The predictability of our traditional liturgy gets a little shaken up for a few minutes every Sunday. Mid-way through the 10:00 am service, a big group of little people parade in from Church School (sometimes a bit late, sometimes a moment early, and occasionally right on time). Their hands are full of creations or covered in sand, and they are in full swing of enjoying each other's company. They crowd around the steps for the children’s sermon, which is unscripted. We all (you, me, the priests, their parents) wonder what will happen that day. A mystery of faith.
One Sunday this Lent, I left my comfortable place on the floor with the kiddos to stand in Hadley Hall, with a microphone, talking to adults. I offered a forum on “praying like a child.'' We colored, tried prayer sticks, and meditated on the flame of a candle — our tried and true favorite practices from Church School. I also asked these adventurous adults about their memories of prayer and faith as little children.
What struck me as I spoke with these wonderful grown-ups—many in the current grandparent generation—was how different today's faith formation best practices and pedagogies are to many who grew up in the church. Many adults shared their negative childhood experiences around religion and religious education. Their generosity in giving me a window into their decades’ old hurt or grief was eye-opening, and renewed my commitment to what we try to do here, now—faith formation full of joy. Questions. Wonder. Individuality. Friendships. Unconditional acceptance. Wiggles.
This year, we have two Church School classes; two classes for that big gaggle of delightful young ones you see gathered below the altar. But we need three. This fall, we will add a third class.
In order to do this, we need more helpers. I need more volunteers. We need YOU.
But maybe you need us, too. Maybe the wonder, the experimentation, the core stories told in new ways, the hands-in/feet-on time together with those little guys who truly get unconditional love . . . Maybe coming on back to Church School is exactly what your faith, heart, and soul need now.
After worship on Sunday, May 5, we will hold an absolutely-no-commitment information session about the many ways you can be part of children's ministry here. Please come and see.
Love,
Bryn
