The Importance of Face to Face Faith Formation

“Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith”                1 Thessalonians 3:10

For more than 30 years this verse has been a central example of our first of Five Principles of Faith Formation at Milestones Ministry, “Faith is formed by the power of the Holy Spirit through personal, trusted relationships—often in our own homes.” Second and Third John both conclude with a rather stylized ending that states, “I have much to write to you, but I would rather not write with pen and ink, instead I hope to see you soon, and we will talk together face to face” (3 John 13-14).

Both the communities that followed Paul’s missionary leadership and those of John have this familiarity with faith formation through “face to face” contact. Both see personal contact as vitally important to the Christian faith. Whether it is the technology of two thousand years ago using pen and ink or the technology of today, it is hard to beat face to face contact to nurture the Christian faith.

In today’s world, the very tools to connect us, such as smart phones and tablets, sometimes get in the way of those “face to face” encounters that bless us over time. It is not surprising that Australia has a new law banning social media before the age of 16!

What a joy it can be to be face to face with our children and grandchildren, have caring conversations, and reflect on Bible readings. 

50% or More Off on Leadership Books and Taking Faith Home Cards 

Why? We, at Milestones Ministry, have thoroughly enjoyed our ministry of developing Taking Faith Home, Taking Faith Home Cards, Taking Faith Home Bible Study, and Milestone Modules and Moments for the past 11 years. Our work has also included publishing the last of three books in the Shepherd of Souls Leadership Series. We have been actively engaged in a ministry that has been more than we had anticipated or planned. Now, as we four members of Milestones Ministry, LLC look to the future, we are rethinking our lives both personally and professionally. 

Our first step is to downsize some of our in-stock inventory: Taking Faith Home Cards Decks A, B, and C and the books: From the Great Omission to Vibrant, Vibrant Faith in the Congregation, and Shepherd of Souls.

All of these resources are based on the Four Key Faith Practices that are the heart and soul of Taking Faith Home. The books are written by the Rev. Dr. David W. Anderson and have been used extensively by leadership in congregations over the years and are still very relevant in the church today!

And yes, when ordering 10 printed copies or more of the printed books or card decks there is an additional 20% discount. When ordering ten or more, please first contact Milestones Ministry at 304-300-0836 to get the additional 20%.

Link to Book Sales

Link to Card Deck Sales

Taking Faith Home 2025-2026 Year Cycle A          

This series of 64 devotional guides often used as bulletin inserts cover from November 30, 2025 through November 26, 2026. They are based on the Revised Common Lectionary Year A, and feature; a short theme statement to capture the week’s focus; suggested daily Bible readings; a key scripture verse that relates to the theme; weekly prayers and a blessing to use during the week; a suggested hymn that relates to the theme; a weekly milestone sharing moment of mountain highs and/or valley lows; and Four Key Faith Formation practices (caring conversations, devotions, service, and rituals and traditions) that complement each week’s theme. 

Available in two formats. As a download or on a CD:

Taking Faith Home Download 

Taking Faith Home CD

Taking Faith Home User Guide

Taking Faith Home Leader Guide

Taking Faith Home Bible Study Year Cycle A 2025-2026    

These Bible Study weekly outlines can be used for both beginner and experienced Bible studies. The two-page Bible study outlines are designed from the Taking Faith Home discussion guides that are based each week on the Revised Common Lectionary. Available as a download or on a CD:

Taking Faith Home Bible Study Download

Taking Faith Home Bible Study CD

Taking Faith Home Bible Study User Guide