Submittedby: Lisa Diane Carlson, Racine, WI
Email: lisacarlson117@wmconnect.com
Source: from my own experience
Date: 29 Jun 2007

Title

My Most Embarrassing Moment

Objectives

Meeting new people

Materials

none

Procedure

At a women's retreat we were directed to meet 4 people we have never met before by talking to them about one of our most embarrassing moments. It was a great way to make new friends and be able to remember them by remembering their funny stories!

Submittedby: Janet, Palmdale CA
Email: jmetzler629@sbcglobal.net
Source: The Summer Beat June Gloom Idea was own own. The Bag decoration idea came from a papercrafting magazine. The two were put together to develop the idea into an icebreaker and theme for the event
Date: 01 Jun 2007

Title

Soak Up The "Son"

Objectives

Summer (June) Women's Fellowship Event - Beat "June Gloom" and Focus on Jesus as the Light

Materials

A gift bag for each table or 1 bag for each group of 6 women We decorated brightly colored gift bags with "rays" and a bright yellow circle with "Soak Up The Son" printed on it

Procedure

Verse Puzzles: A set of 5 different verses were used for each bag. John 8:12; John 12:35; I John 1:7; John 12:46; Phil 2:14-15 The 5 verses were typed out and printed on plain cardstock. Each line was cut into separate strips and the parts of each set of 5 verses were mixed up and put in a bag. Tissue paper was put in the top of each bag and they were placed on tables as the centerpieces for the event. Once the women are seated at the tables (ready to eat) announce that they are to empty the bag that is at the center of their table. The first table to assemble all of the verses wins a "Light Themed" prize. Our tables seat 6 and as we were planning this event we found a clearance sale on 6 small very bright (emphasize bright) pink desk lamps. Imagination time - Flashlights, pen lights, keychain lights or candles in bright summer colors could be used as the prizes. This activity definitely gets the women at each table working together, even if they did not know one another before they came!

Submittedby: Lorene Kimura- Victoria BC Canada
Email: lorene.kimura@shaw.ca
Source: from
Date: 01 Jun 2007

Title

memories

Objectives

ice breaker

Materials

a ball or a balloon

Procedure

I have used a ball, a balloon to toss out or handed out numbers to each person

There are two ideas that I have used at ladies retreats that have been very popular. 1. It can be done with a series of questions all pertaining to memories. * what is your youngest memory? * what is your best memory? * what was your favorite holiday? The questions with this one are endless but all pertain to people's memories.

The other one was fun and got people talking with one another. It is especially fun if you have a wide range of ages at the event.

The question is where were you born? I found that it varied from home, to hospital, to elevator, to a unwed mother's home.

Both of these ice breakers work with small and large groups but in a larger group you have divide them into small groups of around 10-12 people or it takes too long.

I have used both of these and they were both asked for again by groups that had heard about them.

Submittedby: Teri Cottle  Kalipsell, Montana
Email: teri.cottle@centurytel.com
Source: from myself
Date: 01 Jun 2007

Title

Irma Bombeck Fashion Show

Objectives

Get women interacting and enjoying fellowship

Materials

Odd assortment of clothing and accessories, the wilder the better.

Procedure

Before the event, put together brown paper bags full of items for an "outfit". Fill it with mis-fitting items such as a tuto with swim fins or army boots, a boa, and a camoflage jacket..... any combination from poodle skirts to grass skirts to helmets, goggles, and all kids of fru fru in between. Put one bag of "clothes" together for every 4 to 6 women teams. Each team works together to pick a model, create the outfit, dress the model, and write the runway script. They have about 10 minutes to do this. Then one from the team comes up to read the script, and the fashion show begins. I have never seen so many women laughing so hard and having so much fun in my life. And it is amazing the creativity the surfaces.

Submittedby: Nicole Johns, Summit , Ms.
Email: johnsfam@netzero.net
Source: from
Date: 24 May 2007

Title

Wanted: Women of God

Objectives

We had a western theme night and started out with this ice breaker. I'm looking for women who are guilty of : reading their Bible everyday, visit the sick or needy,ect. Anyone found guilty will receive 100 grand. And pass out the candy bars to the ones found guilty. It was so fun.

Materials

mini 100 grands candy bars

Procedure

You can make up your own list of questions.

Submittedby: Candi Haynie, Shreveport , La
Email:
Source: from
Date: 25 Apr 2007

Title

Pass the bag

Objectives

About 15-25 ladies can stand in a circle and pass a big plastic bag. Play music (i used the chicken dance) and when the music stops the person holding the bag had to reach in and take out another smaller bag and put that item on.

Materials

Items that go in the smaller bags are things such as big sun glasses, a funny hat, a moo-moo, a wig, hand-cuffs, a flowery Hawaiian bra, anything funny you can find.

Procedure

Everyone forms a circle, and start the music. We pass the big bag, and stop the music. The one holding the bag when the music stops has to reach in and pull out a bag and put the item on. Continue until all the items are gone. Then we had a fashion show and took a picture.

Submittedby: Kim Hart, Madill, Oklahoma
Email:
Source: from
Date: 17 Apr 2007

Title

White Elephant Auction

Objectives

The object is to have items donated and the "Auctioneer" auctions each item. The money may go towards anything your church may need it. Ex: missions, offering, certain funds in the church or maybe even donate it to a particular cause. This can get very exciting and sometimes loud but very fun.

Materials

Items from your home or maybe office, nothing that you would throw away, these items must be nice, If you would throw it away do not bring it. For example one woman brought an item that she purchased from Home Interior, "The Lords Supper" It was a figurine she paid close to 100.00 for, it raised close to 300.00 in the auction.

Procedure

Submittedby: Deana-Fouke
Email: iipeter220@aol.com
Source: teaching 1st & 2nd graders
Date: 16 Apr 2007

Title

How well do you know your Bible

Objectives

Ask simple questions about the Bible such as How many chapters are in a particular Book or what is the 1st or last word in a book, Name the books of the Bible

Materials

Bible, paper, pen

Procedure

How many books start with N in the old testament?How many books start with J in the new testament

Submittedby: Marilyn, Living Water Baptist Church, Hendersonville, NC
Email: marilyn.duncan@gmail.com
Source: from DIVA's womens accountability group at our church
Date: 11 Apr 2007

Title

Pieces of My Life

Objectives

To show each woman in the group that she is not the only one having a tough time walking the walk for Jesus.

Materials

Paper sheets

Procedure

Each person is given a piece of paper, lovely warm fuzzy paper colored, printed. The group forms a circle and 1 by 1 each shares something that tore you apart from your walk with/witness for Jesus the previous week. i.e. traffic and children screaming in car/ you screaming , children not capable of going from back door to car without a major workout, computer freezes as you finish a major account presentation before you hit save for the last time.

Submittedby: Carla Bowlan, Shawnee, OK
Email: cmbowlan@yahoo.com
Source: our idea
Date: 08 Mar 2007

Title

Birthday Girlfriends

Objectives

To recognize and make each lady feel special and recognized for her birthday month.

Materials

colorful feather boas

Procedure

Simply ask any ladies that attend your monthly meetings to wear a colorful boa of their choice so that they may be recognized as beautiful and special to celebrate their birthday month.

Submittedby: Melanie Moore, Harrison, Ohio (Cincinnati)
Email: melaniemoore@zoomtown.com
Source: from Melanie Moore (me)
Date: 08 Mar 2007

Title

Give it to God! (Energizer)

Objectives

To acknowledge a challenge we are having in our lives, and our inability to "fix" it on our own.... we need to give it to God!

Materials

Helium balloons and black sharpee markers

Procedure

The ladies each got a helium balloon that was tied loosely to the back of their chairs. On their balloon, the wrote a problem or issue, or mental limitation they were having and needed to hand over to God. Then we went outside, and stood in a circle. Each woman in the group would give a quick description (often vague - we did not want them to feel uncomfortable and did not make them share any details at all)of what she was struggling with and giving to God. After she shared, the group would gently whisper to her "Give it to God", and she would let go of the balloon and sent her challenge and struggle to God.It was a fantastic activity, and there are times we still talk about it! The weight that was lifted with sending that struggle to God visually was so energizing....the we went back inside to talk about God's amazing faithfulness.

Submittedby: Monica Hays: Belfry, Ky.
Email: m_hays@suddenlink.net
Source: from
Date: 04 Mar 2007

Title

Sow a seed

Objectives

PIck out your favorite or a meaningful bible verse. It can go with your prayer request. You pick.

Materials

Paper, pen and a few dollars.

Procedure

You pick out a bible verse and tell the women a couple days in advance. Every woman will write their special prayer request down and what every the bible verse is, thats how much money you put in the ladies ministy. For example, I will choose John 3:16 and my prayer request will be for a lost loved one to be saved. At the ladies meeting everyone will put in $3.16 to go toward the ladies ministry and your prayer request will go in a basket. After everyone sows their seed and drops in their prayer. Each person will draw out a prayer request and prayer for that special request all month, until the next meeting. You never want the money to go over $4.oo, so if you use John 5:10, the seed would only be 51 cents. Anyhting from 5-9 just use first 2 numbers. Everyone month at your meeting chose a person to pick the bible verse out for the next month. This is a great idea. It will build your ladies ministry, you will have another person praying for your request and everyone gets involved.

Submittedby: Pat Adams, Grand Blanc, MI
Email: PatPatty050@aol.com
Source: from
Date: 28 Feb 2007

Title

Name that tune. Love songs from the bible

Objectives

Was to get our women to focus on love songs

Materials

good piano player who knew the songs we wanted played.

Procedure

Announced that we were going to name that tune. Our pianist began to play a few notes of each song. Many hands went up but they had the wrong song. Finally someone guess the song after a few more bars of the song was played. Lots of laughter. sshoi

Submittedby: Rebecca, East Peoria, IL
Email: bythe12@sbcglobal.net
Source: from
Date: 15 Feb 2007

Title

not sure what the title is, I've only played this once

Objectives

icebreaker/getting to know you

Materials

pen & paper

Procedure

write something about yourself that no one else knows, wad up paper & through it in the middle of the floor or fold your paper & put it in a basket and one person reads the slips of paper and everyone votes on who they think is mentioned on the paper. There are no prizes but lots of laughs as you learn about the girls in your group.

Submittedby: Diane Zimmerman, Cincinnati, OH
Email: bradndianezim@juno.com
Source: from
Date: 15 Feb 2007

Title

Wedding Favor IceBreaker

Objectives

Our Bible Study was "Restore My Heart" by Denise Glenn (Motherwise Ministry). We wanted to have an ice breaker that was effective, entertaining, and relevant to our study. Our study focused on having our hearts filled with love from our Bride, Jesus Christ--we spent 6 weeks study ancient Jewish wedding customs from the Bible and how they show Christ's love for us.

Materials

bowls of wedding candy (1 bowl for every 3-4 ladies), napkins, creative questions

Procedure

We placed bowls of wedding favor candy (mints, white M&Ms, jordan almonds, etc)--enough bowls to supply 3-4 ladies. We then proceeded to ask about 20 questions regarding our own personal weddings. For each question that the ladies were able to answer "yes" to, they would take a piece of candy and place it on the napkin in front of them. Questions included, "Who was not married in June? Who had more than 4 bridesmaids?, Who went on a honeymoon outside the US?, Who has been married more than 20 years?, etc. All questions were simple yet interesting. Often we would stop and ask someone to elaborate on the question--fun and interesting. The lady with the most pieces of candy in front of her at the end of the game won the door prize. It was a fun, lighthearted game and we learned more about each lady.

