Invitation Relay is a game designed to mirror the essence of receiving, processing, and acting on invitations. At its core, it’s about decision-making and quick responses. In a youth ministry setting, it’s not just about racing to the finish line, but understanding the importance of the choices we make.
Youth ministries often grapple with ways to engage their members in activities that align with their teachings. This game is an ideal fit for such a scenario. It physically represents the spiritual journey of accepting God’s call, reacting to it, and moving forward. The tasks, though simple, are symbolic of life’s tasks that we undertake daily in response to various calls to action.
Moreover, the team-based nature of the game emphasizes collective responsibility. Just as each player must play their part for the team to succeed, every individual must actively participate in their spiritual journey. The relatability of the game helps in driving home this point without coming across as preachy.
Invitation Relay is more than just a fun activity; it’s a reflection of life’s journey and choices. The debrief is essential as it ties the game back to the message, making it a valuable tool for youth ministries.
How to Play Invitation Relay
Objective: To highlight the concept of receiving, accepting, and acting upon an invitation.
Materials Needed:
- Envelopes with simple tasks written inside (e.g., “Hop on one foot,” “Name three fruits,” “Whistle a tune.”)
- Two boxes or containers
- A stopwatch or timer (optional)
Instructions:
- Divide the youth into two teams and have each team form a line.
- At the opposite end of the room, place the boxes containing the envelopes for each team.
- On the word “Go,” the first person from each team races to their box, takes out an envelope, opens it, and performs the task written inside.
- Once they complete the task, they run back and tag the next person in line.
- The next person repeats the process. This continues until every member of the team has had a turn.
- The first team to finish wins.
Note: You may optionally have a time limit. In this case, the team which completes the most invitations wins.
Debrief: Discuss the significance of the game in relation to the lesson. Just as participants had to choose to accept and act upon the invitation in the envelope, we have the choice to accept God’s invitation and act upon it in our lives. The way we respond and the actions we take, symbolized by the tasks in the envelopes, reflect our commitment and readiness.
More Youth Ministry Games
Invitation Relay is a lively, team-based game perfect for youth ministry gatherings. It’s not just about the fun; it beautifully encapsulates the spiritual journey of accepting and acting upon life’s challenges and calls. Looking for more engaging activities for your youth group? Dive into a diverse range of games tailored for youth ministry . Discover new ways to energize and inspire young minds while imparting valuable life lessons.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Invitation Relay Game
What is the primary purpose of the Invitation Relay game?
The primary purpose is to highlight the idea of receiving, accepting, and acting upon an invitation, drawing parallels to spiritual decisions in life.
How many players are required for the Invitation Relay game?
There’s no strict minimum, but it’s best played with a larger group, preferably with at least four players on each team for a dynamic experience.
Can we customize the tasks inside the envelopes for the Invitation Relay game?
Absolutely! Feel free to adapt the tasks to suit the age group or theme of your youth ministry event.
How long does a typical game of Invitation Relay last?
It varies based on the number of participants and the complexity of tasks, but generally, a game lasts between 10 to 20 minutes.
Is the Invitation Relay game suitable for all age groups in a youth ministry setting?
The game is versatile. However, ensure the tasks are age-appropriate and safe for younger participants.
Can the Invitation Relay game be played indoors or outdoors?
Yes, as long as there’s enough space for two teams to race and perform tasks, it can be played both indoors and outdoors.
Why is there a debrief at the end of the Invitation Relay game?
The debrief connects the game’s activities to its spiritual message, emphasizing the importance of choices and commitment in one’s spiritual journey.
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