Over the past 40 years, Godly Play has found its way into churches, hospitals, and care facilities across the globe, and Godly Play circles gather in over 40 countries! From Jerome Berryman offering us a new way of forming children in the Christian tradition to a widely practiced methodology with supporting theological and pedagogical research and publications, the spread of Godly Play has always been primarily organic in nature. It is astounding to consider all that has happened from stories told at just the right time in just the right place. It is an aspect of our Godly Play culture—that growth happens through relationship—which we endeavor to foster and support.
Along these lines, the Godly Play Foundation Board of Directors, staff, and Trainers are excited to announce a new pilot program in the United States: Godly Play Missioners. The goal for Missioners is to bring Godly Play to the world and to bring the world to Godly Play. Through gatherings, introductory sessions, stories in “outside the box” locations, and concentrated work with existing programs including reaching out to people who we have trained, we are hopeful that these volunteer Missioners will work to change the world through Godly Play. We envision Missioners becoming the bridge for programs needing support before or after attending Core or Advanced Training. Continue reading
Interested in expanding your program into the full curriclum (age 12)? Losing your patience at a critical moment every week? Wondering if your youngest circle is really getting it? Join other established programs to troubleshoot your program’s growing edges with children’s spirituality and Godly Play expert The Rev. Cheryl V. Minor, PhD. Modeling the theology undergirding the Godly Play method, this session will be participant driven and will address the specific concerns of the circle gathered–the wisdom of the circle is integral in the ongoing work of nurturing a Godly Play program.
Be sure to order the new revised and expanded edition to discover the details of these updates for yourself!