Godly Play

The goal of Godly Play is to teach children the art of using religious language-parable, sacred story, silence and liturgical action – to help them become more fully aware of the mystery of God’s presence in their lives.  Developed by Episcopalian priest, author and teacher, Jerome W. Berryman, Godly Play is designed for children aged two to twelve and has been classroom tested since 1972. Deeply spiritual and highly creative, Godly Play is also used in schools, hospitals, homeless shelters, and retirement centers. Internationally, Godly Play classrooms are found in the United Kingdom, Finland, Germany, Canada, Tanzania, Australia, and in Spanish speaking countries.

In 2010-2011, St. John's will continue to offer 2 classes of Godly Play on Sunday mornings to best meet the needs of the students age 3 to 7th grade in our parish.

Godly Play Classic for children ages 3 through kindergarten. These students will meet in the east half of the nursery/preschool room across from the Atrium. They will hear the basic stories of Godly Play which are also the foundational Christian and Episcopal stories important for all of us to know in our hearts and minds.

Godly Play Classic for children ages 3 thru kindergarten. January stories:
 Good Shepherd & World Communion, Parable of the Mustard Seed, & The Ark

This class will offer shorter class segments following the developmental readiness for these younger children, age appropriate response materials, and a restroom nearby.

Godly Play Extreme is for children 1st through 7th grade. These students will meet downstairs in the northwest classroom. In addition to the foundational stories, they will hear more about individuals in the old and new testaments as well as some of the saints we recognize throughout the liturgical year. The older students in this class will be invited this year to tell a story to the rest of their class.

Godly Play Extreme for children 1st thru 7th grade. January stories:
Parable of the Deep Well, Creation, & The Ark