Is Jesus from Herlev?

Bible stories are coming to life for grade-school children in Herlev, on the outskirts of Copenhagen. Organized by three local Lutheran churches, a new one-day outreach program called “On the Trail of Jesus” (“På Sporet af Jesus”) blends drama, authentic costumes, and creative outdoor storytelling in a way that engages young imaginations.

Last September, 70 fourth graders were given maps to trace out a journey between church building, parks, and even a hospital. They began under a large tree outside the Herlev church, where Pastor Niels Jørn Fogh dressed as Zachaeus to tell them his story—in character. From there the children met Mary and Martha (who argued about household chores), a fisherman by a lake (a.k.a. the Sea of Galilee), and eventually Jesus himself at a party hosted by Zachaeus.

Now in its second year, the idea was inspired by a similar program at a church in the southern Danish island of Lolland, and “imported” to the Herlev-area churches by youth worker Johnny Tidemand.

“Seven classes signed up for the day,” Tidemand told the Danish Bible Society, “but we only have room for four. That’s why we’re organizing another session in the spring. And I suppose that means we have a waiting list. We take that as a good sign.”

PRAY that youth workers in Danish Lutheran and free churches would be inspired to reach out in new, creative ways that will touch young hearts for Christ.

THANK GOD for the 70 children who participated in the program this fall. PRAY that even more would be reached in the spring, and that they would be challenged to respond to the truth of the Gospel in a personal way.

Posted by Bob