Learn About Godly Play

This fall, the FUMC Kids Ministry is introducing the Godly Play program, based on the work of Dr. Jerome Berryman. During this time of worship, storytellers share stories of God with the kids using physical materials and guide kids to explore these stories with “I wonder . . .” questions. Afterwards, kids will have time to respond to the stories and build their faith through play

Interested in learning more or volunteering on Sunday mornings? Several opportunities are available to learn about the program and even experience it for yourself. Spots for all these trainings are limited, so if you are interested in any of these opportunities, please email Angela Schroeder at aschroeder@fairfaxumc.org so she can get you registered.

In-Person: Commuter Core Sessions

Saturdays || 8:30am–5:30pm || Fredricksburg, VA

This is the official Godly Play Core Training, where you’ll get to go in-depth on how the Godly Play program works and why it’s so amazing. You’ll also get to experience Godly Play for yourself.

There are three in-person Commuter Core sessions. All three are located in Fredericksburg, VA and run 8:30am to 5:30pm. You can attend one, two, or all three sessions, and if multiple people are interested, FUMC will arrange for carpooling.

Session 1: Sacred Space & Sacred Stories
Saturday, September 10
Session 2: Spirituality of the Child & Parable Stories
Saturday, October 15
Session 3: Liturgical Action & Supporting the Circle of Children
Saturday, November 12

Online Core Sessions

Saturdays || 12:00–3:00pm

Want an in-depth look at the Godly Play program, but don’t want to commit to a day in Fredericksburg? An online version of the Core Sessions is offered over six Saturday afternoons in October and November. These sessions cover all the topics listed in the Commuter Core Sessions, as well as the stories you’ll tell in the program. The online session dates are October 1, 15, and 29 and November 5, 12, and 19. All sessions run from 12:00 to 3:00pm.

Basic: Introduction to Godly Play

Saturday, October 22 & November 12 || 3:00–4:30pm

Two new opportunities have been scheduled for anyone interested to learn about Godly Play, the new children’s program at FUMC. You can attend “Introduction to Godly Play” online on Saturday, October 22, or Saturday, November 12. Both sessions begin at 3:00pm and last about an hour and a half. If you are interested in attending one of these sessions please email Angela Schroeder at aschroeder@fairfaxumc.org to register.