8/3/2019 Sermon Pentecost 21A

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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 funo So that they and their parents are happy

To occupy:o So that they dont distract or annoy adultso So that they dont get bored

But how do we actually form the Spirituality of the Child? What do children need in orderto 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 focusin developing the spirituality of the child.

Space Spaces have power. Church buildings, classrooms, patches of bushland, bedroomsall of these elicit a particular reaction. The spirituality of the child responds to space andhow we use it.

Process Children relish routine and order, even if they sometimes react against it. Thespirituality of the child thrives when there is a regular process for storytelling, fortheological reflection, for application of faith to life and for relating to others.

Imagination children are inherently creative, though not always in ways that areapproved by adults. When children are provided with resources and freedom, theircreativity can amaze us. Children need to use their imagination to explore, criticise andintegrate faith.

Relationship Children who are part of the church are not students or performers theyare full members of the body of Christ. Healthy relationships amongst children andbetween adults and children are marked by mutual respect and openness.

Intimacy The spirituality of the child thrives with up-close experience, not far-distantobservation. Intimacy fosters a love for people, objects, rituals and practices.

Trust Children are not easily fooled. They learn quickly when someone is inauthentic andknow when they are being used. Children learn more from adult behaviour than from anyother source. Children need to be able to trust adults to behave in a just andcompassionate 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 thefirst third of life, dynamic liturgy and advocacy for the oppressed.

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Email: rector.darlington@live.com.au