Dedicated teachers provide learning experiences around Biblical themes through stories and scripture, hands-on art, music, and games offering each child a foundation of spiritual formation for their lives and learning what it is to be a child of God.
Godly Play is a Montessori-based spiritual formation curriculum designed specifically for churches. It’s hands-on approach is meant to fully engage children in the stories of the Bible and the church year. Each week the children will hear a different story, told with the use of beautifully crafted materials, and then be invited to explore the story through hands-on play, art work, and “I wonder” questions. After each story is told, the children are asked to “wonder” about it through a series of questions that begin with the words, “I wonder….” There are no wrong answers—the children are being asked to make meaning of what they have heard through open-ended questions that open up the scriptures and stories to their own lives and experience. After the wondering, the children are invited to find their “work”—either playing with a story, responding through art work, exploring a book, or some other activity available in the classroom. The classroom itself is set up in an inviting way, with open space for gathering and working, open shelves with stories and art materials, and colorful banners and artwork on the walls. At the end of their time together, the children gather back in their story circle for a “feast.” The children take turns helping serve the class, and time is taken to offer thanksgiving before a simple snack is shared. After clean-up, the children return to the circle for a blessing before being picked up at the door by a parent.
4th and 5th graders are encouraged to participate as worship leaders by serving as acolytes. Training and adult supervision are provided.
For more information regarding Children’s Ministries, please contact the church office (336) 248-2886.