church 2000).  This video was developed out of the first of four national dialogues. It was in the Council of Bishops (COB) May 2, 2002.  The topic was "Homosexuality and the Unity of The UMC in the Light of Our Understanding on Ecclesiology and Authority."

    COUNTERING PHARAOH'S PRODUCTION-CONSUMPTION SOCIETY TODAY.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 67 min, 1 CD-ROM)    Guides
    Featuring Walter Brueggeman, Old Testament scholar and retired Columbia Theological Seminary professor, this five-part series from Living the Questions shows how all of God's people - from Israelites fleeing Pharaoh's Egypt and slavery to today's Christians battling consumerism - struggle with the temptation to hang onto the status quo and the things that enslave us rather than step out of our comfort zone and claim God's promise of freedom from sin and bondage.  Sessions run 10 to 20 minutes each.  Help restore the meaning of covenant!

    CREATING CARING CONGREGATIONS.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (approx 30 min; guide. brochure)
    Here is an ecumenical, five-step program to educate clergy and lay persons for the purpose of decreasing the stigma associated with mental illnesses in our faith communities.  The sharing of personal stories and experiences provides a way to give voice to those who have suffered in silence and allows churches to begin the process of reaching out and providing compassionate care to those affected by mental illness and their families.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: This resource can be used effectively with the DVD "Shadow Voices: Finding Hope in Mental Illness," which is also available from the Media Resource Center.

    CUBA: THREE FAITH PERSPECTIVES.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 29 min; guide)
    What's really going on in Cuba since the Castro-led revolution of 1959?  Is it as oppressive as some people say?  How about the churches?  Are they really free or are they subject to government harassment?  This video provides three faith perspectives on the contemporary Cuban reality.

    DA VINCI CODE DECEPTION: SOLVING THE 2,000-YEAR-OLD MYSTERY.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 120 min)    Guides
    Dan Brown's best-selling fiction thriller "The Da Vinci Code" ignited a world-wide controversy with his opening statement: "FACT: All descriptions of artwork, architecture, documents, and secret rituals in this novel are accurate."  But everyone wants to know - is the novel really fact or fiction?  Based on three scholarly books -
    The Da Vinci Deception
    , Breaking the Da Vinci Code, and  Cracking Da Vinci's Code - this program addresses a 2,000-year-old mystery and sustains viewers' faith in Christianity.  The running time is 60 minutes plus 60 minutes of bonus features.

     
    DALAI LAMA INTERFAITH SERVICE.    DVD    jh-ad    (approx. 90 min)
    On October 23, 2007, an interfaith prayer service was held at St. Paul Catholic Center in Bloomington, Indiana with His Holiness the fourteenth Dalai Lama.  Prayers were offered from various faith traditions and musical selections were performed.  Remarks from His Holiness completed the program.

    DELAFIELD.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 60 min; on-line guide)
    For 125 years, Delafield (Minnesota) Evangelical Lutheran Church was a source of continuity to generations of farm families.  That continuity was broken in 1998 when the small congregation faced the harsh realities of a changing rural life and decided to disband the congregation and give away their beloved church building.  What changed?  This documentary takes the viewer through that change.

      DEPOT OF HOPE: UMCOR SAGER BROWN.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 15 min)    Volunteer Guide
    This DVD tells the story of UMCOR Sager Brown in Baldwin, Louisiana, a relief supply center that sends health, flood, sewing, layette, and other kits to people in need around the world. 


    DESTINY AND DESIRE: SHEPHERD'S GUIDE FOR LEADING YOUR FLOCK TO ISRAEL...
    DVD    ad    (approx. 83 min)
    Have you ever wanted to visit Israel to experience the land where Jesus walked and transformed lives?  As a leader maybe you've dreamed of taking others there too, but didn't quite know how.  Here, Dr. Jack W. Hayford, author, pastor and college president, candidly shares his experience, giving biblical insights and descriptions.  After viewing this presentation, you will be more equipped to lead others to the Holy Land, and discover the joy of a deepened understanding of the Gospel of Christ, first hand, where He walked.

     
    DEVOTION TO JESUS: DIVINITY OF CHRIST IN EARLIEST CHRISTIANITY.
        kit    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 182 min total, 1 bonus DVD)    Guides/Publicity Materials
    When, where, and why did people first believe in the divinity of Jesus?  These are the essential but also controversial questions addressed by renowned Bible scholar Larry Hurtado of Edinburgh University.  Join Dr. Hurtado as he lays out the evidence and, in the process, clears away a mountain of popular misinformation.  The eight sessions run 18 to 26 minutes each.

    DID CHRISTIANS INVENT JUDAS?    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 102 min; guide)
    Was Judas invented by early Christians to transfer the blame for Jesus' death from the Romans to the Jews?  Bishop John Shelby Spong notes that many of the details of the betrayal were borrowed from Hebrew scriptures.  He also observes that the name Judas is a cipher for the Jewish nation.  In fact, he says, everything about the Judas narrative suggests that this is a late-developing legend, created to serve the needs of Gentile Christians in the last half of the first century.  

    DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 3 1/2 hrs; guides)
    Designed for small groups or personal study, this resource takes you through the important steps of decision-making, pursuing God's will, seeking counsel from others, learning to use discernment, and understanding the mind of God through scripture as you seek His will.  There are four complete sermons and eight 12- to 15-minute sessions that correspond to the study guide.

    DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.: HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE.    DVD    jh-ad    (60 min)
    This award-winning documentary offers a one-of-a-kind examination of Dr. King's extraordinary life.  Using rare and largely unseen film footage and photographs, writer/director Tom Friedman explores how Dr. King's ideas, beliefs, and methods evolved in the face of the rapidly-changing climate of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.  To study Dr. King's compelling life is to understand that social change and enlightenment are brought about only by the overwhelming force of the human spirit.


    D.V.D. SHOW BIBLE STUDY.   
    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, approx. 75 min ea; guides)
    This kit is designed to help reach adults, youth, and non-church members - even to refresh the world-weary souls of long-time believers!  With practical applications for daily living, both Volume 1 and 2 feature classic episodes of the Dick Van Dyke Show with relevant scriptures for you to use as modern parables on the teachings of Jesus.  Each volume features three studies and discussion materials.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
        Volume 1: 1) Family.             Volume 2: 1) Fights.
                         2)  Home.                             2)  Loyalty.
                         3)  Trust.                              3)  Brotherly love.

      DYING TO LIVE: MIGRANT'S JOURNEY.    DVD    sh,ad    (33 min)
    Immigration is a complex issue that is changing the face of cultures worldwide.  In the United States it is often controversial with many social, economic, political, and even religious implications.  In the debate, what often gets lost are the human issues at stake.  This film provides a profound look at the human face of the migrant.  It explores who these people are, why they leave their homes, and what they face in their journey.  It also explores the places of conflict, pain and hope along the U.S.-Mexico border.  It is a reflection on the human struggle for a more dignified life and the search to find God in the midst of it all. 

    EASTER PROMISE/WITNESS.    DVD    pr-ue    (92 min)
    In Easter Promise (45 minutes), Jerem dreams of being a soldier for a king.  He is thrilled to hear about the upcoming arrival of the true king, Jesus.  Jerem, however, is fooled by appearances and, along with most of Jerusalem, soon rejects Jesus.  Here is a wonderful lesson about truth, appearances and forgiveness.  In The Witness (47 minutes), children will hear the story of what may have happened to Barabbas after he was freed by Pontius Pilate and his journey to faith.

     
    EASTERN AND WESTERN PHILOSOPHY.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, 150 min ea; information sheets)
    This groundbreaking series explores the roots of ancient philosophy, religious thought, and spiritual enlightenment.  Boxed together, Eastern Philosophy explores the genesis of spiritual thought and investigates the central doctrines of Confucianism, Shinto, Hinduism, Judaism, and Islam.  Western Philosophy traces the evolution of philosophy from classical Greece, its development in Europe through the medieval period and the enlightenment into modern existentialist thought.

    ECLIPSING EMPIRE: PAUL, ROME, AND THE KINGDOM OF GOD.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 120 min ea; guide)
    Join preeminent New Testament scholars Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan on location in Turkey as they trace the Apostle Paul's footsteps throughout the Roman Empire.  This 12-session DVD and web-based study explores fresh insights into Paul's message of the Kingdom of God, its challenge to Roman imperial theology, and the apostle's radical relevance for today.  Each 20-minute video segment features a brief travelogue on a location significant for the study of Paul.  NOTE: Eclipsing Empire was filmed in High-Definition across Turkey, Greece, and Italy.

    EFIRD BIBLE STUDY SERIES.    DVD    ad    (12 DVDs, approx. 55-112 min ea; workbook)
    Here is a Bible study that is theologically sound, engaging, and easy-to-use, but also highly effective in growing disciples, lay leaders, and church membership.  Designed for use by Sunday school classes, small groups, and even individuals, each study is divided into approximately 15- to 30-minute video segments, providing for maximum flexibility in course and session length, while requiring a minimum of preparation time.  These studies were recorded as Dr. James "Mickey" Efird presented them to live church audiences of many denominations.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL STUDY NUMBER BELOW.
    Study 1: Book of Genesis - 20 sessions on 4 DVDs (approximately 15-27 min ea).
    Study 2: Book of Psalms - 8 sessions on 2 DVDs (approximately 17-28 min ea).
    Study 3: Acts of the Apostles - 19 sessions on 4 DVDs (approximately 12-28 min ea)
    Study 4: Birth narratives - 8 sessions on 2 DVDs (approximately 17-39 min ea).

    ELBOW ROOM.    vhs    ue-ad    (1 videocassette, 9 min; guide)
    Here is a witty look at the different ways in which we deal with conflict, and the consequences of each choice.  In this non-verbal, animated short, we watch as a simple dispute is played out four different ways, each of them reflecting a common, real-life approach to conflict: retreat, denial, aggression, and negotiation.

    EMBRACING AGING: FAMILIES FACING CHANGE.    DVD    ad    (58 min)    Guide
    Families, experts, and "wise ones" share insights on aging, housing choices, facing illness, and cooperating as siblings in the care of aging parents.  Bonus content on the DVD includes: how to choose a nursing home; giving up driving; finances for older years; and cohousing.  Viewers will become more comfortable with their own aging, and stigma will be reduced as attitudes change.  Closed captioned.

    ENCOUNTERING GOD IN SCRIPTURE: FINDING YOURSELF IN THE STORY OF GOD.    kit    sh,ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 50 and 90 min ea, 1 CD-ROM; book)
    We call the Bible "holy" yet often neglect it.  Now, 13 Luther Seminary professors help viewers understand this book as an encounter with the living God through grappling with ten important questions about the Bible and five Bible study sessions.  Each Bible question features a 5-minute DVD discussion.  Each Bible study features an 18-minute DVD presentation and discussion questions.

    ENOUGH: DISCOVERING JOY THROUGH SIMPLICITY AND GENEROSITY.   
    DVD    ad    (92 min)    Guide/Book
    Today we stand and watch as the American Dream turns into a national economic nightmare.  Our crumbling economy is so different from the society that told us not so long ago, "you deserve it now," regardless whether we could afford it, or whether we actually needed it.  Do we need to redefine our relationship to money?  Where do we find true wealth and contentment?  This book and small-group DVD study leads us to examine our own values and behavior toward spending, wealth, discipline, giving, and personal contentment.  Explore Bible teachings with Adam Hamilton on faith, wealth, generosity, simplicity, and discovering deep joy in this five-week study.  Session times run 45-90 minutes each.


    EVER EXPANDING CIRCLES.   
    vhs    ue-sh    (1 videocassette, 25 min; guide)
    This five-part video curriculum has been developed to help young people, ages 10-14, gain a greater understanding of the biblical concept of stewardship and how it affects their everyday lives.

    EXPLORING GOD'S PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE.    DVD    jh,sh    (1 DVD, 45 min; guide)
    This six-segment resource explores the path to finding God's will, helping young people to hear His purpose for their lives.  The segments are: 1) you were created with a purpose; 2) beginning the journey: seeking God; 3) obstacles to meeting and hearing God; 4) God is always with us;
    5) making choices; and 6) taking a step of faith.

    FAIR HARVEST: RELIGIONS RESPONSE TO IMMIGRATION ISSUES.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 30 min)
    This special religious program reports fresh attempts to achieve dignity for migrant farm-workers.  In the years since the CBS Reports special "Harvest of Shame" (1960) pointed out the slave wages and deplorable working conditions of migrant workers, there has been steady but very slow progress to right the wrongs.  This broadcast deals with two stories in which the National Council of Churches was deeply involved - one concerning the boycott of Taco Bell, and the second about the Mt. Olive Pickle Company.

    FAITH AND BELIEF: FIVE MAJOR WORLD RELIGIONS.    (1 videocassette, 21 min; guide)
    The five major religions of Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam are examined for the impact these religions have had on our world.  By focusing on each religion in turn, the video examines their basic tenets and beliefs, as well as the similarities and differences among the religions, and the profound influence these religions have had on world culture and society.

    FAITH AND COMMUNITY: PUBLIC ROLE OF RELIGION.   
    (11 videocassettes, 19-24 min ea; guides)
    Explore how our nation's changing religious landscape - and especially the diversity within Christianity - is reflected in our shared public life.  This series examines a variety of religious responses to important social issues, while illuminating the struggles and accomplishments of civic leaders and agencies that engage religious leaders and organizations.

    FAITH IN COMMUNITY MINISTRY.    DVD    ad    (approx. 12 min)    Information Sheet
    How does the congregation(s) you serve welcome and support a prison-released offender coming into your neighborhood?  The pastoral and lay leadership in congregation and community life regarding criminal offenders impacts the quality of health, safety, and well-being of everyone.  This DVD introduces the Faith Care Team model that engages a former criminal offender, a UMC congregation, and community members.  NOTE: Faith in Community Ministry is a South Indiana Conference Advance mission project.

    FAITH LESSONS.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 2 hrs ea)    Guides
    Filmed on location in Israel, here are two more volumes in this unique series that brings God's Word to life with astounding relevance.  By weaving together the Bible's fascinating historical, cultural, religious, and geographical contexts, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan reveals keen insights into the scriptures' significance for modern believers.  Closed captioned.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Volume 6: In the dust of the Rabbi. (approx. 2 hrs.) - When the Rabbi says, "Come"; When the Rabbi says,
                     "Go"; Presence of God: Counter cultural community; Living stones; Very words of God.
    Volume 7: Walk as Jesus walked. (approx. 2 hrs.) - Passion of Elijah: So...run; Learning to walk like Jesus
                     (Paul's journey to Rome); Unlikely disciple; Why Christians suffer: Weight of Gethsemane; Don't
                     forget us.

    FAITH OUT LOUD: TALKING ABOUT WHAT MATTERS MOST.   
    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 60 min ea, 1 CD, guide)
    Me?  Talk about my faith?  This DVD set offers hope for shy or tongue-tied Christians to recognize that we have a faith story and words for our experience of God.  Viewers can listen in on authentic and humble conversations as people tall about a time when they experienced God.  These eleven approximately 10-minute video programs can be watched in any order and serve to spark discussion - and give permission - to talk about our faith out loud.

    FAITHFUL AND WISE: BEING A GOOD STEWARD.   
    vhs OR DVD    ad  (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 45 min; guide)
    Ask most Christians what the word "stewardship" means to them, and you will most likely get answers that center around giving money to the church.    But in reality, money is just one of the gifts God has given to us to use to His glory.  James 1:17 says, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights."  This presentation looks at how we can expand our giving into every facet of our lives: our possessions; our time; our talent and skills; our physical environment; our spiritual environment; and our money.

    FAITHFUL WOMEN OF THE BIBLE.    DVD    jh-ad    (1 DVD, approx. 43 min)
    This film is packed with heart-touching drama and an inspiring message.  Women of the Bible face life's trials with faith in God.  In three mini-movies you will be transported back to the world as Jesus saw it!  They are:  "The Touch," "The Sisters of Bethany," and "Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath." 

    FIERCE GOODBYE: LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF SUICIDE.   
    vhs OR DVD    sh,ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx.43 min; guide)
    Five loving and courageous families take you to the innermost depths of their heartbreak and pain to bring hope and healing to others dealing with the numbing after-effects of suicide.  Here is a groundbreaking look at the role of faith and suicide.  Closed captioned.

    FINDING HOPE IN RECOVERY: FAMILIES LIVING WITH ADDICTION.   
    DVD    ad    (44 min)   Guide
    This program examines the role that chemical dependency plays in family dynamics and emphasizes that with emerging forms of treatment, recovery is possible.  Hear from professionals as well as more in-depth interviews on issues of family, treatment, the role of faith, stigma, insurance parity, and the disease of addiction.  Listen to challenging, heartbreaking stories and learn how recovery, reconciliation, and healing can happen.  Closed captioned. 

    FIRE IN THE BONES.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (25 min)
    Beginning with a short message from Bishop Michael Coyner, this new recruiting tool containing five brief vignettes from the Conference Board of Ministry features 16 pastors representing the diversity of the conference.  The DVD can be used to tell the story of ordained ministry in the South Indiana Conference.

    FIRE SAFETY AT YOUR WORSHIP CENTER.   
    vhs    ad    (13 min; brochures)
    This concise program covers the basic causes of fires and some practical methods to prevent them.  It then gives instructions regarding protection systems.  The video should be incorporated in a trustees' meeting, followed by a fact-finding tour of the church.

      FIRST CHRISTMAS AND OTHER STORIES.    DVD    all    (approx. 54 min)
    Here is an animated trio of "claymation" stories featuring the vocal talents of Christopher Plummer, Derek Jacobi, and Peter, Paul and Mary:
    1) First Christmas. - A reverent retelling of the Nativity Story. (approx. 22 min)
    2) The Chimes. - A heartwarming Charles Dickens tale about a poor porter who takes special joy at the sound of bells. (approx. 23 min)
    3) Christmas Gift. - A "claymation" version of Peter, Paul and Mary's ballad "Christmas Dinner." (approx. 9 min)

    FIRST LIGHT: JESUS AND THE KINGDOM OF GOD.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 150 min ea, guides, supplemental materials)
    Here is a small-group study on the historical Jesus and the Kingdom of God featuring leading New Testament scholars John Dominic Crossan and Marcus Borg on location throughout the Galilee and Jerusalem.  Viewers will discuss questions such as: Why did Jesus happen when he happened?  Why the confluence of the Baptism movement of John and the Kingdom movement of Jesus?  What were the priorities of Jesus' proclamation of the Kingdom?  There are 12 sessions, each about 25 minutes in length.

    FIVE PRACTICES.    kit    ad    (6 DVDs, approx. 19-56 min ea)    Manual
    This resource is based on the book, Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations, by Robert Schnase, Bishop of the Missouri Conference of The United Methodist Church.  Schnase leads group sessions (approximately 19-22 minutes each) on the five practices that lead to excellence and fruitfulness and can change your church: Radical Hospitality; Passionate Worship; Intentional Faith Development; Risk-taking Mission and Service; and Extravagant Generosity.  The 56-minute DVD contains promotional material, timelines, sermon outlines, and more.
     

    FLO THE LYIN' FLY.    vhs OR DVD    pr,el    (1 videocassette, OR 1 DVD, approx. 40 min)
    In this prequel to Max Lucado's "Hermie: Common Caterpillar," Hermie returns with some tales of his "pre-butterfly days," and introduces us to Flo, a sweet young fly who learns an important lesson about telling the truth and nothing but the truth!  Closed captioned.

    FOCUS YOUR VISION.    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 20 min; guides, CD-ROM)
    How can we find our direction, our purpose?  When we combine our energy and passion with our focused visions, we give ourselves direction and power.  This Dewitt Jones release encourages us to develop our visions and turn them into reality.  When we connect with our visions, and in doing so, release our passion, we have a better understanding of who we are, what we stand for, and where we are going.  Closed captioned.

