Life as a Christian Woman

Some of the most famous artists and painters made their names known through religious art. The Sistine Chapel, The Last Supper, Madonna and Child — painted centuries ago, these works continue to touch Christians today. But of course, you don’t have to spend years painting on a ceiling to put artistic talents to use.

Host an Art Fair. Showcase the arts and crafts of church members and others in the community by hosting organizing a religious art fair. The artists and crafters get recognition, religious materials make their way into the community, and the church can raise funds. Making a fair out of it by having children’s activities, music, or prizes will draw more of a crowd.

Create Clip Art. Church bulletins, websites, flyers and mailings create interest in ministries and church activities. Create clip art, page borders, templates, and coloring pages for free use by any religious organization or website. If you have the skills to make them on a computer, that’s great. But you can also draw or paint them and then scan them into a digital file. Secretaries, webmasters, and writers are always on the look out for attention-grabbing image files. The images do not all have to be of crosses or angels. Pictures and photographs of flowers, nature, animals, and people can also be used for religious publications.

Crochet, Knit or Sew. The possibilities are endless if you have these skills. Clothing for needy families can be knitted or sewn for distribution by community organizations. Crochet or knit blankets, sweaters, etc. for drug rehab programs, homeless shelters, Red Cross shelters, and other ministries. Show families how to create heirloom quilts to preserve memories and make new ones. Make soft animals for the nursery and Mom’s Day Out programs. Crocheting and knitting have been shown to be good stress-reducers, so teach a class and help others learn to “unwind.”

Scrapbooking. I have written before about scrapbooking and the ways you can use that activity to minister. Opening up scrapbooking sessions to the whole community will help draw in scrapbook lovers who may not normally attend church.

Create e-cards, slideshows, and other digital projects using Smilebox

Do you have other ideas for practicing a personal ministry through arts and crafts? If so, leave us a comment and tell us about it.

christian, ministry, personal ministry, God’s gifts, God-given talents, christian women