Christmas BINGO
This activity is ideal at Christmas time for a small group at a mall.
Instructions for the leader:
+In advance, copy the card. (Optional: design and copy a variety of cards, changing around which items are in which squares so people have different cards.)
+Gather your group at a good meeting point in the mall. Hand out the cards. Point out that some of the activities are just observations, some of them are interactive; group members can choose their own level of comfort.
+Read the scripture passage about the birth of Jesus (Luke 2). Then send the group off in pairs or singly to see what they can fill out on the card. Agree to meet back at a certain place in about 45 minutes, probably a place near food, or provide healthy food.
+Once everyone has gathered back together, discuss what you observed or felt as a result of the activity.
+Offer a prize, such as a free beverage or appetizer to those who do complete a row.
+Read the scripture passage again and ask the group to comment on how what they saw at the mall relates to the "reason for the season."
- Do we have a reason to celebrate?
- What makes a good celebration?
- What was the last celebration someone held for you? Your birthday? Maybe an honor at work, etc.)
- What was it about that celebration that you really liked? What was important?
| Ask someone for assistance and let them help you. | The worst holiday special was: | What strikes you the most about the mall tonight? | If you get good service from a salesperson, go tell the manager what a good job they did. | See a moving Santa figure. |
| How many people can you spot in one minute who are wearing a cross? | Offer a random stranger a sincere compliment. | See a reindeer. | Offer to help someone. | Find one thing that reveals that God is at work here. |
| How many people can you spot in one minute who are wearing a corporate logo? | Find the word "Census" on an item. | Free Space - everyone gets credit for this one | Sit in a resting area and strike up a conversation with someone half your age. | How many times did you see banners referring to Christmas as "Xmas"? |
| Sit in a resting area and strike up a conversation with someone twice your age. | I spent NO money while wandering tonight. | Find one thing that represents Grace to you. | Talk to someone dressed in costume. | Ask someone who looks really happy why they are so happy. |
| See an elf. | I spent some money while wandering tonight. | See a cross or crucifix as part of holiday decoration. | Wander aimlessly singing, humming, or whistling a church camp song. | Did you witness an example of forgiveness? |
"Holy Spirit BINGO" was developed by Sean Killackey of Spirit Garage church, Minneapolis, Minnesota. This was an activity for a small group at the Mall of America, just prior to Christmas.
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