    FOLLOW ME: OUT-OF-THE-BOX DISCIPLESHIP EVENT.    kit    jh,sh    (1 videocassette, approx. 35 min; book, guide)
    In this multi-sensory, "out-of-the-box" adventure, teens don't just hear or read about discipleship, they experience it as they delve feet-first into prayer, daily Bible study habits, faith-sharing, service, and more.  Use this kit to ignite students' commitment to Christ!

    FOLLOWING THE PATH: WOMEN OF COLOR SCHOLARS PROGRAM.   
    DVD    ad     (1 DVD, 39 min)
    In 1988, the Black Clergywomen Caucus of The United Methodist Church discussed the lack of women-of-color faculty at United Methodist seminaries and theological schools.  What began as a discussion resulted in a scholarship program like none other.  This video shares the experiences and candid observations of courageous women who dared to dream and who, through the support of the program, are now changing things.  This inspiring program increases the awareness of the gender issues, diversity, and isolation faced by women of color while pursuing advanced degrees in theology and religious studies.  It also shares their moments of joy, satisfaction, and celebration.

    FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.   
    DVD    ad    (98 min)    Guide
    Through the experiences of five very normal, Christian, American families - including those of Former House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt and Episcopal Bishop Gene Robinson - we discover how people of faith handle the realization of having a gay child or family member.  Offering healing, clarity, and understanding to anyone caught in the crosshairs of scripture and sexual identity, this landmark film "boldly takes on a loaded topic and examines it both intellectually and emotionally; the result may well leave you blinking away a few tears." (Seattle Times)  Viewing this documentary will be time well spent reflecting on both the pain and potential of ministry with our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters in faith and our obligation to offer them our full complement of pastoral services and congregational participation.


    FOR THE LOVE OF IT!   
    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, 25 min. 1 CD)    Guide/Workbook
    How can you find a way to love what you do?  Every day?  Join Dewitt Jones, National Geographic photographer and author of three best-selling training programs, as he shares with audiences the importance of beginning each day with a full cup.  In this program, Dewitt discusses how we all have the ability to love what we do through honoring our passion, making a contribution to those around us, and expressing gratitude.   

    FORCE MORE POWERFUL.   
    vhs    ad    (2 videocassettes, 87 min ea; guide)
    Here is a two-part documentary series on one of the 20th century's most important and least-known stories - how nonviolent power overcame oppression and authoritarian rule.  The power that Gandhi pioneered has been used by underdogs on every continent and in every decade of the 20th century, to fight for their rights and freedom.  Closed captioned.

    FORGED BY FIRE: UNTOLD STORIES OF FAITH.    DVD    ad    (47 min)    Guide
    We all have a story and all of our stories matter.  This DVD presents a collection of five stories about ethnic groups that have faced or are facing injustice, persecution and/or marginalization in the United States.  The stories focus on:
    1) Japanese-Americans' internment in World War II;
    2) Cherokee's forced removal and the Trail of Tears;
    3) African-Americans' passage to freedom via the Underground Railroad;
    4) Hispanic/Latino struggles on the United States/Mexico border; and
    5) Pacific Islanders' immigration to the United States.
    The sessions are 7 to 11 minutes each.  Here is a spiritual exercise in speaking justice to the powers that threaten to extinguish God's hope in human history.

    FORGIVE US OUR DEBTS.   
    vhs    sh,ad    1 videocassette, 50 min)
    This program explores the steadily expanding division between the "haves" and the "have nots," an urgent international reality in which the poorest nations of the Southern Hemisphere owe more than $485 billion to their lenders in the North.  The film documents the growing grassroots movement to end Third World debt.  Closed captioned.

    FOUNDATIONS.   
    DVD    ad    (5 DVDs, approx. 90 min ea)    Guides
    This series presents essential truths of the Christian faith and how these truths are to be lived out - in our relationships, our character, and our work.  Rather than just teaching doctrinal knowledge these resources, lead by Tom Holladay and Kay Warren from Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, show participants how to apply and implement biblical truths every day.  Each Foundations study contains four sessions and looks at one of the core truths of the Christian faith.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL DVD NUMBER BELOW.
    DVD #1: Bible, The.
    DVD #2: Jesus.
    DVD #3: Holy Spirit.
    DVD #4: Good and evil.
    DVD #5: Afterlife.

    FOUR ACTS OF PRAYER.   
    vhs OR DVD    sh,ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, 132 min)    Guide
    We speak; God listens.  God speaks; we listen.  In this ten-lesson presentation Walter Wangerin, Jr. uses stories to explore these vital elements of the complete circle of praying.  He shows us that these four simple acts bring us into a close communion with God that supports us in our daily living.
     
    FRUITCAKE CHRISTMAS.    vhs OR DVD    pr,el    (1 videocassette, approx. 40 min OR 1 DVD, approx. 60 min, information sheet)
    In this story from Max Lucado, it's Christmastime in the garden and Hermie and his friends are hustling and bustling to prepare for the big day.  But more than anything they all eagerly anticipate the crowning moment of the holiday season: the arrival of Grannypillar's scrumptious fruitcake.  Suddenly, Christmas is hijacked when the fruitcake is stolen.  But the true meaning of the season shines through when the garden creatures are reminded that the celebration of Christmas is really about God's gift to us.  Closed captioned.

    FUN IS GOOD.    vhs OR DVD    ad    (2 videocassettes OR 2 DVDs, 14 and 16 min ea;
    guide, workbook, CD-ROM(with VHS version only)
    Here is an inspirational training program that features the Saint Paul Saints, an exceptionally unique and successful minor league baseball team.  Yet, this program is about much more than baseball; it's about understanding the importance of having a positive attitude and finding our passion.  It reminds us to show others how much we care and that laughter is the most serious business of all!  Closed captioned.

    FUNDAMENTALISM AND VIOLENCE.
        vhs    sh,ad   (1 videocassette, 120 min; guides)
    Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders explore the political and religious roots of fundamentalism and violence in the three Abrahamic traditions.  The roundtable discussion originated from the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City on November 17, 2001 in response to the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center.

    GAMBLING: RISKY BUSINESS.    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 25 min; guide)
    This video takes you behind the scenes of how gambling addiction starts and the havoc it can bring upon unsuspecting families.  The program will help Christians make sense of one of today's toughest personal and social issues from a biblical and compassionate point of view.

    GENERATION OF HOPE: WHAT IT MEANS TO PREVAIL IN THE HIV/AIDS EPIDEMIC.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, 11 min; guide)
    Filmed on location in Zimbabwe in 2001 and reissued on DVD by UMCOR for World AIDS Day, December 1, 2004, this program tells stories of young people living on their own in Zimbabwe because their parents have died from AIDS.  This resource vividly pictures the life circumstances, struggles, and dreams of today's orphans.

    GILLIGAN'S ISLAND AND THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS BIBLE STUDY.    kit    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 60 min)    Guides
    This Bible study features a classic TV movie with relevant scriptures for you to use on the teachings of Jesus.  It features lessons and discussions based on Rescue from Gilligan's Island.  The creator of Gilligan's Island based the seven castaways on the Seven Deadly Sins: Lust, Greed, Envy, Sloth, Anger, Gluttony, and Pride.  Here are the lessons:
    Section 1: Rescue from Gilligan's Island. (approx. 20 min)
    Section 2: Gilligan and the Skipper. (approx. 6 min)
    Section 3: Ginger. (approx. 8 min)
    Section 4: The Professor. (approx. 8 min)
    Section 5: Thurston and Lovey Howell. (approx. 6 min)
    Section 6: Mary Ann. (approx. 7 min)
    Section 7: Here on Gilligan's Island - Again. (approx. 6 min)

    GIMME GOD: JOURNEY OF YOUR UNFOLDING FAITH.
        DVD    jh,sh    (1 DVD, approx. 25 min)    Guide
    This five-session visual curriculum - which uses dramas, comedies, interviews, music videos, documentary/mockumentary formats -  is about the strange and wonderful journey from wanting God to needing God.  Topics include what to do when God calls your heart, giving God all of yourself, believing beyond fear, your desire vs. God's dcsire, and falling for God. 

    GOD IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 90 min, CD-ROM)    Guides/Book
    In this small group resource, Pastor John Ortberg reveals how to enjoy a vibrant, moment-by-moment relationship with your Heavenly Father.  You'll learn to recognize the hand of God at work in the complex mosaic of your life.  In six sessions, this curriculum teaches how to find God where you least expect him, align yourself with the flow of the Holy Spirit, and draw closer to God even when he seems absent.  NOTE: Ortberg's book by the same title is available UPON REQUEST from the Media Resource Center. 

    GOD STORIES.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 60 min)
    Here are inspiring true stories told by the people who lived them.  Hear first person accounts of supernatural encounters with a living, active God.  The five stories of God's miraculous workings in the everyday lives of common individuals prove once again that everything that concerns us concerns God., and there are no insignificant areas of our lives!

    GOD, WHY?  TEACHINGS FROM THE TSUNAMIS.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 16 min, CD)    Guide
    In this important two-session small group resource, influential Christian leaders provide light for the journey to understand God's activity when natural disasters occur.  Using the South Asia tsunamis as an anchor, practical - yet spiritual - answers are provided to help us address our confusion.

    GOING PUBLIC WITH YOUR FAITH: BECOMING A SPIRITUAL INFLUENCE AT WORK.    kit    ad    (1 tape, 1 DVD, 92 min ea)    Guides/Book
    Discover how to create curiosity about faith, stimulate spiritual interest, recognize spiritual hunger, and cultivate common ground with non-Christians!  This six-session curriculum helps participants find ways to naturally share their friendship and faith in Jesus Christ with clients, customers, and co-workers.  It opens doors through the non-threatening telling of personal faith stories.  Closed captioned.

     
    GOLDEN RULE POLITICS: RECLAIMING THE RIGHTFUL ROLE OF FAITH IN POLITICS.   
    DVD    ad    (36 min)    Guide
    This series offers an antidote to the prevailing myth that GOP stands for "God's Only Party."  Rooted in the theological conviction that God is neither a Republican nor a Democrat, that neither party is thoroughly moral or completely immoral, this DVD explores the rightful role of faith in politics through interviews with clergy and politicians.  It expands the moral agenda from the narrow list of issues prioritized by the Christian Right to the fuller expression of issues found in the Christian tradition, beginning with the biblical priority of doing justice.  The six sessions run 4 to 8 minutes each.


     
    GOOD GOD THEATER: TELLING THE STORY WITH COMEDY AND DRAMA.    DVD    jh-ad    (2 DVDs, 110 and 128 min)    Guides
    The comedy-and-drama approach of these video presentations engages youth and helps them understand the Bible as a cohesive story.  Each of the 16 stories on each DVD is 4-15 minutes long and, as a whole, they explore God's relationship with humanity throughout history.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL DVD NUMBER BELOW.
    DVD #1: Act 1: Old Testament. - These vignettes present stories from the Old Testament, as well as the big story of God's love with a unique approach. (110 minutes)
    DVD #2: Act 2: New Testament. - These vignettes bring to life stories from the Gospels and from the rest of the New Testament. (128 minutes)
    The seasoned actors and musicians pour into their creative work their passion for telling the story of God's love.

    GOOD SEN$E: TRANSFORMATIONAL STEWARDSHIP FOR TODAY'S CHURCH.   
    kit    ad
    (3 videocassettes, approx. 15, 45, and 65 min ea, 2 CDs, 5 books, flyers)
    This comprehensive kit contains everything you need to start a biblical stewardship ministry that transforms lives.  It addresses the challenging topic of finances in a grace-filled, life-giving way.  Implementing a "Good Sen$e" ministry in the local church can help relieve the crushing stress and anxiety caused by consumer debt, restore marriages torn by conflict over money, and heal the wounded self-esteem and shattered confidence resulting from poor financial decisions.

    GOOD STORIES ON TAPE: SHARING GOD'S GIFTS.    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 40 min; guide)
    The testimonies shared in this video collection personalize apportionment giving at the local church level.

    GOSPEL OF JOHN. (VISUAL BIBLE)    DVD    jh-ad    (3 DVDs, 80 to 100 min ea)
    "The Gospel of John," the best-loved of the four Gospels, vividly comes to life in a faithful and powerful dramatization of the Biblical text.  The movie meticulously recreates the era of Jesus during a tumultuous period that changed the course of history, and has been adapted for the screen, word for word, based on the American Bible Society's Good News Bible.  Closed captioned.
     
     
    GOSPEL OF JUDAS: LOST VERSION OF CHRIST'S BETRAYAL.    DVD    sh,ad    (87 min)    Book
    He's one of the most hated men in history: Judas Iscariot, the apostle who betrayed Jesus.  For centuries, his name meant treachery and deceit.  Hidden for nearly two thousand years, an ancient Gospel emerges from the sands of Egypt that tells a very different version of the last days of Jesus and questions the portrait of Judas Iscariot as the evil apostle.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: This program contains graphic images that may be disturbing to some viewers.  Parental discretion is strongly advised.

    GOSPEL QUARTET.   
    vhs    ad    (3 videocassettes, 380 min total; guide)
    Here is a Gospel survey like you've never heard before from the translator of The Message!  Eugene Peterson takes you on a story journey of the four Gospel writers, talking of their spirit, role, and passion as writers of God's sacred word.  There are 14 classes of 20- to 38-minutes each on three videos and a discussion guide.

    GRANDFATHER'S BIRTHDAY.   
    vhs    all    (18 min)    Discussion materials
    Here is the touching story of an elderly widower excited to celebrate his 79th birthday.  Based on a short story, the video follows Grandfather's day and the range of emotions he feels as he comes to grips with one of life's tragic realities.  It is a powerful message about the importance of remembering our senior citizens.

    GREAT FIGURES OF THE NEW TESTAMENT.    DVD    ad    (4 DVDs, 180 min ea; guide)
    There is such a large cast of characters in the many stories of the Bible that individuality can get lost in the sweep of the narratives.  Yet when you take a closer look you find that each is as vivid, alive, and complex as a character in a great novel.  And we can better understand the Bible as a whole by getting to know them better.  Improve your biblical literacy and re-encounter the New Testament as a great repository of literary genius.  This is the promise of Professor Amy-Jill Levine of Vanderbilt University Divinity School as she vividly portrays the cast of characters.  Boxed together, the series includes 24 30-minute lectures.  NOTE: The course stands well on its own and as a companion course to Professor Levine's "Great Figures of the Old Testament."  LICENSED FOR HOME USE ONLY, this series would be an excellent self-study for continuing education credits.

    GREAT FIGURES OF THE OLD TESTAMENT.   
    DVD    ad    (4 DVDs, 180 min ea; guide)
    The Scriptures of ancient Israel have stood the test of time not only because of their profound theology, eloquent poetry, and exhortations to justice.  They have endured because they recount fascinating stories about complex figures.  Open new and intriguing vistas on the Bible with Scripture scholar and teacher, Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt University Divinity School, and join her in these searching, multi-disciplinary reflections on key characters from the Hebrew Scriptures.  These 30-minute lectures take a closer look at many of these characters and the reasons they still stir our imaginations.  Boxed together, the series includes 24 lectures.  NOTE: The course stands well on its own and as a companion course to Professor Levine's "Great Figures of the New Testament."  LICENSED FOR HOME USE ONLY, this series would be an excellent self-study for continuing education credits.

      GREEN.    DVD    jh,sh    (6 DVDs, approx. 12-15 min ea; guides)
    This progressive ministry resource features pro athletes, artists, and band members speaking directly to teens about topics facing young people today.  A leader's guide provides materials and information to guide discussion anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks.  Each topic is for both youth workers and teens.  NOTE: More topics will be added to this series as new DVDs become available.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Volume #1: Dealing with temptation.  Volume #2: Power of the tongue.  Volume #3: Consequences of sin.
    Volume #4: Who you are in Christ.      Volume #5: Going to the root.       Volume #6: Idolatry.

    GROWING TOGETHER: BUILDING A MARRIAGE THAT LASTS.   
    vhs OR DVD
     ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 75 min, 1 DVD, approx. 79 min; guide)
    Whether newly married or celebrating a fiftieth wedding anniversary, couples often question whether their relationship is strong, lasting, and fulfilling.  Hosted by Walter Wangerin, Jr., the program gives a practical and thought-provoking perspective on helping couples craft a loving and enduring marriage.

    GROWING TRUE DISCIPLES OF JESUS.    DVD    ad    (approx. 60 min)
    Use this DVD to rekindle your passion, and that of others in your church, regarding discipleship.  George Barna, head of the Barna Research Group, reminds us that effective discipleship is the result of intentional, passionate, and strategic commitment to spiritual growth.  This research covers: the current spiritual maturity of believers; common discipleship approaches; dominant obstacles to disciple-making; what churches have discovered about transforming discipleship; five discipleship models that work; and much more.

     
    HAILEY AND BAILEY'S SILLY FIGHT.   
    DVD    pr,el    (approx. 60 min)    Information Sheet
    Here is another program in Max Lucado's Hermie and Friends series.  Most twins have abiding love for each other.  Hailey and Bailey are no different.  Well, there was that one time...  Come to think of it, sibling disputes are almost never "about" anything; they are just silly.  When Hailey and Bailey can't agree on what to pack for their picnic, the resulting feud spills over to the entire garden and threatens to undo the good deeds the twins have actually agreed to perform.  This lesson is about getting along.  Closed captioned.

     
    HEART OF CHRISTIANITY: SEEING THE CHRISTIAN LIFE AGAIN.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 111-113 min ea)
    This video features Dr. Marcus Borg in four lectures based on his book, The Heart of Christianity.  The presentations are: 1) Seeing the Foundations Again: Bible and Tradition (approx. 61 min.); 2) Seeing Faith Again: Not Belief But Relationship (approx. 52 min.); 3) Personal Transformation: Born Again and Dying and Rising (approx. 54 min); and
    4) Social Transformation: Kingdom of God and Jesus is Lord (approx. 57 min.).  Borg makes it possible for a new generation to explore Christian thought beyond the merely intellectually "correct," and find seeds of a new passion for social and economic justice.

    HEART SET FREE: LIFE, MINISTRY, AND LYRICS OF CHARLES WESLEY.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (101 min)    Guide
    The story of Charles Wesley is often overshadowed by that of his more famous older brother, John.  These Founding Fathers of Methodism traveled the same path, yet their lives and talents were often remarkably distinct.  From a tenuous birth to blazing field preacher, the film explores the facets of the man known as "The Sweet Bard of Methodism."  Discover the poet, husband, and hymnwriter.


    HERE I AM LORD: MISSIONARIES OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH.   
    vhs OR DVD    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 14 min, 1 DVD, approx. 4 hrs; guide)
    Here is a fast-paced video that takes viewers on a missionary journey around the world.  NOTE: The DVD presents individual missionary stories from 3 to 10 minutes long, which can be selected by the missionary's name or by choosing the country where a missionary serves.  Some stories are available in Spanish or Korean.

    HERMIE: COMMON CATERPILLAR.   
    vhs    pr,el    (1 videocassette, approx. 40 min)
    Hermie ( and his best friend, Wormie) wonder why God - their close friend and Creator - chose to make them so common.  Then comes the miracle.  With an amazing transformation inside and out, they both learn the truth behind God's impeccable timing, and purpose, and love.  Closed captioned.

      HERMIE AND THE HIGH SEAS.   
    DVD    pr,el    (approx. 60 min)
    What possible need would the Garden Gang have for a boat?  It hasn't rained in ages.  This program teaches the lesson based on Jesus' words from the mountainside in Matthew 6 about relying on God to care for our every need.  It's about having faith in God.


    HOSPITALITY EVANGELISM: SHARING THE BREAD OF LIFE.   
    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 20 min; guides)
    "Hospitality" is inviting the stranger to a place at the table.  "Evangelism" is the hand of the church that reaches out and shares the bread of life.  "Hospitality Evangelism" is inviting the stranger to share the bread of life around the church's table of worship and fellowship.  How can we learn to be intentionally hospitable?  This resource can help you do just that.

