Gifts of Peace: Christmas Resources for Churches and Groups

Messages of peace surround us at Christmastime. But how calm is our Christmas? How calm was that first Christmas? Jesus was born into a troubled world. And Jesus comes as a gift of peace to our world exactly as it is right now.

The resources in the packet can help us work towards the fulfilment of Jesus' promise as we learn to live by values of reconciliation, creative problem-solving, acceptance of differences, and unity with the poor and powerless.

Welcoming the Prince of Peace Graded Activity Guides.
With separate guides for leaders of six different age levels (young children, older children, youth, senior high, young adults, and adults) these resources explore peace with self, peace in the family, in the community and in the world. Use the four one-hour group sessions during the weeks of Advent.

Gifts of Peace Guidelines for Alternative Giving.
This resource can lead small study groups to explore gift-giving and ways to give "gifts of peace" at Christmas. It can also be handed out to Advent workshop participants, families, or individuals.

Welcoming the Prince of Peace Models for Prayer and Worship.
These prayers, litanies, readings and other worship elements that can be used to incorporate peace themes in worship services, prayer services or other special gatherings during the Advent/Christmas season.

Organize for Peace: How to Start a Peacemaking Group in Your Church.
This resource offers guidelines for organizing a year-round peacemaking group in your church or community.

I Will Write Peace On Your Wings Puppet Play.
Plan a children's puppet play for a special Christmas gathering or Sunday School class with these step-by-step instructions.

Welcoming the Prince of Peace Advent and Christmas Calendar.
With daily suggestions for thought and action, this calendar helps individuals and small groups explore and promote peace.

Sample Bulletin Insert.

Poster.