| Church attendance has dropped sharply over the past two decades. And while hundreds of articles have blamed secularization for the trend, some pastors see a more surprising culprit: Youth sports. Youth sports is a $37 billion industry in the U.S. Many of the games are played over the weekend, including on Sunday. That brings Sunday sports into direct conflict with church attendance. As someone who now has two kids in sports, I understand the tension. We’re committed to going to Sunday service, but once the weekend tournaments start, we’ll have a dilemma on our hands. That’s why I took notice when I saw this article, addressing the issue. Rather than delivering edicts on what parents should do, it explores the debate with nuance and creativity. Abby Perry wonders if integration, not separation, is the answer: “Easy answers are scarce, but seeking guidance and exploring creative solutions help many begin to integrate these competing priorities, always with the goal to bring youth sports into the life and work of the church.” Read: Feeling Torn Between Church and Youth Sports? Hey, with summer coming and the weather (finally) getting warmer, you might want to think about taking your children’s ministry outdoors. These Top 10 Outdoor Service Projects for Children will not only get your kids out for some fresh air; it will equip them to serve your community. | 