    HUNGER NO MORE: FACES BEHIND THE FACTS.    vhs OR DVD
    sh,ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, 58 min; guide)
    As aired on ABC-TV, this National Council of Churches documentary takes an in-depth look at hunger and offers solutions.  Meet the people behind the facts on hunger.  Encounter people of faith across America who have taken up the challenge of eradicating hunger in the United States and globally.

    HYMNS OF PRAISE: STORY OF HYMN WRITER CHARLES WESLEY.    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, 96 min)
    Charles Wesley was one of the most prolific hymn writers of all time, having penned more than 6,500 hymns.  Following his conversion, he often wrote a hymn a day and he and his brother, John, published numerous hymnals.  His hymns speak clearly of the theology and belief of the early Methodist movement.  In this fascinating one-man play starring John Jackman, you'll hear the true stories of the early days of Methodism, the events that led up to his conversion, his brother John's "Aldersgate Experience," and the astonishing events that unfolded as the Wesley brothers first began to preach - and sing - in the fields of England.

     
    I AM GETTING TO KNOW GOD.   
    DVD    jh,sh    (2 DVDs, 25-29 min ea)    Guide
    Youth speaker and author David Nasser offers hope and encouragement from scripture to teens.  This four-part, video-driven Bible study for youth groups includes:
    DVD #1: Session 1 - Looking for God. (14 min)    Session 2 - When Bad Things Happen. (11 min)
    DVD #2: Session 3 - Identity. (14 min)                  Session 4 - Question of Faith. (15 min)

    IF ONLY I HAD A GREEN NOSE.
          vhs OR DVD    pr-ue    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, 30 and 60 min respectively)
    From the heart of author Max Lucado, we're off on a new adventure into the wonderful world of Wemmicksville.  Our faithful Wemmick, Punchinello, along with his close Wemmick friends, Lucinda and Twiggy, discover an important lesson: that changing their appearance to fit in is like chasing the wind.

      IF YOU WANT TO WALK ON WATER, YOU'VE GOT TO GET OUT OF THE BOAT.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 80 min, 1 DVD; guides)
    Hosted by John Ortberg with Stephen and Amanda Sorenson, this six-session series teaches participants the skills essential to "water-walking" in faith with God: discerning God's call, transcending fear, risking faith, managing failure, and trusting God.  Answer Christ's call to greater faith, power-filled deeds, and a new way of knowing him.  Relating the story in Matthew 14 to life today, Ortberg invites you to consider the incredible potential that awaits you outside your comfort zones.  Closed captioned.

      IGNITING WORSHIP: COMMUNION.    DVD    ad    (approx. 100 min)    Book
    The Igniting Worship Series consists of resources to assist pastors and worship leaders in building an effective worship experience.  This volume contains ten unique and complete acts of worship for the topical subject of Communion.  The worship experiences are organized around a scripture and theme, and include brief biblical and liturgical comments, sermon outlines, calls to worship, prayers and benedictions.  Some worship acts also include short dramas.

    I'LL GIVE YOU THE GETTIN'.    vhs    sh,ad    (22 min)    Guide
    Here is a real-life story from master storyteller, Walter Wangerin, Jr., that will capture your heart.  Wangerin tells the story of an African-American couple in his Evansville, Indiana congregation who faced terminal illness.  When the husband receives this diagnosis, Pastor Wangerin walks with the couple through their valley of death, as the wife deals with anger, forgiveness, and acceptance.  Closed captioned.

      IMAGINE INDIANA/RUNNING THE RACE.    DVD    ad    (approx. 14 1/2 min)
    There are two separate messages from Bishop Michael J. Coyner contained on this DVD.  The Imagine Indiana message (for July and August 2007) is approximately 3 minutes in length.  Also on this disc is Running the Race, a message about evangelism that runs about 11 1/2 minutes.  Bishop Coyner explains the four things every United Methodist individual and every United Methodist Church need to be involved in doing in order to bring new folk into the life of faith: 1) Inviting; 2) Welcoming; 3) Responding; and 4) Including.

    IMPROVING SAFETY AT YOUR WORSHIP  CENTER.   
    vhs    ad    (15 min; brochures)
    This informational video provides many hints for church maintenance that will create a safer environment.  The viewer is given a tour of a church in which various tips are given in how to spot and correct potential trouble areas.  The video concludes with overall general information on how to make your church safer.  It's an excellent review for trustees and local church leaders. 

    IN GOD'S TIME.    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, approx. 98 min ea, 1 DVD, approx. 197 min)    Guides/Book
    This down-to-earth, ten-week adult education course offers an alternative to sensationalist perspectives concerning the Bible's teaching about the future, an alternative that is at once faithful and sane, readable and scholarly.  Dr. Craig C. Hill, Professor of New Testament at Wesley Theological Seminary is Washington, D.C., and Director of the Wesley Ministry Network, encourages Christians both to take seriously and to think sensibly about the hope of God's ultimate future.
     
    IN THIS TIME, IN THIS PLACE: FIVE MISSIONAL STORIES.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 17 min; guides)
    This video is intended to show what has happened when people in congregations begin to think and act with missional hearts.  It will help you picture where your congregation is on the missional journey and where you might go next.  Closed captioned.

    INSIDER'S VIEW OF JESUS: 12 VIDEO SKETCHES ON REAL DISCIPLESHIP.    vhs    jh,sh    (1 videocassette, 53 min; guide)
    Let this resource fill in the blanks about what it was like to be a disciple of Jesus.  A 12-episode video - with each performance between 3 and 10 minutes - by the comedic drama twosome of Ted and Lee (in the roles of Simon Peter and Andrew) portrays imaginative encounters with the Man of Galilee.

      INTO THE HEART OF HOPE.    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 56 min)
    In August 2004, The Power of One, a group dedicated to telling stories of hope, traveled to Eldoret, Kenya - where as many as 1 in 4 are HIV positive - to share a story of hope.  The Power of One believes that individuals can make a difference.  This documentary is about individuals standing up to the global pandemic of AIDS and defeating it one person at a time.  It will put a face and a name on those fighting the AIDS war.

    INVISIBLE CHAPEL.    DVD    sh,ad    (31 min)
    Here is an enduring story of true faith and perseverance pitted against fear and the heated immigration debate.  For over 20 years a migrant chapel remained invisible to the wealthy residents of a San Diego, California neighborhood.  Every Sunday parish volunteers provided humanitarian assistance and held a church service for over 100 impoverished agricultural, construction, and service industry workers from Mexico.  Some nearby neighbors, along with the San Diego Minutemen and a San Diego radio talk show host clashed with the mostly undocumented immigrant congregations.  The ensuing conflict forced the migrants and volunteers out of their sacred space and ultimately caused the destruction of their place of worship.  NOTE: Additional interviews run 24 minutes.

      INVITATION TO GENESIS.    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, 70 min ea, 1 DVD, approx. 150 min; guides)
    This 10-week Bible study is modeled after the basic design of DISCIPLE Bible study, introducing participants to disciplined Bible study and encouraging them to engage the text through reading assignments in preparation for the small group meeting.  Guided by biblical scholars, this study is an invitation to see Genesis not simply as a story about The Beginning (Creation), but to see it as a book about beginnings.  From Adam and Eve to Noah to Abraham, Genesis recounts God's persistence in "starting over" with God's people.  It is a message both timeless and timely - for God's people still seek the assurance that God is always working to make right what went wrong "in the beginning."  Each video segment consists of two parts: Part 1 is a narrative presentation of a portion of the scripture read in each lesson designed to invite reflection and discussion of a specific text.  Part 2 presents a discussion between two biblical scholars about some aspect of the week's readings designed to help students better understand the meaning of the text.  Allow 60 to 90 minutes for each session.  Closed captioned.

     INVITATION TO JOHN.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 160 min)    Guide/Book
    This 11-week Bible study is modeled after the basic design of DISCIPLE Bible study, introducing participants to disciplined Bible study and encouraging them to engage the text through daily reading assignments in preparation for the small group meeting.  The invitation from Christ is: "Come and see; Follow men."  Experience the magnificent passage in John including the "I am" statements.  Revisit stories only told in John's gospel including Nicodemus, Mary Magdalene, and the raising of Lazarus.  Reading just two chapters of John a week, participants will discover the life-altering stories that will invite them to follow Christ as true disciples.

     
    INVITATION TO PSALMS.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 90 min)    Guide/Book
    Make a deeper connection to the world of the Psalms so that these well-known scriptures can help you give voice to all aspects of our human experience - joy, faith, uncertainty, and sorrow.  During two weekly video segments, experience a varied presentation of individual psalm texts, including dramatic readings, music, dance, and images.  Listen to insights into specific  psalms presented by one or two biblical scholars through an informal, roundtable conversation format.    The 10-week DISCIPLE Bible study is ideal for adults who are interested in the practice of prayer and worship and would like to connect prayer practice with scripture.


      INVITATION TO ROMANS.    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, approx. 55 min ea, 1 DVD, approx. 110 min; guides)
    Paul's teachings in Rome come to us mediated through the history of the church's interpretations of his letter.  The challenge of reading Romans then, is to learn to have our own interpretive conversation with the text itself, in spite of centuries of commentary on the text.  One of the aims of this eight-week DISCIPLE Bible study is to invite us into conversation around several key themes: 1) Paul's emphasis on communal salvation; 2) the centrality of God's righteousness; and 3) the relationship between Jews and Gentiles and the relationship of both to God. 
    Closed captioned.
      INVITATION TO THE NEW TESTAMENT.    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, approx. 72-73 min ea, 1 DVD, approx. 145 min; guides)
    Here is an 8-week, in-depth Bible study modeled about the basic design of DISCIPLE Bible study.  The study does not require training for the leader and is based on weekly group meetings of one to one-and-one half hours.  A two-part video segment guides the session with interpretive presentations from biblical scholars, contextual presentations, and roundtable discussions.  In this study of the New Testament, the story of Jesus is the starting point for understanding the church's identity and mission.  The study then weaves a dialogue between the story, as told by Matthew, and the other New Testament writings.  Closed captioned.

      INVITATION TO THE OLD TESTAMENT.    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, 77 min ea, 1 DVD, 155 min; guides)
    This 8-week Bible study is modeled after the basic design of DISCIPLE Bible study, introducing participants to disciplined study of the Bible and encouraging them to engage the text through daily reading assignments in preparation for the small group meeting.  The study does not require training for the leader and is based on weekly group meetings of one to one-and-one half hours.  A two-part video segment guides the session with interpretive presentations from biblical scholars, contextual presentations, and roundtable discussions.  This study of the Old Testament invites participants to listen afresh to the various voices that narrate the stories from the Torah, the Law, the Prophets and the Wisdom writings, to hear God's call and purpose for their own lives, and to respond to that call.  Closed captioned.    

    IT'S NOT ABOUT THE FOOD: PREVENTING EATING DISORDERS.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 30 min; guide)
    This video helps adults understand the nature of eating disorders among young people so they can reach out to them and get them help.  NOTE: Use this video with "Hungry Hearts: Recognizing and Preventing Eating Disorders," a video produced for young people to view.  (See listing.)

     
    JACOB'S LADDER.    DVD    ue-ad    (4 DVDs, 60-90 min ea; guides)
    This series for youth ages 10 to 15 brings the Old Testament alive.  The storyline surrounds a group of young teenagers, "the teen pack," who discover a mysterious old lighthouse and the even more mysterious keeper, Rafael.  Through the lighthouse, the young teens are transported to Bible times where they interact with timeless characters and learn of a loving God who cares for His people through all the ages.  NOTE: Start with Volume 1 as it explains the lighthouse and how the teens are transported.  Each episode is 30 minutes in length.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Volume 1: GIDEON. - Episode 1-Gideon, reluctant hero; Episode 2-Gideon, warrior by faith.
    Volume 2: NAOMI, RUTH AND BOAZ. - Episode 3-Naomi and Ruth; Episode 4-Ruth and Boaz.
    Volume 3: SAMUEL. - Episode 5-The invitation; Episode 6-Samuel's destiny, Part 1; Episode7-Samuel's destiny, Part 2.
    Volume 4:  SAUL. - Episode 8-King for the Hebrews; Episode 9-Saul takes charge.
    Use this series for Sunday school classes, retreats, or evening programs and help young teens apply the faith-building lessons to their lives.

    JESUS: COMPLETE STORY.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (3 videocassettes, approx. 50 min ea)
    Using the most current scientific and historical research, coupled with the latest computer graphic technology, this series attempts to uncover what this First-Century peasant was trying to do and why.  It pieces together the life of Jesus by following in the footsteps of the man in his early years, through his mission and final days.

    JESUS CREED: SEVEN LESSONS ON LOVING GOD AND LOVING OTHERS.   
    kit    sh,ad    (1 DVD, 47 min)    Guide/Books
    In this seven-week series, explore with Scot McKnight how the great Shema of the Old Testament was transformed by our Lord into the focal point for spiritual maturity.  According to the "Jesus Creed" (found in Mark 12:29-31), loving God and loving others are the greatest commandments.  Scot uses biblical characters such as John the Baptist and Peter to explore themes important to every Christian.  The DVD plus study guide and three books provide lessons on how to mature following the model that Jesus provided for his first disciples.

    JOHN WESLEY'S 300TH BIRTHDAY.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 11 min)
    In celebration of John Wesley's 300th birthday, here are a set of approximately one-minute video segments that highlight Wesley's life and ministry and help tell the story of Methodism.

    JOSHUA.    vhs    all    (1 videocassette, approx. 90 min)
    Based on the best-selling novel by Joseph Girzone that touched the lives of millions, "Joshua" is an inspirational story about a stranger whose mysterious "supernatural" powers inspire a small town.

     JOSHUA: BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 20 min)    Guide
    Whether a slave making bricks or a leader of a nation, Joshua lived a life defined by courage, humility, prayer, and worship.  His life serves as an example and encouragement to us all.  Join author and pastor Todd Phillips in the heart of the nation's capitol as he uses American history to illuminate the story of Joshua in a way never before experienced.  This four-part series will challenge everyone to be strong and courageous.

      JOURNEY: PERSONAL EXPLORATION WITH PETER FRANCE.    DVD    ad    (approx. 105 min)    Guide
    Former BBC Everyman presenter, Peter France, had scrutinized religion from the outside.  Now the searcher has come inside.  Here, in seven 15-minute episodes, France reveals his own remarkable journey to the Christian faith.  He takes us from his childhood in a Yorkshire mining village to a time of questioning, skepticism, desperation, and planned suicide; from his search for and discovery of the truth to his eventual baptism at age 57.  France's warm, witty presentation combines with locations around the world to make this a compelling series.

    JOURNEY IN MISSION: UNITED METHODIST WOMEN.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 57 min, 1 CD)
    Welcome to "A Journey in Mission," a DVD/CD set developed for United Methodist Women members and all who are interested in mission with women, children, and youth.  It brings you stories of ordinary women and youth who have been empowered to do extraordinary things through United Methodist Women.  Enjoy the sights and sounds of what it means to be women in mission.

    JOURNEY THROUGH THE PSALMS.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 92 min)    Guides/Letters/Book/
    Publicity Materials
    Bring the Psalms to life for prayer and worship in your church and learn to approach God with the emotional intensity of the ancient Psalmists.  Based on the book by the same name, the study is led by the book's author, Denise Dombkowski Hopkins, Professor of Hebrew Bible at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.  The eight sessions run from 6 to 15 minutes in length.  Session titles are: 1) Praying the Psalms, Praying into Wholeness; 2) The Synagogue, the Church, and the Psalms; 3) Your Hallelujahs Don't Have To Be Hollow Anymore; 4) You Get What You Deserve, Don't You?; 5) Complaining in Faith To God; 6) Life in the Meanwhile; 7) The Lord Reigns, Enthronement Psalms; and 8) I'll Never Be the Same Again.  This resource is similar in flow to the DISCIPLE Bible Study series. 

    JUDAS: TRAITOR OR FRIEND?    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 50 min)
    Was Judas acting according to Christ's instructions when be betrayed Christ, his friend and savior?  Here is a documentary that provides a comprehensive study of Judas.

      JUNIOR'S GIANTS.    DVD    pr-jh    (2 DVDs, approx. 27 min ea)
    Welcome a modern-day David and Goliath (kinda) in this hilarious animated series about Junior Anderson, a smart elementary school student with wit, imagination, and a comically whimsical Christian family, and the "giants" he fights as he grows up.  The series shows the inner workings of a family and allows each of us to laugh at our own family episodes.  And yet, it still finds time to teach a life-changing concept.  Closed captioned.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL EPISODE BELOW.
    Episode 1: Anger's everywhere. - Junior wages battle against his temper and an angry giant named Tude.
    Episode 2: Envy thou not. - Junior has a new giant to face - a gadget-wielding advocate of materialism.
     
    JUST WALK ACROSS THE ROOM: SIMPLE STEPS POINTING PEOPLE TO FAITH.    kit    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 80 min, 1 CD-ROM; guides)
    In this four-week series, Bill Hybels brings personal evangelism into the 21st century with a natural and empowering approach modeled after Jesus himself.  When Christ "walked" across the cosmos, he came armed only with an offer of redemption for people like us, many of whom were neck-deep in pain of their own making.  This series is designed to equip and inspire your entire church to participate in that same pattern of grace-giving by taking simple walks across rooms - leaving your circles of comfort and extending hands of care, compassion, and inclusiveness to people who might need a touch of God's love today.  Discover how to follow the Holy Spirit's promptings to "just walk across the room" - and into the lives of people living far from God.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: This is to be used only as a SAMPLE KIT.

    JUSTICE MISSION.   
    vhs    jh,sh    (1 videocassette, 40 min; guide)
    Here is a video-enhanced curriculum reflecting the heart of God for the oppressed of the world.  This program depicts the stark facts about oppression and injustice around the world...and presents a Bible-based approach to dealing with them.  In the five video segments, students will follow the visit of four American teens to squalid corners of India.  Closed captioned.

    K-10-C: KIDS' TEN COMMANDMENTS.    vhs    pr-ue    (5 videocassettes, approx. 30 min ea)
    This ground-breaking series harnesses the power of "story" and top-quality animation to engage children and communicate the Ten Commandments in a truly memorable way.  Each volume contains stories regarding two commandments, original songs, and music.  Kids learn biblical values to live by as they discover the truth about God's love for every person.  Closed captioned.

    KEEPING YOUR CHILD SAFE.    vhs    pr,el    (3  videocassettes, 10 min ea; guides)
    This series is designed for children ages 4-7.  They are presented in a storybook format and are not frightening, but empowering.  They contain vital information for young children and are appropriate for use by parents, teachers, counselors, clergy, and professionals.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL TITLE NUMBER BELOW.
        Tape 1: Speak up, say no! Keeping your child safe from sexual abuse.
        Tape 2: For Pete's sake, tell! Keeping children safe from sexual abuse.
        Tape 3: Safe at last! Keeping your child safe from physical abuse.

    KOREA'S HOPE: RECONCILIATION AND PEACE.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 29 min; guide)
    Can the churches prevent war against North Korea?  This video seeks to help American Christians understand why the question of North Korea has become such an issue for our government.  It centers around the life story of the Rev. Dr. Syngman Rhee.

    LAND TWICE PROMISED.    DVD    sh,ad    (68 min)    Guide
    Compelling storyteller Noa Baum, an Israeli who began a heartfelt dialogue with a Palestinian woman while living in the United States, weaves together their memories and their mothers' stories.  She creates a moving testimony illuminating the complex and contradictory history and emotions that surround Jerusalem for Israelis and Palestinians alike as she takes us behind the rhetoric and headlines to hear the true stories of four women, 2 Israelis and 2 Palestinians.  In the process, we experience the most precious ingredient for the resolution of any major conflict: compassion for the humans on each side.