Submittedby: Kathy
Email: kathy.johnston@bcbsla.com
Source: Personal experience
Date: 14 Feb 2007

Title

Life Is A Roadmap

Objectives

I lead a widow's ministry at our church. At the first meeting I wanted the ladies to know that they were not alone. I presented to widow's that life is about change and at a young 35 I was widowed with 2 children and my life's road change from straight ahead to many detours.

Materials

Discussion

Procedure

Openly presented how my life changed after the death of my spouse. Once I was finished with my presentation the widow's opened up and realized that they were not alone.

Submittedby:
Email:
Source: from Creighton University retreat
Date: 10 Feb 2007

Title

Action Alliteration

Objectives

To remember everyone's name

Materials

None

Procedure

Each person in the group states their first name and an action that also begins with the first letter of their first name while doing that action. It gets tricky because no two people can have the same action. e.g.-Singing Sandy would sing, Jumping Jackie would jump, etc. You can also play where you have to do everyone's action who precedes you in the circle or just the person who precedes you.

Submittedby: Sheri Price El Cajon, CA
Email: sprice@skylinechurch.org
Source: from ???
Date: 09 Feb 2007

Title

Stand Up

Objectives

To get women to know a little bit more about each other. To have women physically see that they are not alone in what they are facing.

Materials

A list of questions.

Procedure

Come up a list of questions to read that start with: Stand Up If... (Example...you lettered in High School, you've never been out of the United States, You kissed your spouse on the first date, you've gotten a traffic ticket in the last year, you've been a Christian less than 2 years, you were a straight A student in High School, you have more than 1 degree, you have more than 3 pets, you are a native whatever-town-you-are-in...etc.)

This can go on as long as you have time. Have a combination of fun and serious questions. ( Women stand up and sit down after each question as it applies to them. It can be a great conversation starter (What sport did you letter in? What are your degrees in, how much was your ticket?) a great eye opener, and a great way to see that at least a few other women share some of the same things that they do.

End it by tying in the fact that there's someone else out there that knows what you are going through and that you are not alone in your journey, that we're here to help...that kind of thing.

Submittedby: Cindy Gherardini
Email: cin_r@hotmail.com
Source:
Date: 09 Feb 2007

Title

The Newly-met Game

Objectives

For the women in our church to get to know one another.

Materials

Magazine ads, blank paper, questionnaires, prizes

Procedure

We gave each woman 1/2 a magazine ad when they registered for our event. They had to find the woman with the other half, then interview one another. Each magazine page was numbered. After 10 minutes, we drew 5 numbers from a basket. Those 5 pairs were brought on stage. One woman filled out a questionnaire. We then asked the other woman each question about the first woman. Points were awarded for correct answers. Prizes were given to each pair, based on their finish. A "booby" prize was given to the pair with the worst score. To expand this, you could give questionnaires to each woman, with both answering the questions, but we were short on time.

Submittedby: Jessica Schuyler, Salisbury, NC
Email: jessweety2@aol.com
Source: from Mrs. Joy Odom
Date: 08 Feb 2007

Title

"Amen Girlfriend!"

Objectives

To get the ladies energized and involved

Materials

Amen Girlfriend sheets can be made by the ministry team by using the acronym "Amen" and using different adjectives that describe women.

Procedure

This game is so much fun to play! It is a spin-off of Bingo. Instead of using the Acronym "Bingo" we use the acronym "Amen" and instead of using numbers we use different adjectives that describe women. For example, "M- beautiful" or "N-Overworked" . When a lady gets "Amen" (or a match) she yells out "Amen Girlfriend!"

Submittedby: Nancy Huey Denham Springs, LA
Email: joyride_61@yahoo.com
Source: from LayRenewal Pastor Smith's wife
Date: 08 Feb 2007

Title

The Hug

Objectives

To show that we can give someone else hope and love through a simple hug.

Materials

Nothing

Procedure

The women are numbered off 1,2,3. The #1 group is to stand up in no particular order either on stage or in front of the rest of the ladies, with thier eyes closed. The #2 group will give the hugs to all of the #1s without saying anything. It must be a REAL hug not just a little one. The #3 group gets to watch all of this take place. This goes until every #1 has had a hug and every #2 has given a hug. There will not be a dry eye in the place.

Submittedby: Arwen Mullikin, Mcdonough Georgia
Email: arwenmulli@earthlink.net
Source: from
Date: 08 Feb 2007

Title

The Purse Game

Objectives

Give points for things in your purse

Materials

purses

Procedure

the leader calls off an item and gives a point value to it. The women have to see if they have that item and show it to everyone and write down the point. The one with the most points wins. 20 items are good and the more outrageous the better.

Submittedby: Janet M. Palmdale, California
Email: jmetzler629@sbcglobal.net
Source: from
Date: 08 Feb 2007

Title

Treat Boxes to Share

Objectives

Invite and encourage women to attend the monthly Women's Meeting & Bible Study

Materials

Treat boxes or bags / Verses printed on cardstock and cut into Tags to attach to the boxes or bags

Procedure

We used this for a Valentine Theme, February meeting. We used Valentine themed treat boxes and put 3-4 pieces of chocolate candy and 1-2 small cookies inside each one. Our theme for the day was "How to Study the Bible" so the tag had II Timothy 3:16 printed on it. Each lady who attended received a treat box for themselves and they were given one to share. The extra one was to be taken with them to church the next day with the purpose of giving one personally to a woman who did not attend the event the previous day. They also took a card that had the information for the next meeting on it so they could personally invite that person to the next meeting. "We missed you yesterday and hope that you can come to the next one" type of message.

This idea could be adapted to any theme or for no particular theme at all. Pre-made treat bags and boxes can easily be found at craft stores. Pre-made tags with hand written messages could also be used. The main focus for this idea is to make one-on-one contact with other women in your church who may not yet be involved in the women's ministry.

Here's an example of how God used this in our meeting: After the purpose of the extra boxes was presented, the leader of the mid-week Women's Bible Study told the group that this would meet the Bible Study homework requirement of making contact with someone they didn't know. They could use the box as a conversation starter with a woman they had not met before. This turned into a perfect opportunity to share themselves in a way that had been pre-designated in their Bible study and it was a perfect example of how God puts things together. What a blessing to both the Bible Study leader and the one who made the treat boxes to see how God's hand was in this simple, creative idea that on the surface appeared to be a little frivolous. God Is Good!

Submittedby: Kathleen Ordiway, Niagara Falls, NY
Email: kathordiway@yahoo.com
Source:
Date: 06 Feb 2007

Title

Meet and Greet Bingo

Objectives

To talk to as many women as possible

Materials

"Bingo" board and a pen

Procedure

We created a Bingo board filled with fun ideas. i.e.: can cross her eyes, never learned to ride a bike, has more than 4 children. We also included things like: leads a Bible study, prays during lunch hour, invites friends to come to church. We then had to go around the room and find women to match each square and write their names in the square (only one square per woman). The idea was to talk to as many women as possible during the icebreaker period. "Full cards" "won" bookmarks and chocolates.

Submittedby: Lisa Martin, Fort Myers, Florida
Email: lisaolivekiwi@hotmail.com
Source: Creative Ladies Ministry
Date: 02 Feb 2007

Title

The Twelve Days of Christmas

Objectives

At our Christmas gathering, each woman stood under the month they were born. January (The 1st Day of Christmas), February (The 2nd Day of Christmas), etc. January birthdays sung "on the first day of Christmas...", February sang "on the 2nd day of Christmas" and so on. It was fun because one month only had one person......

Materials

Signs with the months of the year and coordinating Verse of the Song

Submittedby: Min. Ramona Davis, Cleveland, OH
Email: mismona@yahoo.com
Source: Ministry Worker Altricia Black
Date: 12 Jan 2007

Title

Prayer Boxes

Objectives

This was used at the year end session to get the women to focus on the events of the year and where they are spiritually.

Materials

Plastic Shells from Pat Catans or other Craft Store

Procedure

We have been working on being transformed into his likeness book in which there are many scripture references to putting off sin(strongholds), and putting on Christ. We selected at random different scriptures we had been working with over the last few months of 2006. Type out the scripture verses on a strip of paper, fold it up and put one in each shell (according to the number of women you are expecting at your event). Place these shells (or other container used) inside of some type of decorative box. These are prayed over to ask God's divine providence..that as it is pulled by a women it would speak to where she lives and what she needs. On the day of the event at the appointed time, have the women fill out on a small sheet of paper or card that you might supply their prayer request. Have the ladies form a single line. They will drop the prayer request into one box and pick up a shell in another box. This way they are laying down the old and picking up the new. Putting off/and putting on. Remember each verse in the shell has been prayed over for God's divine providence to bless each women with a revelatory Word.

Submittedby: Cheryl McFarling North Bay Ont. Canada
Email: cmcfarling@cogeco.ca
Source: made up variation of wrapping the gift and mixer getting to know each other
Date: 28 Nov 2006

Title

ABC-123

Objectives

To get to know people in your group and unwrap gifts

Materials

3 gifts wrapped many times I used this for Christmas and wrapped with one layero of green, white and red, to keep with your theme of the night

Procedure

We have the ladies sit in a circle and go around the circle with the ladies being a,b,c,then repeat till you have reached the first lady who is A,Then have the ladies pick a number from 1-3 and have the ladies say their number in turn (to hold each responsible then give "A" gift to "A" person, give "B" gift to "B" person and "C" gift to "C" person Then start with "A" and ask a question like name something about yourself if"A" person picked three as their number then she has to say three things about herself or if she picked one then only one thing about herself then she gets to take off 1,2,or 3 layers of wrapping paper according to the number she picked, then it is "B"'s turn to answer and then "C"'s turn each according to their chosen # "A" only passes to "A" and "B" only to "B" and "C" only to "C" after "C" has finished her turn, start again with "A" and she passes it to the next "A" in the circle. The questions can be anything like your favorite colour(S), favourite game as a child, favorite meal, favorite choclate bar, dessert, Christmas, what they dreamd to be as a child they keep going till the last layer is taken off the the gift. If "A" group is finished before the other groups they just listen as the "B" and "C" are still unwrapping If a person choses not to answer or cannot think of another answer they can only answer as many as they want to but can only unwrapp the number they have answered and pass it on to the next "A" or "B" or "C" This is a great mixer and is alot of fun a great way to find out likes and dislikes and experiences of your friends

Submittedby: Billie-Jo Snyder, Niagara Falls, NY
Email: bjsgt04@msn.com
Source: My Team Leader from Signature HomeStyles used this during one of our team meetings. I plan on using it at our next Women's Ministry function.
Date: 25 Nov 2006

Title

Pass the Gift

Objectives

Continue passing a wrapped gift while learning about each guest.

Materials

One wrapped gift (does not need to be expensive, dollar store item is fine).

Procedure

PASS THE GIFT GAME

Start by giving the gift to the hostess or person in the middle of the group

1. Take this gift and with out a sigh look around

and give it to a person with brown eyes.

2.Yes, you are the lucky one for a moment, but let us all share

in the fun! Please look around with eyes discreet

and give it to the one with the smallest feet.

3. Your feet are tiny and very small, now hand it to

someone very tall.

4. Please take your time and don't be harried. Give

it to the one who is longest married.

5. You must be proud of your life, now please pass this to the

newest wife.

6. Of this parcel you are bereft, give it to the one on your left.

7. The largest earrings I'm looking for now, if you

are wearing them, step up and bow.

8. Now to the person with buttons... big or small, any kind,

the most you can find, gets the gift this time.

9. Now don't get cross and please don't fight, but pass

it to the person 3rd on your right.

