What is Godly Play?

Godly Play teaches children the art of using Christian language – parable, sacred story, silence and liturgical action – helping them become more fully aware of the mystery of God’s presence in their lives.

When Christian language is learned by the Godly Play approach, it is learned as a means to know God and to make meaning of our lives.  This approach is quite different from the traditional model in which the teacher tells the children what they need to know.  Godly Play is not about things that are that simple.  It is not just about learning lessons or keeping children entertained.  It is about locating each lesson in the whole system of Christian language and involving the creative process to discover the depths of meaning in them.  It’s about understanding how each of the stories of God’s people connects with the child’s own experience and relationship with God.  Godly Play respects the innate spirituality of children and encourages curiosity and imagination in experiencing the mystery and joy of God