Chatting Around the Christmas Tree (ep8) – Redesigning Christmas: What Makes a Tradition Stick?

Chatting Around the Christmas Tree (ep8) – Redesigning Christmas: What Makes a Tradition Stick?

We all know the story of Christmas, but how do the traditions we love actually begin?
In this episode of “Chatting Around the Christmas Tree,” the Church @ 434 staff takes a lighthearted look at the “characters” of the season. We challenge ourselves to create a brand-new Christmas mascot from scratch. While the conversation leads us to some hilarious places—including a wrestling legend and a gift-giving primate—it reminds us that the joy of the season is often found in the memories and laughter we share with one another.
Watch as Jeff, Richard, Michael, Chris, LeeAnn, and Scott attempt to navigate the portal of creativity to find the next big holiday icon.
#ChristmasSpirit #FaithAndFun #HolidayTraditions #CreativeChristmas #CommunityLaughter

The Clash (s3e22) – Parenting by the Book, the One Without Pictures – Part Two

The Clash (s3e22) – Parenting by the Book, the One Without Pictures – Part Two

We all know what we should do as parents, but what about the things we should absolutely avoid? Welcome back to The Clash, where Jeff Dixon and Chris Whaley have been displaced from their usual wrestling ring to a spot by the Christmas tree to deliver Part 2 of their parenting series. This episode is packed with practical, Biblical advice on the guardrails every parent needs to set—not just for their kids, but for themselves.
In this discussion, Jeff and Chris tackle the most critical errors to avoid in Christian parenting. They explore the destructive nature of the “comparison trap” between siblings, the vital importance of maintaining a united front so kids don’t play parents against one another, and why you simply cannot outsource your child’s spiritual growth to a youth pastor. They also highlight the “Christmas Store,” a powerful ministry model designed to restore dignity to parents while providing miracles for teenagers in the community. Grab your copy of Away from the Manger, sit down by the tree, and join the conversation as we clash with the culture of modern parenting.
#ParentingAdvice #ChristianLiving #TheClash #ParentingDonts #FaithAndFamily #BiblicalParenting #DonTapOut

Chatting Around the Christmas Tree (ep7) – Finding the Perfect Christmas Soundtrack

Chatting Around the Christmas Tree (ep7) – Finding the Perfect Christmas Soundtrack

“There is a “plethora” of Christmas music out there, but which song truly captures the spirit of the season for you? Today on Chatting Around the Christmas Tree, we whittle it down. We challenge the staff to cut through the noise and select the one song they could live with—every hour of every day—through the 25th.
It’s a conversation about nostalgia, instrumental peace, and the songs that “count your blessings.” Let music be the soundtrack that carries you through the season.
#ChristmasTraditions #MusicTherapy #HolidaySpirit #ChristmasQuestions #MeaningOfChristmas #HolidayMusic

Chatting Around the Christmas Tree (ep6) – Who is Coming to Your Christmas Table?

Chatting Around the Christmas Tree (ep6) – Who is Coming to Your Christmas Table?

“Your imagination can run wild, and anything and everything can happen.”
Join the Church of 434 staff as we tackle the ultimate holiday hypothetical: Dinner with any fictional character. The conversation takes some hilarious turns, featuring cameos from Red One, Frozen, and even Die Hard. Whether it’s asking Santa for his logistical secrets over a ribeye or chilling with The Rock, we want to know where your imagination takes you this holiday season.
#ChristmasSpirit #Imagination #HolidaySeason #PopCulture #QandA #ChatAroundTheChristmasTree #ChristmasVibes

The Book Shoppe – Christmas Shoppe (Session Three)

The Book Shoppe – Christmas Shoppe (Session Three)

In our Christmas Shoppes series we are finding that every shop tells a Christmas story. It should come as no surprise that a shop that is loaded with stories waiting to be discovered is a Book Shoppe. Today we step inside and explore the story that changes everything. But we have to more than just browse, we must step into the story.