10. We should stop now, don't you agree?

This gift is yours to keep with glee!!!!

11. Inside you’ll see another gift…to continue the game

Pass it to your neighbor on the left

I bet she’s glad she came!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Submittedby: Michele Reeves, Simpsonville, SC
Email: screeves@charter.net
Source: from a member of our Women's Ministry Team
Date: 19 Nov 2006

Title

"Age" Cheer

Objectives

To introduce each lady, to get the age groups to come together for a common theme, to help others remember new ladies names.

Materials

None

Procedure

We did this at our yearly Advance (we Advance toward God, we don't Retreat!) and it was well received, we had 99% participation.

Before the Advance we got a list of the ladies ages through our church membership roles. We then divided these into "even" groups. At the Advance, we announced for the ladies to divide into the designated age groups, there were no more than 10 per group. This meant that those in their late 30s and 40s were divided into many groups. Our groups were 25 and under, 26 - 30, 31-35, 35-39, 40-41, 42-45, 45-50, 50 and over. Each group came up with a group cheer which said something about their age group. THEN each person came up with a two liner about themselves. For example with the 40s..."We are the 40s, and we're not shorty, we didn't have to write it down like the rest of all you clowns." "My name's Michele, I'm really swell. My name is Kim and I can swim. My name is Heather, I'm light as a feather."

Each group then performed their cheer as a group and individually. By the end of the cheers, it was amazing how many names you could remember. Everyone laughed and had a great time!

Submittedby: Cheryl Oakley, Cordell, Oklahoma
Email: oakley@itlnet.net
Source: Santa Bulletin Board
Date: 17 Nov 2006

Title

Reindeer Antler Game

Objectives

First team to wear their "antlers" wins!

Materials

pantyhose(not support hose) and balloons

Procedure

Make 2 or more teams depending upon the size of your group. Each team is given a pair of pantyhose and each player is given a balloon! Give two balloons if teams are small. The teams race to see who can make and wear their antlers by blowing up the balloons and stuffing them inside the pantyhose. First team to wear their antlers and sing Jingle Bells wins. Let all teams finish and take a group photo!

Submittedby:
Email: and.0408@yahoo.com
Source: from Aronda D.
Date: 17 Nov 2006

Title

Exhale

Objectives

1Pe 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Materials

Balloons

Procedure

We've used this icebreaker many times to encourage the women to Exhale! So many times as women we hold so much in, that like a balloon, we can't hold anything else and we explode.

We start by giving all the women a balloon. Then we list several stress factors/situations (i.e. traffic, kids, jobs, house work, husbands, etc.) that women go through and tell them to blow a little air into the balloon if the situation applies to them. We only use about 10 or so situations, and usually half way through someone's balloon has popped. We give that person (or the person who has had the most stressful week) a gift basket or another prize.

We point out at the end that as women we become like the balloon and some of us even pop; we encourage the women to take all their cares and stresses to the Lord, because He cares for them. Everyone always enjoys it and it provides good application.

Submittedby: Sophonia Stevens
Email: judah8200@yahoo.com
Source: Christ Centered Sister's Circle
Date: 16 Nov 2006

Title

Testimonies

Objectives

Women really have a need to express themselves to other women, in the process they will encourage and impart to others.

Materials

none

Procedure

Share on a voluntary basis.

Submittedby: Melissa  Kelso, WA
Email: parcelhome@adelphia.net
Source: from ? Not sure
Date: 16 Nov 2006

Title

The Name Game

Objectives

Get to know each other in a non-threatening, fun way.

Materials

Paper, markers, yarn

Procedure

What we did ahead of time: Punched two holes in the top of each paper, stringing a yarn loop through and tying it. The purpose was so that women could hang the piece of paper around their neck.

We put these around each tables with markers. You have the woman write her name in capital letters down the side of the paper lengthwise: M E L I S S A

then you have her come up with an adjective or short phrase that starts with each letter, then the women walk around and look at each other's and talk and laugh. It's fun to see what different women come up with for the same letter, and some of the unusual letters took a little creativity. All of the women at our retreat enjoyed this simple icebreaker.

Submittedby: Holly Smith; Monument, CO
Email: chrishollysmith@msn.com
Source: from Holly Smith (we did it for a Sunday school social)
Date: 16 Nov 2006

Title

icebreaker

Objectives

Getting to know one another

Materials

described below

Procedure

Have each person bring something (relatively small) that represents what they wanted to be when they grew up (eg: ballet slippers, baseball cap, a pen (writer)). This way we can share a bit of ourselves in a fun way!

Submittedby: Helen M. Owens, McMinnville,TN
Email: light@blomand.net
Source: from Helen Owens
Date: 13 Nov 2006

Title

Treasure Boxes

Objectives

To remind each person that we are each treasured by the Lord and by our friends.

Materials

Small plain treasure boxes ( I chose palin wooden boxes with a hinged lid ). Also markers, paint , paintbrushes, glitter or whatever materials you want to decorate your boxes with.

Procedure

Give each participant a treasure box. Have the participant write their name on their box and if they know the meaning to their name they may add this also. Each participant may decorate their box int he manner they may choose. One suggestion is to draw on the box the things they are interested in such as symbols of their occupation, hobby, or anything that is symbolic of their life. After everyone has their box ready,pass small cards around. On seperate cards write something positive about each person in the group. Pass the treasure boxes around and have each person place that particular person's "kudo" or "warm fuzzy" in their box. On those days when you need a cheerful note, take out your treasure box and enjoy what others have to say about you. We are all treasured by the Lord as his children and he places friends in our lives to prove it!

Submittedby: Brigid Waszczak, Tucson, AZ
Email: john_brigid@hotmail.com
Source: original
Date: 13 Nov 2006

Title

"Purse-onable" SnowBabes

Objectives

Ice-breaker, Team-builder

Materials

SnowBabe forms, straight pins, safety pins, cellophane tape

Procedure

Teams of 6-8 women gather at a table (newcomers included with long-time attendees). In the center of the table is a blank, standing Snowman form about 11 inches tall. (We made them out of white felt stuffed with batting.) The object is to dress the SnowBabe using only items from the women's purses within 15-20 minutes. Our leaders (who were not members of teams) selected winners in the following categories: Most "Purse-onable," Miss "Purse-onality," and SnowBabe "Im-purse-onator"/"Bag" Lady. We took digital camera pictures of each team with their SnowBabe and emailed one to each team member after the party.

Submittedby: DeLilah Collins, Portsmouth, VA
Email: drdhcollins@yahoo.com
Source: from
Date: 02 Nov 2006

Title

bubbles Bubbles

Objectives

Fun, mixer and introduction to topic

Materials

small bottles of bubbles

Procedure

a small bottle of bubbles is place at each seat.The ladies are instructed to see who can blow the largest and the most bubble for a given period of time 1-2 minutes. Prizes are awarded) But they also have to notice the characteristic of the bubbles ie..transparent, fragile, no direction,empty, no control,etc. This activity leads to the topic...Bubbles, the Troubles with bubbles ..chasing pretty emptiness.

Submittedby: Sara Baker, Nixa, MO
Email: richardandsarabaker@hotmail.com
Source:
Date: 26 Oct 2006

Title

Speedy Friendships

Objectives

For women to get to know each other in a nonthreating and fun atmosphere.

Materials

Sample questions

Procedure

Divide the women into two equal groups. Have pairs of chairs placed around the room in a circle or along the walls facing each other. (Make sure there is plenty of room between each pair of chairs so that the partners can hear each other talk.) Ask the first group of women to sit in the chairs in the outter circle, and have the second group of women sit in the chairs in the inner circle, facing the other women. Give the women sample questions to ask their partner (ie. Are you married? Do you have children? What has God gifted you to do? What's your favorite verse?) When the leader says "Go" the women have four minutes to talk to each other and find out as much as they can about the other person. After four minutes, the leader blows a whistle and both groups rotate to the right. (If your group is small, just have one group of women rotate.) Then they start again asking and answering questions. This is a great way to get to know each other quickly.

Submittedby:
Email: maxsbarb@yahoo.com
Source: local radio station did this for an hour!
Date: 19 Oct 2006

Title

"Your Special Name!"

Objectives

to share about each one, making a bonding among the women

Materials

Nothing

Procedure

Many times we have young Moms dropping their young ones off in the nursery and then others into the older classes. While waiting for a complete group to start our Bible Study, I'll ask some to share about their name. How she got the name; was she named after a special person, or relative; or the meaning of her name. Quite interesting. Some who may be shy about usually sharing in the study, will share in such an idea.

Submittedby: Janice Dumont, St. Pierre, Manitoba, Canada
Email: janicedumont@mts.net
Source: from
Date: 17 Oct 2006

Title

Bridle Shower game - what I wish I new before I got married?

Objectives

Give some fun and loveing ideas about married life to the bride.

Materials

pen,paper and basket

Procedure

Give each ladie a pen and paper. Ask all the married ladies to write what they wish they would have know about marrage before they were. Place them all in a basket after they are filled out. Then ask each lady to pull one out and read it. This is great fun, and after you can give all the cards to the bride. It is great to see all the wise and funny thing all the women have to say about marrage!

Submittedby: Chris Hinton - Twin Falls, ID 
Email: chrish@mvrmc.org
Source: Outdoor Photographer article.
Date: 11 Oct 2006

Title

Start With A Full Cup

Objectives

To encourage being in the Word and prayer on a daily basis.

Materials

Paper with two colums number 1 - 10 (right column of numbers and left column of same numbers)

Procedure

A wise woman once told her son, "Begin each day with a full cup, and if it's not full when you wake up, then make darn sure you fill it!"

Instruct the bible study ladies that on the sheet provided, make a list on the lft side of the then (10) things that "fill your cup."

Wait for them to fill the list.

Next, instruct the ladies to write down on the right side of the list the date of the last time you did the thing that "fills your cup."

My prayer for each of you, is to first seek the Word and Prayer to fill your cup by being in both on a daily basis. Additionally, that if you did not have ten (10) things that will fill your cup that you will identify them and use them. If you did identify ten (10) things that fill your cup, that you will use them on a regular basis. And finally, that you will evaluate what you really need to fill your cup on a daily basis.

Optional: You can have the ladies read their lists.

Submittedby: Michelle Shriver, Arvada, CO
Email: mshriver@mindspring.com
Source: An appreciation party for church workers
Date: 11 Oct 2006

Title

Name Game

Objectives

To learn and remember other's names, as well as something about them you can potentially relate to.

Materials

Just the people

Procedure

This is one of my favorite icebreakers for a mid-size group. Participants sit in a circle and/or around the room, facing each other. One lucky person is elected to go first, and they introduce themselves by saying their name and their favorite hobby (i.e., my name is Michelle, and I enjoy scrapbooking). The next person introduces their neighbor, and then themselves (this is Michelle, who enjoys scrapbooking, and my name is Laura, and I enjoy skydiving). Each person has to introduce all those that have gone before them, and then themselves. It greats really fun with about 20 people, and the hobby makes it easier for people to remember, as well as the repetition. I always enjoy it when the tables are turned on the first person, who feels they were lucky to go first, and you ask them to introduce everyone in the group at the end.

Submittedby: Michelle Shriver, Arvada, CO
Email: mshriver@mindspring.com
Source: Various small group studies and other meetings
Date: 11 Oct 2006

Title

The Interview

Objectives

To get to know others in the group and learn things about them you may not otherwise know.

