Invitation Relay

Invitation Relay helps young people think about how they respond to God’s call in their lives. It turns a simple game into a way to reflect on choices, teamwork, and faith. Youth will enjoy the energy and laughter of the relay, but they will also learn something deeper about what it means to say yes to God’s invitations.

This game gives youth a chance to connect their actions to their beliefs. When they open an envelope and complete a task, they practice listening and responding. It reminds them that following Jesus often means being ready to act when called. Even small actions can reflect a willing heart and a spirit of obedience.

Playing Invitation Relay as a group also helps build trust and community. Each team depends on every player to do their part. It shows that faith is not something we live alone. Just like in the game, we all have roles in God’s plan, and when we work together, we grow stronger as a community of believers.

After the fun and laughter, the group can take time to talk about what the game meant. Youth can share what it felt like to receive and act on an invitation. This reflection helps them see how their daily choices connect with their faith. It turns a simple activity into a meaningful reminder that God’s invitations come in many forms, and our response matters.

• How to Play
• Printable Instructions
• More Youth Ministry Games

Invitation Relay can be tied to many stories in the Bible. One clear example is the call of the disciples. When Jesus said, “Follow me,” they left everything and went. They did not wait or ask for a full plan. They simply accepted the invitation and acted. This game helps youth think about what it means to respond right away when God calls, even when the next step is not clear.

The game can also remind youth of Mary’s “yes” to God at the Annunciation. She received a message and answered with trust. In the same way, each envelope in the game is like a small message. It asks for a quick choice and a willing heart. When youth act with joy and trust, they imitate Mary’s example of faith.

Another theme comes from the parables of the kingdom, like the wedding feast. Many were invited, but few accepted. The game shows how responding to invitations matters. It helps youth see that saying yes to God’s call brings joy and purpose.

By linking the game to these stories, catechists can help youth see faith as active and joyful. The laughter and movement make lessons about obedience, courage, and trust come alive. It turns Bible themes into real experiences that stay with them long after the game ends.

Equipment and Materials

• Envelopes (one for each player)
• Slips of paper with simple tasks written on them
• Two boxes or containers
• A stopwatch or timer (optional)
• Space for running

Setup

1. Write a simple task on each slip of paper. Examples include “hop on one foot,” “name three fruits,” or “whistle a tune.”
2. Place each slip into an envelope and seal it.
3. Divide the envelopes evenly between two boxes or containers.
4. Place the boxes at one end of the room or play area.
5. Have the teams line up at the opposite end, ready to run.

How to Play

1. Divide the group into two equal teams.
2. When the leader says “Go,” the first player from each team runs to their team’s box.
3. The player takes one envelope, opens it, and reads the task inside.
4. The player must complete the task before returning to the team.
5. When finished, the player tags the next person in line.
6. The next player repeats the same process.
7. Continue until every player has completed a task.
8. The first team to finish wins.

Variations and Safety Notes

• You may set a time limit instead of racing to finish first. The team that completes the most invitations wins.
• Keep the running area clear of obstacles and slippery spots.
• If space is small, have players walk fast or perform tasks in place.
• You can use Bible-related tasks, such as “name three parables” or “say a short prayer.”
• Encourage everyone to cheer and have fun while keeping the activity safe and respectful.

What is the Invitation Relay game?

The Invitation Relay game is a fun and active way to help youth think about how they respond to God’s call. Players race to complete small tasks from envelopes, showing how we can accept and act on invitations in our faith and daily life.

What age group can play the Invitation Relay game?

The Invitation Relay game works well for middle school and high school youth. Younger children can also play if the tasks are simple and safe.

How long does the Invitation Relay game take to play?

The Invitation Relay game usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the group and how many tasks are used. You can make it shorter or longer by changing the number of envelopes.

Do I need special equipment for the Invitation Relay game?

You only need envelopes, paper for tasks, and some space to run or move. A stopwatch is optional if you want to time the teams.

How can I connect the Invitation Relay game to a lesson?

After the game, talk with the group about how it felt to receive and act on an invitation. Use this to discuss how we respond to God’s invitations in our lives.

The Invitation Relay game reminds us that God’s call can come in small and surprising ways. Just like opening an envelope to find a new task, we often receive unexpected moments where we must choose to act with faith. The game helps youth see that listening and responding quickly can bring both joy and growth.

This activity turns reflection into action. It encourages young people to see their faith as something they live, not just something they talk about. The laughter and movement keep the message simple yet meaningful. They learn that saying yes to God can be exciting, even when the steps are small.

After playing, it helps to take a few minutes to talk about what each “invitation” might mean in real life. Maybe it is helping a friend, joining a parish activity, or praying more often. The conversation that follows makes the lesson personal.

Through this game, youth can discover that responding to God is not only about hearing His call but about acting with joy. Every small step toward faith counts, and sometimes those steps start with a simple envelope and a smile.

Try the Invitation Relay game with your youth group or class. It brings energy, laughter, and a clear message about saying yes to God. You can adjust the tasks to fit your group or connect them to a lesson or Scripture story.

After you play, share your experiences and any fun twists you added in the comment section. Tell us what worked best or what made your group laugh the most. Your ideas can inspire others who want to use the game in their own ministry.