Centering children in the Church & The Academy
The Center for the Theology of Childhood is committed to nurturing children’s spiritual lives by centering children in the local church and in the academy. We support children in the local church through curriculum development and training for practitioners and clergy and by advocating for the study of children’s spirituality in the academy. The Center also conducts and encourages research to inform the nurture of children in the local church. The Rev. Cheryl V. Minor, Ph.D., directs the activities of the Center with Hannah Sutton-Adams, Ph.D, the Assistant Director of the Center and Spiritual Care for the Godly Play Foundation. We were recently awarded a Lilly Grant to expand this work.
Upcoming events
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Fourth Thursday of each month at noon EST.
We invite you to join us at our free Circle of Solidarity: A monthly time of prayer and reflection, honoring the children of the world and caring for those who love them. At Godly Play we believe that one of the best ways to care for children is to care for ourselves so that we can be safe, reliable, and present to children around the world. This is why we are launching this monthly circle of solidarity. All are welcome to join us online for a short time of prayer, story, silence, and self-care to support each other to continue our big and important work.
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August 13, 2025 at 5:00 PM/PST, Vancouver School of Theology
Join us for our Scholar's Dinner at this year's conference, where you will have an opportunity to gather with scholars and practitioners to learn about recent research on Godly Play and the study of children’s spirituality. The evening will kick off at 5:00 PM with a poster session showcasing recent research. Following the session, enjoy dinner while engaging in thought-provoking conversation and networking with fellow thought leaders and peers.
As a highlight of the evening, we are thrilled to announce that the Rev. Dr. Cheryl Minor, the Director of the Center for the Theology of Childhood for the Godly Play Foundation, will give a keynote address over dessert. Those who register for this event will receive follow-up information about how to contribute to the evening’s discussions and activities.
This intimate gathering provides the perfect opportunity to forge new collaborations or unwind with others who are passionate about finding and developing evidence-based practices for nourishing the spiritual lives of children. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night of scholarship and camaraderie—reserve your spot today!