Materials

Paper and pen

Procedure

I've always enjoyed "The Interview" as an icebreaker for smaller groups. You divide up into twos and interview each other. The interviewer asks questions that they feel will be interesting to the rest of the group, and they are encouraged to ask non-typical questions to learn things otherwise not known. Some examples are, "What is the best gift you've ever received?", "What is the best give you've ever given?", "If you could ask God one question and be guaranteed an audible answer, what would be it be?", "What's your favorite scripture verse?", "Who is the person you most admire and why?" Each interviewer introduces their interviewee.

Submittedby: Mary Lou Coalson, Coarsegold, CA
Email: allthebrokenpieces@yahoo.com
Source: from Mary Lou
Date: 10 Oct 2006

Title

snowball fight

Objectives

mixer at a first day at bible study or retreat. It really breaks the ice and cuts the uncomfortable feeling especially if you are brand new.

Materials

1/2 sheet of binder paper or less (but not too small)

Procedure

Print your birth month, date, city and state (Not year and not your name) Wad it up like a ball. When moderator says go start throwing at each other, pick anyone up and throw again like a snowball fight. When moderator says stop. You have to find the person that was born on that day in that city and state. They really like the throwing and losen up.

Submittedby: Kathy Hardy Ozark,AR
Email:
Source: from
Date: 09 Oct 2006

Title

Whats In your purse?

Objectives

Have a doorprise for person with the most objects-You can learn alot about one another by what is in the ladies purses

Materials

ladies with a purse

Procedure

have the person in charge of the meeting to come up with common as well as uncommon objects that would be in a ladies purse give yourself a point for each of the items you can retrieve the person with the most points wins the doorprise, be prepared to have a tie breaker in case needed.

Submittedby: Kim Hunt, OKC
Email:
Source:
Date: 09 Oct 2006

Title

Fav's

Objectives

To learn something not usually known about others.

Materials

One notecard and pen/pencil for all participants and leaders

Procedure

The questions usually begin with benign topics, such as "What is your favorite color?" or "food?" However, to spice it up a little I've the two following variations: "What is your favorite sound?" and (in a mixed group of men and women) "What is your deodarant of choice?"

Submittedby: Mira
Email: empoweredsingles@hotmail.com
Source: internet icebreakers- I have been using for a while
Date: 05 Oct 2006

Title

Getting To Know You

Objectives

The goal is for the women to become more comfortable with one another; therefore they will open up and share more.

Materials

Procedure

Divide the ladies in groups of 5s or 6, have each woman to count off at the beginning of the class. Each woman must find 5 things they have in common with one another.

Submittedby: Liza Kirschner, Monmouth Junction, NJ
Email: lizakirschner@hotmail.com
Source: from the Holy Spirit!
Date: 28 Sep 2006

Title

Objectives

To have women introduce themselves in a small group situation.

Materials

None

Procedure

The last time I facilitated our women's Bible study there were many new faces as well as beloved friends. As I asked them to introduce themselves I said, "I don't want to hear about your family or your job or even about your pets! Just tell us about you!" It was amazing to watch their faces as they thought about this. As women, we're so used to finding or defining our value from the outside - it was wonderful to have a chance to define ourselves as individuals! This may seem like a simple idea but it really brought the group closer - women may not have family or job in common, but everyone listened to the words devoted to "just us".

Submittedby: Deena Peterson, Marysville, CA
Email: thedeena63@hotmail.com
Source: My own head
Date: 28 Sep 2006

Title

Role Call!

Objectives

To track attendance and to get better acquainted at the same time.

Materials

Small note cards, pens, and a crazy gift!

Procedure

Each month I create small notecards on my home computer. There's a space for the woman's name, and then a question for her to answer, such as "what is your favorite snack food?" or "what is your favorite Scripture?" This helps me keep track of who is there and who needs an "I miss you" card, and gives the ladies a chance to get to know one another in the little things. One month our question was favorite snack food. Later that month, the ladies surprised a birthday girl with the snack she had mentioned at the Bible study! At the end of the study, I draw a card from the bucket and give out a small gift to the blessed attendee...this is so much fun, I usually make sure to have two gifts on hand! They always connect somehow to the lesson for the month, and everyone looks forward to this brief icebreaker at our fellowships.

Submittedby: Melody, Lexington, SC
Email: mheffline@650dialup.com
Source: from
Date: 25 Sep 2006

Title

Human Scavenger Hunt

Objectives

To learn about the women in your group and find similarities as well as differences

Materials

List for each participant with types of ladies you are looking for. Ex. Someone who reads the Bible through every year, someone with 5 children, someone who has been on a mission trip, someone who has never would like to take a mission trip, someone who is visiting for the first time, someone who teaches Sunday School

Procedure

The group is given their lists with a certain amoung of time to complete it. The first person to complete their list wins a prize. At the end you can point out that your group is made up of all kinds of different women. The young women now know who the women of faith are and the women of faith know who the newcomers are.

Submittedby: Laurie Steidinger, IL
Email:
Source: combined ideas I heard with my own ideas
Date: 25 Sep 2006

Title

Name Game

Objectives

To meet as many ladies as possible and write down their names along with the adjective they chose to describe themselves. The lady who collected the most names along with their adjectives wins a prize.

Materials

name tags, marker, paper and pencil

Procedure

The ladies choose an adjective, a word that describes themselves, that starts with the first letter of their first name. example: Loyal Laurie - write this on the nametag. When most of the ladies have arrived, give them 3 minutes to go around introducing themselves to as many other ladies as they can, explaining why they chose the word they did to describe themselves.

Submittedby: Dale
Email: gselway@telus.net
Source: from
Date: 23 Sep 2006

Title

Bloomers

Objectives

fun introduction without having to think too hard

Materials

corsages (silk or real depending on price) paper bags that can be stapled to closed

Procedure

have the hostess of the table hold the bag to start, the m.c. of the event will tell the group that in the bag are some old fashioned bloomers, the bag will be passed from lady to lady when the m.c. says 'begin'(politely - not thrown.:-) while each lady introduces herself with a flower name that begins with the same letter as her name i.e. Debra Dahlia, Carol Chrysanthemum etc. when the bag stops after going around the group, (this can be stopped and started a few times reversing the direction if desired) the last lady to be holding the bag must stand up and put on the 'bloomers' (not knowing they are flowers but believing that they really are undergarments) We really enjoyed this one even though we had a large group (12 tables of 8)Everyone stuck with the bag was pleasantly surprised to see the corsages and wear them for the duration of the evening.

Submittedby: Diane Sirmans
Email: awsirmans@charter.net
Source:
Date: 23 Sep 2006

Title

Pajama Party

Objectives

Fun, vulnerability in a "let your hair down" environment. Our theme that weekend was "Unveiling the Mask"...that we did!

Materials

pajamas and snacks (of course)

Procedure

We did this one evening at our ladies retreat. We had our fun and fellowship snack time in our pajamas. I was amazed at how many women "dropped the mask". We all seemed to be equals in our pj's.

Submittedby: Holly Lafont, Calgary, AB
Email: rhlafont@platinum.ca
Source: from our women's ministry games archive
Date: 20 Sep 2006

Title

Rabbit Hole

Objectives

To get women laughing and comfortable with each other, and to become familiar with each other's name.

Materials

A small square pillow and a circle of chairs one fewer than the number of women involved.

Procedure

One woman stands in the center holding the pillow while the others are seated in the circle of chairs. The woman in the middle says the name of someone seated. The named person stands up and quickly says the name of someone else seated in the circle then sits down as fast as possible. The person with the pillow tries to hand her the pillow before she can sit down. If she succeeds, then the new person with the pillow moves to the center and repeats the process. You cannot sit down until you have said a name. If you have successfully avoided taking the pillow, the person in the center tries to give it to the person you named. She must stand up and say someone else's name then quickly sit before the pillow can get to her, or move to the center if she is not fast enough to avoid the pillow. The pillow cannot be passed on to a seated person, she must be still standing. If you have new people in the group, name tags are helpful for them. Continue the game until everyone is at ease and laughing and hopefully is familiar with each other.

Submittedby: Leigh Gray
Email: cletus104@bellsouth.net
Source: from
Date: 17 Sep 2006

Title

If I were a shoe

Objectives

tell what shoe you would want to be and why...

Materials

nothing but possibly a sheet of paper

Procedure

Submittedby: Kelly Hein , Winona MN
Email: lkhein@winona.edu
Source: Icebreakers used at WSU
Date: 14 Sep 2006

Title

Beach Ball Banter

Objectives

To get to know one another

Materials

Blow up beach ball or big rubber ball

Procedure

Take a large rubber ball or beach ball (blown up) and using a permanent magic marker, write things on the ball...Favorite color, favorite restraunt, fun place I've visited...etc. (questions that will be quick to answer and yet help others to get to know one another). Stand in a circle and gently toss the ball to someone across the circle. Whichever question their thumb (or finger) lands on as they catch it...they must answer that question and then toss the ball to someone else.

Submittedby: Kelly Hein, Winona, Minnesota
Email: lkhein@hbci.com
Source: from icebreakers I have used in my classroom
Date: 14 Sep 2006

Title

Birthday line up

Objectives

Without talking, the women must line up in order of birthday (Jan. 1- Dec. 31st).

Materials

Nothing

Procedure

Explain that the ladies need to line up in order according to their birthday (Jan.1, Jan. 2nd. etc. to Dec. 31). The only problem is they CAN NOT talk! It is fun to see how creative people can be! Once everyone is in what they believe to be the correct order they say their name, birthday (not year) and something about themselves (decide ahead of time...favorite color, food, etc.) This is fun and doesn't require any materials!

Submittedby: Rochelle Rasheed, Desoto, TX
Email: r.rasheed@comcast.net
Source: from Children's magazine workshop
Date: 14 Sep 2006

Title

Reflection

Objectives

Reflecting on Christ's death alone and with a partner

Materials

Ice Cube

Procedure

Place an ice cube in each person's hand. While the ice is in your hands sit and reflect on Christ and His death for our sins. Reflect on the pain. Do not change hands. After the ice has completely melted share your feelings with a woman next to you. Reflect on what it feels like when your hand is no longer in pain. This can also be used with couples. This is a variation

Submittedby: Erin Bishop, Spokane, WA
Email: ErinBishop@comcast.net
Source: I came up with it
Date: 31 Aug 2006

Title

Getting to Know You

Objectives

For the women on our leadership council to truly get to know each other.

Materials

Pre made questions either written or typed out on small pieces of paper (folded) and a basket or bowl to draw cards from.

Procedure

Depending on how many women and time you have create several questions and put them on these cards. Each woman will draw a card (s) and read the question aloud to the group and answer the question. I ask questions like what is the one thing in the world you want your son or daughter to take from their relationship with you, where did you go on your honeymoon, etc. The questions can be personal or about their dreams and interests.

Submittedby: Autumn Bosch
Email: tamcm5@tm.net
Source: from the Holy Spirit!  He gave me the idea
Date: 18 Aug 2006

Title

The Give Away

Objectives

What I did on the first day of Bible Study is placed notes under select chairs with numbers written on them. As we finished up all of our instructions for study I asked the ladies to look under their seats and if they had a number they were to come up and receive a gift bag. I had donations from Avon, Mary Kay, brand new books, and because we were doing the Beth Moore Patriarch's study, one person recieved the Grand Prize of her CD Patriarch's the Musical. It didn't cost much because people donted the prizes and the women went wild! All 55 of them were scrambling and laughing and talking with each other on their way to their rooms for study.

Materials

Creative donations from women with in your ministry, or church, if adventerous go outside the church or look for clearance items at the stores.

