It’s a truism in marketing. Customers must see an ad 5–7 times before it has any potential for changing their behavior. That’s why Nike puts its “swoosh” everywhere, positioning it prominently in televised sports and other athletic venues.
It’s also why more and more churches have begun to look for ways to “theme” major celebrations—like the weeks leading up to Easter (Lent, in liturgical churches). And it’s why CTA wants to work with you as you think about doing it, too.
Whether yours is a house-church, a mega-church, or something in-between, this year’s theme, The Power of the Cross, will resonate with worshipers. Materials—many free—include:
- Day-by-day devotional materials based on the Power of the Cross theme.
- Free sermons tied to the Power of the Cross devotions
- Discussion guides tied to the Power of the Cross devotions and sermons, written for small groups or Bible study. (You will find the appropriate study on the pages following the free sermon for each week.)
- Materials for kids and youth, helping them to focus on thePower of the Cross theme, too!
- Free invitations and follow-up materials, all based on the Power of the Cross theme and art.
Ash Wednesday is February 17, 2010, so it’s not too late to order! But don’t put it off. Just think of what God might want to do in the lives of everyone in your church this spring!

Pastors love getting help with Lenten sermons, themes, and something to hand out to help worshipers take the message home with them. The devotion book (or any of the ‘Power of the Cross’ products) are Christ-centered, Scriptural, and an encouragement to everyone taking that journey to the cross and the empty tomb. These are great Easter preparation products and resources! By the way, I think pastors and other church leaders will be blown away when they check out all the free resources CTA makes available! I’d encourage pastors (and others) to post a comment on how they have used CTA products along with the free resources. Let’s get the word out!