    LAST DAYS OF JESUS.    vhs OR DVD    jh-ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, 77 min.)
    From NBC News comes the story of the final days of Jesus, an objective and discerning investigative report which delves into recent discoveries about the events leading up to the crucifixion and sheds new light on the unanswered questions that still surround this defining moment in world history.  Closed captioned.

    LEAD LIKE JESUS: BEGINNING THE JOURNEY.    kit    ad    (3 DVDs, approx. 61-71 min ea)    Guides
    Four world-renowned consultants present a study of Jesus as a model for modern leaders.  These leadership gurus detail Jesus' effectiveness as a servant leader, and show how the power of His example can guide us to more spiritual growth and personal success.  The study includes an introductory session and eight weeks of group study sessions focusing on four dimensions in the "Lead Like Jesus" encounters: 1) Heart; 2) Head; 3) Hands; and 4) Habits. 

    LIFE OF MARY.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 10 min)    Guide
    From the Storytellers series, this four-part, video-driven Bible study unfolds Mary's life and transforms it to a 21st century audience with teaching by author Margaret Feinberg.  Her insightful discoveries on Mary's unique situation bring to life her fears and struggles.  With powerful lessons and excellent teaching, this Bible study examines Mary's life in a way you would never expect.  Each clip on this DVD walks down Mary's road of faith as she journeys through a life of unbelievable events that ushers in Jesus Christ.

    LIFE OF NEHEMIAH.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 8 min)    Guide
    From the Storytellers series, here's a contemporary look at the amazing life of Nehemiah.  The four-part, video-driven Bible study is made for a 21st century audience by comparing the ancient story of Nehemiah's courageous journey to rebuilt a city in ruins with the horrific devastation of Hurricane Katrina.  With teaching by Marcus Goodloe of the Awaken Ministry team with Erwin McManus and Mosaic in Los Angeles, "Goodie" unpacks the emotions, vulnerability and challenges Nehemiah tackled as he stood face to face with a decision to risk his life for the sake of trusting God and living in obedience to Him.  With powerful lessons, dramatic clips, and excellent teaching, this Bible study will change the way you view Nehemiah.  Each clip on this DVD will enhance your small group study in a brand new way.

    LIFE OF NOAH.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 9 min)    Guide
    From the Storytellers series, the Life of Noah is a four-part, video-driven Bible study that communicates the well-known children's story of Noah and the ark to a 21st century audience with teaching by Chris Seay, Pastor of Ecclesia Church in Houston, Texas, and the author of several books.  He expounds on this exciting story of Noah's faith-stretching endeavor to build an ark when the odds seemed against him.  With powerful lessons, dramatic clips, and excellent teaching, Chris uncovers the prominent themes of Noah's challenge to stand up for God in a world full of sin and trust God with the task of building the ark no matter how impossible it seemed.  Present-day hurricanes and tsunamis provide a modern-day glimpse into the despair caused by the flood, yet God in His faithfulness rescues us from the storms of life.

      LIFE YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 1 DVD, 87 min ea)    Guides/Book
    Like marathon runners, Christians develop strength and endurance not by trying harder, but by training consistently.  In this six-session curriculum, John Ortberg demystifies spiritual discipline for ordinary people, offering fresh perspectives on the ancient practices of faith.  With his engaging and humorous style, Ortberg challenges and encourages participants to live each day with fresh meaning, hope, and joy.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: Ortberg's book is available UPON REQUEST from the Media Resource Center.

    LION AND THE LAMB.   
    DVD    pr,el    (1 DVD, 24 min)
    Christopher Reeve and Amy Grant relate this touching story of how an escaped lion and newborn lamb teach a brother and sister the true spirit of Christmas.  This animated story is a heartfelt holiday classic that promises to captivate viewers.

     
    LIQUID: GOD'S WORD FLOWING THROUGH YOUR LIFE.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (2 DVDs, 50 min ea)    Guides
    Translating ancient stories into the language of today's culture, Liquid gives you entertaining episodes and asks relevant questions to help you discover truth.  Jesus was the master storyteller, teaching truths so that people would investigate, think, and learn.  Each DVD experience features five 10-minute episodes.  Each emotionally-charged episode presents a story of everyday characters with real problems - struggles that mirror the same ones found in stories of the Bible.  Liquid naturally creates and sustains momentum while getting people into the Bible by pointing to specific passages.  Told like a modern-day thriller or drama, these stories are excellent for those new to Christianity and long-time Christians alike.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL DVD NUMBER BELOW.
    DVD #1: Crossing. - Featuring five stand-alone stories from the Book of Joshua, each episode explores the extraordinary things that can happen when we trust God and let God lead the way.
    DVD #2: Mirror Image. These five episodes parallel well-known parables (Prodigal Son, Four Soils, Bridesmaids, Good Samaritan, and Vineyard Workers), illustrating that God's word is still relevant today.

    LITTLEST LIGHT ON THE CHRISTMAS TREE.    DVD    pr,el    (44 min)
    Here is a timeless, magical tale about two unforgettable friends, an abandoned discarded Christmas bulb, afraid and alone, and an eight-year-old boy who finds him and takes him home.  When the town suffers a blackout, Little Light triumphs over all odds to "shine" the way for others to see the Light.  This production tells a story that celebrates the miracle of believing and the power of the human heart.

    LIVE THE LIFE! STUDENT EVANGELISM TRAINING.   
    kit    jh,sh    (1 videocassette, approx 120 min.; guides)
    Here is a six-session video curriculum that helps kids share their faith in a simple, biblical way by depending on Jesus, being real, and loving others.  Watch your kids' confidence grow as they're encouraged to live life unmasked - reaching out to others in honesty and love.

      LIVING FAITH, SEEKING JUSTICE.    DVD    ad    (6 DVDs, various times)
    The Living Faith, Seeking Justice Conference that took place November 1-4, 2007 featured such dynamic and thought-provoking speakers as The Rev. Adam Hamilton, Shane Claiborne, and Janet Wolf.  More than 650 persons from around the world attended the conference.  Participants attended workshops covering a broad spectrum from hunger relief to war resistance, from death-penalty abolition to abuse recover.  The six DVDs are boxed together.


    LIVING FULLY, DYING WELL.    kit    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 88 min)    Guides/Booklets
    Our best decisions about life's most important events are seldom made in a time of crisis.  This kit featuring Bishop Rueben Job is designed to assist us in making careful, wise, and prayerful preparation for meeting life's most important moments.  The study inspires us to talk openly about faith and mortality.  Topics include biblical and social perspectives on age and growing older, which practical legal decisions are important for everyone, what happens when we die, and how we can live each day to the fullest...starting today.  There are eight sessions that average 8 to 10 minutes in length.

    LIVING THE GOOD LIFE TOGETHER: STUDY OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER IN COMMUNITY.    kit    ad    (5 DVDs, approx. 56-66 min ea)    Guides
    Each of these unique 12-week studies will help you explore key features of Christian character and then, as a group, apply these learnings in daily life.  Each study is based on two complementary teachings of Jesus: "Come and See," in which the group will use scripture, videos, and the study guide to experience, discuss, and meditate on the Christian model of this character (6 weeks); and "Go and Do," in which the group will create and implement an action plan for applying and embodying this character in their own lives (6 weeks).  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL STUDY NUMBER BELOW.
    Study 1: Attentiveness: Being present. (approx. 56 min.)
    Study 2: Forgiveness: Letting go. (approx. 65 min.)
    Study 3: Intimacy: Pursuing love. (approx. 59 min.)
    Study 4: Discernment: Acting wisely. (approx. 58 min.)
    Study 5: Hospitality: Risking welcome. (approx. 66 min.)

      LIVING THE QUESTIONS.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, 210 and 180 min respectively)    Guide
    Modeled on the Alpha Course format, here is a progressive alternative for Christian invitation, initiation, and spiritual formation.  This 13-week DVD series and web-based small group study explores beyond the traditions and rote theologies in which so many people and local churches seem to be stuck.  The series will help seekers and "church alumni/ae" alike in discovering the significance of Christianity in the 21st Century and what a meaningful faith can look like in today's world.  NOTE: THIS IS A SAMPLE KIT.

     
    LIVING THE QUESTIONS 2.0: INTRODUCTION TO PROGRESSIVE CHRISTIANITY.    DVD    ad    (3 DVDs, approx. 140 min ea)    Guide
    This series offers an open-minded alternative to studies that attempt to give participants all the answers.  Hosted by Tex Sample, Living the Questions 2.0 creates an environment where participants not only interact with one another in exploring the best of today's theological thought, but together strive to explore what's next for Christianity.  Featuring 30 of today's leading religious voices, the series is comprised of 21 sessions that may be offered in sequence or as three independent flights of seven units each.  It includes all the contributors from the original Living the Questions and adds a host of new thinkers.  The 20-minute video segments include conversations with these leading voices of faith, sermon and lecture clips, digital stories illustrating aspects of an evolving faith, and concrete spiritual practices.  NOTE: THIS IS A SAMPLE KIT.

    LIVING WITH MONEY.    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, 43-46 min ea; guides)
    This series is an ecumenical adult education program for congregations which examines the subject of money in the context of Christian faith - for people of all backgrounds, races, and economic status.  The series features an outstanding and diverse panel of experts.  The four video segments can support a four-, six-, eight-, or 12-week teaching and discussion program.  Closed captioned.

    LORD'S PRAYER: ENTERING INTO GOD'S COUNTRY.    vhs OR DVD    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 65 min; guide)
    The Lord's Prayer may be the most well-known and well-loved prayer in history.  In this eight-segment program, Walter Wangerin, Jr. explores the petitions and the structure of the Lord's Prayer.  He sheds light on what the Lord's Prayer reveals about God's nature, our own nature, and how we should live in relationship with God and one another.

    LOVE: ALL THAT AND MORE.    kit    sh,ad    (3 videocassettes, 64 min total, guide, curriculum)
    Here is an exciting series and six-session curriculum on healthy relationships for use with high school and college-age youth.  It is designed to inform youth about what makes healthy relationships, increase awareness and understanding about abuse, and motivate viewers to seek relationships based on equality and mutual respect.  Closed captioned.

    LOVE IS PATIENT: SAVING SEX FOR MARRIAGE.   
    DVD    jh,sh    (1 DVD, 30 min; guide)
    Sexual intimacy is a gift from God to be enjoyed within marriage.  But choosing to maintain sexual purity is difficult for young people, especially in today's society.  Young people need to know the many benefits of maintaining sexual purity.  The young people and counselors on this video share this message from their personal testimonies, letting viewers know that sexual abstinence before marriage is God's expectation for all of us, and that He will give us the grace to do it.

    LOVE ONE ANOTHER.    DVD    jh-ad    (1 DVD, approx. 35 min)
    This film is packed with heart-touching drama and an inspiring message.  These three mini-movies demonstrate selfless acts of kindness toward our fellow men and women.  The three movies are: "In Time of Need," "The Good Samaritan," and "The Last Good War."

      LUCILLE RAINES RESIDENCE.    DVD    ad    (approx. 58 min)
    Presented in multiple segments, this presentation provides a comprehensive look at the ways Lucille Raines Residence assists people in rebuilding their lives. 
     
    LUCY SHOW BIBLE STUDY.   
    kit    sh,ad    (3 videocassettes, approx. 100 min ea; guides)
    Here comes a study designed to help you reach adults, youth, non-church members - even to refresh the world-weary souls of long-time believers!  With practical applications for daily living, all episodes feature relevant scriptures for you to use as modern parables on the teachings of Jesus.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Volume 1: 1) "Lucy the Bean Queen." - Lesson: Schemes with beans.
                     2) "Lucy's Substitute Secretary." - Lesson: Worries at work.
                     3) "Lucy Gets Trapped." - Lesson: Lying around.
                     4) "Lucy Gets Caught in the Draft." - Lesson: Ill-legalism.
    Volume 2: 1) "Lucy and the Efficiency Expert. " - Lesson: Perfection.
                     2) "Lucy the Star Maker." - Lesson: Gifts.
                     3) "Lucy Meets the Law." - Lesson: Accusations.
                     4) "Lucy in Show Business." - Lesson: Devotion.
    Volume 3: 1) "Lucy Gets a Roommate." - Lesson: Way-out reach.
                     2) "Lucy and the Ring-a-Ding Ring." - Lesson: Hassles with happiness.
                     3) "Lucy and the Submarine Commander." - Lesson: Where there's never a
                           boast or brag.
                     4) "Lucy and the Look-Alike." - Lesson: What's not to like?
    The four sessions per video are each about 25 minutes in length.  A leader's guide and participant's guide are included.

    MAKING A DIFFERENCE: LEADING STUDENTS IN LIFE-CHANGING SERVICE.    kit    jh,sh    (1 videocassette, approx. 7 min, 1 CD, 1 DVD; guide & journal)
    In this outreach adventure, guide teens to the "heart" of service.  They will learn, serve and share by "adopting" a family to care for, studying biblical examples, discussing, journaling, and taking part in creative worship presentations.  There are four sessions.  Provide an incredible spiritual experience for your youth!

    MAKING DISCIPLES: MENTOR-BASED CONFIRMATION PROGRAM.    vhs    ue-ad    (1 videocassette, 120 min; guides; journal)
    Dr. William H. Willimon has designed a 13-session confirmation program that is more like a process and less like a reading assignment - one that is more engaging and congruent with the nature of the Christian faith.  He pairs adult mentors from the congregation with confirmation students in a series of learning experiences.  Topics include: God; Jesus; Holy Spirit; Worship; The Bible; Saints and Gifts; Ministry; Baptism; Spiritual Life; Death and Resurrection; Life in the Church; and The Faith Journey Continues.

    MAKING LOVE LAST A LIFETIME: BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES ON LOVE, MARRIAGE, AND SEX.      kit    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 118 min, 1 DVD, 1 CD; guides)
    Dynamic United Methodist pastor and leadership authority, Adam Hamilton, helps a small group explore what scripture reveals about how to have a healthy, vibrant marriage based on honest spirituality and discipleship.  This eight-week, video-based study, combined with a sermon series, serves as a wonderful outreach tool.

    MARY MAGDALENE: HIDDEN APOSTLE.    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 60 min)
    The first person to whom Jesus appeared after his resurrection has been the victim  of a 2000-year smear campaign.  This groundbreaking profile strives to set the record straight.  Mary Magdalene was not a prostitute.  Rather, she was a woman of wealth whose financial support was crucial to the early survival of Christianity.  Drawing on ancient texts, rare art, and the research of top scholars, this far-reaching portrait compares the evidence we have with the stories we have heard - and tries to reconcile them.

    MATTHEW. (VISUAL BIBLE)    DVD    jh-ad    (2 DVDs, 4 hrs total)
    This deeply moving presentation of the most beloved of stories stars stage and screen actor Richard Kiley as Matthew and Bruce Marchiano as Jesus.  It is a dramatic production of the complete Book of Matthew told entirely in the words of the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible that will bring you face to face with God's awe-inspiring presence in the Scriptures.  NOTE: This series is also available on video. (See online catalog.)
     

    MAYBERRY BIBLE STUDY.    kit    ad
    This study will help you reach adults, youth, non-church members - even to refresh the world-weary souls of long-time believers!  PLEASE NOTE: VOLUME 3 CONTAINS ALL-NEW BIBLE STUDY WITH REVISITED EPISODES FROM THE "ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW: BIBLE STUDY SERIES," VOLUME 2 - BUT IT HIGHLIGHTS DIFFERENT TOPICS.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Volume 3:
    1) Courage. - "High Noon in Mayberry." 
    2) Folly. - "Barney's First Car." 
    3) Gossip. - "A Wife for Andy."
    4) Discernment. - "The Great Filling Station Robbery." 
    Allow two sessions to complete each episode.  

    MEET JESUS: OUT-OF-THE-BOX OUTREACH EVENT.    kit    jh,sh    (1 videocassette, approx 24 min, CD; guide)
    Activities, games, drama, video, a worship CD, Bible study, and creative group discussions all unite in this engaging approach to the most important message of our time.  Meet Jesus' childhood friends, teachers, acquaintances, and enemies as they relay the awe-inspiring truth of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

       MENTAL ILLNESS AND FAMILIES OF FAITH: HOW CONGREGATIONS CAN RESPOND.
        DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 69-74 min ea)
    Here is a resource to help educate faith communities about various mental health issues and how they can become supportive and caring communities for individuals and families affected by mental illness.  Each segment presents an issue related to the experience of mental illness, puts a face to the issue, and offers a message of hope. 


    MESSIAH: PROPHECY FULFILLED.
       
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 50 min)
    This compelling Gospel drama reveals the roots of Christianity.  A Jewish rabbi faces extreme family pressures in his courageous quest to find, and know, truth - to become a follower of Yeshua of Nazareth.  You'll understand the symbolism behind Old Testament traditions and prophesies like never before.  Closed captioned.

      MIDNIGHT CLEAR.   
    DVD    ue-ad    (approx. 102 min.)
    Here is a modern-day parable about how small and seemingly insignificant acts of grace can have a profound impact on others.

    MILO THE MANTIS WHO WOULDN'T PRAY.   
    DVD    pr,el    (approx. 60 min)    Information Sheet
    From the Hermie and Friends series, meet Milo, the praying mantis.  Only Milo won't pray!  When a big storm destroys his Snack Shack, he doesn't know what to do - not even how to talk to God about it.  Milo thinks he has to get God's attention in order for God to hear him, but when he finally learns how to pray, he realizes that God has been helping him all along.  The garden gang learns an important lesson about how to trust God after we pray.  Closed captioned.

      MIRRORED BLESSINGS: REFLECTING THE GIFTS GIVEN BY GOD.   
    DVD    ad    (approx. 13 min)
    In Paul's letters to the church at Corinth, he uses the image of a mirror to describe our spiritual journey.  This training video with Bishop Michael Coyner is designed to help pastors and pastor-parish committees communicate more effectively, and to listen more carefully to each other.  We believe that, when the leadership of the church works together to find the blessings that God has already put in place, then the mission of the church is enriched and also blessed.

    MISSION STUDIES 2005.   
    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette,40 min; guide)
    This fast-paced video gives further perspective on the three mission study themes for 2005 - India and Pakistan, Public Education, and Children of the Bible.  It can be used in conjunction with the mission study book or as a discussion starter on any of the three topics.

      MOMENTUM FOR LIFE. (REVISED)    kit    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 51 and 18 min ea; workbook, guide)
    All of us are leaders - in our families, our communities, our workplaces.  Now comes a set of resources that instills principles in us to sustain a life of faith, balance, and purpose.  The study is based on the book by  Mike Slaughter, senior pastor of Ginghamsburg UMC in Tipp City, Ohio.  Participants in this six-week leadership study will learn five crucial disciplines that will propel them forward into God's promised future for their lives.  Gain insights and advice for enriching the spiritual, intellectual, interpersonal, missional, and physical areas of your life, all of which are integral to effectiveness as a leader.

      MORNING COFFEE.    DVD    sh,ad    (2 DVDs, 24-28 min ea; guides)
    Here is a series with a bold, yet easy-on-the-palate blend of exotic and interesting flavors that will spark discussion in your group about the basics of the Christian faith.  Similar in format to the NOOMA series, this resource features original music, beautiful scenery, and conversation-generating homilies by United Methodist pastor, Mark Flynn.  The three sessions on each DVD are about 5 to 10 minutes each.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL TAPE NUMBER BELOW.
    1) Genesis. - In this first serving, you'll discuss: a) Creator; b) Humanity; and c) Sin.
    2) Unity. - In the second helping, you'll discuss: a) Revelation; b) Word; and c) Unity.
    3) Justice. - Helping #3 will get you ready for a deeper walk with Christ.  Topics for this volume are: a) Justice; b) Humility; and c) Healing.