Procedure

I just announced that we were going to do something out of the ordinary and fun! Gave them the instructions to look under their chairs for the pieces of paper and come and collect their bags. For the Grand Prize I didn't put a number on it, but a Star or David, because of the study we were having.

Submittedby: Carol Weathersbee, Raleigh, NC
Email: quiltnread@aol.com
Source: from my imagination
Date: 03 Aug 2006

Title

Getting Better Acquainted

Objectives

a fun exercise to start off a new year in a women's group (group may be a book club, Bible Study, mission projects group, etc.)

Materials

e-mail or phone call to members a few days prior to the meeting with instructions

Procedure

Go around the group having each woman read a list she's made of 3 facts about her that she suspects no one in the group knows. Two are to be true and one false. Group members try to guess which is false. It usually generates a lot of laughter and helps the group members become even closer.

Submittedby: Jan Savelich, Eugene, Oregon
Email: jansline@willamettechristian.com
Source: Keri Warren
Date: 03 Aug 2006

Title

Affirmations

Objectives

Provide an opportunity to state what we often think but rarely say to another person.

Materials

Index Cards & Pens

Procedure

Each participant receives an index card and an assignment name of one of their associates/friends at the gathering. They then write down the character traits/attributes of that person they admire and why those attributes are important to them. At the appropriate time in the meeting, everyone shares, one at a time. This has proven to be very benefical to everyone participating. We've even done it at family gatherings with heart rending results.

Submittedby: Jan Savelich, Eugene, Oregon
Email: jansline@willamettechristian.com
Source: Team Builders
Date: 03 Aug 2006

Title

Candy Bar Ice Breaker

Objectives

To have women think creatively and share details of their day/lives spontaneously.

Materials

Variety of candy bars.

Procedure

Purchase a wide variety of candy bars with interesting names. Place candy bars on a silver tray or in a basket. Share with the ladies that they are each welcome to any candy bar they would like. However, they need to tell the others in their group why the name of that candy bar represents their life or what kind of day they had. Some results: Snickers - "I heard the funniest joke today..." Big Hunk - "That's the kind of guy I'm married to." Skittles - "My day was disorganized and all over the place." $100,000 Bar - "I wish I had that kind of money!" The possibilities are endless, given the number of candy bars there are available and the creative imaginations of our ladies. Refreshments are built right into your gathering as well!! Have fun!!

Submittedby: Allison, Williamsburg, VA
Email: allisonadavidson@yahoo.com
Source: from my imagination :)
Date: 02 Aug 2006

Title

Truth And Chocolate

Objectives

To get woman to open up a little open themselves by answering personal trivia questions.

Materials

Small pieces of paper and/or index cards; individually wrapped chocolate candies

Procedure

This is sort of a twist on the old "Truth of Dare" games we played as girls. Instead of picking between telling the truth or taking a dare, the women tell the truth and are rewarded with a piece of chocolate. Write personal trivia questions on pieces of paper (or index cards) - one question per paper. The questions will ask a personal question, but should be light-hearted, i.e. What was your favorite book as a child; What would be your ideal vacation; If your life was made into a movie, who would play you, etc. The possibilities for questions are endless, but again, should remain lighthearted. The women take turns picking a question "out of a hat" and receive a piece of chocolate after they've given their answer. This game works with any size group. It has always been a hit and never fails to bring lots of laughs and insights into our personalities!

Submittedby: Rebecca Stuhlmiller, Spokane, Washington
Email: just2things@juno.com
Source:
Date: 28 Jul 2006

Title

Room Service

Objectives

to allow women with like passions to connect -- and ultimately find ways to reach out

Materials

Small white poster board signs

Procedure

Label 6 signs: The Library (bookworms); The Kitchen (cooks and bakers); The Prayer Closet (prayer warriors); The Dressing Room(shopping divas); The Craft Room (crafters); The Front Porch (hospitality/entertaining). Have them women choose which room best fits them and have discussion questions on how they could use their passion to both find ways to fellowship - and then also to reach out to their community. This is our new women's ministries format.

Submittedby: Mrs. Dee   Mansfield, TX
Email: DelSill@aol.com
Source: from a women's luncheon
Date: 28 Jul 2006

Title

Prayer

Objectives

To bring about a spiritual oneness at the table.

Materials

A card that is blank on the inside. The word prayer was written on the outside cover of the cord and Mailing lables.

Procedure

The card is set up on each table like a tent. Each table should be asked to open the card and read the scripture that has been typed on the lable. Each person at the table should be allowed to read the card. After each person read the scripture, each person can briefly share what the scripture means to them. After everyone has shared, one person at the table will pray for the entire table.

It was so powerful to hear discussions of God word and prayer being made at each table. The entire atmospher changed and there was a spiritual connection at each table.

Submittedby:
Email: p_necole@bellsouth.net
Source: from
Date: 20 Jul 2006

Title

Price is right

Objectives

to allow the women to come togeather as a team and have fun by guessin the price of the items in front of them

Materials

items from your house like empty detergent bottles ,cans of food things like a hair dryer a bible anything that you would like

Procedure

split the ladies in two teams toss a coin for who goes first. one person goes first and the may say i choose the tide with bleach and they have to write down their guess in a card if they are correct that teams gets a point if not the other team gets to guess the price and whoever guess closest to the price without going over wins a point.

Submittedby: Noemi, Camden, New Jersey
Email: Nocarrer@ci.camden.nj.us
Source: my own
Date: 28 Jun 2006

Title

Colors in the bible

Objectives

Choose a topic ex:(Tabernacle) What color were used in the making of the curtain that separated the holy place from the holy of holies. and in what order were the colors and curtain placed. This will broaden their idea about bible colors and bible terms. Were the colors weaved or set side to side, infront or behind each other, this will get the women into bible studying. once they have reached what they feel is the end result of the curtain they would have spoken to one another, learn to work with on another and shared bible time as well. in the end the host will give them the bible verses where all of their information can be found and of course a prize for the winning person(s) or group.

Materials

color paper, or materials, sissors, string, tape, or glue and their bibles.

Procedure

They can hang their curtains on string, glue them together, cut them or use tape. The curtains must look like curtains in the end result. Use bible if needed.

Submittedby: Pastor Shunnae McBride, Hampton, GA
Email: shunnaemcbride@yahoo.com
Source: from
Date: 28 Jun 2006

Title

Find Me If You Can

Objectives

Icebreaker at Women's Breakfast

Materials

pencils and index cards

Procedure

At our first Women's Fellowship Breakfast, I had all the ladies to write one very interesting yet unbelievable fact about themselves on a 3x5 index card. After they wrote a fact about themselves, the cards were collected and shuffled. Once shuffled, they were passed out upside down and when instructed turned the card over and had 2 minutes to try to find the person's card they were holding. It was fun and alot of smiles, and laughter was exchanged. Such things as, I love to eat out of the peanut butter jar with my fingers, another read, I love to go to Costco on Saturdays just for the free food. It was great and truly broke the ice. Afterwards, phone numbers and emails were exchanged and friendships were born.

Submittedby: Teri S., East Greenville, PA
Email: terischoll@verizon.net
Source: TAGG Team Youth & Children's Ministry
Date: 28 Jun 2006

Title

TV Character Ice breaker

Objectives

to break the ice & get groups "loosened" up for team-building (works especially well w/ youth groups)

Materials

paper & pen

Procedure

-On slips of paper, write down names of various television shows or television characters. -Split the group up into smaller groups by having them count off (groups of 3 or 4 are best). -Have each group pull a slip of paper & give them a few minutes to come up with a "game plan" -Each group should "act out" their TV show or TV character for the rest of the groups to guess... -This game ends up being hilarious & really a lot of fun, especially if you use "kid-type" TV shows or characters (Teletubbies, the Muppets, etc), but really any can be used.

Submittedby: Beth Miller, Lakeland, FLorida
Email: lrcmom1122@aol.com
Source: self
Date: 28 Jun 2006

Title

temperature reading

Objectives

help people in a group to share their feelings and relate to others in the group

Materials

none

Procedure

sit in a circle facing each other...temperature reading enables you to put yourself on a scale from 1 to 10 and tell why...a one is "the pits" nothing is going well, it's been a bad day, bad week...moving up the scale to a 5 you are half-way, nothing to write home about, neither good nor bad, okay...but if you're a 10, you're feeling like Snoopy the Beagle on top of his doghouse, with his feet dancing and his ears flying, it's a great day, a great week...as each person shares their number, their "temperature" others are able to identify with them, and everyone gets a chance to be heard...great for initial meetings as well as subsequent meetings of a group.

Submittedby: Beth Miller, Lakeland, Florida
Email: lrcmom1122@aol.com
Source: self
Date: 28 Jun 2006

Title

Analogies Bag of Stuff

Objectives

To stimulate creative thinking, build individual and group connections to topic being presented

Materials

a bag of stuff from the drawer where you put everything you can't find another place for

Procedure

fill a bag with objects you find in your "everything drawer" (i.e. paper clip, scotch tape, bandaid, eraser, etc.) pass the bag around the group...ask them to select one items from the bag...give them time to think about the charactertistics of that object, its attributes, what it can be used for, etc...then ask them to compare that item to the topic being discussed...(i.e. "how is an eraser like godliness?)...as they make the connection between the object and the topic they will surprise themselves at how much they already know about the topic, they will feel creative, ready to learn something new...and it's fun!

Submittedby: Renee Mattison
Email: RMatt96454@aol.com
Source: from www.creativeministries.com
Date: 28 Jun 2006

Title

Summer Snapshots

Objectives

Our icebreaker went along with the message for the evening, "Summer Snapshots" "Taking time this summer to create spiritual memories with the Master." We wanted to create an "instant" snapshot of a summer getaway, a tropical island, a place to get away from the stresses of life and "be still."

Materials

Leis, a vinyl backdrop of palm trees and parrots, huge sunglasses, Hawaiian print shirts. hats.

Procedure

We began the icebreaker passing a brown bag to island music (like musical chairs). When the music stopped the women at each table who ended up with the bag had to put whatever was in the bag on! The six ladies then had their picture taken together. It was such fun!

Submittedby: Kathy Carroll, Kingwood, TX
Email: traveler3207@gmail.com
Source: from Kathy Carroll
Date: 23 Jun 2006

Title

Your favorite candy and why it's like you

Objectives

To get women talking to each other and seeing they are alike in many ways.

Materials

Exact number of candy for the group. 2 of the same type of candy for 2 people.

Procedure

They each pick a piece of candy out of a bowl (make sure you have 2 exact pieces of candy in the bowl and also you only have the right amount per group). They then have to find the other candy and talk to each other and decide why they picked the candy and why they are like the candy. Then they share with the group and it's also fun to have them share alittle about themselves. For example: Bit of Honey candy, liked it as a kid, love the chewy nougant and made me think of being younger.

Submittedby: Leslie Gornig, San Jose, CA
Email: lrgornig@sbcglobal.net
Source: from Family Community Church
Date: 23 Jun 2006

Title

Coffee Connection

Objectives

Encouraging women to connect after an event

Materials

Starbucks gift cards

Procedure

We did this during the final session of a weekend retreat.

As part of the session we were encouraging women to get names, phone #s and e-mail addresses of women they had connected with during the retreat.

To encourage getting together we asked women to find two other people that they would like to spend time with after the retreat. Once a threesome was formed and they had decided on a time and date they would go to a table we had set up to receive a starbucks gift card for their group.

Submittedby: Leslie Gornig, San Jose,  CA
Email: lrgornig@us.sbcglobal.net
Source:
Date: 23 Jun 2006

Title

Icebreaker/Mixer

Objectives

Have women sit with new people rather than their usual group of friends.

