In the Diocese of Ely we are fortunate to have a Godly Play Forum to bring together all those across the Diocese who practice Godly Play and those who want to find out more. The Leaders of our Godly Play Forum explain more about Godly Play below and how to find out more...
What is Godly Play?
Godly Play is an international Christian movement centered on childhood spirituality. It begins with children’s innate sense of the presence of God. It offers Christian language as a support for their ongoing spiritual formation. It teaches a process that aims to promote an inner working model for life-long Christian learning.
Why is it called Godly Play?
It is Godly Play because all are invited by God to come and to play. Brenda Leigh Timmer, a Godly Play trainer working in South Africa, says;
"What makes it Godly Play is the delight-filled, surprising and life-giving playful engagement of God."
A deep understanding of what it means really to play and an appreciation of the central role of play in the life and learning of children is fundamental to this approach to God.
Is it ‘just for children’?
Adults, in many settings, also find Godly Play invaluable for their ongoing journey of discipleship.
Godly Play is for everyone, the smaller group context allows everyone to be valued and welcomed as an individual. Fundamental to Godly Play is a focus on the vital importance of childhood spirituality for everyone. It is not intended to exclude anyone.
What age of children does it work for?
People of any age can benefit from a Godly Play approach. Our vision is that childhood spirituality should be taken seriously; and childhood is foundational to every life. The approach can support the spiritual quest of people of any age. Young people are discovering Godly Play, as are those who support older people, including those living with dementia.
Does it work?
Yes! Although we would encourage a conversation and reflection on how you might measure success. But overwhelmingly feedback from those who practice this approach is positive. A local trainer, advocate, or storyteller may be willing to offer a Godly Play session in your context, to let you and your community experience Godly Play for yourselves.
What is the theology behind it?
Godly Play begins with a foundational theology of the spirituality of childhood. The basic assumption is that children know God; they know what it is to play hide-and-seek with the elusive presence of God within themselves and in the world. Fundamental to Godly Play is the opportunity for wondering, an understanding of sacred space, an appreciation of the value of silence, a small group size and a particular expression of hospitality. Godly Play offers a free response time that does not include prescribed activities.
Using Godly Play
Can you use Godly Play in different contexts?
Godly Play seems to flourish in many settings: with children and with adults in church contexts, in the family home, in schools, in care homes, online, in hospitals or at a bedside.
Why do you need training?
It is a great experience to undertake training. In addition to discovering the skills and understanding to make the most of the Godly Play approach, many people report a widening and deepening appreciation of their own spiritual awareness. Godly Play is distinctive, and we want to support storytellers and door people to develop confidence in this unique approach. In Godly Play, there is so much to learn, and we find the learning goes on, and on …
What do I need to get started?
Godly Play UK is delighted to help you discover this approach. Throughout the year across England and Wales and online, we offer experience sessions, introductory day events, three-day training opportunities.
Within the Diocese of Ely, we have two Godly Play Trainers – Andrea Harrison and Eona Bell - who would be happy to chat with you. Contact andrea@godlyplay.uk or eona@godlyplay.uk
What will it cost? Is it expensive?
Perhaps the biggest expense is time: time to develop your understanding of the foundational principals; time to gain experience and training in the practice of Godly Play. There is a financial cost in the sourcing of materials and scripts, although Ely Diocese has a resource library of Godly Play materials which are available for short-term loan - contact childrenandfamilies@elydiocese.org to find out more.
Over time, when this financial investment is compared to the alternatives, we are confident that the approach provides great value, both in the time and financial investment involved. Most people start small and build up materials over time.