“Sometimes it takes time to enter a mystery” – that’s how we explain seasons like Advent or Lent when we work with young people in the Godly Play curriculum at St. Bart’s Church. “The bigger the mystery, the more time it can take. Before we enter the mystery of Easter, we go through the season of Lent, 40 days when we take time to think about some of our most important stories.” For the past few weeks, newly hired Godly Play coordinator, Tia Delaney, has been sharing stories from “The Faces of Easter.”
“Once there was a person who did such amazing things and said such wonderful things that people kept asking him who he was.” The language for this Montessori-based, spiritual formation invites children, and those young at heart, to lean into mystery and wonder.
Tia brings to St. Bart’s a wealth of experience in teaching and advocating for children, especially those with special needs. She also coordinated a mobile arts program called “Art in Motion,” creating unique and accessible art opportunities for all ages, and outreach to Indigenous communities. She adds sparkling energy and creativity to every story encounter.
Supported by a grant from the Anglican Diocese of New Westminster, we will be offering a free training in the Godly Play curriculum, on Saturday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with lunch provided. Everyone is welcome, and Tia will be seeking volunteers to join our program as storytellers and “door keepers.”
In Godly Play teaching duos, the Door Keeper helps children get ready to enter the space, and to focus on activities, providing them with a safe space when they need some extra support. Most of the tools I use for peaceful classroom management I learned from Godly Play.
With direction from regional Godly Play trainer, Mary Nichols, St. Bart’s will set up its new, dedicated Godly Play space during the week after the workshop. In this creative and lovely environment, teachers and participants will spend time exploring the mysteries of Lent and Easter (including where to find the eggs hidden that morning!) and beyond. Come join us in this great adventure!
Those interested in the free training (with lunch) can phone St. Bart’s Parish at 604-886-7410.