Materials

Variety of CandyBars (fun size w corresponding regular size)

Procedure

We did this at a retreat to encourage women to not sit with the same group of people at every meal).

In the dining room we put one regular size candy bar at each of the tables. Each table had 8 chairs so we counted out 8 fun size candy bars that matched that candy bar and put those in a bowl. Repeat this for each of the tables using a variety of candy bars.

As women entered the dining room they were told to select their favorite candy bar from a bowl and then to find a table with a matching candy to sit at for that meal.

Variations: Could do this with other objects; colored paper, cards with stickers etc.

Submittedby: Angela Hinnant Greenville N.C.
Email: lethislightshine@aol.com
Source: from
Date: 22 Jun 2006

Title

Icebreakers

Objectives

Get to know more about the people in your small cell group.

Materials

Paper, Ink pens, and questions

Procedure

On a piece of paper,write different questions. A) What is your favorite color? B) Do you have a pet?How did you decide on its name? C) What is your favorite time of the day?/Why? D) Describe your favorite book. E) What did you like best about the bible study? It is a easy way to get the conversation flowing.

Submittedby: Charleen Bower
Email: we5frogs@jesusanswers.com
Source: began with an idea from this site
Date: 16 Jun 2006

Title

use what's in your purse

Objectives

The women in our church look forward to seeing what type of things they will need to decorate next. It is so much fun to see the ladies who have been with us before come with purses loaded with things they think might be useful, while those who are new to us rummage to join in the fun. By getting the women to work together to use whatever is in their purse to decorate a basic form appropriate for our theme, folks are talking and laughing together right from the start.

Materials

one basic form per table, glue, small decorations appropriate to the theme (optional)

Procedure

at a cookie swap with a snowman theme, we had styrofoam balls to start with (we gave them tooth picks to hold the balls together)

the following year with gingerbread theme, we had a gingerbread house form out of cardboard, and gave them a tub of icing

a women's sleep over with a princess theme had pipe cleaners and tin foil to start off the tiara contest

It is so much fun to see the creative use these women find for common everyday items, and what things they are willing to use.

Also, as more women hear about this tradition, it is funny to see them as they realize the things they brought don't work with the theme, and think of things they coud have brought instead.

Submittedby: Chris Hinton - Twin Falls, Idaho
Email: chrish@mvrmc.org
Source: A business meeting I attended.
Date: 15 Jun 2006

Title

Getting to Know You

Objectives

Object was to get to know one another and share a little laughter.

Materials

Cards made up with the following headings and a pen. The card pages were entitled as follows:

Page 1: Write the name of a song or book that best describes you.

Page 2: Draw a picture of your family

Page 3: Answer the following:

How long have you been a member of our church?

What is your favorite food?

What is your favorite hobby?

Page 4: Draw a picture of what you plan on doing when you retire.

Procedure

Distribute the card and allow 5 minutes to answer the questions. After the time is up, go around the room one by one and have each person share what they wrote and drew on the card.

Submittedby: Alison, Berlin, New Hampshire
Email: aef4jesus@yahoo.com
Source: 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.
Date: 15 Jun 2006

Title

Edifying One Another

Objectives

Used within groups who know each other. Helps to edify each other and draw everyone closer.

Materials

Blank Note Cards

Procedure

Everyone receives a note card and writes their name on it. They are then passed around and everyone will write something nice about that person (no false flattery) and sign it.

Submittedby: Rene Biel
Email: rdb45@hotmail.com
Source: from
Date: 15 Jun 2006

Title

3 truths and a lie

Objectives

To really learn about each other. you tell 3 things you really have or have done and 1 little fib.

Materials

memory

Procedure

Submittedby: Sandhya Nathan, P. O. Box 80392, Dubai, U.A.E.
Email: sandhya@akallmedia.com
Source: experience
Date: 15 Jun 2006

Title

Seasons of life

Objectives

All women to share pictures of themselves with each at three different stages of htier life. At different ages. It is a great way to lauch and break the ice and make friends where there was formality.

Materials

Women need to be informed to bring the pictures

Procedure

Submittedby: sheryl   Fishersville,Va
Email:
Source: from
Date: 14 Jun 2006

Title

Who Am I?

Objectives

Getting to know others

Materials

Names of the bible

Procedure

Everyone has a name from the bible on there back and they must ask others questions so they can get clues to who they are

Submittedby: June Prieto Charleston WV
Email: takemeback25302@yahoo.com
Source: from
Date: 14 Jun 2006

Title

Secret Sister

Objectives

To bless a sister...draw names

Materials

buy a gift

Procedure

set up a table,place the gifts on the table with your secret sisters name on it and you can watch her face as it lights up..when she opens her gift and well as yourself...receiving a gift...you can put a price limit on the gifts,

Submittedby: Susan Mason, Ridgeley, WV
Email: mason864@atlanticbb.net
Source: from
Date: 26 Apr 2006

Title

Opposites Attract

Objectives

Have the opposite find her mate.

Materials

Slips of paper with opposites written on them.

Procedure

Have one slip of paper read KETCHUP while another slip of paper reads MUSTARD. When you announce that the opposite is to find their opposite, it's rather easy to figure out. Another example: SALT/PEPPER, LIGHT/DARK, DAY/NIGHT. The really neat part is you may have to talk with everyone in the group before you find your opposite. Creates laughter and builds unity within a group as they participate together in this silly game.

Submittedby: Lorrie Orr, Victoria, British Columbia
Email: lorrieorr@telus.net
Source: from
Date: 26 Apr 2006

Title

The Twelve Months of Christmas

Objectives

To encourage women to interact and participate. To laugh.

Materials

Twelve sheets of paper with the month written on them. Copies of the song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas"

Procedure

The leader asks one woman with a birthday in January to hold up the sign with January written on it. (same for each month) Then the women who have a birthday in that month gather in one spot. Copies of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" are handed out and each group has to sing the verse pertaining to their month number. (ie January - the first day, February the second day, etc.) The women were also told to come up with an action to their verse. It was a hilarious event and got everyone warmed up. We had a group of about 70 ladies participate.

Submittedby: Karen Gay  Augusta, GA
Email: contactkarengay@yahoo.com
Source: Ladies' Ministry site I don't remember!
Date: 17 Apr 2006

Title

The Tie That Binds

Objectives

Be the first line of ladies to successfully weave a spoon (or other weighted item) tied to a ball of yarn through your clothes.

Materials

Two large balls of yarn. Two balls of yarn. Two spoons.

Procedure

Tie a ball of yarn to each spoon. Set up two lines of ladies. Begin with the first lady in each line and have them drop the spoon down through their clothes and hand off to the next lady. The yarn will follow the spoon through and bind all of the ladies together. The first line to weave all of the ladies together wins. Be prepared to laugh your head off and watch out for "yarn burn."

Submittedby: JACKIE EDWARDS JACKSON MS 39212
Email: jackieedwardsj@aol.com
Source: --
Date: 31 Mar 2006

Title

LETS GET DRESSED GIRLS/LADIES

Objectives

TO GET EVERYONE RELAXED BEFORE THE WORD

Materials

PAPER DOLLS AND HELMET SHEILD SHOES SWORD,

Procedure

USE SCRIPTURE PUTTING ON THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD MAKE BROWN BAGS FOR EVERYONE WITH A DOLL AND CLOTHES AND A TREAT SUCH AS PENS NOTE PAD MINTS ETC AND HAS YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT GETTING DRESSED EVERYONE IS DRESSING THERE PAPER DOLL I USED IT WHEN I HAD TO SPEAK AT A WOMEN CONF IT WAS A GREAT AND EVERYONE GOT EXCITED FOR CHRIST

Submittedby: Sharon Fields, Norfolk VA 23523
Email: revsafields02@yahoo.com
Source: from my pastor
Date: 29 Mar 2006

Title

Let's Break the Ice

Objectives

to get to know one another

Materials

pen and paper to write down the answers, and you pair off with another person that you do not know

Procedure

5 questions

1. the person name 2. place of birth 3. the nick name, and why 4. what color do they like 5. what type of music do they like 6. ask the Lord what is their calling or gifts from him or her

Submittedby: Paulette Briton, Fallbrook, CA
Email: pdbrit@mac.com
Source: Created by Pauletta Staley and Paulette Britton and Women of the Word (WOW) bible study leaders
Date: 10 Mar 2006

Title

H.I.S. Day Spa (Heavenly Is She)

Objectives

To show women, who are deluged daily with the world view of beauty, what God's word says about beauty.

Materials

5-10 scriptures (depending on group size), poster board, marker, bible, dictionary, place to hang poster board.

Procedure

Group members started out by sharing who they are and what treatment they have recieved and one they need (For instance, I shared that I had the treatment of patience working but my ability to always be kind to my husband needed some treatment) Then each group is given a scripture. From the scripture they must define the beauty treatment that God is giving to women. Then the treatment is written on a poster board. The scripture and treatment is then shared with the entire group. We opened with this to kick off our 10 week bible study. We are taking these 10 scriptures and the beauty treatment and making it into a small booklet to give to the women on the last day of the study.

Submittedby: Kelly Swanson, CastroValley, Ca
Email: Kellywowswanson@yahoo.com
Source: ICC Church
Date: 09 Mar 2006

Title

Pop the Balloon

Objectives

To get to know the ladies in your church, and to share about their lives.

Materials

Balloons, paper.

Procedure

Write our a question on a small piece of paper, such as what was your first job, where did you grow up, what was your favorite summer and put the paper in a balloon and blow it up and tie. Then each ladies picks a balloon and has to pop it to answer her question.

Submittedby: Marsha Martin  Hominy, Oklahoma
Email: pmartin1@integrity.com
Source: from         
Date: 08 Mar 2006

Title

Fill my cup Lord

Objectives

realize we all are different but God can use any "cup" to fill with His goodness

Materials

various styles of cups from home

Procedure

talked about giving our cups of discouragement, sorrow and pain to God and having Him fill the cups that were cracked and weakened with encouragement, strength and joy. Did the poem about "Drinking from the Saucer coz My Cup is overflowing"

Submittedby: Julie Nevada  IA
Email: bjoxley@iowatelecom.net
Source: something I make up
Date: 02 Mar 2006

Title

women pampering women party

Objectives

Keep women involved in the womens bible study's

Materials

Gifts, food, theme

Procedure

My theme was pampering and snowman. I did it in January. The women of the church was invited to come to a pampering party at my house. Bring a friend. Everyone was asked to bring something to snack on to share, and a small pampering gift. As people should up I gave them each a gift. It was a coffee mug I decorated in the theme of our last bible study. They had to open that first so they had something to drink out of. That started everyone talking about how good the last study was (Beth Moore). So we talked about that and what women were interested in for the next study. We talked about how much we had grown with the study. I talked about how important we are to God and our church. And that we need to make sure we spent time with God so he could fill us up with his glory. We needed to be there for each other as women. Then we all sat in a circle and I pasted out the gifts. Everyone opened a gift and then we draw numbers and passed the gifts to the right that many times and then to the left so many times. After about 4 or 5 times and then you got to keep what you had. Everyone had a great time and resigned up for the next study.

Submittedby: Rev. Beth Casey, Fairlawn,ohio
Email: cameo3716@aol.com
Source: from The Royaltea Society  www.womenofroyalty.net
Date: 10 Feb 2006

Title

memories ice breaker

Objectives

to share a time of the past with something from the attic that will allow others to enjoy a story and at the same time get to know the story teller a little bit better

Materials

anything that will go along with a tea society,tea cup,tea pot, china, antique,lace or linens,a pair of gloves, anything vintage,even a paracel from the past

Procedure

rather then us having a special speaker, we use the women who come to the teas to speak on topics of interest and share their stories, They are limited to two minutes to speak. Everyone doesnt have to do it, but we encourage all to participate.

