Please note that much of the information presented on this page came from the Center for the Theology of Childhood. If you want more information please follow the link to their web page.
What is Godly Play?
Godly Play is a method of Christian education and spiritual direction primarily for children aged 2- 12.
What are its Goals?
The goal of Godly Play is to teach children the art of using religious language, parable, sacred story, silence, and liturgical action to help them become more fully aware of the mystery of God's presence around them and in their lives.
Why is it important to my preschooler?
The educational theory of Godly Play is rooted in the pre-history of our species with respect to the use of ritual, story, and the creative process.
Unfortunately, children born in a "postmodern" age, are losing their ability to be active participants in narrative and ritual, which impairs their use of their own natural creativity (imago dei). The use of Montessori's approach to education has been adapted to Godly Play in order to stimulate children's active participation in story and ritual and to awaken their creativity for the learning of the language, sacred stories, parables, liturgical action and silence of the Christian tradition. This is the most appropriate kind of language to cope with the existential limits to our being and knowing.
The above combination of factors enables children (and adults) to become playfully orthodox. They become rooted in their own tradition and at the same time open to others, to new ideas and the future in creative ways.
How do I get myself and my Child involved?
Download the Registration Form Here
Some of the Stories our children learn...
- The Lost Sheep
- The Creation Story
- The Last Supper
- The Easter Story
- Noah and the Ark
- Moses and the Ten Commandments
- Others......
LUKE 8:15(RSV)
"And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience."
Did you know...?
...that Children as young as 3 can tell from memory and understand biblical stories when experienced as normal "play" using the Godly Play method of Learning? To date, Christ UMC has introduced children to the mystery and closenss of God and Jesus Christ through its Godly Play program. Many of the first children through the program are now actively and joyfully continuing to grow in their Journey of Faith.
To Help...
If you would like to help in any way on our ministry teams call 937-293-3151 or email Linda Cotrone.