Editor’s Note: Today, we have another piece by guest writer Cari Keebaugh!
If you have ever wanted to visit Disney during the popular Night of Joy concert event, then Jeff Berger’s book may be just the read for you.
Many pilgrims to the Disney parks seek to reconnect with their families, or perhaps with their own childhood or child-like sense of wonder. But to reconnect with God? According to youth pastor Jeff Berger’s new book, The Family Devotional Guide to Disneyland Park and Magic Kingdom Park, visitors to the parks can do just that.
“For so many families, what’s more fun than being at Disney?” Berger asked in an interview with Reading Eagle. “The parks provide a perfect opportunity for families when they are together to engage each other just for fun or to address some deeper questions.” Berger’s book addresses deeper questions in 42 devotions, which are divided into sections titled For Fun, For Family, For Faith, and Family Prayer Ideas. Each section concludes with suggestions for prayer. In addition, the book features indexes, both by topic and by Scripture.
What makes this devotional guide unique is that each section focuses on a Disney attraction, like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. In fact, the publisher’s website informs readers that the devotions were “inspired by the attractions themselves” and that the book will “add faith to fun by helping your family experience their favorite rides and attractions in a whole new way!”
Former Disney executive vice president Lee Cockerell, who retired in 2006 but continues to author books and offer leadership consultations for organizations such as the Disney Institute, has endorsed Berger’s project. He calls the book “an interesting and fun way to communicate Christian values. I’m sure this will be a family favorite.”
If you choose to try out Berger’s book in the parks this weekend, you will also have the opportunity to attend Disney’s 30th annual Night of Joy, a concert offering “a variety of entertainment that’s sure to lift your spirits.” This Christian festival boasts popular rock, pop, and gospel performers, catering to Christian-music lovers of all varieties. On September 7 and 8, concert-goers will be treated to performances by award-winning groups as 3-time GRAMMY-winners Casting Crowns and the multi-platinum band Third Day. For the full lineup of bands or to purchase tickets, head over to the Night of Joy website. If you’re looking for The Family Devotional Guide to Disneyland Park and Magic Kingdom Park, you can find your copy here.
