In the fall of 2021, Virginia Theological Seminary convened a symposium of scholars and practitioners engaged in ministry with children. The Symposium on the Spirituality of Children began with a vibrant keynote address by Jerome Berryman, best known for his development of Godly Play, a curriculum of spiritual practice exploring the mystery of God’s presence in our lives. The conversation continued with other presenters and panelists who explored the way children’s spirituality intersects with scripture, neuroscience, race, gender, and moral development. Together, the participants proved that children’s spirituality touches on every single aspect of Christian life. By turning to the role of children in our congregations, all of us develop a richer appreciation of hospitality, service, human finitude, and creativity.
Edited by Elizabeth DeGaynor, Let the Children Lead brings together many of the papers presented at the Symposium on the Spirituality of Children. Equipped with these resources, those involved in the formation of children’s spirituality will approach their vocation with renewed inspiration and an expanded horizon of the possible. “We are hopeful about the place of children in the Church and in the world,” DeGaynor writes in her introduction. “We are striving to welcome children fully and faithfully. We are looking for God’s movement among us and joining in that holy work.”
I was pleased to have an opportunity to present a paper at this symposium. “What is this story doing to me? Biblical Storytelling for a Global Generation” is now a chapter in the book.
Advance Praise:
“Professor DeGaynor has put together a marvelous collection of resources from scholar-practitioners shaping contemporary practical theological approaches to childhood. It is also an immanently practical volume, offering those who work with children both in the church and beyond it an array of theologically and educationally grounded ideas that support ministry with children in such a time as this.” —Joyce Ann Mercer, Author of Welcoming Children: A Practical Theology of Childhood and Girl Talk God Talk: The Religious Lives of Adolescent Girls
“Let the Children Lead is a gift from a group of scholars and practitioners who take ministry with children both seriously and playfully. Every chapter is drawn around the center of how to listen to, learn from, and help guide children in the way they live out their faith.” —The Rev. Dr. Emily A. Peck, Visiting Professor of Christian Formation and Young Adult Ministry; Co-Director of the Children and Youth Ministry and Advocacy Certificate & Specialization
“Let the Children Lead immerses you in a rich understanding and respect for the sacred experiences unfolding in the lives of children. You can’t help but come away with a deeper appreciation for the spiritual life of children. Use Let the Children Lead as your guide to reimagining children’s formation in your church.” —John Roberto, Author of Lifelong Faith: Formation for All Ages and Generations
Laura Alary 