Submittedby: Jo Ann Glover, Nashville, Tennessee
Email: joann.glover@vanderbilt.edu
Source: just a variation of musical chairs
Date: 09 Feb 2006

Title

Pass the Potato

Objectives

Laughter - Interaction

Materials

1 Potato or ball. CD Player and CD

Procedure

Form a circle. The leader starts the music and the ladies pass the potato. With her back to the group, the leader stops the music. The lady with the potato sits down. Continue until the winner is left. The winner receives a small gift. Much fun. Much laughter.

Submittedby:
Email:
Source: from
Date: 06 Feb 2006

Title

The I Never Game

Objectives

Get to know strange things about each other

Materials

beans or marbles, or another manipulative, and a bucket

Procedure

Each lady is given the same number of beans. Each lady takes turns saying an "I never" example "I never pierced anything besides my ears" Anyone who has pierced something else besides their ears goes up and puts a bean in the bucket. Whoever has the most beans left in the end wins.

Submittedby: Jill Hart
Email: jill@cwahm.com
Source: Gretna MOPS
Date: 02 Feb 2006

Title

Dealing with issues of the heart: miscarriage & infertility

Objectives

This event covers topics that are not often talked about - miscarriage and infertility. Many married women deal with these issues and don't know where to turn or how to deal with them. This event will help open the lines of communication.

Materials

Panel of experts - counselor, OBGYN, nurse, women who have been through it

Procedure

Gather a panel of "experts" and allow them each time to speak on their area of expertise. Then allow a question and answer period. In our MOPS group, we had questions submitted ahead of time and then they were all asked by the leader.

Submittedby: Diane Jolly, Milwaukee WI
Email: diane.jolly@ssa.gov
Source: speaker name unknown at a workshop about years ago.
Date: 27 Jan 2006

Title

Alphabet Game

Objectives

Generate laughter and break the ice among women to make them comfortable.

Materials

None

Procedure

The women will be paired off in groups of two each. They will take turns (alternate) saying the alphabet forward from A-Z and the first group that finishes claps their hands. And for more fun, have them to say the alphabets backward from Z-A and see how many hand claps you get.

Submittedby: Tamarahan Gaudet
Email: wildsparro@yahoo.com
Source:
Date: 20 Jan 2006

Title

Who am I?

Objectives

Ask questions to figure out who's name is taped on your back.

Materials

paper/markers/tape

Procedure

Write the names of famous women - can be biblical only, or women of history. Upon registration, each lady has a name taped on her back. Everyone must ask questions to find out who they are. Ex: Old or New Test, married or single, good or evil... If using women in history - example questions can be: am I dead or alive, politics or hollywood, etc.. First to guess wins a prize.

Submittedby: Raquel Arellano, Liberal, KS
Email: rachaelarellano@yahoo.com
Source: from
Date: 26 Dec 2005

Title

Objectives

to illustrate how entering into the calling God has for us, can sometimes be a little scary and we feel unsure even of our own abilities, but with God's guidance and a little encouragement from other believers the journey is so much sweeter.

Materials

blindfold, individually wrapped candy in paper lunch bag and men's work gloves

Procedure

Divide the group into 2 teams and have each team get into a circle, designate a captain for each team. Then blindfold the first lady, put on her gloves and hand her the paper sack, she then has to pick out a candy from the sack, unwrap it using her gloved hands and put the unwrapped candy in her mouth before passing the blindfold, gloves and candy sack to the next person in the circle. The first team to get through all their women wins. All the while each woman is being cheered on by her team mates. It may be difficult for her with those awkward oversized gloves on but with the whole group cheering her on... well what could be better. The candy is the prize and recognition from other's for a job well done is a sweet reward.

Submittedby: Rachel Patterson, Bottineau, North Dakota
Email: rachellynnes@yahoo.com
Source: from
Date: 21 Dec 2005

Title

Remember when

Objectives

Conversation starter(learn about each person's life)

Materials

Pennies

Procedure

Gather a selection of pennies to hand out to each women at your event. Each person should receive one penny. Have each person look at the date on the penny and share what they were doing in that year or where they lived, etc... It was a wonderful way to remember back to the events in our lives. This was done at a recent progressive supper!

Submittedby:
Email: wrjamcq@sbcglobal.net
Source:
Date: 16 Dec 2005

Title

color of my world

Objectives

to get to know each other a little better

Materials

bag of m&ms

Procedure

each color represents a different topic. Red might be your most embarrassing moment, green could be where you grew up. You can make your own questions. You pass around the bag of candy and the ladies take what they want, but they do not know that they will have to answer a question for every piece they take. So some may answer only 1 or 2 while others may be answering a whole bunch. You can put a limit on how many some will answers as some may take half the bag.

Submittedby: C. Joyce Armstrong of Dolores, Colorado
Email: cjadolores@netzero.net
Source: from
Date: 15 Dec 2005

Title

You Go Girls!!

Objectives

To get ladies up and moving, talking and laughing!!

Materials

Just ladies!! Warm bodies!!

Procedure

Divide into groups of 8-10, or so. There are 3 parts to this one and can be done in any order. It's optional if you want to make it a timed "contest". 1. Line up by age, oldest in front to youngest in the back. 2. Reshuffle by lining up in order of the birthday month: January in front to December in the rear. 3. Reshuffle by lining up by shoe size, largest in front to smallest in the rear. As ladies are doing this they will be talking to each other, getting a bit more acquainted, laughing and generally having fun!! 1.

Submittedby: Randa Chance, San Antonio, TX
Email: randomchance08@earthlink.net
Source: my own idea
Date: 15 Dec 2005

Title

My Gift to You

Objectives

We recently hosted a Christmas Tea for approx. 200 ladies. This activity was an effort to minimize the cost of gift exchanges, while still allowing each lady to take home something special.

Materials

Pretty 8.5 x 11 paper cut into quarters(I just used fancy linen paper) - can be cut at Kinkos or Office Max if you don't want to worry about cutting the edges properly, and they only charge about $3.00 to do the cutting for you (saves a bundle of time and cramped fingers)

Procedure

I made up some blank postcards (4 per page) on my computer with a fancy border and entitled them "My Gift to You". I laid one at each place setting prior to the event. Toward the middle of the event (which allowed people to get to know each other), I asked each lady to look at the person to her left, and take 5 minutes to write a personal note to her stating how much that person meant to her, why she was special and why that person was important to her. This enabled every single person who came to the Tea to take with her a tangible piece of evidence that she was indeed loved and appreciated. The postcard was small enough to be folded and put in a wallet to be taken out whenever any of the ladies needed an extra boost of warmth on a bad day. It turned out wonderfully, and we have received many positive comments about the notes since then.

Submittedby: Deb Brenneman, Camp Hill PA
Email: debra.brenneman@verizon.net
Source: from my own head
Date: 15 Dec 2005

Title

Women's Jeopardy

Objectives

To get women to open up and speak out, and also to realize that women have played an important part in history

Materials

None

Procedure

I put together a short paragraph for each of several different women from history and/or the Bible, describing who they are, when they lived, what they did, etc. I read the paragraph, and the first one to stand up got to answer, stating their answer as a Jeopardy question. (Who was Corrie ten Boom? Who was Eleanor Rossevelt? and so on.) If they answered correctly, they got a small prize.

Submittedby: Melanie Clardy, Chandler AZ
Email: Melanie@ClardyFamily.com
Source: unknown
Date: 11 Dec 2005

Title

Four Corners

Objectives

Introduce one to another and get gals talking, finding things in common

Materials

Paper & Pen

Procedure

Number off 4 separate corners in the room. To get the gals to the corners, ask a question like: Round 1 Your age

1 18-29 2 30-40 3 41-50 4 Over 50

Each corner will have an age group.

When they get to the corners, have them Introduce themselves and answer the question Do you make New years resolutions –if yes, share them if you would like

We typically play 4 rounds. I post the questions on the corners by round.

Here is another sample:

Round 2 How long have you been attending this Church?

1. Less than 1 year 2. 1-3 Years 3. 4-8 Years 4. 9+ years

Introduce yourself and share how long you have been attending the Church.

What is the best gift you have received for Christmas?

Submittedby: Abi Buening  Grand Forks, ND
Email: pastorswife@wiktel.com
Source: from another pastors wife
Date: 10 Dec 2005

Title

Gift Giving Story Game

Objectives

this is a good game for Christmas party or party where you have a gift exchange. Objective to pass gift around and not end up with the gift you brought. Many laughs and fun in this exchange game.

Materials

gift for gift exchange. Set $ amount is good to do.

Procedure

This is a game played one year at a Christmas party. It was a big hit and a lot of laughs. The story isn't very long but takes longer to play with all the passing and laughing going on. Everyone brings a wrapped gift, Which ever kind you decide according to your ladies.1-token ones, 2-gag ones, 3-or what ever price limit set. We had a $10 limit gifts.

Gift Giving Game

TO BEGIN: Everyone stands or sits in a circle holding the gift he/she brought to the party.( We sat around a large table) Someone reads the story, every time the word RIGHT is read, everybody passes his gift to the right. Every time the word LEFT is read, gifts are passed to the left. The gift that each person is holding at the end of the story is the gift he or she keeps.

STORY: The Right Family Christmas Story Christmas was almost here and Mother RIGHT was finishing the Christmas baking. Father RIGHT, Susie RIGHT, and Billy RIGHT returned from their last minute Christmas errands. "There's not much LEFT to be done, "said Father RIGHT as he came into the kitchen. "Did you leave the basket of food at Church?" asked Mother RIGHT? "I LEFT it Right where you told me to," said Billy RIGHT." "I don't have any money LEFT." The hall telephone rang, and Susie RIGHT LEFT to answer it. She rushed back and told the family, "Aunt Tillie RIGHT LEFT a package for us RIGHT on Grandma RIGHT's porch. I'll go over there RIGHT now and get it," she said as she LEFT in a rush. Father RIGHT LEFT the kitchen and brought in the Christmas Tree. By the time Susie RIGHT returned, Mother RIGHT, Father RIGHT, and Billy RIGHT had begun trimming the tree. The entire RIGHT family sang carols as they finished the decorating. Then they LEFT all the presents arranged under the tree and went to bed, hoping they had selected the RIGHT gifts for their family. Now I hope you have the RIGHT present for yourself, because that's all that's LEFT of our story, except to wish you a Merry Christmas, isn't that RIGHT?

Submittedby: Rosemary Adams, Kingman, Az
Email: pcwomenofgrace@yahoo.com
Source: from
Date: 03 Nov 2005

Title

Christmas Hostess

Objectives

To facilitate relationship building

Materials

Procedure

For our Christmas party last year we chose table hostesses. Their job was to invite ladies from within and without the church. We filled in each table with ladies that weren't "assigned". To our surprise we had more visitors than at any other event that year because each hostess invited so many "non-church" ladies. It was a great outreach. We were also able to seat together ladies with like interests that maybe didn't know each other. It was a great way to build new friendships. Our women's ministry has grown steadily ever since.

Submittedby: Marlene Rivera, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
Email: mrivera@symmetricom.com
Source: from
Date: 13 Oct 2005

Title

The Rose

Objectives

To bless each woman in your activity by having them know how they have blessed your life, and encourage their self-esteem.

