Godly Play is the formation program we use for children beginning when they turn 3 prior to September 1 of the current year and continuing through the 4th grade. This is a Montessori-based program developed by Episcopal priest Jerome Berryman. The year begins with an introduction to the Godly Play classroom. It isn’t like other classrooms, and the children must be shown how to “be” in this room. You never know when you will come close to the mystery of God, and it’s important to be ready!

The components of the class are crossing the threshold into the room, entering the circle of children, engaging in the story, wondering about the story, responding to the story through art or classroom materials, cleaning up, participating in the feast, receiving a blessing and saying goodbye. Each of these steps is an important part of the Godly Play experience and is designed to mirror the flow of a worship service.

Preschool children will participate in Godly Play beginning each Sunday at precisely 10:00 am. The class will end at 12:00 noon. If you arrive after 10:00 am your child is welcome to attend worship with you and join the next Godly Play class beginning at 11:10 am. Storytellers and doorpersons for this class are Jennifer Hardy, Blair Barter, Paula Gerdsen, and Karen Murphy. We need a total of 8 to fill our teaching roster.

Kindergartners are given the opportunity to either attend Godly Play at 10:00 or attend worship and participate in Godly Play at 11:10.

First through fourth graders will attend one of the two 10:00 worship services with their families—the Sanctuary service or the Banquet service. We also offer the option for children to attend the Banquet without their parents. We have a group of parents who have volunteered to “shepherd” the children during the service and escort them to Godly Play for the second hour. Storytellers and doorpersons for this class are Emily Bond, Clay Bond, Anne Kelly, Christina Gault and David Gault.

Our Godly Play classrooms are located on the third level of the church building for preschool through 2nd grade. The 3rd and 4th graders meet in the undercroft. The rooms will be clearly marked and you will be greeted by a Godly Play doorperson who will assist your child in preparing to enter the classroom.

See also:
Is your child ready for Godly Play?

 Tips for Godly Play Parents