Change can be scary, but it can also be incredibly invigorating. At Trinity UMC, we pride ourselves on being a loving community that supports each other through thick and thin. However, sometimes a little bit of Holy Mischief can go a long way in shaking things up and encouraging growth. Here are a few ways #HolyMischief can benefit our church community.
Still not sure what Holy Mischief is? In short, it’s about playfully subverting conventions and norms in a way that’s still reverent and respectful. It’s about pushing boundaries in a way that ultimately brings people together and strengthens relationships. The possibilities are endless, and it’s up to each individual to decide how they want to engage in this movement.
- One of the main benefits of Holy Mischief is that it can help to break down barriers between people. When we’re so used to doing things the same way every time, it can be easy to become complacent and tune out. Holy Mischief is the opposite of that. It forces us to pay attention and be present in the moment. When we’re all wearing t-shirts to church, it’s hard to take ourselves too seriously. This can be a powerful way to create connections and foster community.
- Another benefit of Holy Mischief is that it can help to reach out to those who might not otherwise feel welcome in a traditional church setting. For example, hosting a potluck where everyone brings their favorite dish from their home country could be a great way to connect with those from diverse backgrounds. Or, organizing a church-wide talent show could help to showcase everyone’s unique abilities and strengths. When we break down the walls between “us” and “them”, we open ourselves up to infinite possibilities.
- Holy Mischief can also be a way to inject new life into older traditions. For instance, we might host an outdoor Easter egg hunt for the children in our community, complete with gutter ice cream sundaes (look it up!)and face painting. This is a way to keep the spirit of Easter alive while also making it more accessible and fun for everyone. Likewise, we might host a Christmas carol singalong where everyone is encouraged to bring their favorite holiday treats. By getting creative with our traditions, we show that we’re willing to adapt and evolve while still keeping our faith at the center.
- Finally, Holy Mischief is simply a joyous and fun way to engage with the larger community. It helps people to feel like they matter. Because they do. And you do too!
In a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, Holy Mischief is the perfect antidote. It’s a way to shake things up, reach out to others, and have some fun in the process. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our ever-changing world, let’s embrace the spirit of Holy Mischief and see where it takes us. Who knows, it may just be the spark we need to grow and thrive as a church community. Let’s make some mischief!
P.S. – God loves you and so do I.
