Church Events
The YCLA has developed several unique programs for use in churches and other fellowships. Watch this page for updates on new events, such as "The Living Monopoly," which emphasizes dedication to God, and a class on communication, which teaches about influencing people with different God-given styles of personal speech and expression. Below is one example of a successful YCLA event.
Lead the Lemon
One event the YCLA has developed is called Lead the Lemon. Lead the Lemon is an exciting and fun yet simple event for church or other youth groups. The goal is to introduce them to the YCLA while teaching numerous key leadership principles. The event takes an average of an hour and a half. For more info, for references, or to schedule an event in the Upstate South Carolina area, email ycla@youngchristianleaders.org, or use the contact link below.
What To Do
The main event is a nine-hole mini-golf match. Each member of the group brings a lemon to use as the "golf ball." They can pair up with others, or compete individually. Each must hit their lemon with a designated instrument - they must not use their hands. It is generally hard to get the football-shaped lemons into the holes, which might consist of empty milk-jug halves turned sideways, or similar items. After the match, the group can use the lemons to make their own lemonade, to be used in a time of refreshment. A presentation may be included between the mini-golf and lemonade-making. Or, it may be added at the end of the event.
The Point
Pushing is not an effective leadership strategy. If the lemon were pulled on a string, for instance, the game would be much easier. In leading others, the best way to do so is by example - to live what you believe, "pulling" others along in love. If people are forced to follow, they usually will not be committed for long.
Also, the saying "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade" can be well-demonstrated in this event. The lemons may be explained to represent one's life, sugar as the choice to have a positive ("sweet") attitude, and water as the Water of the Word which God has given us to live by. While our lives sometimes may be "sour," and while God often may have to "squeeze" us some, we should remember that "He knoweth the way that I take - when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as [liquid !!] gold." (Job 23:10)
Contact us for info on doing a Lead the Lemon event in your youth group