Holy Work with Children: Making Meaning Together - Paperback

by Tanya Marie Eustace Campen (Author)

Children are theologians with the ability to recognize and respond to God's presence in their lives. Listening to the stories of children helps us to understand how children make meaning out of God's presence and reveals tools that children use as they claim their faith. With this knowledge, adults can then better promote and encourage children's spiritual growth. Offering a theology of childhood, Holy Work with Children values the child's role in the Body of Christ and God's transformative work. Dr. Campen invites readers to consider: -How does listening to children teach us about God and faith formation? -What wisdom and insight do children offer to all of us by how they seek understanding of God and God's presence in their lives? -How can we guide and support the children in our communities in this work? Drawing on direct research with children as they think theologically, this book extends both theological and educational research. Holy Work with Children offers practical examples for how congregational leaders, parents, and those who journey with children can encourage and guide them as they make theological meaning and discover ways to respond to God's grace and love making a difference in their communities and the world.

Author Biography

Tanya Marie Eustace Campen is an ordained deacon in the United Methodist Church and holds a doctorate of philosophy in Christian education and congregational studies from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary. Her research focus is children's spirituality. Tanya teaches, speaks, and writes regularly on issues concerning children, families, and intergenerational ministry. Tanya's ministry seeks to help all persons discover and live in response to God's grace and love.