the word: Godly Play
by: Cleo Mozena, Children's Ministries Coordinator
After taking a break for the summer, we are restarting Godly Play on this Sunday, September 4th during the 10am service. Children ages 3 years and older are welcome to join Godly Play. Parents are welcome to attend with their children if they are feeling shy or unsure, we just ask that adults act as quiet observers to allow the children to freely participate without adult intervention.
What is Godly Play? It is not your traditional Sunday School curriculum, where adults are the teachers explaining Bible lessons to the children, then assigning predetermined worksheets or crafts. Instead, “It involves children and adults, as guides, moving together toward fluency in the art of knowing how to use Christian language to
nourish their moral and spiritual development.” (Berryman, J.W., The Complete Guide to Godly Play, Volume 8, pg. 7.) It is a discovery method of learning, where children are invited to explore and wonder about Scripture, then express what they think and feel through art or play. This serious play is called their work, and it allows children to create meaning about Scripture for themselves.
Children’s insights into Scripture can be amazing and inspiring! It is honestly one of my favorite parts of being a Godly Play Story Teller. I have gained so much participating in this ministry and a deeper understanding of Scripture. I also treasure the bonds I have formed with the kids of St. David’s and with my fellow Godly Play volunteers.
I can always use more volunteers in this ministry. There are two roles for volunteers: Story Teller and Door Keeper. The Story Teller presents the lesson and helps guide the children through it. The Door Keeper welcomes children into the sacred space of the Godly Play classroom, helps maintain the safe and sacred space, and assists the children during their work time, if necessary. If you are a teenager or adult and feel a calling to this ministry, please contact me at kids@saintdavidpdx.org.
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