Godly Play: Introduction and Core Training

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What is Godly Play?

• Godly Play teaches children the art of using Christian language – parable, sacred story, silence and liturgical action – helping them become more fully aware of the mystery of God’s presence in their lives.
• Godly Play encourages participants to make meaning for themselves by inviting them into stories and providing the opportunity for them to connect the stories with their personal experience.
• Godly Play values process, openness and discovery.
• Godly Play is a way of preparing children to join in the worship and life of their congregations as they develop a deeper understanding of stories, symbols and rites.
• Although it was originally developed as a resource for children, Godly Play is now being used with a wide range of age groups in a diversity of settings.

For more information on Godly Play visit: http://www.godlyplayfoundation.org/newsite/Main.php

Click here to watch Godly Play stories told on YouTube

Two opportunities are being offered at Five Oaks in 2013:

1. Introduction to Godly Play: for those who simply want to know more about this format of children’s ministry. Monday, November 11 from 5:30pm (including supper) – 9:00pm you are welcome to attend this evening session.
    
2. Godly Play Core Training Certificate: Monday, November 11 from 5:30pm including supper to Wednesday, November 13 ending at 12:30pm with lunch. (this includes the Introduction to Godly Play listed above.)

   You will experience and tell Godly Play stories, and learn how to set up and manage a Godly Play space and session.  You will deepen your understanding of the spirituality of children. You will achieve greater clarity about the foundations of Godly Play, and leave spiritually refreshed. All learning will take place in a prayerful atmosphere of give and take with accredited and experienced Godly Play trainers. 

   Prior experience with Godly Play is helpful but not absolutely necessary for this training. To get the most out of your experience, we recommend reading Teaching Godly Play: How to Mentor the Spiritual Development of Children by Jerome W. Berryman before attending the training. A “Godly Play Certificate of Accreditation” will be awarded upon completion. You must attend the entire training to be accredited. 

Leadership:
Amy Crawford is the Program Coordinator for Children, Young Teens, and Youth with The United Church of Canada. She fell in love with Godly Play the first time she sat on a floor listening to Jerome Berryman tell his stories. Amy was accredited as a Teacher Trainer in August 2007. The parables are her favourite genre and she always looks forward to what happens when people knock on the lid and come inside. 

Maya Landell has diverse experience with children and youth within the United Church of Canada. For many years Maya has been using Godly Play in a variety of settings, including worship. She brings a deep spirituality and sense of play to everything she does. Maya currently serves as the Minister at Inner Kip-Eastwood Pastoral Charge.

Click here for a printable flyer for this program.

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