Godly Play
a unique approach to religious
education
Godly Play is not about teaching, or instructing children in faith. Instead they are invited through story, art and feast, to wonder about themselves, God and the world, in a way that is playful and meaningful. Godly Play respects the innate spirituality of children and encourages them to use their curiosity and imagination to experience the mystery and joy of God in their own lives. How is it done?
One by one children are welcomed into the Godly Play room, and quietly sit down on the floor in a circle. The storyteller sits with them. Very slowly and quietly she tells the story, using small wooden figures and other props, keeping her eyes on the action and not the children, so they get drawn in deeply. Following the story comes a quiet time of 'wondering' questions, designed to engage with the children's own experience. Next the children make their own response by drawing, modelling or writing what has moved them, and finally the whole group meets together again for a 'feast': a drink and raisins, or biscuit.
Godly Play originally grew from the Sunday School experience of Jerome Berriman, USA,
Using Godly Play in our parish
At the St Philip's Advent Club we used the Godly Play way of telling the Christmas story with about 40 children, aged 5-11: it was moving to hear the children's insights.
Godly Play was also used at St Stephen's Epiphany Service, this time with a congregation of adults and children, with the same helpful outcome.
At Archbishop Courtney School the Headteacher Marion Brooks, has plans to set up Godly Play within the school from September, following earlier work by Elizabeth Bussman.
Equipment
We have already made some of the figures etc ourselves, but it is very time consuming: it would be useful to be able to buy some of what we need. There is a supplier - a workshop for disabled young people in Norfolk. The Mothers' Union made a grant last year for this purpose; perhaps others might be interested to help in this way too? If so speak to me.
Thank you.
Priscilla Doe
