Created by Jerome Berryman, an Episcopal Priest, in 1972 and honed through years of interaction with children in diverse settings, the goal of Godly Play is to teach children to use faith language—parables, sacred stories, and liturgical action—to help them become more fully aware of the mystery of God's presence in their lives.
The Classroom
Godly Play is a way of being in worship with young children:
- Getting Ready: Just as we leave the outside world behind and focus our gaze into the sanctuary, Godly Play invites children to get ready as they cross a threshold and are invited into the worship center.
- Opening: Children are greeted by name and prepare to quietly enter and form a circle around the story teller.
- Hearing the Word of God: The story teller presents the story using a multisensory approach and three-dimensional materials; God’s Word is the central event unfolding.
- Wondering: The story teller engages the children with, "I wonder…" questions.
- Response: Following the story, the children are given time to respond to the message through whatever creative medium they choose, from art materials to one of the stories along the shelves.
- The Feast: At the end of the response time, children gather again in the circle to read Scripture, give thanks in prayer and have a simple feast of crackers and water.
For Parents
Here are some things that you can do to help your children prepare and reflect before and after their worship experiences in Sunday classrooms:
- Support the classroom by praying for your children and their leaders.
- Support the classroom by arriving on time. This is very practical, but starting their “service” on time with as little distraction as possible will go a long ways!
- Our hours begin in classrooms at 8:30, 10 and 11:30am; 5pm—dismissal from sanctuary.
- Tell the stories at home. The stories in scripture and their witness to Jesus are the central part of the experience. Tell them at home and ask "wondering" questions, such as, "I wonder what part of that story you liked best?"
Learn More
Explore the Godly Play curriculum:
Questions? Contact us at cfm@upc.org or 206.524.7301 x171
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