      MUSLIMS IN AMERICA (APPALACHIA): ISLAM IN EXILE.    DVD    sh,ad    (57 min)
    This program examines the surprisingly rapid growth of Islam in the heart of America's Bible Belt, a predominantly fundamentalist Christian locale.  Yet for Muslims living in Appalachia, the daily challenges lie not so much in acceptance by their neighbors as with practicing their religion in a country whose overall culture is so often at odds with their own beliefs.  The history of Islam, Islamic contributions to the arts and sciences, and common ground between Muslims and Christians are also highlighted.  Filmmaker Steven D. Martin is a United Methodist pastor in Tennessee.


    MY OPPORTUNITY FOR GIVING: STEWARDSHIP AS A WAY OF LIFE.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 54 min, 1 DVD, approx. 54 min, 1 CD)    Guide/Forms
    From the New Beginnings series, here is a kit with a simple, yet profound goal: to make stewardship a way of life for your congregants.  This extraordinary three-week process carefully leads your congregants through a life-changing experience: a deep, prayerful consideration of how they might become good stewards of their time, their talent, and their treasure.

    NATIVE AMERICAN CLOSE-UP.   
    vhs    ue-sh    (1 videocassette, 28 min; guide)
    From the "Children of the Earth" series, this video will show U.S. children the ways young people live in other parts of the world as well as in our own country.  It is divided into two 14-minute stories set on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, and on the Chehalis Reserve, British Columbia, Canada.

    NATIVE AMERICAN RELIGIONS.    DVD    sh,ad    (28 min)
    In this PBS program, host Dennis Wholey has a conversation about Native American religions with Suzan Shown Harjo, executive director of The Morning Star Institute in Washington, D.C. and the pressing need for all Americans, non-native and native alike, to create a better future together.


    NATIVE AMERICANS.   
    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 47 min)
    Explore the many similarities among tribal nations, including a profound respect for nature, myth, and tradition; matriarchal governance; a communal lifestyle; a belief in an afterlife; and the use of pictographs, symbols, and patterns rather than an alphabet-based language.  Also featured are brief scenes of re-created warfare.  The Native Americans' near-extinction - brought on by contact with non-indigenous peoples - is discussed, along with the renewal of Native American culture demonstrated by present generations.

    NATIVITY STORY.    DVD    all    (approx. 101 min)
    It was the cruelest of times.  Under Herod's torturous reign, families struggle to survive and yet, in the midst of utter turmoil,  a teenager's faith is put to the test.  Join Mary and Joseph on an incredible journey of hope and discovery.  Epic in its scope, yet intimate in its portrayal of the Holy Family, this film is an excellent visual for the family relating "the greatest story ever told."

      NEW BEGINNINGS: GIFTS OF AGING.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 20 min)
    Hosted by Hilly Hicks, this program takes a look at aging in our society and provides a glimpse of a variety of creative church ministries that are being enjoyed by older adults.  The video comprises individual short stories of older adults and the role their faith plays in their churches and communities.

    NEW BEGINNINGS: NEW WAY OF LIVING A CHRISTIAN LIFE.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 1 DVD, approx 97 min ea; CD; guides/forms)
    This simple, straightforward program will enliven your church, will provide a new and exciting vision of what it is to be a Christian, and will help congregations find their unique ministry in the church or community - New Beginnings 101, 201, 301 is for you.  In just three, dynamic 60-minute classes on three successive Sunday mornings at your church, you can begin transforming members into disciples - allowing your congregants to feel the power of their local church, discover or enhance richness in their spiritual lives, and joyfully find and embrace the ministry that God has already planted in their souls.

     
    NEW TESTAMENT.    DVD    ad    (4 DVDs, 180 min ea; guide)
    Professor Bart D. Ehrman, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, shows the light that historical research can shed on the New Testament - its form, the methods of its composition, its authors and their original audiences, and the cultural, religious, and political context of early Christianity.  Whether you consider it a book of faith or a cultural artifact, the New Testament is among the most significant writings that the world has ever known.  In these lectures, Ehrman develops for you a carefully reasoned understanding of the New Testament - and the individuals and communities who created its texts.  Boxed together, the series includes 24 30-minute lectures.  NOTE: The course stands well on its own and as a companion course to Professor Amy-Jill Levine's "The Old Testament."  LICENSED FOR HOME USE ONLY, this series would be an excellent self-study for continuing education credits. 

    NEXT DOOR SAVIOR.    kit    ad    (2 videocassettes, 2 DVDs, approx. 72 min ea tape/DVD; CD; guides/booklet)
    Author and pastor Max Lucado clears away the cliches and confusion and leads us to the full magnitude and meaning of Jesus, the God-man.  Join him in this exciting eight-session, multi-media experience as he unravels the mystery of "divinity meeting humanity" and reveals to us a Jesus who is Lord of the entire universe, yet close enough to hear out heart's cry.

    NOMADS MISSION VOLUNTEERS.    DVD    ad    (28 min)
    NOMADS: NOMADS On a Mission Active in Divine Service.  This Volunteer in Mission program consists of couples with RVs wishing to be in mission service and willing to pay their own way.  A prospective member need not be an expert - just possess an open heart and a willingness to learn.  If you like to travel and enjoy making a difference in the lives of people, become a part-time missionary in NOMADS.  Learn about this program in three DVD segments.

    NOOMA.    DVD    jh-ad    (22 DVDs, approx. 10-14 min ea; guides)
    Here is a new format for getting Christian perspectives.  It's short films with communicators who really speak to us.  Each NOOMA touches on issues that we care about, that we want to talk about, and it comes in a way that fits our world.  Named for the Greek word "spirit/breath/ wind," NOOMA is a fresh, innovative approach to spiritual direction that presents the gospel message in a compelling and vibrant way that resonates with contemporary viewers.  Like Jesus' parables, each lesson uses common daily experiences to explore topics like forgiveness, discipleship, and unconditional love.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL NUMBER BELOW.
    1) Rain. (God's comfort)
    2) Flame. (Meanings of love)
    3) Trees. (Meaning in life)
    4) Sunday. (Stewardship)
    5) Noise. (Hearing God)
    6) Kickball. (Wanting it all)
    7) Luggage. (Forgiveness)
    8) Dust. (God's faith in us)
    9) Bullhorn. (Unconditional love)
    10) Lump. (God's love for us)
    11) Rhythm. (Staying in tune with God)
    12) Matthew. (Suffering loss of a loved one)
    13) Rich. (Giving to others; giving back to God)
    14) Breathe. (Our physical breath is a picture of a deeper spiritual reality)
    15) You. (Putting the emphasis on the things that truly should matter in our lives.)
    16) Store. (Constructively channeling anger.)
    17) Today. (Learning to live in the day - not the past.)
    18 Name.  (Knowing our true selves and learning to live more in tune with the life God wants for us.)
    19) Open. (Getting a fresh perspective on how we approach the things in life that compel us to pray.)
    20) Shells. (What are we really doing with our time?)
    21) She. (Learning to be aware of the feminine imagery for God.)
    22) Tomato. (Letting go of false ideas about ourselves in order to appreciate the true worth and value of life.)
    These powerful films will help you reach a new generation with Christ's teachings and challenge believers to live out their faith in bold, new ways.  Closed captioned. 

    NOW WITH BILL MOYERS: BENJAMIN BARBER ON GLOBALIZATION.    DVD    ad    (27 min)
    In this program, Bill Moyers talks with Benjamin Barber, the author of the best-selling Jihad vs. McWorld: Terrorism's Challenge to Democracy and University of Maryland's Gershon and Carol Kekst Professor of Civil Society.  Their discussion explores the promise, as well as the peril, of the emerging new world order, examining recent political and economic events in the light of what Professor Barber deems the two fundamental forces at work behind them: globalism and tribalism.

    NOW
    WITH BILL MOYERS: WHOSE GOD?    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 60 min; guides)
    Bill Moyers asks six panelists: "How is it that the God of comfort, hope, and peace prayed to by so many, can also be the God of oppression, cruelty, and injustice worshipped by others?"  The panelists, led by Moyers, explore the idea that a pluralistic American society is facing new challenges in the wake of September 11.  Closed captioned.

      OLD TESTAMENT.    DVD    ad    (4 DVDs, 180 min ea; guide)
    Written over a period of 1,000 years by many authors, the Old Testament is a source of constant wonder, inspiration, and intrigue.  Professor Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt University Divinity School, introduces the religion, history, and literature of ancient Israel as preserved in the Old Testament.  The influence of ancient Israel's religious and national literature is evident in everything from medieval mystery plays to modern novels, art, music, theater, film, and dance.  Levine brings biblical characters and passages to life and vividly reveals the magnificent artistry that suffuses the Old Testament.  Boxed together, this series includes 24 30-minute lectures.  NOTE: This course stands well on its own and as a companion course to Bart D. Ehrman's "The New Testament."  LICENSED FOR HOME USE ONLY, this series would be an excellent self-study for continuing education credits.

      ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN: MAKING IT HAPPEN.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, 140 min ea; guide)
    Tired of routine and self-centered church life that makes little impact on the surrounding world?  Here is a study that presents a biblical agenda for a mission-oriented church, understands the call of the Gospel to participate in God's work in the world, and mobilizes believers to see their essential role in the advancement of the reign of God.  The kit includes 12 20-minute sessions and two alternative 20-minute introductions on two DVDs.

    ON THE STREET.    DVD    jh-ad    (3 DVDs, approx. 9-13 min ea)
    These on-the-street videos will give your congregation a glimpse into the real world, hearing honest responses to authentic questions.  Pieces included in each of the three boxed-together volumes are as follows:
    Volume 1: What scares you?; If God made contact, what would God say?; What do you want on your tombstone?; What does God look like?; and What is grace?
    Volume 2:  What is the hope for the world?; What is the greatest need in the world?; Where do you belong?; What puts you to sleep?; What scares you?; and What tempts you?
    Volume 3:  What's your wildest life-dream?; What are you thankful for?; Where do you find peace?; How's the dream coming?; All you ever wanted...for Christmas; and What makes a best friend?

      OPENING OURSELVES TO GRACE: BASIC CHRISTIAN PRACTICES.    DVD    ad    (approx. 62 min)
    Hosted by Hilly Hicks, here is a four-session small group study on the means of grace in the Wesleyan tradition.  What is grace?  How does John Wesley's understanding of grace affect our faith journey?  This program offers viewers a way to understand the basic concept of grace as it states the theological expression of God's love for humanity and for each individual.  The segments are: 1) Grace: Maintaining "Holy Tempers;" 2) Finding the means; 3) Practice makes perfect; and 4) Living with grace.  Help your congregation understand the transforming power of grace!

    ORDAINED MINISTRY IN THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 43 min)    Booklet
    This resource provides moving accounts by elders, deacons, chaplains, and pastoral counselors about what it means to be called to ordained ministry in The United Methodist Church and the different ways to serve.


    OUR UNITED METHODIST HERITAGE.   
    DVD    jh-ad    (1 DVD, 35 min; guide)
    This exciting and inspiring story features a four-century survey of what United Methodists have been through from the beginnings of the Protestant Reformation to the 1968 Uniting Conference.  Discovery, despair, renewal, division, reconciliation, adventure, dedication - this is the story of people who have built The United Methodist Church and, thereby, the story of the way God has worked through their lives.  This resource parallels the video "Burning Bright."

     
    PAINTING REVELATION: VISUAL EXPLORATION OF THE LAST BOOK OF THE BIBLE.   
    DVD    ad    (approx. 40 min)    Guide
    Revelation is one of the most mysterious but least understood books of the Bible.  The fascinating - and sometimes frightening - visions are unlocked in a wholly unique way as artist and teacher Debby Topliff "tells the story" with a spectacular array of colorfully rendered scenes.  With Topliff as your guide, you'll be transported through an elaborately painted vision of the entire Book of Revelation, starting on the island of Patmos and traveling to the glorious throne room, where you watch as the events of the end of time unfold.  The five sessions run 7 to 10 minutes each; a bonus sixth session is reading and discussion only.


    PARABLE.   
    vhs OR DVD.    jh-ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, 22 min; guide)
    For no obvious reason, one man dares to be different.  His allegorical presence in the lives of others in a circus is comforting and disruptive.  After his persecution and death, his role is assumed by an unlikely successor.  This non-verbal film is a classic, and continues to raise powerful images and questions about Christian responsibility in a dehumanized world.

    PARABLES OF JESUS.    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, 58 min; guide)
    Viewers will see the Bible come alive, understand the customs and culture behind the parables, and feel the impact of Jesus' message in these seven short dramas portrayed through the lens of Bible times.  The stories run approximately 6 to 9 minutes each and are as follows: 1) The Good Samaritan; 2) The Unmerciful Servant; 3) The Treasure and the Pearl; 4) The Lost Son; 5) The Midnight Visitor; 6) The Dinner; and 7) The Manager.

    PASSING ON THE GIFT: HEIFER INTERNATIONAL'S MISSION TO END WORLD HUNGER.    DVD    ue-ad
    Journey into Heifer's circle of hope - where the 12 Cornerstones of Just and Sustainable Development spread self-reliance to hungry families all over the world.  Travel to: Romania, Ecuador, Cambodia, the Navajo Nation, and Tanzania.  NOTE: The DVD includes three versions: 3 minutes, 14 minutes, and 30 minutes.

    PATHS TO HOPE AND HEALING: BRIEF ASSESSMENT TOOL FOR COUNSELING REFERRAL.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 13 min; guide)
    Here is a model of caregiving where, in a time of crisis, the pastor agrees to an initial visit, makes a preliminary assessment, and then refers the member to the proper clinical therapist for further diagnosis and treatment.  The pastor is then free to follow up with the person for prayer and support, but is not expected to enter into the long and difficult work of diagnosis and treatment.  NOTE: FOR CLERGY USE ONLY.

    PEACE DVD: ESPECIALLY FOR YOUTH.    DVD    jh,sh    (1 DVD, approx. 95 min; guide)
    Imagine what the world would be like if every person worked to make it a more peaceful place.  Get inspired to become a peacemaker by watching: service adventures with Ben, Julia, Megan, and Carmen; an animated flick about a tomato's long, hard journey to the store; Ted and Lee Bible drama and the "Battle of the Scissors;" and people making choices about food, work, and actions that lead to peace.  A two-hour DVD includes 24 stories, designed to be used in a six-session series, or can be used however a group or individual chooses.  Assignments assume web access to www.peaceDVD.com.  Closed captioned.

     
    PEOPLE WHO MET JESUS.    DVD    jh-ad    (2 DVDs, 50-60 min ea; guides)
    While the Gospels follow the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, there are also stories of people who have met and had their lives transformed by Christ.  These DVDs present stories of well-known Bible personalities as well as lesser-known people who came in contact with Jesus.  Each DVD presents short dramas of eight people, combining scripture and theology into an instructive and entertaining program suitable for small groups of all ages.  The dramas run 7 to 8 minutes each.  Boxed together, the 2-DVD set includes the following depictions:
    Series 1:
    1) Simon Peter; 2) Matthew; 3) The Centurion; 4) The Woman at the Well; 5) The Nobleman; 6) Jairus; 7) The Rich Young Ruler; and 8) Nicodemus.
    Series 2: 1) Zacchaeus; 2) The Man Born Blind; 3) Annas the Priest; 4) Caiaphas; 5) Judas Iscariot; 6) Herod Antipas; 7) Pontius Pilate; and 8) Joseph of Arimathea.

    PERFECT STRANGER.    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 105 min; guide)
    Nikki is a successful attorney, troubled by the fact that her life isn't perfect.  One day, a mysterious invitation shows up on her desk that reads, "You are invited to dinner with Jesus of Nazareth."  Thinking it's a prank, she shows up, only to find herself in the middle of a whirlwind evening of debate and revelation - with the most unforgettable man she would ever meet.  NOTE: This film was shot on location in Louisville, Kentucky and Jeffersonville, Indiana.

    PILLARS OF FAITH.    DVD    ad    (4 DVDs, 200 min total; information sheets)
    This series explores the factors which shaped the face of Christianity.  It provides a powerful record of those who changed our world by their faith.  Boxed together, titles include:
    1) Celtic Saints; 2) Martyrs to Christianity; 3) New Testament Witnesses; and 4) Religions of the World.
    Each DVD features superb location footage, commentary and analysis, stylish reconstructions, and contemporary imagery.

    PLACE PREPARED: HELPING CHILDREN UNDERSTAND DEATH AND HEAVEN.   
    DVD    jh,sh    (1 DVD, approx. 95 min; guide)
    This four-segment program will help you talk with children about death and heaven, and help you to prepare them for the inevitable losses they will experience throughout their lives.  NOTE: This resource is also available in video format.

    PLACE TO PRAY: CONVERSATIONS ON THE LORD'S PRAYER.    vhs OR DVD    ad    (3 vhs OR 2 DVDs, 25-28 min ea program)    Guide
    Can the too familiar phrases of the Lord's Prayer help us experience the presence of God?  Roberta Bondi, teacher, writer, and student of the ancient church, thinks so and shares what the beloved phrases mean to her and how they've changed her life.  According to Roberta, we are called to love Gpd and neighbor, and the work of prayer in large part is about healing the wounds that keep us from doing that.  She believes "we are given this prayer so that each of us can find a place to pray."  Boxed together, there are seven programs on three tapes or on 2 DVDs. 


    PORTRAIT OF SUSANNA: STORY OF SUSANNA  WESLEY.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 22 min; guide)
    Susanna Wesley was the very model of a Christian mother.  Raised in a rectory with 24 siblings, she married the Anglican pastor, Samuel Wesley, and gave birth to 19 children.  Here is a monologue, written and performed by Lynette Bennett Danskin, that is designed to present Susanna Wesley in all her courage and devotion, with a message for today.

    POVERTY: TIME FOR SHARING.   
    DVD     jh-ad    (approx. 26 min)
    Poverty in Africa, Asia, and Latin America and how American religions serve the poor is the subject of this program.  Americans of Faith Confront Poverty will cite the work of Protestant, Catholic and Mennonite Christians, Jews and Muslims - all sharing a common thread of responding to immediate need and empowering indigenous peoples so they can control their own lives.  NOTE: Highlighted during the program is the "Nothing But Nets" campaign with United Methodist Bishop Tom Bickerton as official spokesperson.


    POWER OF FORGIVENESS.   
    vhs OR DVD    ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 40 min; guide)
    Every human being gets hurt in ways both big and small, and in turn, we sometimes inflict pain on others.  There comes a time when we face the difficult choice to forgive others and to forgive ourselves.  But forgiveness can seem impossible, even undesirable.  This program presents four studies that open our minds and our hearts to a new understanding of forgiveness so we can embrace it as a key to a wholesome and free life.  Study titles are: 1) Origin of forgiveness; 2) What is forgiveness? 3) Why do we need to forgive? and 4) How is forgiveness possible?

    PRAYER: DOES IT MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE?    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 90 min)    Guides
    In six thought-provoking and inspiring sessions, Philip Yancey helps you and your group explore and experience the very heartbeat - the most fundamental, challenging, perplexing, and deeply rewarding aspect - of our relationship with God: prayer.  Filmed in different locations in the Rocky Mountains, Prayer takes you to the mysterious intersection where God and humans meet and relate.  Session titles are: 1) The View from Above; 2) Why Pray? 3) Keeping Company with God; 4) How to Pray; 5) Prayer Problems; and 6) Does Prayer Change Anything?  The sessions total approximately 90 minutes.  Closed captioned.

    PRAYING IN COLOR: DRAWING A NEW PATH TO GOD.   
    kit    all    (1 DVD, 17 min)    Book/Journal
    Need help communicating with God?  This new prayer form can take as little or as much time as you have or want to commit, from 15 minutes to a weekend retreat.  "A new prayer form gives God an invitation and a new door to penetrate the locked cells of our hearts and minds," explains Sybil MacBeth.  "For many of us, using only words to pray reduces God by the limits of our finite words."  Use Praying In Color to help with: 1) lectio divina - reading the Bible for spiritual growth; 2) memorizing scripture; 3) prayers for discernment; 4) creating a personal Advent or Lenten calendar; or 5) for praying for enemies.  The kit includes a copy of the book, a 17-minute DVD, and a journal.  It can be used to plan a short or day-long workshop, and is adaptable to any age.

