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"Godly
play" is a term coined by Jerome Berryman to describe a Montessori approach
to children's spiritual formation. It is based on creating a sacred space
for caring adults to present the stories of the Bible, wonder about them
together, and then allow the children open-ended opportunities to engage the
story on their own terms.Cherry Log Christian Church believes in children. This year, Cherry Log is beginning a new focus for children ages 3 years-2nd grade. On Sundays 9:45am – 12:15 (children may enter at 9:45 or 10:45-11am), children will gather to worship, learn, grow, and “play” in a ministry called “Godly Play.” Remember, “play” is the work of childhood.
The stories are told with simple wooden figures,
without interpretation or moral instruction. After a story is presented, the
children and the storyteller wonder together about aspects of the story that
draw their interest. For example, after telling the story of the parable of
the Good Shepherd, they might together wonder: what were the sheep thinking
as they followed the shepherd? or do these sheep have names? or how do the
sheep feel to be inside the sheepfold?
After a time of exploring the story with “wondering questions”, the story is put away, and the children choose their “work.” They respond to the story in their own way, being led by the Holy Spirit. The children may spend time creating whatever they feel is most important, most interesting, or most compelling in the story. Children may work on a puzzle or project or respond by working with clay, paint, colored paper or crayons. They may also “re-work” the story by carefully using the story pieces or even create a dress-up drama. There are a variety of response materials and several caring adults to assist the children in this important work.
This is play…it is Godly! It is meeting and
listening to God along with children rather than teaching them the right way
to think or what they should know. God’s stories are very powerful
and offer plenty to ponder without elaboration on what they "mean." Godly
play is contemplative and often deeply satisfying for the adults who listen
for God as they love and assist each child. Each Sunday, the children take
home a story sheet that tells families the focus of the morning’s
worship: the Bible story, the scripture used and suggested “wondering
questions” to help parents and children continue the rich spiritual
conversation.
Somet
imes it is hard to get children to go to
church. But Godly Play is different. Be forewarned! Most children get so
excited about this new experiential way of learning God’s sacred stories,
that sometimes they don’t want to leave. Often parents hear, “But, I’m not
done yet!” The relationships built between the children, the Storyteller
(Dr. Kristi Mulchahey), and volunteer Greeters can become life-long
friendships. Godly Play is an exciting new ministry and makes it easier for
families to grow in their love and faith in Jesus Christ. Still…be
careful, your children may insist on going to church!
To learn more, choose one of the
following:
Video Introduction of Godly Play
I wonder what is up with Godly Play
CLCC Newsletter articles about Godly Play
Here’s how you can help and wish list
Selecting a Bible for Children