I love using stories in worship - in the sermon in particular but sometimes threaded throughout the whole service. I also use them in newsletter articles, in the classroom, and in casual interactions with members of the congregation.
The use of stories, whether personal or teaching stories, and the repeated re-telling and intentional application of these stories within the life of religious community allows us to engage the big questions children, youth and adults are so good at asking. Using stories for teaching and faith formation allow us to talk about specific life issues, while still giving us a safe container in which to talk about these often vulnerable and intimate feelings.