Christian Formation—Children and Youth
Submitted By Sarah McDermott
Notes from our meeting focused on Christian Formation for Children and Youth on October 4.
We posed a series of questions to those present--Here are the questions along with a summary of the responses.
What aspects of Christian Formation for Youth and Children does St. Paul’s do best?
- WoRM – builds relationship with Shepherds and an opportunity to see so many teachers
- WoRM – hear the story in different venues
- WoRM builds toward the group experience of older kids
- Relationship building – learning that the community is about relationships
- Learn about the community beyond the walls of the classroom
- Children’s blessing emphasizes that kids are part of the church (a special time in the service carved out just for them)
- Children’s Led Worship – safe space for kids to learn about the service
- Opportunities for leadership
- Mutual respect between adults and youth of the parish
What aspects of Christian Formation for Youth and Children could St. Paul’s do better?
- Have kids participate in the worship service
- Do a better job teaching bible – how to read it, understand it/where it came from
- Providing more resources for parents. It was noted that some parents really just don't know what to do and that there is a noticable gap between children with a rich foundation in spiritual development and those who "just attend church."
What strengths could the Christian Formation programs share with the parish as a whole?
- Formation in model of relationship
- Spiritual reflection
- Small groups
- WoRM – honors that there isn’t a “perfect” formation/education model, but everyone has different ways to enter/participate/learn
Share your ideas!