Materials

One rose

Procedure

The leader of the ice breaker will pick a person out of the group to give the rose to and explain why she deserves the rose (you were there in my time of need, I admire you for..., etc.). That person will then forward the rose to somebody else, until everyone in the group has been given the rose (sometimes the same person can receive the rose from different people). A variation could be to give a bouquet of flowers to the person that received the rose the most. Be prepared for a lot of bonding, laughter, and tears.

Submittedby: Kathy Lucio from Juigalpa, Nicaragua
Email: krlucio@yahoo.com
Source: Betty Rocha
Date: 29 Sep 2005

Title

The Cabbage

Objectives

To get women to open up with each other and break down walls

Materials

Sheets of blank paper, pen

Procedure

Leader writes out one command on each sheet of paper such as "recite favorite bible verse" or something funny like "crow like a rooster". Leader then crumbles up first piece of paper (which will be the last one to be opened) followed by wrapping it in one paper after another like a cabbage. You play the game like hot potato to music and when the music stops the woman with the "cabbage" in her hands unwraps a page and does whatever it says. This game is a great ice breaker for any group. You can use tailor it to your message by having a command be to read a passage, share something in their life that pertains to the theme, etc. You can also make the last command be to receive a prize. When we played this game with our new bible study group, the women really opened up and were practically in tears laughing. One woman had to crow like a rooster and was laughing so hard she couldn't even do it. Another had to whistle "Happy Birthday" but couldn't whistle so it was hilarious to see her try. You can also put simple ones like give the woman to your right a hug. They never know what command they will get which makes it even more exciting.

Submittedby: Kathy Benitez
Email: Cbeans182@aol.com
Source: from
Date: 27 Sep 2005

Title

An unusual Job

Objectives

The objective is get to know the ladies in your church. Encourage fun and interactive conversation.

Materials

Small pieces of paper, pens.

Procedure

This was used at a ladies brunch where ladies were seated 6 to a table. Each person had a small piece of decorative (theme related) piece of paper at her plate and at the beginning of the brunch the ladies were instructed to write down their most unusual job. Pass the paper to someone at the table to read and then match the job to the correct person. Pick the most unusual and give it to the MC, who then read them all, had the ladies stand and the audience and guess which job went with which person. She then put the names in a basket and drew for a few door prizes. It was fun and interesting.

Submittedby: Lisa, Pittsburgh, PA
Email:
Source: from
Date: 17 Sep 2005

Title

Icebreaker Idea

Objectives

To break the ice with new choir members, so they do not feel left out. This works even for shy people.

Materials

Enough copies of the scavenger hunt list to hand to everyone when they come in.

Procedure

Our church choir meets for about three months and then we have a few weeks break in between. On our choir semester "kick-off" nights, we have often used a scavenger hunt idea to break the ice with new members. The only difference is that instead of looking for "things," we have to look for a person in the room that has whatever we need to check off on the list. For instance ... our director is a huge Steeler's fan. So, one of the questions on the list might be to find someone in the room that has season tickets or personally knows a Steeler player, etc. This is a timed thing, so you must get as many questions or items checked off your list as you can before times up (which means you have to keep moving and finding more people to talk to). By the time we are done, everyone (even the shy newcomers) are laughing and having a good time.

Submittedby: Karen Cordell, Hickory, North Carolina
Email: jecordell@charter.net
Source: used at an opening M.O.P.S. (Mothers of Preschoolers) meeting
Date: 16 Sep 2005

Title

Getting Off on the "Right" Foot

Objectives

To get to know someone in your ladies group better

Materials

two colors of paper cut into pieces

Procedure

divide the group into 2 teams giving each person on one team the same color of paper and the other team another color; have the ladies remove the right shoe and hold it up; with her left hand have them write her name on the piece of paper; have a leader put the papers in the opposite teams shoes which have been placed in a corner (both teams should follow all of these steps); when you say "go" each team runs to get their shoe and find the lady whose name is on the piece of paper in her shoe and find out her most embarrassing moment; each team then returns to their table to share with the other teammates the most embarrassing moments of the other team; the team that finishes telling all the stories first, wins. (You can give prizes for the three ladies with the most embarrassing story.)

Submittedby: Pam Klutts, Charlotte, NC
Email: pklutts@carolina.rr.com
Source:
Date: 15 Sep 2005

Title

Which One Are You?

Objectives

To identify the person linked to the interesting or unusual fact.

Materials

Index cards & sheet of paper for each person.

Procedure

Each person writes on one side of the index card an interesting or unusual fact about themselves and on the other side of the card, they write their first name. These are handed to the group leader. To get started: Each lady will number her paper down the page, from 1 to X. X being the total number of participants.

The group leader will shuffle the cards & call out the first interesting or unusual fact and the ladies will write this fact on line numbered 1. This will continue until all facts are listed on the page.

The group leader will then give the first names of each participant as the ladies make note below the list of facts.

Once this is complete, the group leader will give a 3-5 minute time limit for the ladies to guess which fact goes with which name. They will write a name beside each fact.

For example, the fact might be, "I was a ballerina in high school." The ladies would put the name they thought went with this fact next to this.

We had a great time with this. It's interesting how much we pay attention to "the cover". The person that looks like they may have been a ballerina may be the one with "a black belt", etc.

People have an opportunity to talk about themselves at ease and others get to know them.

Submittedby: Ringgold, GA
Email:
Source: from Lou Upchurch
Date: 27 Aug 2005

Title

Balloon Sculpturing

Objectives

To see which team can attach the most balloons to their "model".

Materials

At least 40 balloons and a roll of scotch tape per team.

Procedure

Divide the group into teams. Each team must blow up their balloons and then proceed to see which team can attach the most balloons to their "model" in a ten minute time period. Balloons can be stuffed under clothing or body parts or taped to the "model". When the ten minutes are up each model must walk to the front of the group trying not to lose any balloons. The team whose "model" has most balloons wins.

Submittedby: Judy Brooke, Torrance, CA
Email: babblingbrookes@rcn.com
Source: Our own idea!
Date: 07 Aug 2005

Title

Themed Ice Breaker

Objectives

Get women in small groups to meet, greet and get to know one another.

Materials

Name tags and assorted themed stickers

Procedure

We have done this twice, very successfully. Once we decide our luncheon theme, we buy 8-10 different stickers that are appropriate for that theme. For example, we did an "ocean" theme and used 9 different shell and sea animal stickers, and we also did a garden theme where we used 8-10 different flowers. The stickers are placed on the name tags beforehand, and we try to make sure that we don't have more than 4-5 people per each specific sticker style to keep the groups small. We also rotate the name tags with the stickers on them in a stack, so the person you come in with most likely will NOT get the same sticker as you do which means you won't be in the same group together!

When I announce the ice breaker time, women have to find the other women with their same exact sticker on their name tags.

Once they all find each other, then I have a question they all need to answer. The question for the garden themed event was "What's your favorite flower, and why?" After they all share, they pray for each other.

This works very well for us because the beginning of our luncheons are held in the main sanctuary (rows of seats) and the rows make it more difficult to do a relatively short ice-breaker that doesn't take too much time. This takes maximum 15-20 minutes and the women really love it.

Submittedby: Maleta
Email:
Source: ???
Date: 05 Aug 2005

Title

Birthday groups

Objectives

Connect and learn a bit about the ladies you are with.

Materials

Imagination!

Procedure

Divide the group into 12 groups-(Works great with large groups) Each group is decided upon their month of birth. They then meet for 15-20 minutes and find out bits of information about eachother and set it to a song. Then, after they get a chance to prepare and practice, they perform it in front of the entire group. We did this at one of our retreats. The creativity and vulnerability really made for a fun, hilarious and sharing time. Hope it works for you!

Submittedby: Jaime, New Orleans, La
Email: morethanrubies@gmail.com
Source: Celebration Church Young Adult Women's Ministry
Date: 04 Aug 2005

Title

How do You Praise?!

Objectives

To have the women laughing, comfortable, humbled and prepared together for our Praise & Worship night.

Materials

Index cards with portions of a popular radio song written on them.

Procedure

We randomly handed out index cards to each girl all over the room. Each index card had 3-4 lines of a verse from a popular radio song. At go, the girls had to burtst out singing whatever was on their card (whether they knew the song or not!) and they had to find the other girls in the room who were singing the same song. As soon as everyone found their partners they had to stop singing (no time to practice together!) We then immediately had a singing competition with each group performing their songs for an entire minute (far exceeding the 4 lines given on the index cards) and then a "best performance" award was given. This icebreaker was absolutely wonderful! Each group consisted of girls who had never heard the song or had heard it but didn't know all the words, or who couldn't sing all that well! It was great, the ladies were laughing hysterically as they fumbled through their songs together! After everyone was forced to sing really loud, off-key, without words, and on occasion... beautifully; No one had trouble giving their all during worship time!

Submittedby: Caren Duyns, Abbotsford  BC 
Email:
Source:
Date: 22 Jul 2005

Title

M&M sharing time

Objectives

To get people talking, so others can learn something new about them

Materials

M&M's

Procedure

At the beginning of our retreat, I told the ladies that this is the start of a great weekend, time for "them". First things first, woman need chocolate, so passed around a big bag of M&M's and told them to help themselves to as many as they would like. Once the bag got going around the room, I told them not to eat any yet. Once everyone got as many as they wanted, I told them the rules. They needed to share something corresponding to the color of M&M's they had in their hand. For each yellow a happy time in their life, green was for a time of prosperity, blue for a trying time, red a blessing from God, and so on for all the colors. This was an awesome time of sharing, we learned more about everyone in that first hour then we knew about them in years. People were laughing and crying, sharing their joys and sorrows, prayer requests etc,. It was a great bonding time from the onset of the retreat.

Submittedby: Phyllis Hicks
Email: pkhicks@cox.net
Source: from studing the 23rd  Psalm
Date: 14 Jul 2005

Title

Are you following the Shepherd?

Objectives

The study was on the 23 Psalm. The objective was to get the women excited about the Shepherd and have a real desire to get better acquainted with the Shepherd.

Materials

a Shepherd figure (I used a china one) and a lot of sheep of all kinds: small to large, all colors, walking, eating, laying down, some real looking, some funny, fat or skinny

Procedure

Place the Shepherd in the middle of the table & place the sheep as the Spirit leads you. Place some right by his feet looking up at the Shepherd, some behind Him, some way down the table but looking back at the Shepherd, others with their backs to the Shepherd, etc. I think you get the picture. Then ask each lady which sheep best represents her Walk with the Shepherd.

Submittedby: Karyn Pearson  Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
Email: pearsonkaryn@yahoo.ca
Source: from
Date: 13 Jul 2005

Title

The Amazing Race of Grace

Objectives

To get women to reach out and have fun with each other, and find a place of challenge within themselves over the course of the weekend retreat

Materials

Ballots with clues and ink stamps

Procedure

We handed out ballots with clues to five challenges. Once their ballot was completed their name went in for a draw at the conclusion of the retreat. The challenges were: 1. Test of courage - each person needed to find two other women they've never met before and introduce themselves and find out two interesting things about them. Once they completed the task they were to present themselves to a team leader who would then stamp their ballot and give them the next task. The second task was a test of serving - they were to give another person a 15 minute massage. The third task was a test of giving - they were to give something meaningful away. The fourth was a test of perseverance - they were to swim four lengths of the pool or choose a detour in which case they were to do a 15min. prayer walk. And lastly a test of character - we would ask them if they were willing to let another person's name go in for the draw in their place. If they said no, their name automatically went in for being honest, if they said yes they passed the character test and their name went in. We then drew three grand prizes. More than 90% of the 80 women in attendance participated, and many said it was a great icebreaker for them. They left t