Many years
ago, some thoughtful individuals in our community spent a long time, much
energy, and some very focused prayer time while considering what route the
children’s ministry at Trinity should take. One of the books that was
instrumental in their research was Perspectives on Children’s Spiritual
Formation, edited by Michael Anthony. This book is a wonderful summary of
the myriad perspectives from which churches approach ministry to children. It
goes without saying that each church desires to guide children in their
burgeoning relationship with God; to teach them the joys of worship, the
sanctity of scripture, and the glory that can be found in walking alongside our
Lord Jesus Christ. How a church body approaches this guidance can vary from
church to church, even within complementary communities and denominations.
Drawing from the wisdom found in Perspectives on Children’s Spiritual
Formation, here are a few points to consider from a couple of different
“styles” or “models.” Please bear in mind that these are just snipets from a
larger, very detailed, and involved text. This month, two will be summarized,
while next month, the Pragmatic/
Participatory and Media-Driven/
Active- Engagement models will be explored.
Contemplative/ Reflective Model
“The aim
in [this] model of children’s ministry is this: to help children encounter God in
ways that result in a sense of awe and wonder, to help them consider things of
God with continued attention… The model intentionally guides the child to
linger in the story, to gaze upon the
good shepherd, to wonder about him.”
~Scottie May
Instructional/ Analytical Model
“This
model views that learning the Bible will create an educational situation where
reflection, practice, and obedience occur. Our statement purposes that the
foundation is the Bible; and reflection, experience, and activity result- not
vice versa…. [Children must] Read the Scripture… Study the Scripture…Memorize
the Scripture.” ~Gregory Carlson
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