    PRAYING WITH THE SONGS OF TAIZE.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 48 min)
    The songs that originated in the tiny French village of Taize are now known throughout the world.  Why have millions of Christians found them so helpful as a pathway to prayer?  How did they develop and how are they used at Taize?  Can they be used elsewhere?  Answers to these and other questions are given by members of the Taize Community, composer Father Joseph Gelineau, young adults from several different countries, and a family who uses Taize songs to pray daily.

    PRIMETIME MOMENTS.    kit    ad    (approx. 81 min)    Guide
    Here are 40 video illustrations for churches on seventeen topics from some of the most beloved television shows of all time.  These clips are taken from five classics: Mayberry, Beverly Hillbillies, Lucy Show, Dick Van Dyke Show, and Gilligan's Island.  Volumes feature short 1- to 3 1/2-minute clips with relevant scriptures.  The kit includes a leader's guide.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Volume 1: Contains clips on Alertness; Appearances; Blessings; Dishonesty; Forgiveness; Grace; Materialism; Money; Problems; Purity; Respect; Selfishness; Trust; Uncertainty; Unity; Values; and Wisdom.

    PRISONER VISITATION AND SUPPORT: REACHING BEHIND PRISON BARS.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 21 min)
    A visit between two people behind the walls of a prison takes on a whole new meaning.  Prisoner Visitation and Support (PVS) is a nationwide organization of specially-trained volunteers who visit federal and military prisoners, especially those who have no other visitors.  Here is a close-up view of an alternative ministry that has become a tremendous value to corrections.

    PROACTIVE PARENTING.    DVD    ad    (6 DVDs, approx. 15 min ea; guides)
    With this series, you don't have to be a parenting expert to lead an effective parenting class or small group.  With segments from Jim Williams, a well-known author and national speaker, it's easy to coordinate a class, facilitate discussions, and help lead a group of parents through a period of learning, growing, and sharing.  Each DVD contains video segments for four 45- to 60-minute adult Sunday school or small group classes, with an average of 15 minutes of video for each class.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL TAPE NUMBER BELOW.
    Tape 1: Handling anger in your home.
    Tape 2: Your family and money.
    Tape 3: Parenting 101: Basics of becoming a proactive parent.
    Tape 4: Communication with your child or teen.
    Tape 5: Discipline with children and teens.
    Tape 6: Single parenting.

    PROPHECIES OF THE PASSION.    vhs OR DVD    ad    (approx. 60 min)
    Here is an extraordinary look at the Messianic prophecies fulfilled during the final week of Christ's life on earth.  The Gospels clearly describe Jesus' betrayal, arrest, death, and resurrection.  Remarkably, these events were foretold by Hebrew prophets - in specific detail - centuries before they actually happened.  This stimulating and faith-building presentation explores these ancient Biblical promises to touch the hearts and minds of both believers and skeptics with a powerful message of hope.

    PROPHETS: SOUL CATCHERS.   DVD    jh-ad    (approx. 50 min.)
    From the Mysteries of the Bible series I, this five-part program profiles such prophets of the Old Testament as Elijah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Jeremiah, Amos, Hosea, and Isaiah.  It examines their histories and prophecies, explores the social impact of their voices, and considers the accuracy of their predictions.  They stand amongst the Old Testament's most commanding and confounding figures: the prophets, links between the human and the divine.  NOTE: The complete series can be found under the Title Index online.

    PUNCHINELLO AND THE MOST MARVELOUS GIFT.   
    vhs OR DVD    pr-ue    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 30 min OR 40 min)
    The whole town is bustling to get ready for Maker Day.  But Punchinello has nothing wonderful enough to honor Eli on Maker Day.  In the midst of the celebration, something goes terribly awry and Punchinello comes to the rescue with the most precious gift of all - a gift from the hearts of all Wemmicks to honor the Maker on his special day.  Closed captioned.

    PUTTING FAMILIES FIRST: INDIANA UNITED METHODIST CHILDREN'S HOME.    DVD    jh-ad    (1 DVD, 8 min)
    As an outreach ministry of the North and South Indiana Conferences of The United Methodist Church, it is vitally important for congregations to understand how the Indiana United Methodist Children's Home is transforming lives.  At the Children's Home, youth receive the care and concern needed to rebuild their damaged lives.  Learn more about the important mission work taking place here.

    QUESTION OF GOD: C. S. LEWIS AND SIGMUND FREUD WITH DR. ARMAND NICHOLI.    vhs    ad    (2 videocassettes, 120 min ea; guide)
    This four-hour series from PBS addresses perennial questions such as: What is happiness?  How do we find meaning and purpose in our lives?  No mater what your faith or what you believe, how each of us understands the meaning of life comes down to how we answer one ultimate question: Does God really exist?  This series illustrates the lives and insights of Sigmund Freud, a life-long critic of religious belief, and C. S. Lewis, literary critic and perhaps the century's most influential and popular proponent of a reasonable Christian faith.  The series presents a unique dialogue between Freud, the atheist, and Lewis, the believer.    Closed captioned.

     
    QUESTIONING CAPITAL PUNISHMENT.   
    DVD    ad    (approx. 90 min)    Guide
    Here is a five-session study featuring Sister Helen Prejean, one of the world's leading authorities and outspoken critics of state-sponsored execution.  The sessions are: 1) Crossing the Breach; 2) What in God's Name? 3) Change of Heart; 4) Radical Forgiveness; and 5) Next Steps.  Each video session is about 15 to 20 minutes in length and discussion questions are provided.


    QURAN, THE BIBLE, AND THE TORAH.    DVD    sh,ad    (30 min)
    This program helps raise the dialogue between Muslim and non-Muslim to a higher level of understanding.  Islam, Christianity, and Judaism possess a rich body of writings that are authoritative and normative for the life and faith of their respective communities.  Three authors on this subject present their perspectives on the revelatory and inspirational texts of the three religions of the Book.

    READING THE GOSPELS WITH JEWISH EYES.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 94 min; guide)
    According to Bishop John Shelby Spong, startling new insights emerge when the Gospels are read from a Jewish perspective - a perspective to which many Christians may be blind.  Viewed this way, the organizing principle behind the Gospels appears not to be memory, biography or history.  Instead, the key events of Jesus' life seem to closely follow an orderly cycle of Jewish feasts and rites of passage.

    REAL KIDS.    vhs    jh.sh    (6 videocassettes, 45-62 min ea; guides)
    Use these ultimate discussion starters from the video magazine Edge TV to launch or illustrate your lesson or program.  The programs are ideal for small-group leaders, youth workers, Sunday school teachers, and Bible study leaders who want to get their kids to open up to the Bible, to each other, and to God.  Closed captioned. 

    REALLY BAD GIRLS OF THE BIBLE: MORE LESSONS FROM LESS-THAN-PERFECT WOMEN.    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 60 sec)
    Author and speaker Liz Curtis Higgs brings her best-selling book to life in this fast-paced presentation introducing eight truly bold belles.  Learn about Athaliah, Herodias, Jael, Bathsheba and the medium of En Dor.  Each story demonstrates the sovereign power of God at work, even in women who were "really bad."

    RECONNECTING: WESLEYAN GUIDE FOR THE RENEWAL OF OUR CONGREGATION.    DVD    ad    (approx. 140 min)    Guide
    Here is a seven-week or seven-session experience with 20-minute video segments designed by Rob Weber to help your congregation reconnect with some of the major themes and principles in the ministry of John Wesley.  These themes and principles are applicable to all churches and all generations, and their recovery is meant to transform and re-energize the journey of discipleship on both the personal and corporate level.  It is recommended for clergy and laity who have come into The United Methodist Church from other denominations. 

    RECONNECTING WORSHIP: WHERE TRADITION AND INNOVATION CONVERGE.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 1 DVD, approx 150 min ea)    Guides
    Pastors, worship leaders, worship planners, and laypersons will use this eight-session, video-based, small group study by Rob Weber with Stacy Hood to learn about and discuss worship in the congregation.  In each rich and stimulating session, a group will come to terms with the rapidly changing worship environment.  The participants will examine practices and develop skills for improving the ways we worship, while preserving and honoring each particular tradition.  The kit is designed to get small groups in touch with historical (Wesleyan) roots and contemporary cultural forces, so that an individual can embrace his or her "priesthood."  NOTE: This resource is recommended for clergy and laity who have come to The United Methodist Church from other denominations.

      RED BIRD MISSIONARY CONFERENCE (2007): GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS.    DVD    jh-ad    (approx. 14 min)    Guide
    The Red Bird Missionary Conference is the largest mission effort of The United Methodist Church in the United States.  The DVD captures the essential programs and the wide variety of ministries of the Red Bird Missionary Conference. 
     

     
    REDISCOVERING THE LABYRINTH: WALKING MEDITATION.    DVD    ad    (approx. 28 min)    Information Sheet
    Here is a moving documentary of real people whose lives have been changed by walking the labyrinth, and an invitation for you to begin the journey.  Join the Rev. Dr. Lauren Artress, author of Walking a Sacred Path, as she presents this remarkable tool for transformation.  Discover the liberating power of the labyrinth.  Closed captioned.

     
    REFLECTIONS ON PSALM 23 FOR PEOPLE WITH CANCER.    DVD    ad    (104 min)    Guide
    Ken Curtis, founder and president of Gateway Films/Vision Video and Christian History Institute, was diagnosed with advanced cancer with little prospect for survival.  He pursued a combination of traditional and alternative medicine, undergirded by a strong spiritual dimension and prayer support team.  Psalm 23 was a vital part of his spiritual component, and for this video Curtis went to Israel to be with the shepherds, travel "through the valley of the shadow of death," and explore and enjoy the healing powers of the green pastures and still waters.  The resulting meditations combine a candid personal experience of what it means to battle cancer with some of the spiritual resources available through this time-honored psalm.  There are thirteen 8-minute segments.

     
    REFUSING TO BE ENEMIES: ZEITOUNA STORY.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 58 min)
    Zeitouna is a group of twelve southeast Michigan women, six Jews and six Arab-Americans, who have dedicated themselves to peace through dialogue and education.  Since their founding in 2002, the women have shared their stories, their anger, their resentments, and their fears, finding common ground and friendship.  Profiled is the unique sisterhood of these women and viewers hear episodes from the women's family histories.  These personal memories - sometime happy, but often tragic - have shaped their views, including feelings about persons of different heritage, their ancestral homelands, and the modern state of Israel.  Here is a model of dialogue that is part of the difficult but necessary process of bridge-building.

    REINVENTING AGING.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 30 min; book)
    Here is a 13-week book/video study in which the writers - all professionals in their respective fields - share stories that will make you think of when Grandma moved to the nursing home or Uncle Joe got Alzheimer's, or the sad day you had to take Dad's driver's license away.  Relevant scripture texts keep this study firmly grounded in the Bible.  You'll be lifted to a higher plane of living where you feel more prepared.  Closed captioned.

     
    RELIGION AND SCIENCE: PATHWAYS TO TRUTH.   
    kit    ad    (4 DVDs, approx. 55-150 min ea)    Guides/ Publicity Materials
    Join more than a dozen world experts as they consider how religion and science might coexist and complement one another in the 21st century.  Hosted by Francis S. Collins, author, and the Director of The Human Genome Project, this nine-session DVD features leading scientists, philosophers, and theologians.  Sessions run between 25 and 32 minutes each.

    RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY IN AMERICA.    vhs    ue-sh    (1 videocassette, 23 min)
    This video defines and provides a basis for knowledge and respect for the beliefs for several mainstream religions practiced in the United States including: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.  Definitions for many common terms are given. 

    RENEWAL OR RUIN? INSTITUTE ON RELIGION AND DEMOCRACY'S ATTACK ON THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH.    DVD    ad    (24 min)    Guide
    Since its beginning in 1982, the Institute on Religion and Democracy (IRD) has continuously undermined The United Methodist Church and other mainline Protestant denominations by attacking the character of church leaders.  This DVD looks into the IRD's claim that it exists to renew the spiritual life of the church. 

    RESTLESS HEARTS: WHERE DO I GO NOW, GOD?   
    kit    ad    (1 DVD, 42 min) Guides
    This six-week study for young adults will help them reflect upon who they are, upon what they want to do with their lives, and upon God's presence and care in the midst of their vocational journey.  The kit includes: a study guide, a leader's guide, and a DVD with video presentations exploring the topic of vocation through interviews, personal testimony, storytelling, and dramatic readings.  The program was developed by United Methodist Elder Alex Joyner.
     
    RESURRECTION: KEEPING JESUS IN SIGHT.    vhs    ad    (2 videocassettes, 120 min ea; guide)
    Daryl Schmidt makes sense of the various versions of the resurrection by examining relevant texts for historical traces and exposing the often striking differences among the various reports of the resurrection.

    REVOLUTION 2: BIBLE STUDY FOR TEENAGERS.    kit    jh,sh    (10 DVDs, approx. 10-30 min ea)    Guide
    Here is a complete, 13-week curriculum experience that will enhance your teens' learning experiences.  The kit provides easy-to-use lesson plans for youth leaders and includes: 13 weeks of Bible study featuring Doug Fields, author of Purpose-Driven Youth Ministry, (Revolution 2 on 5 DVDs, approximately 30 minutes each); 24 brief video illustrations which show teenagers sharing their own experiences and struggles (Stories, Volumes 4-7 on 4 DVDs, approximately 11-21 minutes each); 10 funny clips designed to captivate and motivate your youth group (Shorts on 1 10 1/2-minute DVD); and an extensive leader's guide.  Revolution 2 offers a realistic glimpse into some of the harsh realities kids deal with today and how to trust in God's love.

      RHYTHMS OF PEACE 4: STORIES AND SONGS FOR KIDS ABOUT PEACE.    DVD    ue    (approx. 65 min)    Guide/Information Sheet
    Here is a delightful mix of music, fiction, and mini-documentaries for 8- to 11-year-olds and their families.  The DVD explores many facets of peace: accepting differences; cooperation; settling disagreements; learning about peacemakers in history; and building friendships around the world. 

    ROAD TO SAFER TRANSPORTATION.    vhs    ad    (15 min; brochure)
    If your church owns or is planning to buy a vehicle for use in transporting parishioners, this practical video is for you.  It includes many tips and should be viewed by trustees and other key leaders in the local church.

    ROAD TRIP TO KENYA: PATH TOWARD GLOBAL UNDERSTANDING.    DVD    jh-ad    (2 DVDs, 18-24 min ea)    Guides
    Enthusiastic young adults serve as on-screen guides in this two-part series, which travels to Kenya to study compelling issues in culture and ecology.  The series takes an investigative approach, revealing Kenya's many strengths, challenges, contrasts, and opportunities.  Viewers will gain a clear picture of Kenya's cultural diversity, education system, landscape, and natural resources - while learning about its relationship to the global community.

    SACRED TRUST: BOUNDARY ISSUES FOR CLERGY AND SPIRITUAL TEACHERS.    kit    ad    (4 videocassettes, 108 min total; guide)
    The need for personal and professional integrity in the ministerial relationship is an issue that all faith traditions are confronting today.  This series addresses this challenge in a comprehensive, creative way that draws from a wide diversity of spiritual traditions.  The objectives of the program are: 1) to increase awareness of the need for healthy and appropriate boundaries in the clergy-congregant or teacher-student relationship; 2) To illustrate the impact of appropriate boundaries in promoting effective ministry; and 3) To provide clergy and teachers with guidelines for developing appropriate boundaries and self-care strategies.  The series confronts difficult issues with forthrightness and a deep reverence for the "sacred trust" of religious ministry.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: FOR USE BY CLERGY AND SEMINARIANS ONLY.

    SAFE HARBOR.    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 58 min; guide)
    To escape from slavery was no easy task.  Here is an incredible story of strength and determination, told through the eyes of the fugitives themselves and the people who risked everything to help them.  From free black communities to middle class white society, in small villages and on farms, they defied race and gender in one of the greatest survival stories of all time.

    SAFE SANCTUARIES: PROVIDING SAFE PLACES FOR WORSHIP AND COMMUNITY.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 134 min; booklet)
    This resource provides guidance for congregations that are committed to providing safe and nurturing ministries for children and youth.  Author Joy Thornburg Melton outlines a six-session process for developing policies and procedures to reduce the risk of child abuse in the church.

    SAFE SANCTUARIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH: REDUCING THE RISK OF ABUSE IN THE CHURCH.    DVD    ad    (70 min; guide)
    Once children and youth become a part of the local church, there is a great responsibility to protect them from potential abuse.  This eight-segment DVD will walk you through the study guide to establish a safe policy for your church.  Joy Thornburg Melton brings you this study to use in training and in raising awareness in your local congregation, addressing the "why" and "how" of developing and implementing a policy to reduce the risk of abuse in your church, and providing necessary forms to use in the process.

      SAFETY NET KIDS.    DVD    pr-ue    (2 DVDs, approx. 30-32 min ea)
    Suitable for children ages 4-11, these programs come with age specific tips do teachers will know what to emphasize.  They reinforce good safety habits in a way that doesn't promote fear in children.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL TAPE NUMBER BELOW.
    Tape 1:  No easy targets. - Teaches young ones the importance of knowing when it's okay to say no, about unwanted touches, what to do when they are approached or grabbed by a stranger, and how to react in other potentially dangerous situations. (approx. 30 min.)
    Tape 2: Bullies. - Teaches children the importance of building good friendships, how to respond to threats, physical abuse and name-calling by instilling confidence, and uses fun games with high energy content in the teaching process. (approx. 32 min.)
    Safety Net programs are designed to teach your children that the danger is real and that there are ways of recognizing and avoiding situations that might put them in harm's way.

      SAFETY TIPS ON A SENSITIVE SUBJECT: CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE.    vhs    ad    (15 min; brochures)
    Let a noted attorney and a psychologist who specialize in sexual abuse cases share their knowledge with you.  Learn how to prevent an occurrence at your worship center, school or camp and what to do if there is an allegation.  The video is by Joy Thornburg-Melton, author of Safe Sanctuaries.

    ST. PETER: THE ROCK. 
      
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 70 min)
    From his conversion to the 1968 announcement that his bones had been found, here is a comprehensive study from The History Channel of the "fisher of men."  Closed captioned.

    SALT OF THE EARTH: PALESTINIAN CHRISTIANS IN THE NORTHERN WEST BANK.    DVD    sh,ad    (1 DVD, approx. 2 hrs 45 min; guides)
    Created by a Presbyterian pastor and his wife who lived in the Northern West Bank from August 2000 to December 2003, this DVD chronicles the lives of nine Palestinian Christians and the challenges, struggles, and danger they face simply because they are Christian.  It also shares their faith and hopes.  This is a powerful ten-session documentary in Arabic with English subtitles.

     
    SAVING JESUS.    DVD    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 4 hrs total)    Guides
    From the creators of Living the Questions, Saving Jesus is a progressive DVD-based, 12-session program for small group exploration of Jesus Christ for the third millennium.  Featuring leading religious voices of our day, the series format for each 1- to 1 1/2-hour session includes a conversation around the readings, a 20-minute video segment, and guided discussion.  Join Marcus Borg, John Dominic Crossan, Matthew Fox, Amy-Jill Levine, James Forbes, and a host of others for a conversation around the relevance of Jesus Christ for today. 

    SAVIOR IS BORN.    DVD    pr,el    (1 DVD, 28 min)
    This program follows Mary and Joseph on their journey to Bethlehem and celebrates the birth of Jesus.  An awe-inspiring musical score and Morgan Freeman's poignant narration capture all the power and beauty of the very first Christmas.

    SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 52 min; guide)
    This video links powerful stories of people in various seasons of their lives with four seasonal themes of the Christian Year:  Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter.  Through passages of illness, loss, and confusion, as well as through times of discovery and joy, each of the video's stories helps viewers think about their own challenges - and reasons to be hopeful

      SEEING GRAY IN A WORLD OF BLACK AND WHITE: THOUGHTS ON RELIGION, MORALITY, AND POLITICS.    DVD    ad    (97 min)    Guide
    Everyone agrees that America is polarized, with ever-hardening positions held by people less and less willing to listen to one another.  No one agrees on what to do about it.  One solution that hasn't yet been tried says Adam Hamilton, Senior Pastor of Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, is for persons of faith to model for the rest of the country a richer, more thoughtful conversation on the political, moral, and religious issues that divide us.  This resource features Hamilton teaching these concepts for group or individual study.  There are five 15-to 20-minute sessions.  Join him as he challenges thinking persons of faith to seek the truth that resides on all sides of the issues and offers a faithful and compassionate way forward.

    SELLING SWIMSUITS IN THE ARCTIC: SEVEN SIMPLE KEYS TO GROWING CHURCHES.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 60 min, 1 CD-ROM; book)
    By telling the humorous and quirky story of how Bob the swimsuit salesman tries to sell his wares to the local Inupiat people in the Arctic, Adam Hamilton illustrates the fundamental concepts of presenting and selling that also apply to how we spread the gospel message.  Hamilton offers solid, simple guidance on how to share the faith and grow your congregation.

    SERIOUS ANSWERS TO HARD QUESTIONS.    kit    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 148 min ea)    Guides/Publicity Materials
    In this thought-provoking course from Wesley Ministry Network, ten leading theologians - world experts in their respective fields - address these obstacle-to-faith issues: the existence of evil; religion and science; other religions; evangelism and tolerance; the God of the Old Testament; Jesus and Christianity; resurrection; the Gnostic Gospels; the sins of the Church; and forgiveness.  Each DVD presentation is about 30 minutes in length.  This course, hosted by United Methodist Bishop Kenneth Carder, encourages energetic discussion and sustained reflection by both believers and seekers.  Presenters include N.T. Wright, Amy-Jill Levine, John Polkinghorne, Richard B. Hays, and Sathianathan Clarke.  Each session can be completed in 90 minutes, but can be divided into roughly two 45-minute segments to accommodate shorter class times.

     
    SERVANT OR SUCKER? WISE AND COMPASSIONATE WAYS TO HELP THE POOR.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 60 min)    Guide
    We've all been there.  Someone who is obviously poor or homeless approaches you and asks for money.  What do you do?  Do you give money knowing there's a good chance it will be used on drugs or alcohol, or do you say "no" or even ignore the person as you walk by?  No one wants to be a sucker in these situations, but at the same time Jesus' call to help the poor echoes in our hearts and minds.  This five-session study will help viewers discern appropriate, Christ-centered actions when it comes to addressing poverty on a personal or organizational level.  Sessions run 10 to 15 minutes each.


    SERVING FROM THE HEART.   
    kit    ad    (1 CD; untimed; guides)
    Here is a ministry development resource from The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, for Sunday school, small groups, and retreats.  Help adults discover their unique gifts and talents for service, the inspiration to serve, and a way to connect with service in your church community.

    SHADOW VOICES: FINDING HOPE IN MENTAL ILLNESS.    DVD    ad    (3 hrs; guides)
    This 58-minute documentary provides an inside look at what it's like to live with a mental illness and how individuals and their families find their way through medical, governmental, societal, and spiritual issues - to hope.  Persons from all across the U.S. with mental illness tell their stories, plus experts and advocates in the field add perspectives and insights.  There are two hours of bonus features.  Optional English and Spanish subtitles are provided.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: This resource can be used effectively with the DVD "Creating Caring Congregations," which is also available through the Media Resource Center.

    SHATTERED DREAMS: HEALING AFTER DIVORCE.    vhs  OR DVD    ad
    (1 videocassette, approx. 30 min, 1 DVD, approx. 30 min; guide)
    In this program, you will meet men and women who have suffered the pain of divorce, have walked through a recovery process, and have found healing and hope in life again.  NOTE: A companion video is "Raising Children of Divorce: Practical Help for Parents."  (See listing.)

    SHEFFEY.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 135 min)
    Robert Sheffey was an American circuit-riding preacher of the nineteenth century.  This is the true story of this unusual servant of God, who as a rowdy young man followed his friends to a revival meeting and there found the Lord.  Closed captioned.

    SIMPLY CHRISTIAN: WHY CHRISTIANITY MAKES SENSE.    kit    ad    (3 DVDs, approx. 75-100 min ea; guides/book)
    Well-known Biblical scholar and Anglican bishop N.T. (Tom) Wright offers a fresh presentation of the timeless truths of Christianity, making the case that faith is reasonable and rewarding for us today.  In this course, he expands on the themes of his book Simply Christian in 10 inspiring and informative lessons.  Each session contains approximately 15 to 20 minutes of video each, but allow about 90 minutes to complete a full session.  The bonus disk features 75 minutes of conversations between Wright and Richard B. Hays, Professor of New Testament at Duke Divinity School.  NOTE: Wright's book Simply Christian is available UPON REQUEST from the Media Resource Center.

    $IMPLY ENOUGH: STRAIGHT TALK FROM TONY CAMPOLO AND SHANE CLAIBORNE ON SIMPLE, JUST LIVING.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 71 min)    Guide
    Here is an intensely personal dialogue about the foundations of the Christian life and voluntary simplicity.  Relevant to Christians today, this pointed-yet-hopeful DVD focuses on lifestyle, food, celebrations, stuff, money, and justice.  The program calls viewers to responsible action.  In addition to six 12-minute segments, extended bonus footage runs 38 minutes and captures more or Tony's and Shane's conversation.
     

     
    SISTERS: BIBLE STUDY FOR WOMEN.    kit    ad    (5 videocassettes, 5 DVDs, approx. 94-104 min ea volume)    Guides/Workbooks
    Deepen your relationship with God and others as a participant in "Sisters" groups.  "Sisters" is your guide to connecting with the scriptures and applying them as you mature your faith and grow closer to God.  Following a 5- to 10-minute introduction, there are six sessions in each kit.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Vol. 1: Knowing God: Making God the main thing in my life. (approx. 103 min.)
    Vol. 2: Unfailing love: Growing closer to Jesus Christ. (approx. 97 min.)
    Vol. 3: Finding balance: Loving God with heart and soul, mind and strength. (approx. 94 min.)
    Vol. 4: Mile in her shoes: Lessons from the lives of Old Testament women. (approx. 104 min.)
    Vol. 5: Wising up: Applying the wisdom of Proverbs to daily living. (approx. 100 min.)

    SKEETER AND THE MYSTERY OF THE LOST MOSQUITO TREASURE.    DVD    pr,el    (approx. 60 min)
    It's about being unique.  Poor Skeeter can't seem to do anything right.  His famous older brother can do no wrong.  Which one will find the treasure?  His older brother comes to the garden with a mysterious treasure map left by their father.  While the Garden Gang fawn all over him, Skeeter wonders if it could really be up to him and his crooked stinger to solve the mystery of the treasure's location?
      The lesson is based on Psalm 139:13-14 about each of us being designed especially by God.

    SLIGHTLY BAD GIRLS OF THE BIBLE.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 70 min)    Workbook
    Learn more about how God works through strong-willed women as author and speaker Liz Curtis Higgs shares the latest addition to her best-selling Bad Girls of the Bible series in this eight-week study.  Wait until you meet these matriarchal mamas: Sarah; Hagar; Rebekah; Leah; and Rachel.  Wait!  Aren't they the Good Girls of the Bible?  You bet.  They are also decidedly human and noticeably flawed...just like us.  Liz's unique blend of "girlfriend theology" has helped women of all ages experience God's grace anew. 


    STANDARDS OF LIVING.    DVD    sh,ad    (22 min)    Information Sheet
    This documentary on migrant housing was filmed in North Carolina in August 2005.  It contains interviews with Commissioners of Agriculture and Labor, growers, and farm-worker advocates.  At issue here are the poor housing conditions and the dignity of the migrant farm-worker.

    STANLEY THE STINKBUG GOES TO CAMP.    DVD    pr,el    (approx. 60 min)
    Here's another episode from Max Lucado's series "Hermie and Friends."  There is someone new coming to the garden's Summer Camp this year and, well, he has a problem.  He stinks.  Everyone tries their best to put up with the unusual odor, but things don't go so well.  But then God helps the summer camp to realize that the reason Stanley stinks is because he's afraid, and the thing he is most afraid of it others no liking him and accepting him the way he is.  Our garden friends soon learn that God created each of us for very special reasons and that, even though Stanley is different, they need to show him love.  Closed captioned.

    STOLEN CHILDHOODS.    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, 21 min)
    This ABC News program will change the way you think about the coffee you drink and the vegetables you eat.  Why?  Because the production of such goods may have involved the labor of one of the estimated 246 million children worldwide for whom life is nothing but work.  The prevalence of child labor in the world is the subject of this documentary film by Len Morris and Robin Romano.  They traveled to eight countries to document the stories of child laborers around the world, including India, Indonesia, Kenya - and the United States.  With commentary from children risking reprisals in order to be heard, the program clearly links a painful global reality with the complacency of society.

     
    STOLEN FREEDOM: OCCUPIED PALESTINE.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 26 min)
    Probably the most powerful film ever made concerning the Palestinian question, this presentation, centered in the refugee camp of Deheisha, goes beyond a showing of the brutality and violent consequences of occupation.  It penetrates deeper, depicting the shattered dreams and the persisting goals of the Palestinians who are not free in their own land.  It is the story of children growing up learning to survive in an atmosphere of daily tension.  It also serves to demonstrate the hope and optimism that still endure within the camp.

    STOP BULLYING: STANDING UP FOR YOURSELF AND OTHERS.   
    vhs    ue-sh    (1 videocassette, 20 min; guide)
    Through presentations by Mark Brown, Youth Motivational Specialist, and students' real-life experiences, this video give students concrete steps they can take to respond to bullying.  NOTE: This video can be used with "Bullying: What Every Adult Needs to Know."  (See listing.)

     
    STORIES FROM THE CIRCLE OF LIFE.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 37 min)    Guide
    Narratives of Native Americans throughout the United States explore faith journeys; integration of cultural beliefs into faith and life; issues confronting communities historically and today; and lessons for all God's people.  NOTE: The DVD includes a four-hour audiobook of Giving Our Hearts Away: Native American Survival by Thom White Wolf Fassett.

     
    STORIES OF HOPE: UMCOR'S WORK.    DVD    jh-ad    (approx. 22 min)
    Learn how United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) people and programs have cultivated hope all over the world on behalf of United Methodists everywhere through four stories: 1) UMCOR in Darfur (5:04); 2) U.S. Hurricane recovery (3:46); 3) Sager Brown (6:19); and 4) Justice for our neighbors (6:35).


    STRANGERS NO LONGER.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (16- & 22-min versions)    Guide
    This documentary puts contemporary immigration in the context of American history and shows how Churches in the United States are welcoming new members from different cultures and backgrounds.  It invites us to look into our past and notice the similarities that exist between ourselves and our ancestors when they came to this great land, and those who are arriving now.  We are made aware of the many global implications that cause people to migrate to the USA, including our need for more workers.  It helps us to understand problems that exist with our current immigration system and underlines different solutions and activities that can be undertaken to fix what is broken.  A Spanish subtitle menu is provided.

    STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OF EFFECTIVE MINISTRY TO CHILDREN.    DVD    ad    (50 min)
    In this research-based presentation, author and church analyst George Barna describes the strategic thinking that facilitates the creation of an effective church-based ministry to children.  He addresses ten challenges to developing a life-changing experience for children.  Be challenged by this message on how to minister effectively to the most significant audience you will ever encounter.

     
    STREAMS OF LIVING WATER: CELEBRATING THE GREAT TRADITIONS OF CHRISTIAN FAITH.   
    kit    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 325 min total, 1 CD)    Guides
    This study is built on Richard Foster's book Streams of Living Water.  It is designed to help Christians accept the invitation to live a balanced and well-rounded apprenticeship with Jesus.  Develop a deeper appreciation for Jesus as the source of each of the great traditions of Christian spirituality: Contemplative; Holiness; Charismatic; Social Justice; Evangelical; and Incarnational.  There are thirteen presentations, (approximately 20 minutes per session).

    STUMBLING BLOCKS TO FAITH.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 95 min; guide)
    Many people say they would like to become a Christian believer but cannot because of some insurmountable stumbling blocks.  This program presents the most common ones: 1) Hypocrisy; 2) Intolerance; 3) Science; 4) Suffering; and
    5) Sacrifice.  Solid reasons or handy excuses?  Here is a candid presentation of the allegations and Christian responses.  NOTE: A study guide is included in the DVD's menu.

    SUFFERING OF SUDAN.   
    DVD    sh,ad    (12 min)
    Darfur is dying.  Drought and military violence in this region of Sudan have caused more than a million people to flee, and the death toll from starvation, disease, and militia attacks continues to rise.  This program goes inside a refugee camp in Chad, visits a tiny clinic run by Doctors Without Borders, and rides with the Sudan Liberation Army to give viewers a glimpse of what the UN is calling one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world.

    SUNDAY SCHOOL: IT'S FOR LIFE!   
    vhs OR DVD    (1 videocassette or 1 DVD, approx. 38 min; information sheets)
    Can we make Sunday school a place where more people and more churches are transformed?  Here is a video to use with your Church Council or Council on Ministries as a starting point for evaluating the congregation's support for Sunday school and planning for its extension.

    SWEET SINGER.    DVD    sh,ad    (90 min)    Guide
    Charles Wesley, sometimes called the "sweet singer" of Methodism, is one of Christendom's most outstanding poets.  He wrote some 9,000 hymns and sacred poems.  Sweet Singer is a one-man musical drama - starring Steven Kimbrough - that deals with Wesley's struggle against poverty, reluctant acceptance of Holy Orders and life as a Church of England clergyman, adventure to America, opposition to slavery, social and spiritual reform, personal transformation, stormy beginnings of the Methodist movement, courage in the face of violence, family devotion and conflict, and poetic genius.  View in full or in eight sessions as outlined in the study guide.  Sessions run 6 to 19 minutes each.

    SYSTEM BELONGS TO GOD.
        vhs OR DVD    ad    7 vhs OR 2 DVDs, 17-27 min ea program)    Guide
    Is the ancient biblical message relevant to our complex and dangerous modern world?  We deal with "the powers that be" - the government, corporations, and even families - on a daily basis.  We can't live without them.  But something is wrong; people get "caught in the system."  Noted Bible scholar Walter Wink helps us understand the spiritual forces in all of these powers, and claims them for God.  The series - based on conversations between Wink and gifted pastors/preachers Janet Wolf and James Forbes - offers a new way of thinking and acting, and hope for transformation.  NOTE: The video series is on seven individual videocassettes which can be ordered separately; the DVD programs are on two DVDs and are boxed together.


    TEAR SOUP: RECIPE FOR HEALING AFTER LOSS.   
    vhs    all    (1 videocassette, approx. 17 min; guide)
    In this modern-day fable, a woman who has suffered a terrible loss cooks up a special batch of
    "tear soup," blending the unique ingredients of her life into the grief process.  Along the way she dispenses a recipe of sound advice for people who are in mourning or know someone who has suffered a loss.

    TETE A TETE A TETE.    DVD    ue-ad    (1 DVD, 13 min)
    This lively, animated film without words explores conflict resolution.  It focuses on the special significance of conflicts with those who are close to you, and shows how conformity or tolerance for difference can shape lives. 

     
    TEX MIX: STORIES OF EARTHY MYSTICISM.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 80 min, 1 DATA DVD)    Guide
    You've heard of tall tales!  Tex definitely has a few of those.  But these are more on the order of deep and wide.  Here are 20 tales tailored for your teaching, preaching, and devotional use with Tex Sample - the consummate storyteller!  The DVD also includes Tex's introduction to storytelling, a guide, scripture texts, and discussion questions.  Most stories are 2 to 4 minutes long; a few run 5 to 8 minutes.  NOTE: Occasional "earthy" language is used in some of them.

    THEOLOGIANS UNDER HITLER.   
    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, 64 min; guide)
    The greater part of the German church saw Hitler's rise in 1933 as an act of God's blessing, a new chapter in the story of God among the German people.  This film, based upon recent ground-breaking research, introduces the viewer to three of the greatest Christian scholars of the 20th century: Paul Althaus, Emanuel Hirsch, and Gerhard Kittel, men who were also outspoken supporters of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.  This provocative film asks: how could something like this happen in the heart of Christian Europe?  Could it happen again?  How does the scholarship of this period affect the church today?  Does the church of today retain the ability to recognize profound evil?

     THEY LIKE JESUS BUT NOT THE CHURCH: RESPONDING TO CULTURE'S OBJECTIONS TO CHRISTIANITY.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 130 min, guides)
    Led by author and pastor Dan Kimball, this six-session small-group DVD kit will help you explore and respond truthfully, caringly, and engagingly to the most common objections and misunderstandings emerging generations have about the church and how the church can respond in positive ways.  The sessions are 19 to 28 minutes each.


    36 PARABLES.    DVD    sh,ad    (4 DVDs, approx. 15-53 min ea; guides)
    For nearly 2,000 years the parables of Christ have instructed and inspired.  Now, these powerful stories are retold for today's audiences.  Each DVD in the series contains short films depicting three beloved parables in modern situations.  These thought-provoking teaching tools capture the mind and heart.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL TAPE NUMBER BELOW.
    Tape 1: Yellow. - Features the parables of the Good Samaritan, the Talents, and the Lost Coin.  Running times are approximately 11, 12, and 5 minutes respectively.
    Tape 2: Purple. - Features the parables of the Friend at Midnight, the Shrewd Manager, and the Barren Fig Tree.    Running times are approximately 4, 6, and 6 minutes respectively.
    Tape 3: Cyan. - Features the parables of New Wine in Old Wineskins, the Rich Fool, and the Two Sons.  Running times are approximately 3, 7, and 5 minutes respectively.
    Tape 4: Blue. - Features the parables of the Hidden Treasure, the Two Debtors, and the Unmerciful Servant.  Running times are approximately 6, 5, and 4 minutes respectively.
    NOTE:
    As each tape is completed, it will be added to this series, eventually totaling 12 tapes equaling 36 parables.

    THIS FAR BY FAITH: AFRICAN-AMERICAN SPIRITUAL JOURNEYS.   
    vhs    ad    (6 videocassettes, approx. 60 min ea)
    This series celebrates the triumph of the African-American religious experience through the last three centuries.  The documentary explores the epic struggle of a people whose faith was continually tested, and how that faith became a force for social change that helped transform America socially, politically, and culturally.  Closed captioned.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL EPISODE BELOW.
    Episode 1: There is a river.    Episode 4: Freedom faith.
    Episode 2: God is a Negro.   Episode 5: Inheritors of the faith.
    Episode 3: Guide my feet.      Episode 6: Rise up and call their names.

    THIS IS CHRISTIANITY.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 88 min, guide, book)
    This seven- to eight-week, video-based study centers on interviews with the author, Maxie Dunnam, who uses the framework of the Apostles' Creed to discuss the key beliefs of the Christian faith in a way that is compelling and easy to understand.  Each session is about 10 minutes in length.

