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.

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).

Health/Covid
Health/Covid

Resources and updates related to health and Covid

Leadership

Resources used in Church Leadership

Church Community

Here are some ways to build community among church members

Church Images

Here are various images from churches around our Synod

Resurrection Sunday
Resurrection Sunday

Resurrection Sunday ideas from around the Synod

Prayer
Prayer

Prayer Resources

Bible Study
Bible Study

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.

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.

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 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

Digital Art
Digital Art

Need art for your online and social media presence? Here’s a good place to start.

Digital Church
Digital Church

Many of our churches are reporting strong numbers of both members and non-members attending virtual worship services. Enhance your online worship presence with these examples and helpful hints

Digital Ministry
Digital Ministry

Much of our ministry has moved online. Checkout how others have gone about ministry in the digital age.

Faith Discussions
Faith Discussions

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

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.

Vacation Bible School
Vacation Bible School

A stalworth of many church outreach ministries here are some wonderful Vacation Bible School resources worth checking out.

Worship & Music
Worship & Music

Resources to enhance Worship and Music offerings