Nurturing the Spirituality of the Child
Why is it important for us to understand the spirituality of the child?
This question shapes not only our work as caregivers and ministry leaders serving children and youth, but also our identity as Christ-followers. Jesus calls us to become like children, yet rarely do we pause to consider what that truly means or how we might rediscover that way of being.
In this class, we will explore the spirituality of the child as a vital and often overlooked dimension of faith formation. Together, we will reconnect with the gift of childlike wonder through the practice of Godly Play, a Montessori-based storytelling approach designed to nurture curiosity, reflection, and deep engagement with sacred stories.
Participants will experience Godly Play firsthand and explore how this practice invites people of all ages into meaningful encounters with God. We will also discuss practical tools, best practices, and adaptable strategies for incorporating these approaches into a variety of ministry contexts.
Whether you are working with children, youth, or intergenerational communities, this class will equip you to cultivate spaces where wonder, imagination, and wild hope can flourish.
Lisa Kaufer serves as the Director of Faith Formation at the Presbyterian Church of Wyoming in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is deeply passionate about cultivating relationships and creating spaces where people are invited to play, share stories, listen, learn, and grow together.
Through her creative studio, The Muddy Fork, Lisa explores the intersection of faith and creativity by designing handmade ceramic gifts and devotional resources. She also serves as a Licensed Godly Play Trainer, equipping others to use storytelling as a powerful tool for spiritual formation.
Lisa brings a unique blend of creativity, theological insight, and practical experience, helping communities of all ages engage faith with curiosity, imagination, and joy.