      THREE CHRISTMAS CLASSICS.    DVD    pr-ue    (71 min)
    Three programs, also available independently on video, are now featured on one DVD:
    1) Christmas Is. - View an animated classic about Benji, a disappointed little boy who must play the second shepherd in the school play again. (22 min)
    2) City That Forgot About Christmas. - Hear the story of a woodcarver who lived in a village that had forgotten about Christmas. (22 min)
    3) Stableboy's Christmas. - Ten-year-old Tammy travels back in time to the first Christmas in Bethlehem and witnesses the little stableboy's act of unselfish love when he gives the Christ child his pet lamb. (27 min)

      THREE SIMPLE RULES: CONVERSATION WITH RUEBEN P.JOB.    DVD    sh,ad    (approx. 49 min)    Guide
    Explore the best-selling book, Three Simple Rules, with author Rueben P. Job in five conversations designed for personal or small-group study.  A presentation of John Wesley's General Rules, Three Simple Rules invites us all into a more faithful way of living as disciples of Jesus Christ.  The sessions are: 1) Introduction (8 min.); 2) Do No Harm (10 min.); 3) Do Good (11 min.); 4) Stay in Love with God; (8 min.); and 5) A Daily Practice (12 min.).
     

      3:16: NUMBERS OF HOPE.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 40 min, 1 CD)    Guide/Booklet
    Timeless and powerful, the 26 words of John 3:16 proclaim a message of love, a source of hope, and a promise of life.  In this interactive study based on his book, Max Lucado unpacks the incredible message of John 3:16, illuminating one of the most beloved scriptures in the entire Bible.  The 12 sessions run 3 to 4 minutes each.  NOTE: Each participant will need a study guide.

    3-2-1 PENGUINS!    vhs    pr-ue    (3 videocassettes, approx. 30 min ea; 1 DVD, approx. 30 min)
    From the creators of Veggie Tales, here come more episodes in a hilarious series filled with faith, fun, and flightless birds!  The series is full of biblical lessons and values.  Closed captioned.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL EPISODE NUMBER BELOW.
    Episode 4: Runaway pride at Lightstation Kilowatt.  
    Kids will   discover that sometimes in order to help others, you need to let them help you - even if it means swallowing a little foolish pride.
    Episode 5: Doom funnel rescue! -
    When a huge space tornado threatens to demolish a peaceful little colony in the Doublewide Constellation, Jason and the penguins must help save the day!  Kids will discover that God wants us to do good deeds and help others whenever we have the chance!
    Episode 6: Moon menace on Planet Tell-a-Lie! 
    Once again the penguins must call on Jason's terrestrial talents to help solve a truly out-of-this-world conundrum.  The giant moon of Planet Tell-a-Lie has slipped its orbit and is plummeting towards the planet at an astounding rate!  Kids will learn that "Lies will get any man in trouble, but honesty is its own defense."  NOTE: This episode is available in both VHS and DVD formats.
        

     
    TO SHARE OR NUT TO SHARE.    DVD    pr,el    (approx. 60 min)    Information Sheet
    Here is another tale from the series Hermie and Friends.  The garden literally goes "nuts" when a shortage of nuts causes panic, especially with the Garden Talent Show and Tell starting tomorrow.  Everyone's talent involves a nut!  With only one nut left in the entire garden, friends turn into enemies as it's a mad dash to see who grabs the last, elusive nut.  Learn an important lesson about sharing.  Closed captioned.

     
    TRANSFORMED GIVING.    kit    ad    (2 DVDs, approx. 48 & 61 min ea, 1 CD-ROM)    Guide/Workbook/Book
    With this upbeat stewardship program kit, you can give your members the benefits of a 40-day spiritual development program.  Over this period, everyone will literally be on the same page as once a week your classes or small groups will experience identical lessons that build on the shared themes found in your private daily readings.  Financial solicitation is not the primary focus of this study, but enhanced giving from the heart will flow out as a result of this faith-building experience.  You'll see your members grow spiritually and transform their commitment to increased attendance, prayer, service, and yes, financial giving.  NOTE: Additional Participant's Workbooks can be purchased directly from Cokesbury at www.cokesbury.com.

    TRUE CHRISTMAS STORY.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 62 min)
    Travel with teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan to the land of Israel to discover fascinating truths about the events surrounding the birth of Jesus.  Your journey begins, however, at the shining heights of power and opulence: Herod's palace.  Vander Laan weaves the archaeological evidence with biblical teaching and the historical record to contrast two kings: Herod and Jesus.  Closed captioned.

    TRUE EASTER STORY.   
    vhs OR DVD    ad    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 45-50 min)
    Presented by teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan, this study of the true Easter story is not a superficial Holy Land travelogue; rather, it's a total cultural immersion.  Using his knowledge of ancient Jewish holidays and little-known customs, Vander Laan probes the true depth of the Easter story as it begins more than 2,000 years ago with a simple promise between Abraham and Almighty God.  Closed captioned.

     
    TWELVE ORDINARY MEN.    DVD    jh-ad    (1 DVD, approx. 120 min)
    Twelve men - the apostles of Jesus Christ who were otherwise unremarkable men - were touched by God in a way no one else had previously experienced and somehow managed to spread Jesus' good news throughout the known world in a span of a single lifetime.  Who were these men?  What happened to them after Jesus' crucifixion?  Exploring the answers to these and many other questions about Jesus' disciples, this program features interviews with leading scholars, exciting re-creations and authentic footage that look beyond the peaceful image of saints in stained-glass windows to reveal the true and stirring stories of Jesus' closest followers.  Running time is 60 minutes plus 60 minutes of bonus features.

     
    ULTIMATE GIFT.    DVD    all    (117 min)    Guide
    When his wealthy grandfather dies, trust fund baby Jason Stevens anticipates a big inheritance.  Instead, his grandfather has devised a crash course on life: twelve tasks (or "gifts") designed to challenge Jason in improbable ways, sending him on a journey of self-discovery and forcing him to determine what is more important in life: money or happiness.

    UMCOR: MULTIPLYING HOPE.   
    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 7 min)
    For more than 60 years, the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) has served in four areas: food, shelter, health, and peace.  This video highlights the services and programs UMCOR provides.

    UNITED METHODIST SCOUTING MINISTRIES: INTRODUCTORY TRAINING FOR CHURCH AND SCOUTING PROFESSIONALS AND VOLUNTEERS.    DVD    ad    (120 min)    Information Sheet
    This DVD presentation includes information regarding The United Methodist Church's Scouting ministries.  Those involved in these ministries will benefit from this overview of the ministries, their benefits, programs and awards, policies and guidelines for protecting our youth in the context of the ministries, and promotion of the programs at bishop's dinners.

     [ UP]: ARTIST-DRIVEN BIBLE STUDIES THAT CONNECT MUSIC TO THE MESSAGE.   
    DVD    jh,sh    (4 DVDs, approx. 48-60 min ea)    Guides
    This Bible study is taught by today's favorite Christian music artists.  Each [UP] volume includes: captivating artists who discuss relevant issues from a biblical perspective; flexible six-week study; low preparation, high-impact lesson plans; cutting-edge video; easy-to-use leader and student materials; multi-media presentations on interactive DVD; and frank, honest discussion questions that promote peer interaction.  The six sessions per volume run 8 to 10 minutes each.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUME NUMBER BELOW.
    Volume 1: Choices.    Volume 2: Roadblocks.    Volume 3: Storms.    Volume 4: Remade.

      VEGGIE TALES.    vhs    pr-ue    (10 videocassettes, 10 DVDs,  approx. 30-52 min ea)
    Here come more adventures in this creative series.  Closed captioned.   ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL TAPE NUMBER BELOW.
    Tape #14: Star of Christmas.
    Join the Veggies for song, spectacle, and a heartwarming holiday lesson about love.
    Tape #15: Ballad of Little Joe.
    The classic Old Testament story of Joseph and his multi-colored coat is an inspiring lesson about facing hardships and trusting in God.
    Tape #16: Wonderful world of auto-tainment.
            Both Larry and Bob learn that God still loves them even when the future 
            doesn't work out as planned.
    Tape #17: Easter carol.
             Calvis and Millward (Bob and Larry) and a music box angel named Hope
             must convince Uncle Ebenezzer Nezzer that Easter is about more than just
             candy and eggs.  NOTE: Available in both VHS and DVD.
          
      Tape #18: Snoodle's tale.  
               Here is a special fairy tale which teaches a lesson in self-esteem.
             NOTE: Available in both VHS and DVD.
            
     
      Tape #19: Sumo of the opera.  
               Here is a special adventure which teaches a lesson in perseverance.
             NOTE: Available  in both VHS and DVD.
     
      Tape #20: Duke and the Great Pie war.  
                When the armies of Rhubarb go to battle against the Kingdom of Scone,
               the Great Pie War breaks out and things get really messy.  Inspired by
               the biblical story of  Ruth and Naomi, here is a royal lesson in loving
               your family!  NOTE: Available in both VHS and DVD.
     
    Tape #21: Minnesota Cuke and the search for Samson's hairbrush!
              Larry the Cucumber as Minnesota Cuke is hired to secure Samson's
     lost hairbrush before its purported powers are used to carry out a harebrained
     scheme.  In this hair-raising, trans-global adventure, join Cuke, Martin (Bob
    the Tomato), Rattan, and the Veggie Tales gang in an exciting episode that
    reminds us that God wants us to be courageous when facing bullies.  Closed
    captioned.  NOTE: Available in both VHS and DVD.
      Tape #22: Lord of the beans.  
      Here's the fantastic journey of a Flobbit named Toto Baggypants (Junior Asparagus) who inherits a most unusual and powerful bean.  With the help of his mentor Randalf and a spirited group of friends, Toto embarks on a mission to discover how he should use his gift.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: Available in both VHS and DVD.  
      Tape #23: Sheerluck Holmes and the Golden Ruler.  
      Larry the Cucumber is detective dynamo Holmes and Bob the Tomato his venerable sidekick Dr. Watson.  Together their superlative powers of observation and forensic fortitude can solve any crime.  But because Sheerluck takes all the credit for the pair's sleuthing savvy, the missing Golden Ruler may never be recovered!  Will Sheerluck remember the all-important golden rule in time to rescue the ruler and save his friendship?  Closed captioned.  NOTE: Available in both VHS and DVD.  
      Tape #24: Larry Boy and the Bad Apple.  
      Something is rotten in the peaceful town of Bumblyburg!  The Bad Apple has dropped onto the scene and is trying to take control of the town by making all of its citizens give in to their temptations.  Everyone is in danger - even the town's fearless defender, Larry Boy!  Can Larry Boy save the day?  This program teaches kids that we can't fight temptation on our own - we need God's help and the help of our friends.  Closed captioned.  NOTE: This program is ONLY available on DVD from the Media Resource Center.  
      Tape #25: Gideon: Tuba warrior.  
      Gideon is the incredible story of one of the greatest biblical heroes of all time - a cucumber chosen by God to defend his people against an army of 30,000 excessively hairy and malevolent pickles.  Lesson: Trusting God.  NOTE: This program is ONLY available on DVD from the Media Resource Center. (approx. 44 min.)
     
     
      Tape #26: Wonderful wizard of Ha's.  
      Meet Darby, the son of a Kansas floss farmer who, more than anything else in the world, just wants to have fun.  When he learns about the Wonderful Land of Ha's - an amusement park with all the fixins' - and its mysterious wizard who promises to make his dreams come true, Darby is determined to go.  Despite his father's wishes, he flees the farm with his pet dog Tutu.  Will they find the Land of Ha's and will it be worth everything Darby has given up?  Find out in an over-the-rainbow adventure that tells the story of a prodigal son and reminds kids everywhere that there's no place like home!  Closed captioned.  NOTE: This is ONLY available on DVD from the Media Resource Center. (approx. 49 min)  

    VELOCITY.    vhs    jh,sh    (5 videocassettes, 20 min ea; guides)
    Teenagers are clinging to anything...right or wrong...just to survive.  More than ever, young people are looking for acceptance.  Through dramatic, real-life stories, "Velocity" deals with the doubts and struggles of youth by bringing practical and Biblical solutions to their fast-paced world.  The programs feature interviews and music with some of today's up and coming musicians.  The 13-week Bible study includes five videos and a leader's guide with handouts.  ORDER BY SERIES TITLE ABOVE AND INDIVIDUAL EPISODE NUMBER BELOW:
    Episode 1: No-ing God.   Episode 3: Wasted lives.   Episode 5: Fish out of water.
    Episode 2: Crying out.      Episode 4: Road kill.

     
    VERY FIRST NOEL.    DVD    pr,el    (approx. 23 min)
    Join the three wise men on the journey of a lifetime as they follow a magnificent star in search of the newborn King.  This animated production features Andy Griffith as the voice of Melchior.

     
    VICTORY AT JERUSALEM.    DVD    jh-ad    (70 min)
    In this documentary, viewers travel back in time to visit, site by site, the climactic last days of Jesus Christ.  The resource traces Jesus' steps leading up to the crucifixion and retells in full the tale behind his resurrection.  Sites include the Mount of Olives, Bethany, Jerusalem, Kidron Valley, the Upper Room, Gethsemane, Potter's Field, Golgotha, the Garden Gate, and Herod's Family Tomb.  The DVD is divided into four segments of about 14 to 21 minutes each.

    VISION OF TEAMS.    kit    ad    (1 videocassette, 24 min; CD, guides)
    Here is the story of Ann Bancroft and the first all-woman team to reach the South Pole on skis.  This program takes you on their epic journey to teach you how to come together, learn together, and take action as a team.  The video will energize your organization to go beyond team-building to create a skilled, focused, high-energy team that's ready to achieve.


    VISION OF THE LEADER: EXPONENTIAL LEADERSHIP SYSTEM.   
    kit    ad    (4 videocassettes, approx. 60 min ea; guide, workbook)
    In this kit featuring Dr. Bruce Wilkinson, you'll dig into the scriptures to find the first seeds of vision.  Boxed together, the kit includes eight half-hour sessions on four videotapes:
        Tape 1: Birth of the vision.
        Tape 2: Power for the vision.
        Tape 3: Validation of the vision.
        Tape 4: Test of the vision.

    VOCATION! VOCATION! VOCATION!    vhs    ue-sh    (1 videocassette, 20 min; guide)
    Here is a Bible study for youth with Ted and Lee and Mike Yaconelli.  In a sketch titled "People Gots Ta Eat," actors Ted and Lee (Ted Swartz and Lee Eshleman) have created two characters, Mel and Marty, who just might have been at the lakeside when Jesus performed the miracle of the bread and fish.  Mike Yaconelli talks about faith and finding your calling, about passion and risk-taking.  Closed captioned.

    WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 90 min)
    For the first time, the civil rights movement is examined from the perspective of African-American churches, which played pivotal roles during this amazing period of U.S. history.

     
    WE SHOULD TALK PEACE.    DVD    sh,ad    (26 min)    Guides
    Find hope in the stories of grassroots peacemakers in Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda.  Learn what sustains these peacemakers and how they are making a difference.  A bonus feature titled The Path Is Made by Walking is a 20-minute presentation that tells the stories of peacemakers in El Salvador. 

    WEBSTER THE SCAREDY SPIDER.   
    vhs OR DVD    pr,el    (1 videocassette OR 1 DVD, approx. 40 min OR 100 min)
    Webster wanders into the garden to face his long list of fears.  Little does he know that he is a big, hairy source of fear for all of the other insects in the garden.  But, with guidance from God, Webster finds a way to face his fears and, in turn, the other insects learn to face Webster.  In this story by Max Lucado, laugh along as Hermie, Wormie, and Webster learn that there's nothing to be afraid of when God is with you.  Closed captioned.

    WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE UNITED METHODIST?    kit    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 1 DVD, approx. 45 min ea; guide)
    This resource is a five-session, video-based, small group study designed to help people become better acquainted with the structure, mission, and beliefs of The United Methodist Church.  It also examines how United Methodists differ from members of other denominations.  It is recommended for use in new member classes and refresher classes.

    WHEN A LOVED ONE DIES: WALKING THROUGH GRIEF AS A TEENAGER.   
    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 30 min, guide)
    This program helps teens understand the grief process through the testimonies of young people who have walked through it, and gives hope that you can heal and grow through this life-changing experience.

    WHEN DID WE SEE YOU?    vhs    jh-ad    (1 videocassette, 29 min; guide)
    This faith-challenging program begs the question: "If the community watches us for a day, will they see the deeds of Jesus, and hear his words?"  Images of Jesus are everywhere, in every culture, framed and enshrined for all to see.  How does Jesus live in the Body we call church?  See the face of Jesus today when invitation to minister among persons with disabilities results in a new portrait of Jesus.

    WHEN FREEDOM?  SUDAN IN CAPTIVITY.   
    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 22 min)    Guide
    Sudanese refugees help us remember those who remain in Sudan and live in constant fear.  One sign of hope, however, is the growth of the Christian churches in Sudan.  Despite the religious and political climate in Sudan, churches continue to provide worship experiences, educational opportunities, health care, and to address issues of justice and peace.

    WHEN GOD IS HIDING: CANDID CONVERSATION WITH AUTHOR PHILIP YANCEY.   
    vhs    sh,ad    (1 videocassette, 26 min)
    Philip Yancey has never shied away from the toughest subjects.  True-to-form in this revealing discussion, Yancey, beginning with the tragedy of 9/11 and the World Trade Towers, explores why tragic events happen in our lives and in our world.  Viewers will find his concept of separating faith from church fascinating, probably insightful, and possibly even disturbing. 

    WHEN TEMPERS FLARE: GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING ANGER.    vhs OR DVD    ad    (1 videocassette, 30 min, 1 DVD, 39 min; guide)
    This program explores why and how we experience anger and offers practical strategies for expressing anger in constructive, rather than destructive ways.  NOTE: Use with the video "Calming the Tempest." (See listing.)

      WHEN THE GAME IS OVER, IT ALL GOES BACK IN THE BOX.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 120 min; guide)
    Pastor John Ortberg shows what it takes to really win at the game of life.  Using popular games as a metaphor for our temporal lives, this six-session DVD curriculum neatly sorts out what's fleeting and what's permanent in God's Kingdom.  The program will help you and your group live with an eternal perspective, keeping your eye on the true prize - the one that unlocks the gate to the Kingdom of God.

    WIDOW'S MITE.    DVD    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 27 min; guide)
    We all have to make a choice: to hold tightly or to let go.  A woman who can't seem to get enough will meet a woman who gives all she has.  At the heart of generosity is letting go.  This program explores what it means to give, showing us that generosity has nothing to do with how much we have and everything to do with the willingness of our hearts.

    WILD AND WACKY BIBLE LESSONS ON FEAR, RESPECT, AND HELPING OTHERS.   
    kit    pr-ue    (3 videocassettes, approx. 40 min ea, 1 CD; guide)
    Featuring Frank Peretti as Mr. Henry, here are thirteen quick and easy lessons for combined ages.  Join clumsy and colorful Sunday school teacher Mr. Henry as he makes Bible stories come alive in unique ways for children of all ages.

    WOMEN SPEAK OF GOD.    kit    ad    (1 DVD, approx. 144 min; guides, letters, publicity materials)
    In this course with Amy Oden, Professor of History of Christianity at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C., you will hear women's stories of how God works in difficult times and places.  There are eight lessons on one DVD: 1) Introduction: Our family history; 2) Perpetua; 3) Macrina; 4) Juana Ines de la Cruz; 5) Susanna Wesley; 6) Jarena Lee; 7) Georgia Harkness; and 8) Our stories: We speak of God.  The course is designed to be delivered in eight 60- to 90-minute sessions. 

    WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL.   
    vhs    ad    (1 videocassette, approx. 5 min)
    The ministry of World Evangelism is to advance an evangelical witness in each country in order that the whole creation hears the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  This video illustrates several exciting ways the local church can get involved in the task of evangelism as it brings together the people called Methodists from all corners of the world.

    YOU ARE MINE. 
      
    vhs    pr-ue    (1 videocassette, approx. 30 min)
    Based on Max Lucado's book, this sequel to "You Are Special" follows the adventures of little wooden Punchinello from Wemmicksville as he tries to acquire the most boxes and balls in his town only to be reminded by Eli, his maker, that true love and acceptance are not based on what you own, but to whom you belong.



    This file was last updated   6/30/09


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