Games are an essential part for ministry to kids, especially games that have a Biblical focus. These types of games can be used anytime during ministry programming to reinforce Bible stories or to improve Bible skills and literacy.
I was delighted when the folks from Bible Games Central reached out to me about reviewing four new games available in their online store. Here are my thoughts on these games that you might want to add to your stash.
Parable Parade
Game description: In this exciting game, players must collect complete sets of Parable Cards. You can draw as many cards as you like, but be careful.
Draw an Oopsie! Card and you will pay the price! Will you be bold and fearless? Or will you be conservative and cautious?
Collect the Cards. Complete the Story. Capture the Point.
Video instructions for this game can be found here: https://biblegamescentral.com/shop/parable-parade/
My thoughts: This game would be a good option after a parable lesson series. I love that the game includes two-sided parable summary cards. One gives a summary of the actual parable (along with the scripture reference) and the other side offers an explanation of the parable. When playing this game at home, it took a while to read and comprehend the directions, so I would suggest making this a post-lesson activity versus an arrival activity. This will allow adequate time for game play. (Recommended age: Elementary and up)
Bible Bingo
Game description: Bible Bingo is a simple and fun game that also helps players become more familiar with the Bible. The Bingo cards you find in this game are specially designed to correspond to how the Bible is organized. They are divided into distinct, colored sections which match the sections of the Bible.
My thoughts: I love to play Bingo and so do the kids in our ministry. This one will be a hit for sure! As pointed out in the description, the game boards are divided into colored sections that match the sections of the Bible, which is an added bonus. There are 24 double-sided cards and plenty of plastic chips which will allow for many children to play at once. (Recommended age: Elementary and up)
Bible Memory Game
Game description: Each Bible Memory Game set contains 2 decks of 66 cards that are beautifully illustrated to reflect the 66 books of the Bible. A color bar at the bottom of each card indicates which section of the Bible it belongs to. This versatile Bible Memory Game can be as challenging or easy as you want it to be. Those who enjoy a demanding game can play with the full set of 66 pairs of cards. For an easier, quicker game, only use cards from the Old Testament, New Testament or selected sections of the Bible. (For example, Old Testament Law, New Testament Gospels, etc.)
My thoughts: Memory games are great to use as kids arrive and I think this one is a hit. There are a lot of cards, so I would definitely recommend varying the game by splitting it between Old and New Testament books. (Recommended age: Elementary and up)
Christmas Bingo
Game description: This festive game set is adorned with 24 colorful illustrations of the nativity scene, baby Jesus, the wise men, Christmas trees, gingerbread houses and more! Conveniently packaged with 24 unique, double-sided Christmas Bingo Cards and 400 plastic Bingo chips, this game requires no further preparation. Simply take the items out of the box to play with a group of 2 to 24 players of all ages!
My thoughts: Kids will enjoy this game at Christmas time. Note: This game includes Bible-based and general holiday images (such as Santa). One fun variation for older kids to change up how they can get a bingo, such as four corners or vertical only. (Recommended age: Older preschoolers – through Early Elementary)
Additional information on of these games can be found on https://biblegamescentral.com/shop/
Also, if you’re planning your Easter activities, check out these links: