Sei sulla pagina 1di 1

The Spirituality of the Child Pentecost 21A 2011 Much of what passes for faith formation for children

is based on two motivations: To entertain: o So that they perceive church as fun o So that they and their parents are happy To occupy: o So that they dont distract or annoy adults o So that they dont get bored But how do we actually form the Spirituality of the Child? What do children need in order to develop a lively, authentic faith? What do we need to do to help children develop knowledge, language and practices which will aid them in their faith? UK Researcher Rebecca Nye outlines six interconnected and interdependent areas of focus in developing the spirituality of the child. Space Spaces have power. Church buildings, classrooms, patches of bushland, bedrooms all of these elicit a particular reaction. The spirituality of the child responds to space and how we use it. Process Children relish routine and order, even if they sometimes react against it. The spirituality of the child thrives when there is a regular process for storytelling, for theological reflection, for application of faith to life and for relating to others. Imagination children are inherently creative, though not always in ways that are approved by adults. When children are provided with resources and freedom, their creativity can amaze us. Children need to use their imagination to explore, criticise and integrate faith. Relationship Children who are part of the church are not students or performers they are full members of the body of Christ. Healthy relationships amongst children and between adults and children are marked by mutual respect and openness. Intimacy The spirituality of the child thrives with up-close experience, not far-distant observation. Intimacy fosters a love for people, objects, rituals and practices. Trust Children are not easily fooled. They learn quickly when someone is inauthentic and know when they are being used. Children learn more from adult behaviour than from any other source. Children need to be able to trust adults to behave in a just and compassionate manner. By now, of course, you have realised that SPIRIT doesnt just apply to children. In fact, these interconnected areas of faith formation apply to us all. The Lord be with you
The Reverend Chris Bedding is an Anglican priest in the Diocese of Perth, Western Australia. He is also an actor, director, musician and comedian. His passions are ministry amongst people in the first third of life, dynamic liturgy and advocacy for the oppressed. twitter.com/frchrisbedding facebook.com/frchrisbedding Email: rector.darlington@live.com.au

Potrebbero piacerti anche