Community Sandbox

Find helpful articles, forms, links, music, videos, and more.

What Is The
Community Sandbox?

The Southern Ohio Synod is developing a resource website called “The Sandbox”. The intention is to gather resources in one location for the benefit of Southern Ohio Synod churches and its members. The site will be for all ages, open to all faith and church related topics and can promote any resources you have found helpful. Initially, the Sandbox will house resources offered free of charge that do not lead to the purchase of other materials.

Browse resources by categories:

Anti-Racism Resources
Anti-Racism Resources

God has knitted together a beautiful tapestry of human diversity and cultures that are too often divided by the sin of racism and discrimination. These resources can assist you and your congregation in study, dialogue, worship, service, and justice.

Bible: Old Testament
Bible: Old Testament

Everyone needs to be involved in a regularly meeting faith growth group. These Bible Study lessons will help you jump start your planning and/or can provide you with everything you need to host a meaningful study of God’s Word.

Bible: The New Testament

Spending time in the word of God is crucial to faith development. These resources may be of help whether looking for something for a personal Bible time, a group study and/or to supplement a devotional or worship experience.

Children, Youth & Family
Children, Youth & Family

The Southern Ohio Synod places a strong emphasis on ministry to young people and their families. Checkout these valuable resources.

Church Community

Here are some ways to build community among church members

Church Images

Here are various images from churches around our Synod

Church Seasons
Church Seasons

From Advent through Pentecost these timeless resources will enrich your personal understanding of the church seasons and provide you with a resource to teach others.

Confirmation
Confirmation

Resources designed to enhance ministry to Confirmation students

Devotions
Devotions

Whether you are looking for a personal devotional or for ideas and templates for giving devotions at the start of a church meeting, these resources will be of great help.

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Faith Discussions/Teachings
Faith Discussions/Teachings

Interested in listening to Faith Discussions? Then this section is for you. It's a chance to ponder, wrestle and reflect on various topics.

Health/Covid
Health/Covid

Resources and updates related to health and Covid

Leadership

Resources used in Church Leadership

Mental Health

Resources you may find helpful on Mental Health, Depression, Stress and Anxiety.

Ministries of Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs)
Ministries of Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs)

As we age our mobility can become limited, yet we are still a vital part of God's plan. Explore ministry ideas for older members, especially those homebound or living in facilities. (Praying, sewing, quilting, mitten tree items, writing encouraging notes, birthday card ministries).

Prayer
Prayer

Prayer Resources

Resurrection Sunday
Resurrection Sunday

Resurrection Sunday ideas from around the Synod

Safeguarding
Safeguarding

In 2001, Amended Ohio Senate Bill 187 became law. It set in motion the need for safeguarding systems to be put in place in youth serving organizations (including churches). This topic can quickly become overwhelming. The Synod is here to help walk you through what you need to do.

Service
Service

The son of man came not to be served but to serve. Involve your congregation in meaningful service to others. Here are some ideas.

Stewardship Development 
Stewardship Development 

Jesus spoke more about money than any other topic. Let’s help our members to live into God’s provision of giving.

Worship & Music
Worship & Music

Resources to enhance Worship and Music offerings